ANC Blog

Let me know if this sounds familiar, you wake up, get yourself (plus the kids) up to head to school/work, head home, make dinner and just try to have some time to yourself. Being the demands of family, friends, hobbies, exercise and church, it feels like there is never an opportunity to slow down. Time is a precious resource, a gift entrusted to us by God. As Christians, it is essential that we honour God with our time by stewarding it wisely. However, in a world filled with competing demands and distractions, balancing our priorities and serving others can be a challenge. In this blog post, we will explore practical ways to align our time with God’s will, prioritize our commitments, and serve others with love and grace.
Time is a unique resource that God has graciously given us. It is a finite gift, meant to be used purposefully and intentionally. Recognizing that every moment is a precious opportunity to glorify God helps us approach time with a sense of gratitude and responsibility. By viewing time as a gift from God, we can cultivate a mindset of stewardship and make intentional choices in how we use it.
To honour God with our time, it is important to identify our priorities. We must prayerfully discern the areas of life that hold the most significance and align them with God’s will. Priorities may include our relationship with God, nurturing our family, fulfilling our work responsibilities, and personal growth. By clearly defining our priorities, we can make informed decisions on how to allocate our time and energy.
In our fast-paced world, time wasters and distractions can easily consume our days. Excessive screen time, procrastination, and busyness can all hinder our ability to prioritize and serve others effectively. To overcome these challenges, we need to create healthy boundaries and establish disciplined habits. Setting specific goals, practicing time-blocking techniques, and limiting unnecessary distractions can help us make the most of our time and focus on what truly matters.
While serving others is a vital aspect of our Christian faith, it is equally important to prioritize self-care and personal well-being. We cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs enables us to serve others with love and compassion. By finding a healthy balance between self-care and serving, we can sustainably impact the lives of those around us and honour God in the process.
In our pursuit of honouring God with our time, it is essential to seek His guidance and wisdom. Through prayer, reflection, and seeking counsel from wise mentors, we can gain insight and discernment in managing our time effectively. By inviting God into our decision-making process, we can align our priorities with His purposes and experience His peace and guidance as we navigate the complexities of our schedules.
As followers of Christ, we are called to honour God with every aspect of our lives, including our time. By understanding time as a precious gift from God, identifying our priorities, overcoming distractions, and finding a balance between self-care and serving others, we can steward our time in a way that reflects our love for God and love for others. Let us commit ourselves to honour God with our time, making intentional choices that align with His will and extend His grace to those around us.
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As a church, we hear all sorts of questions from those who are new to our church as well as those who have been at our church for years. That’s why we decided to compile this list of frequently asked questions that you can use to learn more about our church and teach others! Comment below any questions you still have about our church!

What is the denomination of the church?
We are a baptist church affiliated with both the Canadian National Baptist Convention (CNBC) and the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec (CBOQ). However, we are not governed by them and are free to make decisions without their input.

What are the regular service times and days of the church?
We have service every Sunday at 10am! You can attend live, watch online @ allnationschurch.ca or listen on radio at KFM 95.5.

Where are you located?
We are located near the downtown core at 414 St Raphael Street. You can identify us easily by the dome-shaped and pyramid-shaped buildings.

What is your mission and values?
Our mission is to help you come to Know the Lord Jesus Christ, Grow spiritually and Go make a difference in our world. Our values are: Warmth of Our Caring (Fellowship), Word in Our Mind (Discipleship), Work of Our Hands (Service), Worship of Our Heart (Worship) and Witness of Our Lives (Mission).

Is there a dress code for attending services?
Not at all! We welcome people no matter what they’re wearing and you’ll see people in their Sunday best as well as casual clothing. Christ welcomes you regardless and so do we!

What programs and activities does the church offer for children and youth?
We have a variety of programming for every age group. Each Sunday we have a nursery open for those 0-Pre K and kid’s church for those JK-grade 6. For those grade 7-12, we have youth ministry every Friday night from 7-9:30pm!

