Christian Herald

Christian Herald celebrates our 30th anniversary!

by Fazal Karim, Jr.

This month we’re excited to celebrate thirty years of publishing Christian Herald.

It’s been quite the ride - print publishing has changed a lot since the 90s. We started before the Internet really got rolling, long before social media platforms started to carve up the advertising market on which free publications are based. But the Lord has been faithful, and we endured.

Along the way, we’ve seen Christian schools and Christian bookstores - both of which used to be major advertisers - close in large numbers. And the Lord continued to be faithful, and so we endured.

We survived the pandemic (which I’ll admit, was the first time I really wavered in whether we should continue publishing.) Though we were shut down, advertisers stuck with us. (Special thanks to JD Smith Insurance and Canada Christian College for their exceptional support.) And readers even sent in donations to help us. I also have to thank our writers and volunteer distribution team for their tremendous support and encouragement.

Aside from chairing the Toronto Prayer Breakfast, I also serve as Co-ordinator for the Christian Newspaper Association. I’ve watched great Christian papers across North America close their doors, whilst others, like us, have persevered through sheer determination, community support, and faith.

It is a bit lonely these days in Christian newspapering in Canada. The only other

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

similar Christian news publication left is Vancouver’s Light Magazine. I check in regularly with Light’s Publisher Steve Almond and his team, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside them.

I’ve been asked many times this year how we planned to commemorate this anniversary. I’m not really much of a party guy, and spending big money on a concert seemed wasteful.

In any case, I like to look forward more than back. Christian Herald started to help keep Christians in the Greater Toronto Area informed, and to encourage fellowship and ministry across the region. I’ve never been more convinced that the Church in the GTA is poised for great things in the near future.

The pandemic shook us to our core, and changed the way many things are done. A lot more changes are coming.

In particular, I’ve been blessed to be able to help several civic prayer breakfasts start up in the last few years, and out of those, several city ministerials (local pas tors fellowships) are arising. I’ve become convinced that when every city in the GTA has a regular ministerial - when the Pastors are together in fellowship and driving the bus - the Lord is going to do something spectacular throughout the region. I’m excited to see where the Lord takes us.

Great is His faithfulness, and great things are coming!

Blessings, Fazal.

Church – Business – Life – Personal Insurance Insurance Solutions for the Faith Community

We would like to thank you for the advertising & community calendar in Christian Herald. We first learned of JD Smith Insurance through Christian Herald. We are now able to save $1500 annually on our home and auto insurance.

More recently, we first heard about Together For Good from Family Life Canada and attended this workshop as an investment in our marriage, and it was excellent. Thank you for being a blessing to us through your ministry with Christian Herald.

Gordon & Monica Carpenter

We welcome Letters to the Editor. Please send your letters (250 words or less) by mail to the address on Page 4 or by email to info@christianherald.ca. Include your full name and a daytime telephone number. Letters may be edited for space and clarity.

Volume 31, No. 6 • October 2024

Founded in 1994, Christian Herald serves the Christian community across the Southern Ontario region, and is published ten times a year.

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

Fazal Karim, Jr.

Contributing Writers

Diana Chandler, Mike Garabedian, James Tughan, Art Wormald

Volunteer Distributors (Print Edition)

John Campbell, Edgar Daniels, Sandra Diaz, Michelle Foster, Elaine Frith, Rochan Goonoo, John Howes, Rick Pacholko, Terence Roberts, Henry Stevens.

Contact the Publisher to inquire about becoming a volunteer distributor.

Advertising

Advertising is available to those wishing to reach the Christian community located in Southern Ontario. While we do try our best to screen our advertisers, no endorsements by Christian Herald are implied, except where clearly stated.

To advertise, email us at info@christianherald.ca or call 905-874-1731.

Contributions

Christian Herald welcomes submissions and feedback from the Christian Community or other interested parties, in the form of Letters to the Editor, Press Releases, Opinion columns, Calendar of Events listings etc.

Viewpoints expressed in articles are not necessarily those of the publishers.

The Management of Christian Herald reserves the right to refuse or edit submissions and advertisements on the basis of legal, space or taste considerations.

Circulation

Christian Herald’s general circulation (print edition) presently stands at 24,000 copies per issue. [October 2024]

Distribution

Personal copies are available free of charge in over 500 Christian churches, retail stores, colleges and businesses across Southern Ontario.

To request delivery to your church or business location, send your name, address and estimated number of copies needed by email (see below.)

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Christian Herald

P.O. Box 68526, Brampton, Ontario L6R 0J8

Tel: (905) 874-1731 • E-mail: info@christianherald.ca www.christianherald.ca

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Praying and working for peace in the Middle East and beyond

As the world explodes in crisis, how do we engage?

The Lord Jesus instructed His followers to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. As we head toward the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks in Israel and escalating war and turmoil across the Middle East and around the world (Yemen, Ukraine), Christians are looking for ways to prayer and minister effectively, both home and abroad.

Prayer for Jerusalem

Everything we do begins with prayer. The Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem (daytopray.com), founded by the late Dr. Jack Hayford and Bishop Robert Stearns, will celebrate 20 years of standing in united prayer for Israel in 2024.

The event is observed by millions of believers in more than 175 nations on the first Sunday of October, the largest known prayer initiative for Jerusalem in church history. This year’s campaign has support from more than 1,500 Christian leaders around the world.

Of course, this year the milestone event takes place just one day before the first anniversary of the October 7th massacre by the Hamas terrorists, who slaughtered more than 1,200 people on Israeli soil and took

240 hostages after penetrating the Israeli border from Gaza. Though the Day-to-Pray effort predates the October 7 attacks by decades, it’s unlikely this year’s campaign will be viewed as completely separate.

A vital part of the effort of the Day of Prayer movement this year is the uniting of thousands of pastors, leaders, and Christian believers to sign the historic Bonhoeffer Declaration, a commitment to combat antisemitism in communities and nations around the world. The signers of this declaration have joined together in the spirit of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, one of the founding leaders of the German Confessing Church that courageously stood against the Nazi regime of Adolf Hitler in the 1930s and 40s. (To join this growing number of signing participants rejecting all forms of racism and antisemitism, visit bonhoeffer.org.)

Prayer for the wider Middle East

Of course, when believers pray for the peace of Jerusalem, there’s an implicit understanding that we will pray not simply for the Land of Israel, but for her neighbours. It’s true that Christians (and especially Evangelicals) harbor a special affinity for the Jewish people,

Brampton Ministerial announces leadership change

The Brampton and District Ministerial Association has announced that Pastor Wayne Russell, Associate Pastor at Peel Pentecostal Tabernacle will take over leadership of the city-wide Ministerial. He succeeds Pastor Randy Neilson, Lead Pastor of Hope City Church and President of CityServe Canada. The Ministerial meets monthly and co-ordinates local prayer, evangelism and other ministry efforts across denominational lines.

Cold weather is coming. Are we ready?

As the cold weather approaches, individual ministry efforts to assist homeless amidst the frigid winter temperatures are ramping up, but the GTA still lacks a co-ordinated Christian strategy to deal with the issue. The Salvation Army deployed mobile warming stations in Calgary last January. Local congregations have been involved with Inn From The Cold, an effort to tackle the homelessness problem in York Region.

