September 7th, 2025 News
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MOUNTAINVIEW NEWS
Join us Sunday morning at 10 am in person or online. Pastor Erick Schuringa presents a message entitled “Smelly Christians” He will be looking at two passages, 2 Corinthians 2: 14-17; Ephesians 5:1-2
We are starting a new ministry season. As we do, let's avoid being focused on just getting things done. Let's take time to remember that who we are in Christ is the main thing. Paul has an interesting image for this which I call "Smelly Christians".
There will be a time of commissioning and a blessing of the backpacks.
LET’S BUILD SOME COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS!
(Click on the pictures to go to related webpages, links or emails)
JOYFUL GIVING
Sunday’s offerings are for our Ministry Promise (a.k.a. Budget) AND for...
Upcoming Offering:
September 14th A.M. – Benevolence: Your contribution to Mountainview’s Benevolent Fund provides assistance for those in need in our church family and in our local community. These include basic needs such as food, clothing, housing and schooling. A church and community of our size has many varied needs within it. Please continue to support our ministry of Benevolence.
World Renew Disaster Response Services (DRS) - Are you someone with time on your hands that is passionate about service towards God’s kingdom? It’s not too late to repair homes in a disaster-impacted community this fall by volunteering with World Renew DRS! Contact Diana Marquez, our Volunteer Program Manager, at dmarquez@worldrenew.net or 616-224-0701 for more information.
Hope Beyond the Headlines - Media outlets often move on quickly after covering the initial impacts of conflict, natural disasters, and other devastating events—leaving behind stories of loss, displacement, and communities struggling with hunger, poverty, and hopelessness. Yet God’s promise in Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that He has plans for a hope and a future. World Renew, together with our Christian partners and as a member of the Integral Alliance, continues to walk alongside communities long after the cameras are gone—helping restore hope and rebuild lives. Now participating in the third Neglected Crises campaign, World Renew is calling for collective action to support people affected by long-term, complex, and overlooked crises—in Madagascar, Sudan, Haiti, and beyond. Your gift can help extend God’s hope to places where suffering persists long after public attention fades. Learn more or give today at: worldrenew.ca/globalfoodcrisis
Help Families Affected by the Afghanistan Earthquake - On August 31, a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Afghanistan, killing more than 1,400 people and injuring more than 3,000 people. World Renew is planning a response to bring emergency assistance to vulnerable families affected by this disaster. Please join us in prayer for Afghanistan and give generously to help earthquake survivors at worldrenew.ca/afghanistan-earthquake, by calling 1-888-975-3769, or by mailing a cheque made out to World Renew, with "Afghanistan Earthquake 2025" in the memo line, to: 3475 Mainway, PO Box 5070 STN LCD 1, Burlington, ON L7R 3Y8.
Support The Banner Magazine - The Banner’s annual fundraising campaign continues! More than just an award-winning magazine, The Banner is a journalistic ministry dedicated to informing, inspiring, and connecting our CRC community. Available to you in both print and online, this vital resource is made possible by the generous support of individuals like you. Help meet the ambitious $500,000 goal for the 2025 campaign by giving today! thebanner.org/donate
Happy Grandparents Day! - Today we celebrate grandparents! On this special day, consider how you might extend your legacy—whether by setting up a trust or including a charitable gift in your will. If you haven’t taken that step yet, the CRC offers resources to guide you. Learn more about planned giving at crcna.org/foundation.
Other…
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
& OPPORTUNITIES
Prayer Vigil for Immigrant Neighbors - Over the past few months, many Christian Reformed Church leaders and members have been deeply impacted by the increased immigration enforcement activities taking place across the United States. CRCNA senior leaders and Thrive have been walking alongside affected ministry leaders and congregations, offering prayer, guidance, and practical support. As a next step in this shared journey of care, we’re inviting all congregations and members to join us for a virtual prayer vigil on Wednesday, September 10 at 7 pm. EST. Learn more at https://network.crcna.org/topic/justice-inclusion/biblical-justice/immigration/invitation-virtual-prayer-vigil-immigrant
Attention students heading to UofT or York University: Got faith? Have doubts? Campus ministries in Toronto welcome you to strengthen, question and explore the Christian faith as you view the world in all its complexities, anxieties and beauty. As ministries of the Christian Reformed Church on the campus of the U of T and York University, we learn the tools to navigate challenging conversations, deepen biblical and theological understanding and integrate academic knowledge with our surrounding communities and wherever we land in our vocations. For Logos at YorkU, contact lccyork@gmail.com or follow us on Instagram @logosyorku. For Grad Christian Fellowship at UofT, email uoftcampusministry@gmail.com or follow us on Instagram @gcfuoft
McMaster University Students - Looking for a place to grow in your faith, meet amazing people, and enjoy some good food and conversation? Come check out All Things Fellowship — McMaster University's campus ministry! Welcome BBQ Sunday, September 14th. Come hungry and bring a friend! Find out what we’re all about. Stay connected. Follow us for updates, events, and encouragement throughout the year: Instagram (instagram.com/allthingscrc_mcmaster/) Facebook Group (facebook.com/groups/138194172911322). Everyone is welcome! Dr. Michael D. Fallon
It’s not too late to be a sponsor or a golfer in the annual Swing for Students Golf Tournament, supporting Cairn Christian School and Smithville Christian High School. Scan or click to register to golf or to be a sponsor – we need lots of both! https://bit.ly/SwingforStudents2025
If you’re a returning golfer and you refer a new foursome, you’ll receive a beautiful new golf umbrella. The 2025 tournament will be held Saturday, September 13, at Whisky Run Golf Club in Port Colborne. The students would love to have your support.
