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Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Volunteer Profile: Danny Neelands

For the past ten years, All Nations Church (ANC) has held a special place in Danny Neelands’ heart. From attending Sunday services to actively serving within its vibrant community, Danny’s journey has been one of growth, learning, and fulfillment. In this blog post, we delve into Danny Neelands’ personal experience as a dedicated servant within ANC, shedding light on the motivations behind his service, the joys he has found along the way, and the profound impact it has had on both his life and the lives of others.
A decade ago, Danny Neelands walked through the doors of All Nations Church, seeking spiritual guidance and a sense of belonging. Over the years, ANC has evolved from a place of worship into a cherished home, brimming with a warm and welcoming community that has played a pivotal role in shaping Danny’s identity.
Around six years into his journey with ANC, Danny Neelands experienced a calling to give back to the community that had nurtured his spiritual growth. This calling led him to embark on a remarkable journey of service. Week after week, Danny commits his time and energy to various church activities, contributing significantly to the congregation’s growth and well-being.
Currently, Danny holds the position of Youth Leader for Core Youth Ministries, a role he values deeply. As a youth leader, he relishes the opportunity to guide and support young individuals as they navigate life’s challenges, providing them with a secure space to discuss their thoughts, beliefs, and struggles.
Danny’s decision to start serving was deeply rooted in his own formative experiences as a youth. He vividly recalls the profound impact a compassionate and strong youth group had on him during his own journey. Empowered by this memory, Danny was motivated to pay forward the guidance and support he received to the next generation.
Within the embrace of ANC, Danny finds the true essence of community. Whether it’s the heartwarming Sunday morning conversations, the thought-provoking discussions during Sunday night Young Adults gatherings, or the simple yet profound joy of spending time with friends outside the formal church setting, ANC has provided Danny with a platform for forging meaningful connections.
However, the most gratifying aspect of Danny’s service role is witnessing the growth of the youth under his guidance. Observing them cultivate stronger relationships with God, develop steadfast morals, and ignite a genuine passion for their faith fills Danny with a deep sense of pride and joy.
To those who may harbour reservations about embarking on a service journey, Danny Neelands offers a resonant insight from Hebrews 13:16: “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” While the path of service may demand time and effort, the rewards it brings far surpass the sacrifices made. The impact of one’s dedication, no matter how seemingly small, possesses the potential to reverberate through generations, inspiring positive change and fostering a sense of community that transcends time.
Danny Neelands’ voyage at All Nations Church has been a narrative of evolution, connection, and profound purpose. The decade of attendance and 4 years of dedicated service has transformed him into a more empathetic, understanding, and fulfilled individual. Through his role as a Youth Leader, Danny has been given the privilege of guiding youth on their own spiritual journeys, and the experience has proven to be nothing short of transformative. To anyone contemplating the path of service, Danny offers a resounding encouragement to take that step. By doing so, you will not only please God but also embark on a life-altering adventure, capable of catalyzing positive change and leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

The Spiritual Development of Children

It is understandably one of the most difficult parts of being a Christian parent, watching and waiting to see if they continue on the path of their faith. Measuring spiritual development is significantly more difficult to measure compared to physical development.

So what does spiritual development look like and what does the Bible say as we consider their development? I’ve often heard spiritual development for children compared to a space rocket taking off. You have the boosters that push the rocket into orbit, and then the rocket takes over as the boosters fall off. Just like those boosters, parents have the profound responsibility and privilege of teaching God to them and pushing them up into the atmosphere. In subtle yet powerful ways, they learn about the Heavenly Father by observing parent’s actions and behaviours.In their journey of discovering God, our young children absorb everything we teach them. They naturally trust us and often show a remarkable openness to the gospel of the Saviour. Their innate understanding of consequences for their actions makes the concept of Jesus dying for their sins deeply meaningful to them. As Jesus himself taught, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these’ (Matthew 19:14). It is heartening to know that statistics indicate many adults who now follow Christ first embraced Him during their childhood. The role of parents is to nurture this early connection with God, guiding them with love and understanding, and fostering an environment where their faith can flourish. By doing so, we help them lay a strong foundation for their spiritual journey, ensuring they can carry the light of Christ with them as they grow.

But then, teenagers begin to discover their own faith, they begin to question, and in this critical moment, the rocket of their faith will ignite to push them further. Consequently, the ages between twelve and twenty-one emerge as absolutely crucial years in our children’s spiritual journey with the Lord. It is during this period that they require our active engagement. Instead of reducing communication, they actually need more of it, albeit in a different manner. Rather than delivering lectures, they benefit from our willingness to ask questions and encourage their curiosity. We should embrace their inquiries while instilling confidence that answers exist. As parents, it is vital to anticipate this phase and commit to guiding them through it until they are fully convinced. During these formative years, our children greatly benefit from conversations with trusted mentors. These individuals can provide valuable perspectives and support as they navigate their beliefs and understanding. However, above all else, what they truly need is a deep, meaningful connection to our hearts. By fostering this emotional bond, we ensure they feel loved, accepted, and understood as they explore their faith and spirituality. Our unwavering support and genuine interest in their spiritual growth will play a pivotal role in shaping their relationship with the Lord for years to come.

But even then, it can be difficult to hold on to the faith that those teens will continue their walk with Christ. So we turn to the Bible to God’s promises.

God has set eternity on their heart. In Ecclesiastes 3:11, it is promised that God has set eternity on each and every heart. Each child has received something from God that awakens them to the reality of eternity and the promise of heaven. Trust God’s Word that in your child’s heart, they are aware that there is an eternal life for them.
God is pursuing your child. God’s passionate pursuit of us involved sending His beloved Son to die in our place. Because we could not reach Him through our own efforts, He reached down to us. He pursues us even when we are obstinate: to the Israelites, God said, “I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’ All day long I have held out my hands to an obstinate people, who walk in ways not good, pursuing their own imaginations—a people who continually provoke me to my very face” (Isaiah 65:1–3).
God hears yours prayers. Every prayer that you offer up for your child is heard by God. We’re promised that when we have faith, God will move (Mark 11:24). We may pray for years, but he will remain faithful to us.

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Examining the Exclusivity of Christianity

With culture continually evolving, a notion has gained momentum in recent years, suggesting that all religions and beliefs ultimately lead to the same God. It can be an attractive thought, allowing us to believe that all individuals are saved because it’s all the same god. However, as we investigate this concept, we’ll discover that it comes with its share of flaws.
To better understand this idea, some proponents use an interesting analogy called “the blind man and the elephant.” It portrays multiple blind individuals touching different parts of an elephant and forming their perceptions based on their limited experience. In a similar vein, people argue that religions are like the blind men, each offering a different perspective on the same divine truth. While this notion may be comforting, we must explore whether it stands up to scrutiny.
Let’s dive into a significant passage from the Bible, John 14:2-7, where Jesus addresses His disciples’ concerns about His departure. He assures them that His Father’s house has many rooms and that He is going there to prepare a place for them. However, Thomas questions the destination and asks how they can know the way. Jesus reveals that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and that no one can come to the Father except through Him.
Jesus’s statement in this passage is remarkable, as it proclaims an exclusive truth—He is the only pathway to God the Father. By making this assertion, He sets aside other religious rituals and claims to be the sole way, truth, and life leading to the one true God in heaven. This claim becomes a consistent theme throughout the Bible, establishing Jesus as the only true way to the divine.
Given Jesus’s exclusive claim, it becomes apparent that not all religions can be true simultaneously. If we accept that every religion leads to the same God, we invalidate the central teachings of Christianity, which assert Jesus as the only way to salvation. The Bible clearly presents the One True God, and Jesus is consistently portrayed as the exclusive pathway to Him.
When examining the major world religions, we find that they differ significantly in their beliefs about the divine and the path to salvation. Islam declares itself the only acceptable religion, while Hinduism teaches the oneness of God and the universe. Buddhism focuses on enlightenment through self-liberation, denying the existence of a personal God. These fundamental distinctions make it challenging to harmonize all religions as equally true.
As Christians, we believe that Jesus’s resurrection is central to our faith. Without the resurrection, Christianity loses its foundation. Other major religions, like Judaism and Islam, reject the resurrection, while Buddhism and Hinduism have differing perspectives on the nature of God and life’s purpose.
Ultimately, the assertion that all religions are equally true ignores the exclusivity of their teachings. As much as relativism claims there is no one right truth, it is itself a truth claim. Christianity’s unique stance on Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the path to salvation sets it apart from other religions.
Exploring the question of whether every religion can be true has brought us face to face with the exclusivity of Jesus’s claims in Christianity. Embracing the truth of Jesus’s divinity and resurrection allows us to find genuine hope and redemption. While it may be tempting to believe that all paths lead to God, examining the core beliefs of major religions reveals their significant differences. As we continue on our spiritual journeys, let’s seek understanding, open dialogue, and respect for each other’s beliefs while being steadfast in our faith in Jesus Christ.