He made them Male and Female

out of whom we received the Bible, the Christ, the Disciples and more. Conversely, the Church is persecuted and restricted in many parts of the Middle East, and several ancient Christian communities have been persecuted to the point of genocide.

But none of this should impact our desire to see the wider Middle East in peace and harmony. As Christians, we pray for our brothers and sisters under persecution, we pray for our enemies, for non-Believers, for political leaders, and authorities.

From prayer to action

We pray for open doors to minister to all sides, being agents of peace amidst the turmoil. For now, Christian engagements with Israel make the news (for example, Samaritan Purse’s recent donation of armored ambulances to Israel.)

But tireless work quietly continues at denominational, congregational and parachurch levels, to provide emergency aid and support to Christian communities in closed and restricted countries across the Middle East, for the benefit of the general population. (Christian Herald will report on this work, when it is safe to do so.) - FKJ

The City of Toronto is being criticized on social media for pushing an “emergency” directive to remove the terms “Male” and “Female” from all forms, changing them to “Cis-Male” and “Cis-Female.” Unbiblical ideas about the nature of human gender and sexuality have failed in the past and won’t fare any better now (the tide is already turning.) It is, however, fascinating to watch how quickly a culture falls into confusion after rejecting the Gospel. And it’s always a good time to remember we do not fight against flesh and blood. We simply speak Truth in love, and the Gospel changes hearts and minds. The ‘woke’ revolution may be doomed to fail, but it provides a great backdrop to start interesting discussions with non-Christians.

Together for the City

Live Nation has announced a partnership that will bring a new 50,000-capacity outdoor venue to Downsview Park in Toronto. The new Rogers Stadium is set to open in 2025, and will exist temporarily, until the Downsview property can be redeveloped into a new housing development.

We’re mentioning this because it sounds like this venue would be a terrific place to gather the city-wide Church for a joint worship service - complete with Communion and water baptisms - in the Summer. Just pointing it out!

Illustration created with AI [Lightstock]

Pearson Airport Chaplaincy celebrates 45 years of ministry

It all started in 1979, when a young man from a local Brampton, Ontario church felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit to consider ministry at Pearson International Airport.

Not only is Toronto’s Airport Canada’s largest gateway to the world, but it’s also home to one of the most diverse workplaces – hosting over 50 thousand employees from virtually every national, linguistic, and ethnic background under the sun. When one considers adding to this over 50 million annual travelers, it quickly becomes obvious this is an opportunity for local missions like no other.

When the Airport Authorities approved the construction of its first chapel 45 years ago, little did anyone realize it would become a hub for cross-faith interactions.

How to personally know God

Realize that you are a sinner. No matter how good a life we try to live, we still fall miserably short of being a good person. That is because we are all sinners. We all fall short of God’s desire for us to be holy. The Bible says, “No one is good—not even one” (Romans 3:10 NLT). This is because we can not become who we are supposed to be without Jesus Christ.

Recognize that Jesus Christ died on the cross for you.

The Bible tells us, “But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while were still sinners” (Romans 5:8 NLT). This is the Good News, that God loves us so much that He sent His only Son to die in our place when we least deserved it.

Repent of your sin.

The Bible tells us to “repent and be converted” (Acts 3:19 NKJV). The word repent means to change our direction in life. Instead of running from God, we can run toward Him.

Receive Christ into your life.

Becoming a Christian is not merely believing some creed or going to church on Sunday. It is having Christ

Himself take residence in your life and heart. Jesus said, “Behold, I stand at the door (of your life) and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in . . . .” (Revelation 3:20 NKJV).

If you would like to have a relationship with Christ, simply pray this prayer and mean it in your heart.

Dear Lord Jesus, I know I am a sinner. I believe you died for my sins. Right now, I turn from my sins and open the door of my heart and life. I confess you as my personal Lord and Savior. Thank you for saving me. Amen.

If you just prayed that prayer and meant it, Jesus Christ has now taken residence in your heart! Your decision to follow Christ means God has forgiven you and that you will spend eternity in heaven. The Bible tells us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 NKJV).

To put your faith in action, be sure to spend time with God by reading your Bible, praying, getting involved in a Bible-preaching church, and telling others about Christ.

by Mike Garabedian

The results speak for itself. God’s favour has held the door open for these many years, as countless thousands have been impacted by the Gospel of Jesus Christ for eternity. And the ministry continues to thrive by His providence, as today, we have a team of 15 Chaplains serving in ministry through presence – providing grief and addictions counselling, prayer, crisis support, daily worship services, holiday services, and ministry to international students, refugees and even the homeless.

The Aviation Interfaith Chapels at Pearson held a 45th anniversary commemoration on September 12 in the Chapel at Terminal 1. For more information on the Airport Chaplaincy, visit PearsonChapel.com.

ShareWord Global’s GIC may change for regional impact

In the absence of a Canadian Bible Week for celebrating God’s Word (something that will hopefully come soon), ShareWord Global’s Global Impact Conference (GIC) held in August has become an annual local venue for cherishing the gift and power of the Bible. (Despite having rebranded years ago, ShareWord Global is still more recognized by their previous moniker, The Gideons in Canada.)

Famous for Bible distribution is schools, hospitals, prisons and hotels, ShareWord has of late taken a serious turn into equipping Christians for the work of evangelizing their neighbours, not merely the handing out of scriptures.

At the GIC, seminars equip those looking to evangelize, plans for short-term mission projects are released and testimonies

are shared amid stories of transformation taking place both down the street, and around the planet.

This year was no different, with speakers Mark Mittelburg, Andy Bannister, and others leading thought-provoking discussions. In other sessions, video-recording was restricted for the safety of speakers and attendees from nations that are closed to the Gospel. In one memorable session, the poignant testimony of a woman from the Middle East, who has endured great hardship for her new Christian faith, was shared by a speaker on the platform. When she (sitting at the back) was asked to stand up, it brought the crowd to their feet. The sufferings of the Persecuted Church suddenly were not just an abstract idea anymore.

The two-day conference also included a worship night with artist Rebecca St. James, attracting hundreds of local music fans who weren’t there for the conference, but learned about the ministry of ShareWord Global.

Future under consideration

Putting on a Global Impact Conference takes a lot of resources. In the postpandemic era, the ministry is not seeing the same national engagement and attendee travel patterns as before, so the ministry will be reviewing things before going forward.

Losing GIC outright would be a considerable loss for the country. But a suggestion of hosting smaller regional gatherings, as opposed to a single large national hotelbased event could bring more engagement and participation as lower prices allow more people to attend. Keep ShareWord Global and future GICs in your prayers!

Jesus in the City Parade celebrates a quarter-century of worship in the streets

On September 7, the Jesus in the City Parade was held in Downtown Toronto, commemorating the ministry’s 25th anniversary of taking worship out of church buildings, and into public streets.

Led by Pastor Ayanna Solomon, Jesus in the City hosts the annual parade in Toronto, and facilitates similar parades in several countries in the Caribbean.

