Baptisms & Church Memberships. In 2023 we celebrated 28 baptisms and welcomed 11 new members into the Hillcrest Church family. We thank God for each one who takes the step of faith to be baptized in obedience to Christ (Matthew 28:19-20). We also thank God for those who choose to “officially” make Hillcrest their home church and commit to taking an active role in the work of this local church family.
Click here to learn more about the “why” of church membership.
The Alpha Course. In January we put the Alpha Course on hold, as no one registered. We took this as a sign to look to the Lord and recalibrate our strategy in terms of promoting and getting the word out. It was also a very difficult season for our Alpha Leader, Nicole, as her mom was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, resulting in her passing several weeks later. As Nicole’s pastor I walked through this season with her and her mom and ministered to the family.
In the fall of 2023 we had 22 register for the Course, plus 2 who showed up the first day, and an average of 16 attending regularly each week. This is the first semester that Nicole and her team have begun to recruit their own volunteers. I also brought a new team member on, as well as a new member to our Alpha Kitchen Team.
It has been encouraging to see guests of all ages taking part, especially those who are spiritually curious and have yet to express a personal faith in Jesus. I am deeply grateful for Nicole Cross and her leadership, as well as the members of our team: Rob & Janice Kirchner, Roy Hjelte, Linda Andrew, Jalyn Morisette, Darla Ismond and Joshua Cross. I am equally grateful for our Alpha Kitchen Team led by Carrie McDonald and team members Gail Nelson and Randy Pick, and the wonderful breakfasts they provide for guests and volunteers.
Here are some takeaways from the Alpha Course, based on the feedback surveys we received from guests.
Alpha moves people closer to saving faith. One guest had never attended church before. Initially this person was skeptical of spiritual matters, but after taking Alpha, moved from being “skeptical” to “undecided.” This is a move in the right direction! This individual made new friends, enjoyed the “non-judgmental” environment and better understands why people believe in God. It’s also important to note that this individual had been invited to attend Alpha with a friend from Hillcrest Church, highlighting the importance of invitation.
Alpha moves people closer to Jesus. One guest shared how their faith was strengthened and made the decision to get baptized.
Alpha helps people. To make friends and open up. One guest commented that it equips believers to share God's love and discover His purpose.
Please continue to lift up this ministry in prayer and consider how you might be involved, either by volunteering or by inviting a family member, friend or colleague to check it out, and to say you’ll join with them to see what it’s like.
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