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Black Voices That Point Us To God

As we enter black history month, we have an opportunity to celebrate those black voices that have pointed us to God. Here are just a few recommendations of individuals that are great to read or listen to this month and year.

Jo Saxton
“Over the course of her career, she has led in ministry and non-profit settings as well as pastoring and church-planting. She has also written several books to help women be intentional with their influence – Ready to Rise, More than Enchanting, The Dream of You, and High Heels and Holiness.  Currently, she co-hosts a podcast with good friend Pastor Stephanie O’Brien called Lead Stories, where they share stories and encouragement to equip leaders who listen in.” As well, Saxton was the author and speaker in the amazing Philippians bible study on Right Now Media that one of our women’s Life Groups did and loved.

Dr. Derwin Gray
Dr. Gray is the founding and lead pastor of Transformation Church, a multiethnic, multigenerational, mission-shaped community located in South Carolina. He has written a number of books including: Hero: Unleashing God’s Power in a Man’s Heart (2010), God, Do You Hear Me? (2021), and How to Heal the Racial Divide (2022). A devotional from him, Ephesians: Life in God’s Diverse Family, found on YouVersion, is great place to start.

Michael Todd
An incredibly well known preacher, and lead pastor of another Transformation Chruch in Oklahoma, Todd has received a lot of attention for his sermon series, Relationship Goals. As well, his new book, Crazy Faith, guides us on a faith journey as he helps you gain a new perspective on God’s plans for you: a future you’ve barely dared to imagine.

Priscilla Shirer
Shirer is singularly focused on preaching the uncompromising truths in God’s Word. She is a speaker, filmmaker, and New York Times bestselling author. Through her ministry, Going Beyond Ministries, she works to equip people through books, Bible study resources, conferences, and through films like War Room, I Can Only Imagine, and Overcomer. One of my favourite devotionals from her Discerning the Voice of God, explores the root to clear and daily communication with God—humble obedience.

Esau McCaulley
Esau is a public theologian, author and assistant professor of New Testament. His book Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope won numerous awards, including Christianity Today’s book of the year. His latest project is a memoir entitled: How far to the Promise Land: One Family’s Story of Hope and Survival in the American South.

These voices are not the voices we would ordinarily hear but provide us different perspectives to learn more about God.

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Volunteer Profile: Stephanie Palmer

In the vibrant tapestry of All Nations Church (ANC), one name stands out as a testament to devotion, selflessness, and a deep connection to faith and community – Stephanie Palmer. Over the course of two decades, Stephanie has woven herself into the fabric of ANC, serving wholeheartedly, and embracing the beauty of genuine fellowship. In this blog post, we explore Stephanie Palmer’s inspiring journey, her motivations for service, the joy she finds within the church, and her heartfelt message for those considering the path of service.

For twenty years, Stephanie Palmer has found solace, growth, and purpose within the walls of ANC. She first stepped through the church doors in the summer of 2003, embarking on a journey that would come to define her sense of belonging and commitment.
Shortly after becoming an attendee, Stephanie responded to a divine calling that led her to the Worship team, an avenue that resonated deeply with her soul. Her voice and passion soon intertwined, enriching the worship experience for the entire congregation. Her , Stephanie’s dedication has recently extended to the Children’s Ministries, particularly at the Pebbles level, where her love for children found an impactful outlet.