Thousands gathered from across the full spectrum of Christian denominations, age ranges, and ethnic groups. Thousands

CFFO opens new Ingersoll Head Office

In September the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario (CFFO) Executive Board gathered for the first time at their new head office in Ingersoll, ON. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in CFFO’s 70-year history of representing Christian farmers across Ontario.

assembled at the Queen’s Park Legislature grounds and paraded east to Yonge, south to College, and west to return to Queen’s Park.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow addressed the assembled attendees, as did Deputy Police Chief Rob Johnson. Speakers at the pre-and-post parade rallies also included Charles McVety, Wendell Gibbs, Teck Uy, Brian Warren and Pat Francis. Performers included Martine Kelsey, Joshua Ali, and Kevin Adams and Voices of Praise.

Photo: Rebecca St. James performs during the 2024 Global Impact Conference

Heavenly signs yes, astrology no

Our culture is as obsessed with astrology as the ancient Babylonians.

In Genesis 1:14, God states that a purpose of the celestial objects, is to serve as “signs and for seasons, and for days and years”. We can use them to measure the length of a day and a year, and to determine the dates of equinoxes and solstices. In addition, they proved useful for navigation purposes for millennia (e.g., Ursa Major and Ursa Minor can be used to identify the North Star).

A little over one hundred years after the Flood, men had created a false religion (Genesis 11:4) which eventually developed a pantheon of gods associated with the sun, moon, stars, and constellations. The Sumerians in southern Mesopotamia had Utu the sun god, Nanna the moon god, and Inanna for Venus. In the north, the Akkadians had similar gods. The Babylonians had a full stable of celestial deities. The Egyptians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, and peoples beyond the Mediterranean (India, China, and northern Europe) also adopted the same pantheon, or developed similar ones.

One dimension of this pervasive false religion is a belief that celestial objects and phenomena—whether identified as gods or not—influence human destinies. Thus, planetary alignments and eclipses, birth dates associated with particular houses of the zodiac, or events such as ‘blood’ moons are said to influence a person’s personality and destiny, and thus the future of mankind.

People believe that phenomena in the sky can influence events on the earth for a number of reasons. Light from the sun is important for sustaining life—e.g., through photosynthesis and by providing warmth— so men incorrectly inferred that if it sustains

life, it also must be the source of life. In addition, the order and regularity observed in heavenly phenomena (e.g., diurnal cycles, seasons, and eclipses) influenced men who lived with temporal uncertainties to ascribe causal significance to celestial objects.

“The Lord gives explicit instruction to his people that they are not to consult fortune-tellers and diviners”

Another reason is that people wish to have information and assurance about their futures, and the purveyors of astrology claim to provide this. However, the most significant reason why astrology developed is that men wish to suppress their innate knowledge of God and exchange his glory

with idols (Romans 1:29–23). As has often been quoted, “When a man stops believing in God, he doesn’t then believe in nothing, he believes anything.” (Attributed to G. K. Chesterton).

Our modern ‘scientific’ minds claim that there is no evidence that the motion of distant celestial objects has any impact on human destinies. From this perspective, it is considered nonsense to ask questions such as, “How accurate are horoscopes?” Yet, our culture is as obsessed with astrology as were the ancient Babylonians. Surveys of North Americans indicate that over a quarter say that they believe in astrology.

The Hebrew prophets used an interesting wordplay when they identified the constellations, particularly the star cluster we call Orion (Isaiah 13:10; Amos 5:8). The same word is translated as ‘fool’ or ‘foolish’ in other places (Proverbs 10:1, 23). They were saying that the sky gods of the pagan pantheon were a silly superstition. Elsewhere, The Lord gives explicit instruction to his people that they are not to consult fortune-tellers and diviners and he classes such action as an abomination (Deuteronomy 18:10–14).

It would be very difficult to convince some Christians today that consulting a horoscope is an abomination before God. However, our destiny is not written in the stars. God controls our futures, not planetary alignments.

Creation Ministries International shares scientific and historical evidence for the Bible in churches across Canada. Request a speaker for your church (we have no set speaking fee!) at creation.com.

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Getting an issue of Christian Herald out takes time and effort.

The job gets done with the help of our team of committed, responsible Volunteer Distributors who devote 2-4 hours each month out of their busy schedule to getting the newspaper delivered to churches, bookstores, colleges and businesses within their local communities.

Please keep our distribution team in prayer as they venture out to deliver Christian Herald each month.

We are currently in need of volunteers in cities and towns across Greater Toronto.

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For more information about volunteering in your community, contact Christian Herald by phone at 905-874-1731 or send an email to info@christianherald.ca.

The Freedom Trail’s Paradise:

The story of Hamilton Pastor John Christie Holland

This is the story of an unusual time in Ontario’s treatment of racial minorities and a most unusual pastor named John Christie Holland.

Holland was born in 1882 in Hamilton, Ontario. The Hamilton he grew up in had a black population of over 616 black residents which was growing significantly because of the 1792 abolition of slavery by Governor Simcoe in Ontario and in the United States by the 1850 Fugitive Slave Act. This American law meant any escaped

by Art Wormald

1830s. Therefore, only Hamilton had fully integrated public schools in Ontario.

Holland’s church was an African Methodist Episcopal Church in the north end of Hamilton. Being well trained in music, Holland was a member of Canadian Jubilee Singers which gave concerts all over North America.

He married in 1901 and had 5 children.

When three ladies from the church applied for jobs with the city, and were ignored for three hours, he spoke with the city manager. Minutes later, these women had jobs with the city. Holland facilitated conflict mediations between employers and their black employees to resolve racial differences. Holland helped McMaster University to find housing for international students. Holland liasoned with the Immigration and National Employment Service to help church members find jobs.

Activating Entrepreneurial Superpowers

for the work of the Kingdom

Do the following statements apply to you?

• I am a superhero.

• I am an influencer.

• I am a change maker.

• I can change the world.

• I can change my community.

• I am an entrepreneur, business owner, or business operator.

If the last statement is true of you, then all the statements before that are also true of you.

It is said, ‘it takes a village’ and when it comes to Kingdom building, the adage could not be more true. The marketplace is diverse and thus, we need the diversity within the body of Christ to reach this complex context. The role of entrepreneurship in this ‘village’ is unique.

Entrepreneurs have superpowers. Through business, they can redefine norms and societal values, influence behaviour, and challenge the status quo.

It is a special privilege to not just see the brokenness of the world, but also possess the capability and access to remedy it. When we build and operate businesses that are redemptive in nature, they become instruments, used by God to restore society to His intended state.

This is the belief that founded the Centre for Redemptive Entrepreneurship (CRE), a learning centre under Tyndale University, located in North York, Ontario.

The CRE estimates that there are approximately 630,000 entrepreneurs in Canada who identify as Christians. Imagine the Gospel impact if their entrepreneurial superpowers were activated for the Kingdom.

Unfortunately, there are challenges to activating these superpowers. Entrepreneurship and business ownership don’t naturally find belonging in the Church. It’s rarely a topic on the pulpit, and it’s not among the common forms of livelihood to which most

can relate. While it is certainly not shunned, there is not much said about this area of work.

