New Life News
Baptism & Profession of Faith Summer Class
New Life is offering an additional Baptism & Profession of Faith Class this summer! This class is open to anyone. If you are ready to take the next step in your faith journey, New Life Church invites you to participate in our three-session class designed to prepare you for baptism or a profession of faith. They will explore major biblical teachings and key aspects of Christian faith. The class is held at New Life Church (Board Room) for three consecutive weeks (July 17, 24 and 31) from 7pm-8:30pm. We encourage you to prayerfully consider this opportunity and join us as we grow together in faith. For more information or to sign up, please email Pastor Shaun Jung.
2025 BC Leadership Conference
BC Leadership Conference – September 20, 2025
Registration is open for the 3rd Annual BC Leadership Conference on Saturday, September 20!
Eight Christian Reformed Churches (CRC) in the Fraser Valley have decided to pool funds and resources together to form one large conference for any and all interested churches. Our goal is to provide a well-planned conference to bless our elders and deacons, staff and ministry leaders.
We have invited gifted leaders to teach us on important topics that include, but are not limited to, safe church, church governance, pastoral care, crucial conversations, missions, diaconal and mercy ministries, and more.
Each participant will be able to choose from a variety of different breakouts based on interest, and their role within the church.
Space is limited. If you are ready to register, click the link below. Otherwise, scroll down to learn more about our breakouts, answers to frequently asked questions, and more.
Registration closes September 13, 2025.
For further information regarding registrations please contact:
Taylor Visser
tvisser@newlifecrc.ca
604-852-1585
General Session Speaker
Tim Sheridan
Tim Sheridan is the Director of Church Planting for Resonate Global Mission/CRCNA and professor of congregational theology at the Missional Training Center, Phoenix. He has served in pastoral ministry for over twenty years in both the United States and Canada and has been involved in church planting in both countries during that time. He is the co-author, along with Michael Goheen, of Becoming a Missionary Church. He lives in Maple Ridge, outside of Vancouver, British Columbia, with his wife Andrea. They have four children, one son-in-law, and one grandson.
Breakout One Session & Speakers
“Surge: Discipleship for Ordinary Life”
with Dave Groen
In this session, we’ll be exploring a 9-month discipleship program called Surge. Developed by a group of churches, Surge was created to provide a space where men and women can reimagine just how integral their everyday lives are to the mission of God. It operates on the conviction that we don’t need to seek a more “spiritual” calling, but rather learn how to faithfully serve Jesus in the neighborhoods and workplaces we’re already part of.
“Strengthening Deacons, Strengthening the Church”
with Gary Veeneman
Discover how your role as a deacon can truly make a difference in your church and community!
Join us for this interactive workshop as we introduce you to the vision and work of Diaconal Ministries Canada (DMC) and the wide range of practical resources, tools, and support we offer to equip and empower deacons. Whether you’re new to diaconal ministry or looking to grow in your leadership, this session will help you better understand your calling, connect with other deacons, and explore new ways to lead your church in mercy and justice.
“Leading as a Woman Part 1: Challenges & Strengths”
with Jenna Fabiano
This is a slightly adapted version of the workshop that was offered last year. This year, with the addition of a part two (see the afternoon sessions), there is more space for dialogue and sharing of stories and experiences.
Being appointed as a leader of the church as a woman can come with unique or unexpected challenges, many of which don’t come to the surface until one is already in the role. What are some of these challenges? What are some of the gifts women offer which help them to face some of these challenges? Join us as we share, discuss, and learn about the unique gifts that women offer to the church and how those gifts can be used to the maximum potential.
“Tips for Visiting People with Dementia”
with Steve Berkenpas
Visiting those with dementia has a unique set of challenges, often leading people to be under visited and cared for. I know in my own circles visiting a person with dementia can end up being so discouraging that we can be fearful in even arranging another the visit. This breakout will open with some practical considerations of what dementia is and how a Christian perspective provides hope. It will also focus on some practical tips on how to do effective visits with both those with dementia and their caregivers.