Stephanie’s drive to serve emanates from her profound love for the Lord and her heartfelt desire to share His message of love and salvation. Through her years of devotion, Stephanie has discovered her spiritual gifts and purpose, which encompass a range of activities, from evangelizing and leading others to the Lord to creating a nurturing and inclusive space through Lifegroup Groups. Her humility and sense of humour shine through her admission that she may not be able to “save the world,” but she can undoubtedly make a lasting difference within her sphere of influence.

Stephanie’s heart overflows with gratitude for the vibrant community ANC embodies. She finds immeasurable joy in the genuine connections, fellowship, and caring environment that envelops everyone within its embrace. Stephanie highlights the authenticity of ANC, where God’s presence takes precedence, and everyone is met with acceptance and understanding. She deeply values the church’s outreach efforts and its commitment to serving not only the congregation but also the broader community.
For those who may hesitate to embrace a role of service, Stephanie offers a resounding message of encouragement.

“Personally, in the twenty years I’ve been at All Nations, without exception, I have been gifted tenfold or more by serving than what I have ever given!  From worship, and being in the Holy Spirit, to hosting or leading Small Groups, to writing for the WoMin’s newsletter, editing, planning, church planting, sponsoring children through World Vision, praying, mentoring, participating in special events, volunteering at First Steps, the Elgin Street Mission, fundraising for the Capital Campaign or honouring our veterans or first responders, God has given me so many opportunities to spread His love, and to let folks know they are loved and seen and heard, and they are not alone.  I have been blessed to have opportunities to pray with complete strangers who just needed a listening ear, and to feel a little ray of hope that there is a Father who is with them always, who knows their needs, and their hearts.  I have also been blessed to be part of a group of believers, who are like-minded and kindred spirits, and whose lives are first and foremost devoted to God.  All Nations Church gave me hope when I had none, and my reward has been to serve others and by doing so, experience the love of God in ways I never thought possible! 

I would also add that sometimes we have no idea what our gifts are!  Check it out!  Take an inventory with a staff member or volunteer of your spiritual gifts, or even just try something out for one Sunday, even just for ½ an hour, such as greeting, serving coffee, cleaning up, opening a door, cleaning on a Monday, answering phones for the telethon at Christmas, or dancing with the kids in Children’s Ministries! (They also have a billiard table and basketball hoop!)… sometimes, all they need to see is a positive adult role model, and you can be a hero in their Sunday and maybe the only one in their little lives!”

Stephanie Palmer’s journey at All Nations Church is a testament to the transformative power of faith, service, and community. Her twenty years of dedicated attendance and active service underscore her unwavering commitment and love for both God and her fellow church members. Through her roles in Worship and Children’s Ministries, Stephanie exemplifies the profound impact that a single individual can have when they respond to the call of service with an open heart. Her story stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring all to step forward, serve, and embrace the boundless blessings that await those who open themselves to the love and grace of God.

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Why bother tithing?

When we talk about donating the church and Christian finance, tithing remains a fundamental and often debated topic. Tithing, the practice of giving a tenth of one’s income to the church or ministry, has been an ancient tradition rooted in the Bible. Some argue that Jesus abolished the concept of tithing, but a closer examination of Scripture reveals a different perspective. In this blog post, we will explore the biblical passages that support the act of tithing and address common arguments against the idea that Jesus got rid of this sacred practice.

Tithing finds its origins in the Old Testament, where it was a central aspect of the Mosaic Law. In Leviticus 27:30, we read, “Every tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the trees, is the Lord’s; it is holy to the Lord.” The Israelites were instructed to bring a tenth of their crops, flocks, and herds to the tabernacle or temple as an offering to God. This act of giving was meant to acknowledge God’s ownership and provision over their lives.

Some critics argue that Jesus abolished tithing during His ministry. While Jesus did challenge certain religious practices that had lost their true meaning, He also upheld the principle of giving generously. In Matthew 23:23, Jesus admonishes the Pharisees, saying, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.”
Here, Jesus is not condemning tithing itself but rather the Pharisees’ hypocrisy in giving a tenth while neglecting other vital aspects of their faith. By affirming the continuation of tithing, Jesus implies that it remains a relevant practice for believers who genuinely seek to honor God with their finances.