When asked, Christian entrepreneurs

“Entrepreneurship and business ownership don’t naturally find belonging in the Church...”

and business owners have frequently said that the greatest challenge in living out their faith through their ventures is:

• A lack of language to talk about it, to articulate the integration of faith in their business;

• A lack of community, people to journey with who are doing similar things;

• A lack of examples, what this integration can look like when lived out;

The mission of the CRE is to address these exact needs. To equip, support, and mentor Christian entrepreneurs, who are motivated by their faith, to live out the gospel through their ventures. To activate the influence of Christian entrepreneurs.

The CRE does this through core programs including labs, training and education, community gatherings and networking, and customized services such as coaching and mentoring.

The belief is that that redemptive entrepreneurship is holistic, which means it begins with thinking differently, all the way down to doing it differently. From changing our worldview about business, to tools and approaches that enable us to implement. May we use the unique gift of entrepreneurship to make Jesus known.

Coming Up at the CRE Venture Builder Learning Series: All the business foundations to get your venture started, grounded in biblical principles. 8 weekly live sessions held virtually, Sept 26 – Nov 14, 2024.

https://redemptivebusiness.ca/builder

Startup Starters Huddle: A gathering to learn about redemptive entrepreneurship with like-minded people and hear inspiring stories from those who are already doing it. Next meeting: Oct 17. 2024.

https://redemptivebusiness.ca/huddle

Redemptive Business Sprint: A 4-month intensive cohort, strategically designed for business leaders who wish to adopt the redemptive model for their existing business. This unique offering brings together coaching, spiritual direction, and mentoring. Jan 12 – Apr 28, 2025.

https://redemptivebusiness.ca/sprint

For more information on the CRE or any of its programs, contact: CRE@tyndale.ca

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EVENTS

THIRST exhibit opens in Oakville Nov. 2

In February of 2023, Canadian artist James Tughan lay in an Oakville ICU, following a serious heart attack, grateful to be alive but lamenting living with a bevy of tubes and medications in a hospital bed. Suddenly, God’s spirit brought to mind the story of Hezekiah who when facing a siege of the holy city by a ruthless enemy, asked God for 15 years to live. He used the time to dig a mile and a half long underground tunnel between the Gihon Spring and the Pool of Siloam, thus saving the city’s water supply.

It seemed to James that this creative act bore a clear resemblance to the work of the Portage Arts group (art educators and trauma survivors) in bringing creativity and artistry to Christian community. For anyone familiar with post Reformation church history, it is fairly clear that this has been an uphill challenge. In spite of possessing a scriptural document filled to the brim with imagery, story, parable and poetry, we remain largely focused on word-based communication. Artists are still largely marginalized by this.

The Portage Arts Group, the Golden Horseshoe’s faith-based art group focused

by James Tughan

on mental health and the arts, has for 20 years been working at arts education and the therapeutic application of visual art, in our churches and our communities. This fall we are mounting a major exhibition at the gallery in Oakville’s Queen Elizabeth Park Cultural Center. This exhibition, called ‘THIRST’, is wrapped around the idea of water (or the absence of it) as a metaphor for the life-giving creative process of artmaking. We are suggesting that this God given process of imagination and artistry is reflected in the dynamic properties of water, its movement, its ability to bend light, to move objects and people, and basically sustain life itself.

In addition to works in painting, drawing and sculpture, we are mounting an unusual, interactive display in which we are recreating an above-ground section of Hezekiah’s tunnel. Our interpretation of this structure has been made by many hands in fabric, dyes, steel and wood. It has been designed to reflect what it is like to go from trauma to healing through artistry.

We are suggesting that artmaking is the most therapeutic agent of healing in God’s good world, and we invite everyone to come see truly fine artwork from our artists this November. We are suggesting a reframing of Jesus’ encouragement to those who thirst in this life.

James Tughan is Executive Director of The Portage Arts Group.

THIRST: Re-imagining Hezekiah’s Tunnel Water, Artistry and Mental Health exhibit opens Saturday, November 2 to Tuesday November 26 at The Queen Elizabeth Park Cultural Center Gallery, 2302 Bridge Rd., Oakville.

Reception: Nov. 2, 2024; 7:00pm. www.portagesemaphore.ca

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ICEJ Feast of Tabernacles livestreams from Israel from October 16-23

This year, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem’s annual Feast of Tabernacles takes on a more sombre tone. In the wake of last year’s October 7 attacks in Israel just as the 2023 Feast was ending, ICEJ will be remembering those Israelis who fell or were taken hostage. The ministry will be taking special steps to remember the victims of the October 7 massacres in the area where it happened.

This year’s Feast will have an excellent line-up of inspiring local and international ministers and experts who will bring you biblical and prophetic insights into Israel and current updates on this ever-changing region. 2024 Speakers include: Malcolm Hedding, Peter Tsukahira, Juha Ketola, Daniel Padji, Suzette Hattingh, David Parsons, Dr. Mojmir Kallus and more.

www.icej.ca/fot2024

Tyndale’s GO Bible aims to nurture seeds of faith in kids

Packed with more than 600 features connecting Bible truths to everyday life

Tyndale’s new Go Bible is bursting with fun and engaging content to help kids (7+) explore God’s Word and go share it with others. Paired with the easy-to-read New Living Translation, this kids’ Bible plants seeds of faith and share the lifechanging love of God with kids through over 600 features centered on the theme of transformation.

Using the New Living Translation allows younger children to get to the heart of scripture without having to process technical biblical language. The two-column format and 9.5-point font size, paired with chapter numbers in red and verse numbers is blue, make for a very readable and accessible children’s Bible.

The GO Bible aims to highlight the transformation effects of the Bible in the lives of believers. The GO Bible has mini-devotions, teaching kids to know God’s Word, grow their faith, and share it with others. There are fun activities to help kids

MUSIC

memorize scripture, including Key Verse Challenges.

‘Factoids’ teach children about life in Bible times, ‘Tales of Transformed People’ showcase lives that were forever changed by God. 20 ‘Key Moments ‘deliver info-packed illustrations of the tabernacle, ark, Egyptian plagues and more. Book Introductions include a chronological timeline, and a big picture view of why the book matters in God’s story. Whether for kids or adults, no Bible seems complete without maps, and the GO Bible delivers with 8 Kid-Friendly Maps—in full colour with travel routes, kingdom borders, and animal populations. All in all, a great starter Bible for young children graduating from reading Bible storybooks and hearing passages read aloud, to receiving their own text Bible for personal reading and study.

GO Bible

Tyndale Bible Publishers 1648 pages Softcover/Hardcover/LeatherLike

Keith and Kristyn Getty coming to Hamilton’s First Ontario Hall

Evangelicalism’s most prominent hymn-writers visit October 26

Coming to Hamilton’s First Ontario Centre this month are Keith and Kristyn Getty, hymn writers, GRAMMY®nominated artists and the founding leaders of the Getty Music organization who hail from Northern Ireland. Their greatest musical passion is writing and championing great hymns of the church.

Their songwriting journey began in 2000 when Keith wrote the tune for “In Christ Alone” on the back of a Northern Ireland Electricity bill. Many songs, albums, and—most importantly—four daughters later, they still wake up each morning amazed that they get to spend their days crafting melodies and words to encourage and inspire the people of God.

Keith and Kristyn established Getty Music in the hope that individuals, families, and churches would celebrate the beauty of Christ-centered hymnody. Their hymn writing team includes a growing array of contributors who are as committed to family and the local church as they are to the craft of songwriting. Their group’s songs include 38 of the top 500 titles sung in US/ UK churches, such as “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death,” “His Mercy Is More,” “He Will Hold Me Fast,” “Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery,” “Power of the Cross,”

“Speak O Lord,” and “My Worth Is Not in What I Own.” Their original publishers, Integrity Music, estimate that more than 100 million people around the globe sing this music every year in a diverse array of contexts. Their hymns uniquely cross genres, finding expression in styles from contemporary to classical as well as folk and global. The Getty Music team is currently developing the Sing! Hymnal, slated to be released in 2025 in partnership with Crossway.

Keith was the first contemporary Christian musician to be awarded Officer of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018 for his contributions to music and hymnody. Other acknowledg-

ments include one GRAMMY® nomination, one mainstream Billboard #1, two GMA awards (with 16 nominations), three honorary doctorates, and they have been named Fellows of the Royal School of Church Music.

The Gettys’ hymns have been recorded by a vast array of artists. Kristyn’s creativity

has also led to wider opportunities such as recording the entire ESV Bible as an audio version for Crossway.

Keith and Kristyn are especially excited about the Getty Music Foundation, a new non-profit organization with a mission to educate hymn writers and spur biblical worship in under-resourced areas of the globe.

Jesus film in sign language is historic first for Deaf community

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (BP) – When Joseph Josselyn of “Jesus: A Deaf Missions Film” lost his hearing as a toddler, life became “a little painful at times” as he grew, accepted Jesus, and worshipped God in the hearing world.

As the only Deaf member of his family, and despite his parents’ best efforts, only at Gallaudet University was he exposed fully to the Deaf culture and began to grow in his walk with Jesus, Josselyn told Baptist Press through the use of an interpreter.

“A lot of Deaf people don’t know Jesus as well,” he said, “and that’s a big issue … that need for them to meet, know and follow Jesus. And that’s been a big role of Deaf Missions, is to create media and resources to help get the awareness out there of Jesus.”

Communicating with the Deaf community in its heart language is a key concept of Jesus: A Deaf Missions Film portraying the story of Jesus entirely in American Sign Language (ASL), billed by Deaf Missions as the first-ever ASL adaptation for the silver screen.

The film removes all barriers Deaf people face when viewing spoken-language films with subtitles, a standard that Josselyn says makes it difficult for Deaf viewers to ex-

by Diana Chandler

perience the emotions critical to any given story.

“Having an experience where Jesus is Deaf, is signing, and an all-Deaf cast where they’re all signing, so they could see all the emotion, they could see what was happening,” is what Josselyn sees as critical to the production. “There wasn’t anything they had to detach from. There were no barriers. They didn’t have to go through an interpreter … or a second party to get that information. To me, that’s why this is so important.”

Deaf Missions made the film primarily for Deaf audiences, but included elements

such as English subtitles and a soundtrack to accommodate a hearing audience. Also, Deaf people can experience the music by feeling the bass.

“We felt it would be beneficial for hearing people to come and partake and to view the movie as well,” Josselyn said, “because most Deaf have children and parents. Or you think of relatives or siblings of the Deaf, or friends of the Deaf, so that they have access to the movie as well. Just as hearing folks give me access to their films, then we wanted to do the same thing for hearing folks.”

Josselyn, who produces and directs the film along with Deaf producer Michael Davis of GUM Vision Studio, faced unique

challenges in the production, spanning the mundane of securing a boat for the scene of Jesus walking on water, to the creative element of portraying Jesus’ last words on the cross.

“Jesus is on the cross where He says certain things which I want people to watch, to see. How do we get Jesus to say those words while He was on the cross?” Josselyn shared, declining to reveal his solution. “That is part of the mystery of it all, is how did that scene take place. Thank God for His provision, for working all the details out.”

Deaf Missions, a ministry to Deaf people in more than 100 countries encompassing more than 60 denominations, hopes the film will draw unbelievers to Jesus and help believers learn more of Jesus and grow in faith.

“It’s been a true joy to see people’s response to the film,” Josselyn said, referencing recent red-carpet events where the film was shown. “The people watching were moved to tears. They were sitting speechless, deep in thought. And that is what has been the biggest encouragement for me.

“For folks to see the movie in their heart language has been the greatest reward.”

Diana Chandler is Baptist Press’ senior writer.

Faith in Entertainment Guild Launches with Nashville Gathering New organization for Christian media industry professionals building momentum

The newly-organized Faith in Entertainment Guild gathered for its first formal meeting at Lifeway Films in Brentwood, Tennessee this spring with more than 100 members in attendance.

"This is a dream a long time in the making," said Barry Landis, a Guild cofounder. "It was wonderful being with so many people in the industry who were able connect, learn, and dream together."

The Faith in Entertainment Guild, LLC is an organization comprised of professionals dedicated to preserving and promoting Biblical values in entertainment through advocacy, education, and networking opportunities. The Guild is directed by industry veterans Rich Peluso, EVP / Head of AFFIRM Films, Television and Originals for Sony Pictures Entertainment; Barry Landis, President of Pivot Music; and Bob Elder, Chief Impact Officer of Collide Media Group

The Guild officially began accepting

members earlier this year. The professional organization was born out of the Faith in Film Breakfast Clubs that started in Nashville in 2008 and grew to more than 4,000 members meeting in five U.S. states, meeting regularly until the pandemic in 2020.

"This was the natural next step," said Bob Elder, "The Guild was born as Barry, Rich and I discussed what we could do to

best serve the needs of professionals who focus on faith entertainment."

Highlights of this first Guild Gathering included an update from Bob Elder on faith films and their impact at the box office; a Q&A about financing projects with Ben Howard, Senior Advisor of Impact Foundation; an interview with actor and producer Jesse Hutch; and the keynote speech by

Lori McCreary, CEO of Revelations Entertainment.

"This was an event that felt like you're grabbing coffee with a friend," Jesse Hutch said. "It was highly informative, relevant, and culturally directional. I'm thankful to have been invited. The diverse attendees and panelists allowed for lively and timely discussions. I'll definitely be going again."

"The Guild is a hub where Christian media professionals can now unite, grow, collaborate, and thrive," said Marion MacKenzie Pyle, TV host, writer, and producer.

"It's a desert out there," added Jim Walchle President at Films4flyovers. "The Faith in Entertainment Guild is a 'watering hole.'"