“Spiritual Formation for Church Leaders”
with Brad Sumner
How we define and do our work together as church leaders can either enhance or undo our spiritual formation as people. In this session, we will explore if it is possible or realistic to see our leadership responsibilities such as meetings and administration as spiritual formation moments. We will learn how the means to achieve our mandates must not be at odds to our ends.
Breakout Two Session & Speakers
“Leadership Sexual Misconduct – What does that mean for my church & council?”
with Jiyoung Jung & Faye Martin
Church leaders are most often blindsided when faced with the reality of sexual misconduct by a trusted leader. This session provides an opportunity to learn from a real case scenario & response process with an arm’s length lens. The discussion explores the critical questions to ask – proactively and reactively – to protect your community, thus equipping councils & leaders to exercise their responsibilities in an effective and healthy manner.
“How to Lead a Meeting”
with Andre VanRyk
Using experience and research we hope to provide information and ideas to help you lead a productive and efficient meeting. For beginners and veterans we expect there will be learnings for everyone.
“What does a Deacon actually do?”
with Erik deLange
Whether it’s your first term as a Deacon, or your 10th, come to this session to learn a bit about how to love your church and your community through the office to which you have been called.
“The Art of a Spirit-Filled Visit”
with Mike Koot
How can a simple visit become a moment where someone truly feels seen, known, and loved by Jesus? In this breakout session, we’ll explore how to turn pastoral and elder visits into meaningful encounters that gently fan the spark of faith in those we visit. Through practical “how-to” guidance—covering everything from preparation to follow-up—you’ll gain tools to approach visits with confidence, attentiveness, and spiritual intentionality. We’ll also talk through common pitfalls and “visit traps,” equipping you to navigate difficult moments with grace and purpose. This session is geared toward Elders and Deacons who are newer to visiting.
“How to Find Your Missional Identity”
with Albert Chu
How do you develop a missional culture and identity for your church? How can council and leaders help the church be more on God’s mission to redeem and restore all things? After all, God IS a missionary God. Mission is a movement from God to the world and we, the church, is that instrument for that mission.
Breakout Three Session & Speakers
“Crucial Conversations”
with Ken Ritsema
How to embrace conflict with Christian truth and love. This applies to areas of leadership, pastoral care, discipleship, etc. In fact, the health of a congregation is often tied to whether these conversations are happening, or not. This session will give you a perspective and framework to discover how these difficult conversations can become opportunities for growth. They may even be God’s tool to move you to a place you didn’t think was possible!
“Mental Illness and Church Leadership”
with Leanne Koot
This session explores the often-overlooked intersection of mental illness and church leadership. We’ll engage in honest conversation about the unique challenges leaders face when navigating their own mental health or supporting others who struggle. Together, we’ll consider how to foster a culture of compassion, reduce stigma, and create space for vulnerability within leadership teams. Whether you’ve faced mental illness personally or want to better support others, this breakout offers insight, practical tools, and hope for a healthier, more honest approach to leadership in the Church. Let’s build communities where brokenness is met with grace.
“Discipleship ABCs”
with Wilma Vanderleek
In a time of constant change, church leaders often struggle to know where to focus. This session invites leaders to return to the essentials—what 1Life calls the “foundations”—through the lens of the five core callings of the CRCNA (called to worship, to form and pass on faith, to practice justice & mercy, to raise up new leaders, and to live missionally). Participants will explore each calling as a gift that helps illuminate a path toward a more holistic, faithful, and practical Christian life. Attendees will leave with fresh insight into how their congregation can engage the five callings and make the most of 1Life’s resources.
“More than Just “Nice Sermon, Pastor”
with Chris deWinter
How can church councils and elders offer constructive feedback on preaching that supports growth, faithfulness, and encouragement? This session equips leaders with practical tools for sermon evaluation. We’ll explore types of evaluation (content, clarity, gospel-centeredness, delivery) and how to establish healthy rhythms of regular feedback that serve both preacher and congregation. This session will help your team give feedback that’s thoughtful, honest, and actually helpful.