How can I get involved in volunteering or serving at the church?
We wouldn’t be able to do church without a massive team of volunteers! If you would like to begin serving, you can speak to Lynn by emailing her at lfelsman@allnationschurch.ca and she would be happy to match you with an area where you will fit best.

Is there a statement of beliefs or doctrine that the church follows?
Yes there is, and you can find it here: https://allnationschurch.ca/what-we-believe/. Above all, we believe that the Bible sets the foundation for everything we and believe as a church.

What is the leadership structure of the church?
We are governed by a board of elders, who maintain full financial and human resource control. Much of the day-to-day work is performed by our staff team. You can find out more about our team here: https://allnationschurch.ca/our-team/

What can I expect at your services?
Our services are on Sundays and start at 10am and last about 75 minutes. We sing a good mix of contemporary and traditional music that is led by our worship team. We then have a message delivered by one of our pastors followed by communion, which you are more than welcome to partake in. Be sure to arrive early and stay a little later to enjoy some community and free coffee!

Our world is full of various literature, Christian and not with entire books dedicated to people’s views of the Bible, and how we should apply it to our lives. So why should we bother to read the Bible? After all, the Bible is an ancient book, and there have been so many books that are easier to understand than The Bible. However, understanding what the Bible truly is and how it is composed reveals its profound significance as a guiding light for Christians throughout the ages. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of engaging with the Bible and how it holds the power to transform lives.

The Bible is not a single book but rather a collection of sacred texts, written over centuries by multiple authors under divine inspiration. Divided into two main sections, the Old Testament and the New Testament, it contains a total of 66 books. The Old Testament, recognized by both Judaism and Christianity, traces the history, laws, prophecies, poetry, and wisdom of the Jewish people before the birth of Christ. The New Testament focuses on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity, and provides guidance for Christian living.

To truly comprehend the message of the Bible, it is crucial to consider the historical, cultural, and literary context in which each book was written. Understanding the social and political landscapes, the customs, and the languages of the ancient world can shed light on the intended meaning of the texts. Contextual analysis helps us bridge the gap between the biblical era and our contemporary world, enabling us to apply the principles and teachings to our lives today.

The Bible serves as a source of spiritual nourishment for Christians. It provides guidance, wisdom, comfort, and encouragement. Through its stories, parables, and teachings, the Bible imparts timeless moral and ethical lessons. It inspires faith, offers hope, and deepens our understanding of God’s character and His plan for humanity. Reading the Bible regularly allows Christians to develop a personal relationship with God and grow in their faith journey.

The Bible is more than just a historical or theological document; it is a guidebook for life. Its pages contain practical advice on how to navigate relationships, make wise decisions, and live with integrity. The teachings of Jesus, found in the Gospels, provide a blueprint for Christian discipleship, emphasizing love, forgiveness, compassion, and service to others. The epistles, written by early Christian leaders, offer practical instructions for living a life rooted in faith.

Engaging with the Bible directly equips Christians to discern truth and guard against misinterpretation. In a world filled with conflicting ideologies and opinions, the Bible serves as an unchanging and reliable foundation. By studying the Scriptures, Christians can develop discernment, distinguishing between sound doctrine and false teachings. This empowers believers to live out their faith authentically and share the message of the Gospel with confidence and clarity.

In a world that often seems chaotic and uncertain, the Bible remains an unwavering source of truth, comfort, and guidance for us. It is a collection of divinely inspired texts, composed over centuries, which holds profound wisdom and practical advice. By engaging with the Bible, we deepen our relationship with God, gain spiritual nourishment, and discover the path to living a purposeful and faithful life. Therefore, let us not overlook the importance of reading the Bible and allowing its transformative power to shape our hearts, minds, and actions.

As we begin a new school year, this is around the time that I start looking for some new topics to study in God’s Word. My biggest source for these is normally YouVersion or Right Now Media, where there are a huge variety of plans for different people. As you make plans for this year, we invite you to explore Bible reading plans designed to help you prioritize reading God’s Word. Whether you’d like to read the entire Bible or focus attention on one book or on a topic, we hope these plans will serve you well to Know, Grow and Go with All Nations Church.

The Chronological Bible Study: “The Blue Letter Bible “Chronological” plan is compiled according to recent historical research, taking into account the order in which the recorded events actually occurred. This is a fantastic plan to follow if you wish to add historical context to your reading of the Bible. If the schedule provided is followed, the entire Bible will be read in one calendar year.” https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/5-chronological
How to stop worrying: “If you’re alive, then you’ve probably struggled with worry. Some people worry a lot, while others occasionally allow things to preoccupy our thoughts. No matter how often or how little, it’s wise for us to learn how to navigate this monster that we allow to steal our peace and hijack our faith. This 4-day Plan will help you do just that.” https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/18688-how-to-stop-worrying
My Time With God Study: “Our journey with God is filled with sweet moments, times of healing, direction about our lives, encouragements to keep going or the simple joys that He reveals to us. Whatever it is, we want to encourage you with seven devotions from Joyce’s newest devotional, My Time with God, to give you fresh focus on how much God loves you and the various ways He wants to help with your life.” https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/9372-my-time-with-god-study
How to study the Bible: “It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, ill-equipped, and just plain lost when it comes to God’s Word. My aim is to simplify the process of Bible Study for you in a few ways by teaching you three of the most important principles of successful Bible Study. Join this plan and discover how to read the Bible not just for information, but for life transformation today!” https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/13388-how-to-study-the-bible-foundations
Wild at Heart: “In this updated edition of the bestselling classic, Wild at Heart, author John Eldredge reminds men we need adventure in our lives . . . in our work, in our love, and our spiritual lives. He reveals how God designed men to be dangerous. Simply look at the dreams and desires written in the heart of every boy: to be a hero, to be a warrior, and to live a life of adventure and risk. Sadly, most men today have abandoned these dreams and desires—aided by a Christianity that feels like nothing more than pressure to be a “nice guy.” It is no wonder that many men avoid church, and those who go are often passive and bored to death.” https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/247
The Reason For God: “This six-session small group Bible study captures live and unscripted conversations between Tim Keller and a group of people to address their doubts and objections to Christianity. Using literature, philosophy, and Scripture, Keller and the group explore the truth of Christianity. Christians will be challenged to wrestle with their friends and neighbors’ hardest questions, and to engage those questions in ways that will spark an honest, enriching, and humbling dialogue. Capture a live and unscripted conversation between Timothy Keller and the six panelists discussing their objections to Christianity. This study will help small groups and individuals dig deeper into the objections of the Christian faith and to learn about both sides of the issues.” https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/213
The Case for Christ: “Is there credible evidence that Jesus of Nazareth really is the Son of God? Skeptics dismiss the Jesus of the Gospels by claiming there is no evidence in the case for Christ. Lee Strobel disagrees. The former legal journalist and one-time atheist knows to ask tough questions. His own search for truth about Jesus led him to faith in Christ. Now Strobel invites you and your group to investigate the truth about Jesus Christ leading to the facts that guided Strobel from atheism to faith in Christ.” https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/403633
The Book of Philippians: “In this eight-session series, Jo Saxton takes us through Philippians to encourage us to follow Jesus no matter what life throws at us. Through Paul’s words and example, learn how joy and sacrifice can go hand-in-hand.” https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/368582
The Cost of Control: “We often claim to have everything under control—whether it’s our hectic family schedules, deadlines at work, or unexpected problems that throw us off track—but are we, really? Control can trick us into thinking we can gain comfort, security, and peace through our own efforts. But even though we might think we have a handle on our lives, God is the only one fully in control. In this 6-session series, Bible teacher and author Sharon Hodde Miller discusses the way control can cost us a lot more than we could ever imagine—and how we can walk in faith knowing God is in complete control.” https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/762742

Let us know some of your favourite Bible reading plans in the comments below! We’d love to hear how you’re connecting with God through His Word!