For membership information, visit www.faithinentertainmentguild.com or email info@faithinentertainmentguild.com.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Christian HERALD

Greater Toronto’s most comprehensive guide to Christian events

BUSINESS | CONCERTS & MUSIC | CONFERENCES/MEETINGS | MEN | MOVIES | PRAYER | SUPPORT GROUPS | TV | WOMEN |YOUTH

ARTS

THIRST: Re-imagining Hezekiah’s Tunnel Water, Artistry and Mental Health Sat., Nov. 2 to Tue., Nov. 26, 2024

The Portage Arts Group is re-imagining Hezekiah’s tunnel as a metaphor for moving from the drought of mental illness to the healing and refreshment of art and creativity. The installation and exhibition is being toured to promote creative artistry as a therapeutic agent of healing in the Christian community. Location: The Queen Elizabeth Park Cultural Center Gallery, 2302 Bridge Rd., Oakville. Reception: Nov. 2 7:00pm. For more information email James Tughan at tughanj@gmail.com or visit www.portagesemaphore.ca.

BUSINESS

Canadian Christian Business Federation

Monthly Morning Meetings

Local chapters of The Canadian Christian Business Federation host monthly morning breakfast meetings for Christian business and professional leaders, men and women, in select Southern Ontario cities. For more information, or to inquire about starting a CCBF chapter in your community, visit www.ccbf.org

ELO Forum Toronto 2024

Wed., December 4, 2024; 9:00am-7:00pm ELO’s annual business conference that brings together Christian marketplace and entrepreneurial leaders to connect, learn, and be inspired. Speakers include Ronald Blue, Jackie Dinsmore and William Vanderbloemen. www.entrepreneurialleaders.com.

CONCERTS & MUSIC

Gospel Music Industry Hub Mondays; 7:00pm

GMI Hub Online is a weekly meeting and webcast of panel meetings with successful gospel music industry leaders discussing the state of the gospel arts industry and sharing their experiences and knowledge. www.gmihub.ca

The River Worship - Season Ten Tuesdays @ 7:00pm Midweek worship has arrived in the Durham Region! You’ll find us at the Canada Christian College auditorium, 300 Water Street, Whitby. The River exists so you can come before God

in the middle of the week, leave everything else at the door, and encounter Him in a personal and meaningful way. Expect to hear your favourite current worship songs and get ready to worship. Things might get a little loud! www.theriverworship.ca

Whitby Christian Coffeehouse Saturdays; 7:30-9:30pm

The Coffee House is an outreach ministry of Durham Full Gospel Church focused on spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It was established over thirty-eight years ago and is still going strong. Halfway through the evening there is a 15-minute break for refreshments and fellowship. Each night there is a different Christian group ministering through songs and testimonies of what the Lord has done in their lives. Held at 419 Brock St North, Whitby. For the current schedule of performing artists, visit www.durhamfullgospelchurch.org.

Steve Bell in concert - Toronto

Thursday, October 17, 2024; 7:30pm

Tickets $26. Held at Little Trinity Anglican Church, 425 King Street East, Toronto. Tickets available at www.stevebell.com/events Or through Little Trinity Anglican (425 King Street E | 416-367-0272 x 224). For phone orders, call Signpost Music toll-free at 1-800-854-3499.

Steve Bell in concert - Hamilton

Friday, October 18, 2024; 7:30pm

An evening of story and song with the Steve Bell Band, featuring music from Steve’s 23rd solo release, The Glad Surprise, as well as Steve Bell classics and favourites. Steve will be accompanied by Gilles Fournier (bass), Murray Pulver (guitar), and special guest Mike Janzen (piano). Tickets $26. Held at West Highland Church, 1605 Garth Street, Hamilton. Tickets available at www.stevebell.com/events. For phone orders, call Signpost Music toll-free at 1-800-854-3499.

Bethel Music - We Must Respond tour

Friday, October 25, 2024; 7:00pm

A night of worship and ministry with Bethel Music’s Jenn Johnson, John Wilds, David Funk, Zahriya Zachary and special guest Aodhán King. Presented by Unite Productions. Held at Canada Event Centre, 300 Water Street, Whitby. www.uniteproductions.com.

An Evening With Keith & Kristyn Getty

Saturday, October 26, 2024 Presented by Niagara Christian Concerts. With special guests Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. Held at First Ontario Concert Hall, Hamilton. Tickets at www.gettymusic.com/tour.

Lorraine Linton

Live Recording Worship Experience Saturday, October 26, 2024; 5:00pm Join us for a soul-stirring evening of worship with Lorraine Linton. With Guest Artists Dave Brown-The Gospel Trumpet player, Michelle Adams, Lori-Ann Williams-Smith, Redemption in Worship and more! Tickets $55, At Door: $60. www.lorrainelinton.com.

A Gospel Jazz Christmas featuring Toronto Mass Choir and Mike Janzen Trio Thursday, December 12, 2024; 7:30pm Immerse yourself in the unique musical celebration of “A Gospel Jazz Christmas” featuring the acclaimed Toronto Mass Choir and the electrifying Mike Janzen Trio. Join us at Toronto’s prestigious Koerner Hall for an unforgettable evening of soulful gospel, artful song and grooving jazz. The Toronto Mass Choir, known for its powerful performances and inspirational messages, will blend their harmonious voices with the genre bending, innovative music stylings of the Mike Janzen Trio. Together, they will create a festive atmosphere that captures the spirit of Christmas, bringing together elements of gospel, pop and jazz in a way that is uplifting, inspiring and accessible. www.mikejanzentrio.com.

CONFERENCES/MEETINGS

Global Leadership Summit 2024

October 17-18, 2024

For over 30 years, the Global Leadership Summit has been empowering leaders worldwide. It offers a unique opportunity to access worldclass leadership training directly in your local community. When leaders get better, everyone wins. Various GTA locations. www.globalleadershipnetwork.ca.

CFX 2024 - Chattanooga, TN

October 21-23, 2024

The Church Facilities Expo (CFX) presents a 360-degree display of the products and services involved with the building, managing, and operation of churches today. Packed with manufacturers and service providers who know and understand the needs and challenges of

churches, CFX events educate church leadership and ministry teams in the critical areas of worship technology and production, church building improvement, building projects, safety and security, communications, volunteer development, and church administration. www.churchfacilitiesexpo.com.

Financial Management God’s Way: Zoom Small Groups

Thursdays, Oct. 24, 2024 to Jan. 30, 2025 Commencing on October 24, Randy Ziegenhagel and Al McClaney, will be leading an in-depth biblical financial study titled “Financial Management God’s Way” by way of Zoom, so it doesn’t matter where you are located. (Other groups also available.)

It is through this in-depth biblical financial study where we have seen thousands of people change in the way they think about and manage money. For details and registration, go to www. coplandfinancialministries.org or email us at info@biblefinance.org.

Missions Canada conference November 1-2, 2024

The purpose of the conference is to unify believers from every tribe and nation, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ to a lost and dying world, and to create and develop a Spiritinspired, kingdom-focused, transformational movement in Canada and beyond. This is driven by the Great Commission of Jesus in Matthew 28:19, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” Held at Heartland Community Church, 1100 Canadian Pl, Mississauga. Free admission. www.missionscanada.org.

2024 Brampton Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast Tuesday, November 12, 2024; 6:45-8:45am

The 2024 Brampton Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast will include a great breakfast with good friends, a guest speaker, enjoyable music, and, of course, prayer. It is going to be a great morning! We will be at the Pearson Convention Centre, 2638 Steeles Avenue, Brampton. Tickets for the event are $25. Hosted by the Brampton & District Ministerial Association.