Some argue that since tithing is predominantly discussed in the Old Testament, it does not apply to Christians today. However, the concept of tithing is not entirely absent from the New Testament. In Hebrews 7:8, it refers to the practice of tithing by Abraham to Melchizedek, a priest-king, long before the Mosaic Law was established. This implies that tithing predates the law and continues to hold significance beyond it.

Throughout the Bible, tithing is associated with blessings from God. In Malachi 3:10, God urges the Israelites to “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”

While tithing is not a means of earning God’s favor or manipulating Him, it demonstrates our trust in Him as our provider. It fosters an attitude of gratitude and humility, acknowledging that everything we have is a gift from God.
Critics may point to Matthew 5:17, where Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” They argue that Jesus’ fulfillment of the law means that tithing is no longer necessary. However, Jesus’ fulfillment of the law does not negate its principles; instead, it brings them to completion and highlights their true intent.

So how do we tithe in today’s culture? For many of us, 10% of our income is a lot, and it can seem impossible to do it effectively.

Here are just a few practical ways that you can begin tithing.
1. Create a budget: Before you start tithing, it’s essential to understand your finances. Create a budget to track your income, expenses, and savings. This will help you determine how much you can afford to tithe without compromising your financial stability.

2. Start with a smaller percentage: If tithing 10% seems overwhelming at first, consider starting with a smaller percentage and gradually increasing it as you become more comfortable. The important thing is to make it a consistent habit.
3. Automate your giving: Automating your tithing can help you stay committed to your giving goals and ensure consistency.
4. Practice gratitude: Tithing is not just about financial contributions; it’s also an expression of gratitude for what you have. Take time to appreciate the blessings in your life and the opportunity to give back.

Tithing is a biblical practice rooted in God’s Word, and its significance stretches from the Old Testament to the New Testament. By giving a tenth of our income to God’s work, we demonstrate our trust in Him as our provider and contribute to the ministry and outreach of the Church. While some may argue that Jesus got rid of tithing, a careful examination of Scripture reveals that He upheld the principle of giving generously and faithfully. As Christians, embracing the tradition of tithing can lead us to experience the blessings of obedience and the joy of partnering with God in His redemptive work.

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Why does a good God allow bad things happen?

One of the most common concerns and questions that I get brought as a pastor is the question of why bad things happen in a world created and governed by a loving God. The existence of suffering and evil seems to contradict our belief in a compassionate and all-powerful God. In this blog post, we will explore this profound inquiry, seeking to uncover the deeper meaning and purpose behind the presence of bad things in a world shaped by divine providence.

God’s Creation and Human Free Will: God is the ultimate Creator who brought forth the world and everything in it. He bestowed upon humanity the gift of free will, enabling us to make choices and decisions. However, this freedom also opens the door to the possibility of evil and suffering. When humans misuse their free will and choose to act contrary to God’s intentions, the consequences can result in pain, injustice, and tragedy.

The Consequences of the Fall: The Fall, as described in the book of Genesis, sheds light on the presence of suffering in the world. It depicts the rebellion of Adam and Eve against God’s command, leading to the introduction of sin and its consequences into the world. This pivotal event marked a fracture in the harmony of creation and introduced suffering, disease, and death as part of the human experience. The consequences of the Fall ripple throughout history, affecting the entire created order.

The Redemptive Power of Christ: Christianity teaches that God did not abandon humanity to the consequences of sin and suffering. In His infinite love and mercy, God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world to redeem humanity and restore the broken relationship between God and humanity. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus offers the hope of salvation and eternal life to all who believe in Him. In the midst of suffering, Christians find solace in the redemptive work of Christ, knowing that He is present in their pain and suffering, offering comfort, healing, and hope.

Spiritual Growth and Transformation: Within our faith, suffering is not viewed merely as a random or meaningless occurrence. It is seen as an opportunity for spiritual growth, transformation, and the deepening of one’s faith. The Apostle Paul, who experienced immense suffering throughout his ministry, wrote, “We also glory in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope” (Romans 5:3-4). Through trials and tribulations, Christians are called to lean on their faith, relying on God’s grace and strength to endure and emerge stronger.