In the grand tapestry of human history, few narratives hold the power to captivate the imagination and inspire the spirit like the Book of Acts. Nestled within the pages of the New Testament, this enthralling account of the early days of Christianity offers a riveting glimpse into the birth of our faith that would forever shape the course of civilization. More than a historical record, the Book of Acts is a vibrant and dynamic chronicle of courage, and transformation.

This month, we embark on a journey through this remarkable book in our new sermon series, Acts Of His Disciples. In this book, we are transported back to the first century, a time of immense social, political, and religious upheaval. Against this tumultuous backdrop, the Book of Acts unveils the trials and triumphs of the earliest believers, painting a vivid portrait of the apostles, disciples, and communities that laid the foundation for a global movement.

Join us as we delve into the heart of this gripping narrative, exploring the lives of individuals who, driven by unwavering faith, defied the norms of their era to spread a message that would change the world forever. From the dramatic events of Pentecost to the courageous missionary journeys of Paul, the Book of Acts invites us to witness the power of human conviction and divine intervention in shaping the destiny of humanity.

But the Book of Acts is more than just a historical account—it is a living testament to the enduring vitality of the Christian faith. As we unravel its pages, we will uncover timeless truths that resonate with the challenges and aspirations of our own lives. The themes of unity, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a higher purpose continue to echo across the centuries, inviting us to reflect on our own roles within the ongoing narrative of faith and transformation.

In the chapters that follow, we will traverse the bustling streets of Jerusalem, sail the Mediterranean on perilous voyages, and stand witness to miraculous healings and profound encounters. Through it all, we will be invited to contemplate the essence of community, the nature of divine guidance, and the boundless potential of the human spirit when fuelled by a steadfast commitment to truth.

So, let us embark on this literary and spiritual expedition into the heart of the Book of Acts, allowing its words to breathe life into our understanding of history, faith, and the enduring legacy of those who dared to defy convention and embrace a radical message of love, hope, and transformation. Join us every Sunday at 10am for this great new series, The Acts Of His Disciples.

I’ve lived in Sudbury all my life, so for me it always seemed quite normal that there was a hiking trail less than 10 minutes away from wherever I lived.That’s also meant that hiking is something that I do a lot in the summer, some of my favourites being Kivi Park and Fielding. As I was hiking last week, I started to think about what I wanted to write this devotional about. And as I kept going, I started to think about how hiking is just like our walk with Christ.

When we begin a hike, we often step onto an unfamiliar path. We don’t know what lies ahead, but we take that first step, trusting that the trail will lead us to our destination. Similarly, in our faith journey, we often face uncertainties and questions about the future. Yet, we step forward with confidence, trusting that God’s guidance will lead us along the right path, even when it is shrouded in mystery.
Hiking involves ascending steep hills and enduring physical challenges. Likewise, our faith in God often leads us through uphill battles. We face obstacles, struggles, and trials that seem insurmountable. However, just as our determination drives us to conquer difficult terrains, our faith strengthens us to overcome the hurdles we encounter. With each step, we grow stronger, realizing that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness.
As we persevere on a hike, we are rewarded with breathtaking views and hidden treasures. Similarly, our faith in God unveils spiritual insights and reveals the beauty of His creation. The deeper we walk with God, the more we discover His grace, love, and wisdom. Each step in faith uncovers a new facet of His character and deepens our understanding of His purposes for our lives.
Hiking often becomes a shared experience, with fellow hikers providing encouragement, support, and companionship along the way. Likewise, our faith journey is not meant to be walked alone. God places people in our lives to journey alongside us, offering comfort, wisdom, and accountability. Together, we navigate the challenges, celebrate the victories, and uplift one another in times of need.
The pinnacle of a hike is reaching the summit, where all the struggles and hardships are overshadowed by a sense of triumph and awe. Similarly, our faith journey culminates in the ultimate summit—union with God. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we attain the eternal reward of being in His presence forever. The trials we faced and the steps we took in faith will be overshadowed by the overwhelming joy of reaching our heavenly destination.

