January 2021

Dear Friends,

They say that hindsight is 20/20 and there is wisdom in the saying. Many are glad to see the year 2020 as ‘hindsight’ and that is understandable. It was strange and difficult. The big thing was, of course, the Covid-19 pandemic and its consequences – massive shutdowns, social distancing, business and income losses, isolation and grief. In addition to all of that our attention was inevitably drawn to matters in the USA, including an impeachment trial, Black Lives Matter marches and the presidential election.

Many are wondering where God was in the midst of our trials. That I can answer. Jesus, our Emmanuel – which means ‘God With Us’ – was with us. He was walking with us, sustaining, comforting and encouraging us every day. But why does God allow things like pandemics to happen? That I cannot fully answer. Jesus himself forewarned us (see ‘pestilences’ in Luke 21:11) so we ought not to be too surprised. It’s important to remember this: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord, for as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8,9  He has his reasons.

Our in-church services were shut down after March 15^th and for over 6 months I found myself ‘streaming’ live over the internet. This was a steep learning curve with many technological glitches. You have been very patient and forgiving and I truly appreciate that. Although it’s far from ideal, we’ve been able to reach out to listeners far and wide. Once normalness returns, we will continue to live-stream as the pandemic has actually opened to us a new path for our mission.

We did hold live services with many precautions at Lochlin and Haliburton from October to December. Ingoldsby chose to hold off and as of now we are all shut down again. Our hope is that soon we will be able to meet together safely to worship, pray and encourage one another. Thanks to all for your ongoing labour, support, love and prayers. A big thanks to Lynne Bertrand, our faithful administrator, who had her own trials last year. Be smart, stay safe and stay in touch. 

In Christ’s love, 

Harry