“Leading as a Woman Part 2: A Biblical Defense for Women in Leadership”
with Jenna Fabiano
For many women, stepping into a position of leadership is challenging on a number of different levels, but these challenges often boil down to one specific conversation: What does Scripture really say about women in leadership? This workshop is geared towards anyone who is looking for a clearer understanding of how Scripture speaks about women’s roles in the church. Warning: there is a lot of information and Scripture to pack into a short amount of time, so be prepared for a firehose.
FAQS
When and where is this Conference?
What is the cost per person for this conference and how do I pay?
$25/person.
Payment can be made via etransfer to giving@newlifecrc.ca. Payment can also be made via cash or cheque, please drop this off/mail this to the New Life Church office (35270 Delair Road). Office hours are Tuesday-Thursday 9am-2pm and Friday 9am-12pm. However you pay your fee, please include a memo with the name of the registrant and “BC Leadership Conference”.
The eight churches noted above have committed to help with some of the major costs to keep the cost of registration to a minimum.
Who is it for?
Any and all pastors and church council members are welcome to attend, as well as church staff and ministry leaders. This conference is hosted by 8 different Christian Reformed Churches in the Fraser Valley. The focus is to together train and equip our Church Elders, Deacons and Pastors.
I already registered, but I need to make a change/cancel my registration. What do I do?
Is food provided?
Yes. lunch will be provided, along with snacks and beverages throughout the day. If you have specific food allergies or plan to bring your own food, please note that on your registration.
What is the schedule for the day?
8:30am – Morning Devotions and Worship
9:00am – Large Group Session
10:00am – Breakout #1 (50 mins)
11:00am – Breakout #2 (50 mins)
11:50am – Lunch
1:00pm – Worship & Large Group Session
2:15pm – Breakout #3 (50 mins)
3:20pm – Breakout #4 (25 mins)
3:50pm – Closing Remarks & Prayer
*Schedule may be subject to change
Where can I register?
CLICK HERE to register.
Registration closes September 13.
For further information regarding registrations please contact:
Taylor Visser
tvisser@newlifecrc.ca
604-852-1585
Our entire council is not able to attend. Can I still attend by myself?
- If you come as a full council, we will do our best to give you a space for the 4th and final breakout where you can gather together for your own self-guided custom training (space is limited).
- If you come alone (or in a smaller group), you are still most welcome! Lots of people in previous years have come without their entire council. The fourth breakout session is focused toward each church council meeting to discuss how they can implement everything they learned in their specific council. If you come alone or with a small group, you are welcome to gather with others who are in the same boat and discuss together.
Is this a denominationally sanctioned event?
I still have questions
Summer Park Days
We are bringing the fun to Delair Park this summer!
Meet us there from 9am-12pm the week of July 14-17 and also August 11-14. Park Days is a free event, open to everyone of all ages. We will provide face painting, games, bubbles, crafts and so much more. We love the Delair community and we want to be intentional in gathering people together. You can join Park Days one day or every day, we will be set up on the east side of the park by the play ground. We hope to see you there!
If you would like to volunteer with Park Days this summer, please email the church office.
Men’s Bonfire – June 28
MEN’S BONFIRE BASH
We hate to be the bearers of soggy news, but due to some very uncooperative weather and the unpredictability of Mother Nature (who clearly didn’t get a invite), we’ve decided to reschedule the Men’s Bonfire to June 28!
- NEW Date & Time: Saturday, June 28 @ 7:00 PM
- Dress Code: Flannel optional, rugged attitude mandatory
- Location: Private Residence – Address will be emailed once RSVP’ed
Gentlemen, it’s time to channel your inner lumberjack (or at least pretend you know how to swing a hammer). Join us for a night of flames, fellowship, and ferocious competition.
Featuring:
- The Nail Driving Showdown – Think you can sink a nail faster than the guy next to you?
- Worship Around the Fire – A powerful time to lift our voices and hearts together. No marshmallows required, but we won’t stop you.
- Fire, Food, and Fellowship – The three essential F’s of a solid night out.
So grab your buddies, your favourite chair, but leave the cologne at home (the fire will handle that), and come prepared for sparks—both physical and spiritual.
Because nothing brings men together like fire, hammers, and the Holy Spirit.
Let us know you’re coming by emailing the church office. The address for the event will be emailed out prior to the event to everyone who has registered participants. If you signed up before the event was rescheduled, there is a email in your inbox with all the important details. Feel free to share this with friends and family!
See you there!
Year End Celebration – June 1
This ministry year is coming to close and we want to take some time to celebrate all God has done in and through this community this year. Sunday, June 1 will be a special service of testimonies and reflections from different members involved in the many happenings of New Life. Make sure you join us on Sunday, June 1 at 10am to hear these stories of God working and of course, a special ice cream treat after the service!
The Journey – May 25
Later in the summer we will be preaching from the book of Psalms, this workshop will be an overview of this well-loved book of the Bible. Together we will explore the psalms, learn some of the types and structures of the Psalms and share some of the ways the psalms have impacted our lives. This workshop will be on Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 6:30pm – 8:30pm. It will take place in Room 303 at New Life Church. Anyone is welcome.
This is the last Journey Workshop for this ministry year, the workshops will resume in the fall.
Celebration of Life for John Ravensbergen
A Celebration of Life for John Ravensbergen will be held at New Life Church on Friday, May 2, 2025 at 2:00 pm. This service will be live streamed. All are welcome to attend the service or watch the livestream which will be available using the button below. Please continue to hold Joanne Ravensbergen and her children in your prayers as they mourn the passing away of their husband and father, John.
Food Drive – April 13
On April 13 your New Life Deacons will be taking a food offering for Abbotsford Food Bank/Archway.
In the service on Sunday, April 6, New Life Deacons will hand out slips of paper with a non-perishable item written on it. The items written on your pieces of paper, are items we ask that you bring with you to service on Sunday, April 13 and place on the steps of the stage. These are food items that are in high need at the Abbotsford Food Bank/Archway. If you cannot bring your items with you on that Sunday, feel free to drop them off at the church during office hours the week of April 7-11.
If you didn’t recieve a item to bring, below is a list of the items that have been requested by the Abbotsford Food Bank. You are welcome to bring anything on the list.
- Jam
- Peanut butter
- Diapers (larger sizes needed)
- Powdered baby formula
- Pasta
- Whole Grain Cereals
- Powdered milk
- Infant food
- Cat food
Thank you for your participation!
Easter – April 18 & 20
On Good Friday, April 18 we will have a worship service at 6:00 pm. This service will help us reflect on our participation in the Saviour’s crucifixion. When Jesus announced he would be betrayed and crucified his disciples asked, “Is it I Lord?” Along with the Lord’s Supper, we’ll confess our brokenness and sin, turning our hearts toward Christ. There will be no children’s programs during this service. We will have the family room open during the service with activities available and the live stream on.
Easter Sunday will be on Sunday, April 20. At our regularly scheduled 10:00 am Sunday service we will celebrate together with the theme: The Greatest Day. In song and with four powerful enactments of the greatest day in history we will reflect on the hope of Christ’s resurrection. Easter is a wonderful opportunity to invite family and friends to hear the good news. After the service, we’ll enjoy some special treats—if you’d like to bring baked goods to share, you can click here sign up.
The Journey – April 13
The April workshop in The Journey series is scheduled for Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025 at 6:30pm – 8:30pm. The workshop will be an artwork presentation by Bolivian artist, Daniela Amestegui. Working in digital graphic design, Daniela has created a series of banners depicting the major seasons of the Christian calendar. Her presentation of this artwork will prepare us as we enter Holy Week to take in the powerful events of Good Friday and Easter. The workshop takes place in Room 303 at New Life Church.
These Journey workshops are held once a month on Sunday evenings to equip Men and Women of all ages for the journey of faith.
Upcoming Journey Sessions:
- May: Mercy & Justice
- *May’s Journey session will be the last session until the new ministry year (Fall 2025)