As we embark on our individual hikes of faith, let us remember that, just as hiking requires endurance, trust, and a reliance on our physical abilities, faith in God demands perseverance, trust in His promises, and a reliance on His strength. May we embrace the challenges, savour the beauty, and find comfort in the fellowship of fellow believers as we journey towards the ultimate summit of our faith—the eternal embrace of our loving Heavenly Father.

As we arrived home from a long day at Moonlight Beach, I was finally able to let out a long sigh of relief. All the months of planning, meetings, shopping and preparing candidates, culminating in a 2 hour long event. It had been easy for those few hours to worry about making sure that everything was just right, ignoring the wondrous occurrence happening right in front of me. As Pastor Gerry put it, “people going from simply involved, to fully committed to Christ”. The Plunge has been an annual event at All Nations Church since 2011, where people publicly declare their faith in a baptism on the shores of Ramsey Lake. And there are a lot of wins we can celebrate from this event.

In a resounding display of unity, faith, and joy, the Plunge Event, a city-wide baptism celebration, unfolded with unparalleled success. Organized collaboratively by three local churches (All Nations Church, Grace Family Church and Restoration Church) and supported by countless others, as well as the Christian radio station KFM, the event served as a beacon of hope and spiritual renewal. With 53 enthusiastic baptizees, and the unique opportunity to share the message of faith with a wider audience through a public venue, the Plunge Event truly left an indelible mark on hearts and souls alike.
Unprecedented Church Unity:
The hallmark of the Plunge Event was the remarkable unity demonstrated by the three churches involved. Putting aside denominational differences, they united under a shared purpose: to celebrate and strengthen their faith together as one body of believers. Through tireless collaboration, they transformed what would have been individual baptisms into a grand, city-wide spectacle of faith. This powerful display of unity set an example for the entire community, demonstrating the potential of working together towards a common goal.
A Joyful and Diverse Assembly of Baptizees:
The heart and soul of the Plunge Event were the 53 individuals who eagerly stepped forward to declare their faith through baptism. These baptizees came from diverse backgrounds, representing a beautiful tapestry of cultures, ages, and life experiences. Their shared joy and enthusiasm were infectious, inspiring all present to reflect on the universality of faith and its ability to unite people across boundaries.
Spreading the Message of Faith:
What made the Plunge Event even more remarkable was the decision to hold it at a public venue. By choosing a venue frequented by diverse members of the community, the event had a unique opportunity to reach those who might not have encountered the message of faith in a conventional church setting. As the ceremony unfolded, curious onlookers were drawn in, leading to meaningful conversations and interactions that sparked interest and curiosity about Christianity.
The resounding success of the Plunge Event stands as a testament to the power of unity, faith, and outreach. The coming together of three churches, with the support of many others, showcased the strength and impact that collaboration can have within the Christian community and beyond. The 53 joyful baptizees, representing diverse backgrounds, epitomized the inclusive and transformative nature of faith. Furthermore, the decision to hold the event in a public venue allowed the message of faith to transcend its usual boundaries, reaching those who may not have encountered it otherwise.
As the ripples of the Plunge Event continue to spread throughout the community, it is evident that this remarkable celebration has sown seeds of hope, unity, and faith that will bear fruit for years to come. Through such initiatives, the Christian community can inspire others to come together, embrace diversity, and share the message of faith with love and compassion, thus creating a more connected and understanding world.

As our culture gets more and more complex, it can be difficult to answer some of the questions your kids throw at you. From conversations about abortion, to LGBTQ issues and everything in between, kids/teens are bombarded with society’s views on sensitive issues. Below are just a few tips to make your conservations go just a little bit easier when your kids bring up some sensitive topics.