A Glimpse into God’s Sovereign Plan: God’s ways are far beyond human comprehension. While we may struggle to understand why certain events occur, we must trust in God’s sovereignty and providence. Although we cannot fully grasp the reasons behind individual instances of suffering, we believe that God can work through even the most tragic circumstances to bring about His purposes. The story of Joseph in the Old Testament serves as a powerful example, where what seemed like terrible events ultimately led to the preservation of God’s people and the fulfillment of His plan.

The existence of suffering and bad things in the world does not undermine the belief in a loving and all-powerful God. Instead, it invites us to embrace the mystery and trust in God’s sovereignty. We find comfort in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who provides hope and healing in the midst of our pain. Moreover, suffering offers an opportunity for spiritual growth, perseverance, and a deeper reliance on our faith. As Christians, we strive to navigate the complexities of suffering with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to reflecting God’s love in a broken world.

 

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Why Right Now Media is so awesome!

In today’s fast-paced digital world, finding quality content that aligns with our values and beliefs can be challenging. Fortunately, RightNow Media has emerged as an exceptional platform that offers an extensive library of video resources designed to inspire, educate, and empower individuals and communities. “Before RightNow Media was an international organization with hundreds of employees, it was a father-son team filming documentaries in remote locations about the work of Christian missionaries. While much has changed over the past few decades, our motivation has stayed the same: we exist to work with the global church to inspire people to love others before self and Christ above all.” In this blog post, we will explore why RightNow Media is truly awesome and how it has revolutionized the way we engage with faith-based content.
Unparalleled Content Variety: RightNow Media stands out for its vast collection of videos spanning multiple categories, including Bible studies, discipleship, leadership, marriage, parenting, apologetics, and more. With over 20,000 resources from renowned Christian authors, pastors, and speakers, the platform offers something for everyone.
Accessibility and Convenience: One of the most impressive aspects of RightNow Media is its accessibility. It is available on various platforms, including web browsers, mobile devices, and streaming media players, allowing users to access content anytime, anywhere. This convenience makes it easier than ever to fit valuable spiritual content into our busy lives, whether we’re at home, on the go, or even in small group settings.
High-Quality Production and Trusted Speakers: RightNow Media consistently delivers high-quality video content, featuring well-known speakers, authors, and ministry leaders. The platform collaborates with influential figures such as Francis Chan, Andy Stanley, Tim Keller, Lecrae, and Beth Moore, among others, who bring their expertise and insights to the table. The professional production values make the content engaging, visually appealing, and enjoyable to watch.
Community Building and Discipleship: RightNow Media goes beyond simply providing content; it fosters community and discipleship. The platform enables churches, small groups, and families to engage in meaningful discussions, study the Bible together, and grow in their faith. With features like discussion guides, leader resources, and group study functionality, RightNow Media facilitates the building of strong connections and a deeper understanding of God’s Word.
Constantly Growing Library: RightNow Media’s commitment to offering relevant and up-to-date content is evident in its ever-expanding library. New videos and resources are regularly added, ensuring that users have access to the latest teachings and insights from trusted Christian leaders. This commitment to continuous growth ensures that RightNow Media remains a relevant and valuable resource for years to come.
RightNow Media has revolutionized the way we engage with faith-based content, providing an exceptional platform for individuals, families, and churches. Its vast library, accessibility, customization options, and commitment to quality make it a truly awesome resource. If you want to also be able to access this remarkable resource, you can sign up for free at https://app.rightnowmedia.org/join/anc

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

How to focus Christ at Christmas

Christmas is celebrated by many people different people, in many different ways, in many different places. It is a time of celebrating, of family, of presents and of the Christmas magic. It is often a busy time and as the world is so excited for people and presents we can get lost in the bustle and forget what is at the heart of this season; God’s love, plan, and Son. How do you and your family keep Jesus at the centre of your Christmas traditions and let your Christmas spirit flow from the understanding of the greatest gift that could have ever been given?

Read the Christmas Story
Do you know the Christmas story? Not the broad overarching story, but the actual facts, what Scripture says happened and what it all means. Have you ever read beyond the Nativity scene to the Old Testament scriptures that proclaimed the coming King long before His birth? Spend time this December reading the story, dive into the Bible and come to understand the birth of our Saviour in a deeper way. Ask questions, interact with Scripture, celebrate the birth, the fulfilled promises and centre your Christmas around the knowledge of God’s great love.