Cambodia Discovery Tour - Join World Renew from November 14 to 24, 2025, for a journey into Cambodia’s vibrant culture and the inspiring work of local communities pursuing lasting change through partnership and hope. This is an opportunity to witness God’s love in action—experience deep connections, hear powerful stories, and see how lives are being transformed. Registration is limited and closes September 14. Learn more and register here: https://bit.ly/2025cambodiainfo
There is still time for you to be part of the Grand Parade community at Shalom Manor & Gardens on Saturday, September 20th! There are 20 days left until the walk to fundraise for a resident bus at Shalom. There are presently 12 teams made up of 64 walkers and 13 volunteers who have already raised over $40,000! Please consider joining in one of these roles or donating to a walker/team. Check out more at the following link https://thegrandparade.org/location/grimsby. Wheel be walking – will you?
Join us for the Rose City Kids Golf Tournament - You're Invited to tee up for a great cause! Support the life changing ministry of Rose City Kids by joining us for our annual Golf Tournament September 25 or 26. Location: Riverview Golf Club in Pelham. Start time: 12 pm lunch (1:00 pm -tee time). Cost: $150/player or $600/foursome. Includes golf, cart, meals, prizes and more. To register or become a sponsor: Visit: www.rosecitykids.com or Gerry Vermeer 905 714-4141 or Nath Anjema 905 892 5350 x230. Come golf for a cause- and help us continue to bring faith, hop and love to the next generation.
Volunteers Needed- Partner with Rose City Kids - "Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me" Matthew 18:5. Rose City Kids is growing- and so is the need for more helping hands and loving hearts. Were currently looking for volunteers to join us in serving over 700 children and youth through weekly programs, tutoring, mentorship, house visits and more. Whether it's helping on a Saturday afternoon, tutoring, or connecting with our youth on an evening- you can make a difference. This is more than volunteering. It's ministry. It's relationships. It's planting seeds of hope and showing kids what the love of Jesus looks like in action. Located in Welland, Rose City Kids in on the front lines of reaching children and youth who desperately need to know they are seen, loved and never alone, If you are looking for a place to serve outside the walls- this is it. To learn more or get involved, contact carla@rosecitykids.com; www.rosecitykids.com.
Calvin on the Road Events - Calvin University is turning 150, and we’re bringing the celebration to you! Throughout the anniversary year, Calvin will be visiting 30 cities across the USA and Canada – we’d love to see you! For a full list of locations and dates, visit calvin.edu/150.
Hymn Text Contest - Calvin University will host an Anniversary Worship Celebration in honor of its 150th year on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the Calvin University Covenant Fine Arts Center for community worship. You can help us celebrate by participating in our 150th Anniversary Hymn Text Contest! The planning committee invites hymnwriters to submit a hymn text to be sung at the worship service; submissions must be sent via email by November 1. The winner of this contest will receive a $1,500 award.
"Attention Calvin University Alumni: You are invited to join a tour of Calvin alumni, led by emeriti professors Debra Freeberg and Gary Schmidt, for dinner on Wednesday, September 24, at 6:15 pm, at the Caroline Cellars' Farmhouse Cafe. Dinner compliments of Calvin University. Registration is due Monday, September 8. See NOTL Calvin Alumni Tour for more information and registration link."
Be the Centre – You are invited to Grimsby Life Centre’s 2025 Bi-Annual Fall Benefit Banquet. Come and learn what is at the heart of Grimsby Life Ministries. This is our main fundraising event and we hop you can attend! Enjoy a memorable evening of fellowship and fun, inspiring stories and fantatstic food! Plus don’t forget our silent auction!! Where: Winona Vine Estates When: Friday, October 24. Doors open at 6pm. Dinner starts at 6:30pm. Cost: Free will offering. RSVP @ 905-309-0944 Table & Donation Sponsorships are available. Please call to learn more. We look forward to seeing you there. “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together” Colossioans 1:17.
Feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, stress or loneliness? Want to talk to one of our psychotherapists or counsellors? We are here to help ! Please call 905.309.0944. We will be answering the phones Monday - Friday daily between 9am – 4pm. Sessions typically run about an hour. All of our services are free and confidential. Sometimes we all need help!
Moving Forward in Faith Conference - Join us Friday, November 14 & Saturday, November 15, 2, at King's Christian Collegiate in Oakville, ON. This year's theme is The Church Released. Our plenary speaker is Canadian author and justice advocate, Danielle Strickland. Over 30 workshops to choose from! Each promises to be practical and helpful, covering topics like prayer, mission, ministry for youth and young adults, and more. An optional bus tour will also be available -- go and see local ministry in action! REGISTRATION WILL OPEN IN EARLY SEPTEMBER. Save these dates and get a team from your church ready to attend and be inspired! More info here: https://www.resonateglobalmission.org/moving-forward-faith
Hearts Exchanged - It's back to school -- regardless of what age you are, what do you want to learn this year? If you answered 'more about reconciliation' consider joining a Hearts Exchanged cohort to walk alongside others interested in reconciliation. Learn more at: crcna.org/hearts-exchanged
Addiction to alcohol and/or drugs; how bad is it? Is “that bad” a skid row drunk, losing your family, home, job…….??? “That bad” is irrelevant -- what is relevant is help before it gets “that bad”, for yourself and your loved one. Knowledge is the beginning of wisdom. We are available to share our experience, strength and hope. Confidentiality guaranteed. 905-933-3994 or www.familyoutreachontario.com.
Family Outreach Ontario Christian Addiction Support Services (FOO) - FOO is a group of committed volunteers dedicated to educating and supporting the friends and families of those struggling with addiction, as well as offering direction and hope to individuals caught in the cycle of addiction. Our mission is rooted in faith and compassion, serving as a live body of believers called by God to walk alongside others in times of need. We are currently seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Directors. If addiction and recovery are topics close to your heart, we invite you to consider lending your time and talents to this important ministry. Please contact Harry Gelderman for details: Harrygelderman1@gmail.com
NEWSLETTERS FROM OUR MINISTRY PARTNERS
Links are available on our website under
“Community Connections” - “Partnerships”
Paper copies can be requested from the church office.
DENOMINATIONAL NEWS
ReFrame Ministries Provides Devotions, Podcasts, and Blogs - Start a new Biblical habit with resources from ReFrame Ministries. DEVOTIONS including the Today devotional offer short daily meditations and scripture. Kids Corner includes devotions, especially for children and guardians. PODCASTS help you dig into scripture with Groundwork, explore pop culture and Christianity with Think Christian, or energize your church communications with Church Juice. BLOGS offering spiritual advice for parenting, dating, and more are available in new posts from Family Fire. Learn more about the spiritual habit of praying with ReFrame’s prayer ministry.
Groundwork: Living as Citizens of God's Kingdom Now - We’ve learned that Jesus brought God’s kingdom near -- so near, in fact, it’s within us. Join Groundwork as we study Matthew 6:9-13, Romans 14:17, Micah 4:1-5, Matthew 25:35-40, Philippians 2:5-8, Acts 2:42-47, Revelation 11:15, and 1 Corinthians 15:58 to learn what it means and looks like for us to live in God’s kingdom here and now, even when we can’t fully see it. Listen now at Groundworkonline.com and subscribe to Groundwork's weekly emails for future episodes.
Kids Corner Devotions: Praying for Our Enemies - Check out this week’s kids’ devotion, “Praying for Our Enemies” at www.kidscorner.net. In Matthew 5, Jesus preaches the Sermon on the Mount. He wanted people to know how to treat one another and show love the way he loves. He even wants us to show love and kindness to those we think of as our enemies because God cares about and provides for everyone. Check out all the great content at kidscorner.net, like the classic “Liz and Friends” podcast!
Thrive Faith Formation Tip - A new school season has begun. The rhythms and activities of a new school year can make it challenging to include space for God in your everyday family life. One way you can do that is by reviewing the “highs and lows” of your day, giving thanks for God’s many blessings and asking for God’s presence in the midst of hard situations. See Everyday Family Faith (FaithAliveResources.org) for more ways to make time for God with your family. Brought to you by Thrive: crcna.org/Thrive
Family Fire - Family Fire is an online community exploring Spirit-led family, marriage, parenting, in-laws, blended families, and intimacy. Find encouraging articles and devotions at familyfire.com. Subscribe for regular email updates and connect with our Family Fire community on Facebook.
JOBS AND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
We Are hiring at Shalom! Working at Shalom is a great opportunity to share your gifts and talents in a wonderful workplace and to become involved in the community! We take pride in offering the best possible care and making Shalom home for our residents. Become part of the team! We are always accepting resumes for potential future hiring. Please send your resume or any questions to hr@shalommmanor.ca to see if a career with Shalom is a good fit for you!