Create an open environment
Even before your kids have questions about topics, encourage them to approach you if they ever see or hear something that they don’t understand. Say, “We may not agree on everything, but I’m interested in what you have to say.” You may also consider talking to them about certain world events (natural disasters, wars, etc) as they happen, this helps ensure that they are getting accurate information, as opposed to sometimes biased views from other sources.

Listen to what your kids have to say
Actually listen to them! It can be easy to just be listening to have an opening to make your next point but make an effort to understand your kid’s perspective. Common Sense Media suggests “Ask open-ended questions to get kids to think more deeply about serious topics. Ask, “What did you hear?,” “What did it make you think?,” and “Why do you think that?”” They may not agree with you fully, but helping them feel heard will leave them open for further discussion.

3. Respect different worldviews and don’t ridicule them.
It can be tempting to treat other views as amusing and just ridicule them. This will always be unproductive, and un-christlike. Many things that we hear in culture may seem crazy to us, but to others are completely normal, just like how many atheists may feel about the claims of the Christian faith. Matthew 7:12 reminds us “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

4. Guide conversation back to God, and the Bible.
Our opinions and feelings must not guide our discussion. Neither do we simply want to make our child feel better. Once we ask our kids questions, we must focus on what the Bible has to say about the issue. This encourages them to seek out answers for themselves, especially as they get into the phases of their life where they assume their parents don’t know anything. It also shows them that the Bible is the ultimate framework to base our lives from, and that the Truth can be found in it.

While it can be difficult, having these conversations with your kids will be a benefit to them and you. Remember that God is with you and that if you ask for wisdom He will give it to you (James 1:5).

Have you ever pondered the deep meaning behind baptism? It’s not just a religious ritual; it holds immense spiritual significance. Baptism is like a public proclamation of faith, a symbolic act that represents dying to our old selves and rising to a new life in Christ. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of baptism, drawing insights from the Bible to shed light on its transformative power.
Obedience to Christ’s Command: In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus instructed His disciples, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” By embracing baptism, we demonstrate our commitment to follow Christ’s teachings and honor His command.
Identification with Christ’s Death and Resurrection: Romans 6:3-4 beautifully captures the essence of baptism: “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” Through baptism, we symbolically identify with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. As we are immersed in the water, our old self dies, and as we rise from the water, we experience a new life in Him.
Forgiveness of Sins and Spiritual Renewal: Acts 2:38 emphasizes the connection between repentance, baptism, and forgiveness: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” Baptism serves as a profound moment of surrender and spiritual cleansing. It symbolizes our repentance and signifies the forgiveness of our sins. We are born anew, experiencing a spiritual renewal through God’s grace.
Unity within the Body of Christ: Galatians 3:27 beautifully illustrates the unifying nature of baptism: “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” Through baptism, we become part of the body of Christ, the global church. It’s an act that binds us together with fellow believers, providing an opportunity for communal growth, support, and joint participation in God’s mission.
Public Testimony and Witness: Baptism is an outward expression of an inward transformation. It is a powerful testimony of our faith in Jesus and His work in our lives. By publicly declaring our commitment through baptism, we invite others to consider the life-changing message of the gospel. It becomes an opportunity to share the love and truth of Jesus with those around us.
Baptism is more than a mere religious ritual; it is a deeply significant step on our spiritual journey. By obeying Christ’s command, we identify with His death and resurrection, experience forgiveness and renewal, find unity within the body of Christ, and bear witness to the transforming power of God. Let us embrace the sacred waters of baptism, recognizing its profound impact on our lives as we embark on a path of faith and discipleship.
As Mark 16:16 reminds us, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” We encourage you to get baptized at this year’s Plunge event occurring on July 16 at 1pm at Moonlight Beach. This event has been going on for over a decade and sees churches from across the city come together to celebrate baptism