Following our customary time of praise and prayer, a time of acknowledging the goodness and glory of our God and of interceding for His church, the meeting was opened with a brief meditation on John 17, the High Priestly prayer. What a comfort to know that we as under-shepherds of the Church are not in this alone, but that we have a great Leader, the Head of the Church, who intercedes for us before the Father. We have experienced much growth in Central over the last few years, which can easily lead to prideful thoughts and attitudes. But it is Christ Himself who reminds us that it is He alone who builds His church. To Him be all the glory.
This being the last meeting before the summer break for most of the ministries, we reflected on the many blessings received during the season behind us. Our Youth Ministry concluded the year with a tailgate party that drew close to 300 youth. The School of Ministry has completed its spring semester. There was a great turnout again for the Baptism and Ministry Partnership classes, recently held in Chilliwack and Harrison. Lake baptisms are planned for August 20 at Harrison Lake. It is so good to witness a desire by so many to dig deeper into the Word and grow in their relationship with Jesus. It is also encouraging to see how hosting the weekly dinners at Seabird Island gives an opportunity to create meaningful connections in that community and that we are witnessing an increased interest in the message of the Gospel. Several are now attending the Agassiz services on a regular basis, and a number of Seabird youth are becoming involved in the Youth Ministry at the Harrison Campus. The food bank at the Lake Errock church also continues to be a blessing and tangible witness to the local community there.
For the weeks ahead, many activities are in the stage of preparation. Kids Ministry is actively preparing for summer camps across all four campuses. Lake Errock will once again partner with the Scowlitz community to host its camp at their soccer field, providing an opportunity for outreach and connection. Agassiz will partner with Seabird Island to hold its annual soccer camp there. The School of Ministry, which aims at providing biblical, theological, and practical ministry training, as well as discipleship growth in community, is preparing for the fall sessions. Registration for these sessions will be open in the next few weeks. Registration is also now open for the Equipped to Counsel Level 1 course. At the end of August, a half-day elders' retreat is planned. Details about other scheduled activities during the summer can be found on the Central website calendar. We are grateful for God’s continued work across our campuses and look forward to seeing how He moves during the summer season.
There are ongoing discussions about how to address the Chilliwack Campus’s need for building capacity expansion. In conjunction with the development team, the Elders have been prayerfully considering long-term options to address this need in a financially responsible manner. One of the options to expand seating capacity is currently under review, and we are grateful for an architectural firm which has offered to prepare some preliminary renderings on a pro bono basis.
The two new elder candidates who have completed the discernment process are scheduled to be commissioned in late August or early September. We are grateful to God for providing men who are willing and able to step into this weighty role. I say weighty, for besides the many blessings mentioned, we also face brokenness and hurt as a result of our sinful natures.
As we now enter into the summer months, it is our prayer that the Lord will extend His blessings over the activities that will continue during this time—the weekly worship services, the prayer meetings, life group gatherings, and all special events scheduled during this time. And we pray for safety for all who will be travelling or enjoying a time of refreshment.
Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all.
1 Chron. 29:11
Jim Devisser
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community
Finance Update
As part of their regular meeting, the Elders reviewed the church’s financial position and are pleased to report that Central remains in a healthy and stable financial position as we move through the year.
We continue to be encouraged by the faithfulness and generosity of our church family. Giving remains strong, and when adjusted for the transition of the Promontory campus to independent status, year-to-date giving has increased by 17.1% over the same period last year, totalling $1,029,413. We give thanks to God for His provision and for the ongoing commitment of His people to the mission and ministry of Central.
Overall expenses are tracking below budget. As anticipated, maintenance and capital expenditures have been higher this year due to several important projects, including the roof replacement in Chilliwack, acoustic improvements in the Slesse Room, a new sound system for the Agassiz campus, and the construction of our new Care and Counselling rooms. We are grateful that much of this work is being funded through the financial surplus God provided in previous years, allowing us to invest in ministry infrastructure without placing undue pressure on current operations.
At the end of May, our year-to-date income-to-expense report reflects a shortfall of $275,620. This is consistent with our normal seasonal giving and spending patterns and reflects the timing of several significant capital projects. The Elders remain confident in the church’s financial position and stewardship strategy moving forward.
We are also thankful to report that benevolent giving continues to be strong. Through the generosity of our church family, Central has invested nearly $35,000 this year into the lives of individuals and families facing relational, emotional, and practical challenges. These funds continue to support important ministries such as the community dinners at Seabird Island, with additional support from our Agassiz campus. We are also encouraged by the ongoing growth of the Food Bank ministry at our Lake Errock campus, which continues to provide meaningful assistance to many within the surrounding community.
As summer approaches—a season that often brings changes to attendance and giving patterns—we encourage those who are able to consider one of our recurring giving options. Consistent giving helps provide stability and enables ministry to continue effectively throughout the summer months.
Thank you for your faithful partnership in the work God is doing through Central Community Church. We remain grateful for His provision, excited about the ministry opportunities before us, and confident that He will continue to lead and sustain His church.
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, September 15 | 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