2024 Carters Charity & NFP Law Webinar Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024; 9:00 am–1:00 pm

The webinar is designed to assist charities and not-for-profits in understanding developing trends in the law, in order to reduce exposure to legal liability. The webinar continues its tradition of serving the broader faith community, including religious organizations, as it has every year since 1994. Special guest speakers this year

To list your event for free in the Community Calendar, format your listing exactly as those on this page and email it to us at info@christianherald.ca. Submissions which are incorrectly formatted may not be published. All submissions are subject to space and taste considerations. Christian Herald reserves the right to decide what is appropriate, and may edit submissions. Placement in the Community Calendar is NOT guaranteed. All persons and organizations submitting events to the Community Calendar must agree with the Statement of Faith as found on our website at www.christianherald.ca. Events sponsored by churches which distribute Christian Herald will be given priority. Your calendar listing must reach Christian Herald by the 20th of the month preceding the issue in which you would like it to be printed. (For example, the listing must arrive by the 20th of October to be included in the November issue.)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

are The Honourable Ratna Omidvar, C.M., O.Ont., Senator for Ontario and Former Deputy Chair of the Special Senate Committee on the Charitable Sector, as well as Bruce MacDonald, President, Imagine Canada

This webinar is eligible for 3.75 substantive hours towards the annual Law Society of Ontario (LSO) CPD and CPA Professional Development requirements. Cost: Registration fee is $39.55 per person ($35. plus HST.) For more information, contact us at 1-877-942-0001 x230 or seminars@carters.ca.

2024 Markham Prayer Breakfast

Friday, November 22, 2024; 7:00-9:00am

The Markham Prayer Breakfast is a gathering of more than 600 people. We gather to support and encourage each other in faith. We gather to pray for our leaders and the people of Markham. We gather to honour God in our community. There will be special music by Jonathan Michael, a message from Dr. Peter Chu, General/Trauma Surgeon and Adjunct Professor at Tyndale Seminary, and prayers offered. The program promises to be inspiring and faith building. Join us for a wonderful hot buffet breakfast! Dress is casual to business attire. Location: Angus Glen Golf Club! Tickets $45., only 450 seats available. www.markhamprayerbreakfast.ca.

Canadian Church Research Gathering

December 12-13, 2024

Sponsored by the Canadian Institute for Empirical Church Research. Join us for a day of insightful discussions and networking with fellow church researchers on trends in the Canadian church. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals passionate about church research, data-informed decision making and opportunities for mission. Whether you’re a seasoned researcher, denominational leader or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone interested in exploring the latest trends and findings in Canadian church research. At Wycliffe College, 5 Hoskin Street, Toronto. www.ciecr.wycliffecollege.ca.

MEN

Impactus Men’s Conference

Saturday, November 2, 2024; 8:30am-4:30pm The Impactus Men’s Conference is a one-day event designed to help you grow in your faith as a man. With engaging speakers, practical breakout sessions, and powerful worship, you are guaranteed to be encouraged and inspired.. With speakers Finu Iype, Dustin Boreland and Dwayne Cline. Pricing: Early Bird $60/Preevent $70/Door $75. Group rates available. Held at Bramalea Baptist Church, 9050 Dixie Road, Brampton. www.impactus.org

MOVIES

Best Christmas Pageant Ever In theatres starting November 8 The Herdman kids are absolutely the worst. They lie, they steal, they bully…and they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (“The Chosen”) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, the film follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very

first time; she and her daughter Beth (Molly Belle Wright) and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are less than amused. But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. www.bestchristmaspageantever.movie

PRAYER

24 Hour Worshippers Toronto

Monthly

The mission of 24HW is to exalt God through worship and prayer as one body, while standing in the gap for the city, the country and the church. Worship and prayer teams from congregations in Toronto take 2-hour slots and pray through a weekend each month, starting on Friday at 7:00pm and running for 24 hours. www.24hourworshippers.com

40 Days for Life

September 25 to November 3, 2024

The visible, public centerpiece of 40 Days for Life is a focused, 40-day, non-stop, round-theclock prayer vigil outside an abortion facility in your community. It is a peaceful and educational presence. Those who are called to stand witness during this 24-hour-a-day presence send a powerful message to the community about the tragic reality of abortion. www.40daysforlife.com

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alpha Alpha is an 11-week course that creates a space, online or in person, where people are excited to bring their friends for a conversation about life, faith and Jesus. The same Alpha content is run all over the world, by Christians of all traditions, and provides a common expression of faith. Over 1 million people in Canada have experienced Alpha, and millions more have taken Alpha in over 100 countries and over 100 languages around the globe. Find a local Alpha course at www.alphacanada.org.

DivorceCare

DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. Find a local group at www.divorcecare.org.

DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K)

Are your children angry, hurt, and confused about your separation or divorce? A DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K) support group is a safe, fun place where your children can learn skills that will help them heal. DC4K groups blend, games, music, stories, videos and discussion to help kids process the divorce and move forward. Groups meet weekly and are designed for children ages 5-12. Find a group at www.dc4k.org

GriefShare

GriefShare is a weekly support group for those facing the loss of a loved one through death. You will be most welcomed into a warm caring environment in which you can receive hope and encouragement by relating to others who are facing similar emotions. Find a local GriefShare group at www.griefshare.org

Parents of Human Trafficking Victims: Online Support Group

First and Third Thursdays, 7:00-9:00 pm (Family members suffer greatly when a loved one becomes entangled in the sex trade. If you are a parent or family member of a young person exploited in this way, we offer a safe space for you to be understood. Zoom in or meet with us in person to process your feelings without fear of judgment. We also work with families, individually, to bring an end to the exploitation. Parents Hope is part of the Christian ministry of Lifeworthy - SIM Canada. For more info, please email Lynda at parents.hope@lifeworthy. ca or visit: www.lifeworthy.ca.

Pure Desire

Pure Desire Ministries International is a biblically-based and clinically-informed ministry committed to true revival in the church through the healing of the present day epidemic of sexual brokenness. Pure Desire groups offer a roadmap to recovery from sexual addiction, betrayal, and relationship issues by providing a safe, confidential place to process your life story: learning how family of origin, traumatic experiences, and wounding messages impact relationships. www.puredesire.org/join-a-group.

Sharing The Burden

There is Hope! Come and take life-healing steps. Addiction, anxiety, depression, co-dependency. Don’t be alone with it any longer. Group support, all welcome. email: scott@sharingtheburden.ca or visit www.sharingtheburdenradio.org.

