Lots of special events to celebrate on Sunday, September 8th!  We opened the service with joyful worship led by the worship band.  Stephen VanderKlippe had some appreciative words of thanks for Cathy Ritsema.  Cathy has led the Children’s Ministry for several years and it is an exciting and growing ministry.  Brenda Stein takes over the job this September, and was commissioned as the new Children’s Ministry Director. The Safe Church Team presented a humorous skit, to remind parents to pick up their children promptly after the services.  Then the children were dismissed to their kick-off celebration!  What fun they had, with the face painting, yummy snacks, bouncy castle and games.  The leaders looked like they were having fun too!

Pastor Henry taught us about hospitality, practicing the gift of opening hearts, hands and homes to those around us.  And to put that into action, we had a potluck lunch together.  Everyone enjoyed the food and the fellowship.

It is exciting to start a new ministry season at the Maitland River Community Church.  We are looking forward to all that God has in store for us!