September is here and school has begun for our youth. Soon it will grow cooler and the trees will explode in colour. Nature will give us one final display of its beauty before settling in for a long winter’s nap. Like the seasons that change throughout the year so things are changing here at Laurentian with the change of pastors.

I consider it a privilege to have the opportunity to be here in North Bay serving Christ along side you my new church family. During this time of transition I want no one to feel that they have been left behind or forgotten. Whenever there is a change in leadership in the church there is the danger of having misunderstandings between the people of the church and the new pastor. I want to make it clear to all those who are a part of this church that I recognize the fact that I’m the new guy in town and that I have no desire to make dramatic or drastic changes to Laurentian. My priority for the first year is to spend time getting to know and love the people who make up this wonderful church and to allow you to have the opportunity to get to know me. This will take an investment of time and effort. My hope is for us to grow closer together as a church by creating opportunities for us to spend time getting to know each other. This will be accomplished through various ways; our regular Sunday services and the time spent after church, special church events that are held throughout the year and most importantly through visitations.

Another priority of mine is communication. Your thoughts, ideas and concerns are important to me and I want to be there for you as your pastor. Therefore it is necessary for me as your pastor to continually make efforts in improving our lines of communication. For example, some people who consider themselves to be a part of this great church are unable to attend our weekly Sunday services either due to physical limitations or distance and this newsletter allows them to stay in touch and know what is happening at our church.

In all this remember that as your pastor it is my desire to see each of you accept Christ as your Lord and Saviour and to become all that God wants you to be. I look forward to connecting with each of you in the coming months. If you have any questions or would simply like to have a chat feel free to call me. I would love to hear from you. God bless.

Pastor Chris