By: Lois Tomc
Ministries at Kingsview all strive to bring people into a loving relationship with our Heavenly Father. “Connections” is a supper meeting held in the spring and fall for ladies and teen girls.
Let me share what has fueled my passion for “Connections”.
The last time that the Billy Graham Crusade was in Toronto – in 1995 to be exact – I heard the daughter of Cliff Barrows, their song leader, speak at People’s Church. The only thing that I remember from her talk was the concept that we are not responsible for people’s response to the gospel message – BUT – we ARE responsible to make sure that people hear.
That is what “Connections” is all about. 85-90 ladies and girls came to our spring event last May. Probably more than half of those that attend a “Connections” evening do not attend Kingsview. Yet, to look over the tables, spontaneous moments of joy and laughter are evident – the attendees bond quickly and all seem to enjoy what “Connections” offers… a night out, planned especially for them. Since they come from varying backgrounds, each responds differently to what they hear.
Many times we, as a planning team, do not know how they have been affected. However, when they leave, the guest speaker greets each one at the door and she is often told that what they have heard has spoken to their hearts and how the message has “hit home” for them.
The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:6 says, “I planted the seed in your hearts and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow.” That is what happens at “Connections”. We endeavour to plant the seeds and encourage those already on a faith journey. I personally think that “Connections” is a most valuable outreach tool.
It is an easy way for our Kingsview ladies and girls to introduce their friends to Christian beliefs in a non-threatening way. We need to always remember that it is our responsibility to make sure that our unbelieving friends, neighbours and co-workers hear the good news of the gospel. Then we can leave the results with the Lord.
We each have our own circle of influence. Let’s make sure that we are making use of the opportunities that God is providing.