TV

Dove Awards 2024 Friday, October 4, 2024; 8:00pm & 10:00pm Multi-Dove Award-winner Tauren Wells will be hosting the highly anticipated 55th Annual GMA Dove Awards. Performers include Anne Wilson, Cain, CeCe Winans, Chandler Moore, Crowder, Maverick City Music, Natalie Grant, and Tye Tribett. www.tbn.org

2024 Feast of Tabernacles Livestream October 16-23, 2024, from Israel

The Online Feast of Tabernacles, presented by International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, will be available on ICEJ’s exclusive streaming platform and will include live streaming of all Feast events, plus over 80 seminar teachings and other unique online content viewable on demand. www.icej.ca

WOMEN

PraiseMoves

PraiseMoves, called the Christian alternative to Yoga, is a series of stretching and strengthbuilding postures, each linked to a verse of Scripture we focus upon while doing the posture. Classes include PraiseMoves Gold (for seniors and anyone with limited physical mobility) PraiseMoves, PraiseBarre (a fusion of PraiseMoves and Barre exercises to Power up your workout with low impact high intensity exercises) and MIRA! (dance as a celebration of Praise to the Lord.) Classes are held at Richview Church, 1548 Kipling Ave., Etobicoke. An exercise mat is recommended. Held at Richview Baptist Church, 1548 Kipling Ave, Etobicoke.

Cost: Free. For more info contact: Inez Cann RN, CPI, CMI (Certified PraiseMoves and Mira Instructor) 416-237-1794 or email inezcann@ hotmail.com. www.praisemoves.com

Moms in the Making Christian Infertility Support Group First and Third Tuesdays; 7:00pm Moms in the Making exists to support and encourage women on their journey to becoming a mom by sharing the hope and truth of God’s Word. One way we accomplish this mission is by hosting in-person groups, which meet twice a month as we together focus on scripture and our hope in Jesus. Moms in the Making groups are for married women who, in partnership with their husband, are looking to expand their family. Whether you are taking a natural approach or pursuing treatments, adoption, foster care or a different route, you are welcome. The Newmarket, Ontario group which meets at 7pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month. www.momsinthemaking.com/canada.

Designed to Empower Women’s Conference “Grace Rewrote My Story”

Saturday, October 19, 2024; 9:00am - 4:00pm

Join us as we hear our two keynote speakers, Ligia Andrade and Tammy Isaacs, share their transformative journey on how Grace rewrote their story. Worship: Shireen Spencer. This conference provides an opportunity for you to be encouraged, empowered, find community and be strengthened spiritually in God. Tickets: $95 (includes a catered continental breakfast and lunch). Held at the Victorian Garden Banquet Hall in Ajax, ON. Tickets available for purchase on-line using EventBrite.ca. Contact Aisha Nixon at designed2empower19@ gmail.com for more information.

YOUTH

2024 Change Conference

October 18-19, 2024

The Change Conference vision is for every youth in Canada to hear, respond and live out the message of Jesus in their lives. The conference is geared to Junior Highs and High Schoolage youth. The Friday Night Change Concert is a massive party - designed specifically for students to invite their friends to hear and respond to the life-changing hope and love of Jesus. The Saturday Conference takes students deeper and challenges them to live for Jesus. Our speakers encourage students to be bold in their faith and to share their story with their friends. Our Saturday Conference also includes incredible breakout speakers your students will love to hear from.

www.changeconference.com.

Career & Mentorship Conference

Saturday, October 26, 2024; 9:00am-3:00pm

On behalf of the Islington Evangel Centre family, we would like to invite you to participate in this conference where we aim to equip and empower youth & young adults within the GTA as they begin their career journey. Our theme for 2024 is “Powered by Faith, Driven by Purpose”. Registration starts at 9:00am. (Food: Complimentary refreshments and lunch will be available.) Please send your questions to plug@ iecfamily.com or give us a call at 416- 747-7208. www.iecfamily.com.

Museum of the Bible premieres Megiddo Mosaic

Decorative floor of oldest Christian prayer hall underscores the crucial role of women in the early church

The Washington-based Museum of the Bible and the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) opened a new exhibit which features a decorative mosaic floor from one of the oldest sites of Christian worship. The splendidly-decorated hall at Dura-Europus in northern Syria and this building are the earliest known Christian worship sites in the world. “The Megiddo Mosaic: Foundations of Faith” opened to guests on September 15, 2024 and will run through March 2025.

“This is arguably one of the most important archaeological discoveries for understanding the early Christian church,” said Bobby Duke, interim Chief Curator and director of Scholars Initiative at Museum of the Bible. “For example, the mosaic underscores the crucial role of women in the early church by the fact that five women are mentioned in it by name. Truly, the mosaic presents a wealth of new data for church historians, like the Dead Sea Scrolls did for Bible scholars.”

The Megiddo Mosaic — which dates to the third century — formed part of the floor of the oldest site of Christian worship ever to be discovered. The mosaic, and the building containing it, were uncovered 20 years ago by Dr. Yotam Tepper from the Israel Antiquities Authority. It was discovered during a pre-construction archaeological dig in the Megiddo prison in Israel, as it was planned to build a new wing in the prison. Eventually, prisoners worked alongside the archaeologists to uncover the rare discovery. The mosaic was preserved by the IAA and was covered, until today.

Carlos Campo, chief executive officer at Museum of the Bible, remarked, “We are thrilled to serve as the inaugural site to premiere this groundbreaking piece of history and are grateful to the Israel Antiquities Authority for its trusted partnership as we’ve worked together to present the mosaic to the world.”

According to Alegre Savariego, curator of the exhibition on behalf of the IAA, “The mosaic presents groundbreaking physical evidence of the practices and beliefs of early Christians, including the first archaeological instance of the phrase, ‘God Jesus Christ.’ Also featured on the mosaic are one

of the earliest examples of a fish being used as a Christian symbol, and the names of several of the church’s patrons — a Roman centurion, an artist, and five women.”

The conservation of the mosaic was done by the Conservation Department of the Israel Antiquities Authority. The mosaic was cleaned, its edges stabilized,

“The mosaic presents a wealth of new data for church historians, like the Dead Sea Scrolls did for Bible scholars.”

and lacunae, or empty spaces, were filled in with mortar. Then, loose tesserae, the stone cubes that make up the mosaic, were grouted and re-laid on new supports.

After in situ conservation was complete, archaeologists reburied the mosaic while the IAA conducted research. When the IAA decided to move the mosaic for exhibition in 2024, archaeologists and conservators worked together to uncover the mosaic.

After the meticulous cleaning and conservation process, it was divided into sections that could be safely shipped while preserving its integrity without distortion.

According to Eli Escusido, director of the IAA, “The Israel Antiquities Authority is delighted to finally present the important Megiddo Mosaic to the world. The Megiddo Mosaic will be presented in its first venue at the Museum of the Bible for 9 months. After display in some additional

venues, it will return to Israel and is planned to be presented in a permanent exhibition at the exact site where it was discovered. The ancient site will be developed and presented for the benefit of visitors and tourists.”

The mosaic will be accompanied by artifacts discovered during its excavation, which offer a glimpse into daily life in the Roman Sixth Legion Ferrata. These items include roof tiles, an inscribed bread stamp, a bronze statuette of the Roman god of home Lar, engraved Carnelian intaglios, fragments of mortarium pottery with the Greek inscription “Peace and Luck,” and coins.

Museum of the Bible is an innovative, global, educational institution based in Washington, D.C., whose purpose is to invite all people to engage with the transformative power of the Bible. www.museumofthebible.org

Photo: The Megiddo Mosaic exhibit will be open at the Museum of the Bible in Washington D.C. until March 2025.