Happy Birthday Jesus
Christmas is a birthday celebration, a month long birthday party. Throw a birthday party for Jesus with your family. Bake and decorate a cake, make decorations, sing Happy Birthday, write a card, or do other birthday celebrations. This is a great way to interact with the celebration of Jesus’ birth with kids and centre your celebration on the reason for Christmas.

Go to Church
We need our church family in the busy seasons as much as in the slow seasons (maybe even more). Worshiping and fellowshipping is important, plan your Christmas season around the things that will feed your faith and soul, put church in your calendar and prioritize your relationship with God through all your spiritual practices this season.

Listen to Gospel Christmas Music
Christmas music is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. Choose music that glorifies God, let the truths and promises be spoken over you and your family. Worship anywhere and everywhere.

Attend the Living Nativity
Join us at Science North on December 21st-25th at 7:30PM. Bring a friend, take them out from coffee after and talk about what Christmas means to you. Take your family, then read the Nativity story at home, talk about the gifts you’re giving to each other and how God gave His son to us as a gift. Volunteer in the cast and share the story of Jesus’ birth with Sudbury.

Give a Gift to Someone You Wouldn’t Normally
Buy a gift for someone in your life that you wouldn’t normally (a service worker, a neighbour, a person you ride the bus with everyday). Give a gift because this person is made in the image of God and He loves them so you are loving them.

Brandon Martel
In ANC Blog

Why do we do the Living Nativity?

The Living Nativity is one of the longest standing traditions at All Nations Church. Started by Jeremy Mahood in 1988, the Living Nativity is an enduring performance that has seen hundreds of thousands of people across Northern Ontario come and witness. It has seen much of the community come together to make it happen, organizations and businesses like Science North, KFM, the Sudbury Charities Foundation, Day Construction, McCullagh-Hall, and TESC, along with over a thousand volunteers. But why would we continue to run this event year after year for free?

Embodying the Biblical Story:
The Living Nativity is a powerful reenactment of the Nativity scene, bringing to life the story of the birth of Jesus Christ as described in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. It is a theatrical representation that involves volunteers from the congregation who portray various characters, including Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the wise men, and baby Jesus. Through this portrayal, All Nations Church aims to create an immersive experience that allows attendees to witness the miraculous birth firsthand.
Connecting the Community:
One of the core values of All Nations Church is fostering a strong sense of community and inclusivity. The Living Nativity provides an excellent opportunity to bring people together, both from within the church and the wider community. By inviting individuals of all ages and backgrounds to participate in the production, the church encourages unity, collaboration, and fellowship among its members and extends a warm welcome to those who wish to partake in this beautiful event.
Spreading the Message of Hope:
The Living Nativity is more than just a simple reenactment; it serves as a powerful tool for sharing the message of hope and salvation. The story of Jesus’ birth symbolizes the ultimate gift of love and redemption. Through the Living Nativity, All Nations Church aims to touch the hearts of the audience and remind them of the importance of faith, compassion, and the true spirit of Christmas.
Igniting the Imagination:
In an era dominated by technology and virtual experiences, the Living Nativity offers a refreshing departure from the digital realm. The use of live actors, intricate costumes, and carefully crafted sets transports attendees back in time, allowing them to witness the humble birth of Jesus in a tangible and engaging way. This immersive experience stirs the imagination, fostering a deeper connection to the story and helping individuals grasp the significance of this extraordinary event.
Nurturing Family Traditions:
The Living Nativity has become an integral part of many families’ holiday traditions. Parents can pass on the story of Jesus’ birth to their children in a manner that is not only educational but also captivating. By involving children in the production, either as participants or as spectators, All Nations Church helps cultivate a sense of wonder, faith, and reverence for the true meaning of Christmas. It creates lasting memories that families can cherish and pass down from one generation to another.
All Nations Church’s Living Nativity is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the timeless story of Jesus’ birth. By engaging the congregation and the wider community in this immersive experience, the church fosters unity, spreads the message of hope, and rekindles the true spirit of Christmas. Through the Living Nativity, All Nations Church invites everyone to embrace the magic of the season, remember the humble beginnings of our faith, and find joy in celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ—the ultimate gift of love.