It is such a blessing to be able to meet as elders on a monthly basis to pray and discuss the needs of the church. Twice a year we invite the pastoral team to sit down with us ahead of the meeting and enjoy a meal together. There is something special about being able to sit down and break bread together (well in this case, Indian food). This month we invited both the pastors and ministry directors to join us. Ahead of our meeting we were given update reports from each, sharing about what was happening within their own ministries as well as some updates on their personal and family life. We were able to encourage and pray for our pastoral team. Ernie led us in a short devotional from Romans 8. Please keep our pastors, directors and staff in your prayers as they labour for the Lord at Central to further the Kingdom. They are doing a great work!
The meeting itself started with an update on all of the ministries that are going on in and around Central. Safe Families hosted an information night at the Chilliwack Campus, sharing about their ministry and practical ways people can become involved in supporting vulnerable families in our community. The Men's Summit was a huge success, with approximately 130 men gathering at our Harrison Campus for a day of encouragement, challenge, fellowship and great food. We thank Dave Currie for encouraging and challenging the men of Central as he spoke into marriage, legacy, and godly leadership. On May 31, we are inviting those that are new to Central to join us for "Discover Central." This was formerly our welcome lunch. Our Central Youth are gearing up for their biggest event of the year with their Year End Tailgate Party on June 10, capping off a phenomenal year of student ministries. Our next Women's Ministry event will be taking place on May 30, which is called "Gathered & Sent." Registration is also open for a Women's Retreat taking place in November at Rockridge Canyon. As the summer approaches, so does the opportunity for baptisms at Harrison Lake! Baptism & Ministry Partnership classes will be held in both Chilliwack and Harrison on June 6 and 8. If you have not been baptized yet or are considering becoming a ministry partner, we ask you to prayerfully consider joining the class to explore this further. With the ministry season winding down for summer, planning is already underway for the fall ministry. The staff continues to press in and plan for what is to come this fall.
A few months back we invited the congregation to put forward names of men to be considered as elders here at Central. Through discernment and prayer, we have two names that will be put forward to the congregation in the coming weeks for consideration. We want to thank Elder Ken Vink for his many years of serving on the elder team as he is stepping off as his term has come up. We ask that you would lift Ken up in prayer as he continues to serve our church and community in a different capacity.
We continued our discussions on what the next steps forward are in handling the growth we are experiencing at Central and how to best handle the challenges with limited space and seating. We praise God that He continues to draw people to Him, and for the community that is being fostered at Central. Please continue to pray with us as we discern, discuss and plan.
"May the Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace."
Numbers 6:24-26
Walter Schroeder
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community
Finance Update
The Elders received the monthly financial update through the end of April and continue to rejoice in the faithfulness of God’s people through their generous support of the mission and ministry of Central.
Year-to-date giving across our four campuses remains encouraging, reflecting a 13.8% increase over the same period last year. We are deeply thankful for the congregation’s continued investment in the work of the Gospel throughout the Eastern Fraser Valley.
As noted in the April giving report, several significant capital and ministry-related expenses have affected our income-to-expenses position this year. These include the roof replacement at our Chilliwack campus, sound system upgrades in Agassiz, video equipment improvements, the creation of counselling rooms, and the completion of our accounting review engagement. While most ministry and operational budget areas remain within healthy parameters, these major expenditures contributed to an overall year-to-date shortfall of $275,620 between income and expenses.
In light of these approved and necessary expenditures, the Elders authorized the use of reserve funds to cover costs and help mitigate the potential need to access overdraft facilities. This reflects careful stewardship and prudent financial oversight as we continue to invest in ministry infrastructure and congregational care.
As we move into the summer months, Central has historically experienced a seasonal decline in giving. With this in mind, the Elders encourage those who are able to consider one of our automated giving options. Consistent giving helps provide financial stability and allows the church to plan and carry out ministry faithfully throughout the summer season.
The Elders are also grateful to report that giving toward benevolent ministry continues to be strong as we seek to address practical needs within both our church family and the broader community. Ministries such as the food bank in Lake Errock and community dinners at Seabird Island are supported in large measure through benevolent giving. Year-to-date benevolent income stands at $24,180, while expenses through the end of April total $27,759. A healthy opening balance has enabled us to meet these needs faithfully.
Above all, the Elders thank God for His ongoing faithfulness demonstrated through this congregation. It remains our conviction that we are called to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Your faithful financial support enables Central to continue proclaiming the good news of Christ and serving our communities in His name.
LET US PRAYER FOR YOU
At Central, we don't just value prayer—we believe in its power. We know that God hears us, answers us, and uses our prayers to shape our church and change the world.
Whether you are carrying a heavy burden, celebrating a joy, or simply need an extra measure of grace, our Elders would love to stand with you. Please join us in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary to receive prayer. We would be honoured to pray for and with you.
Tuesday, June 16 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road
Can’t make it in person? We would still love to pray for you. You can share your prayer requests with us anytime using the link below.
Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca