Last week, a few of us from the Connection world here at Southridge had the privilege of participating in the 2nd annual Canada Wide Church planters retreat.  Hosted by C2C a BC church planting movement this year's 4 day event took place at Le Chateau Frontenac in old Quebec City.  To say that the setting, the accommodations and the food were anything but spectacular would be a lie.  It was truly amazing.  We felt blessed, privileged - 'spoiled'.

Beyond the environment what was even more spectacular was hearing the riveting stories of individuals and couples doing remarkable things across our country to win people for Jesus.  Young and old, singles, couples and families willing to respond to God's passionate call to share the love of Jesus by initiating new fledgling churches.  Many are choosing to move into our urban centers of Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto.  Settling into high rise apartments, living in multicultural environments, contexts filled with crime and poverty, often sacrificing much to see the light of the Kingdom of God shine in dark places.  This is becoming a new normal.  These are modern day 'missionarie' in our country who are modeling for us a life of full devotion to Jesus.  It was humbling and gratifying.  So many stories of God doing the remarkable in our time.

What stood out to me though was the overwhelming sense that God is moving as His people cry out to Him in prayer.  The stories would be hollow if it weren't for His power made perfect in weakness.  As I think of what they are modeling for us - it challenges me to pray with more passion and vigor.  As I think of the trajectory God has us on as a community, I am more and more convinced that nothing of significance will happen without passionate fervent prayer.  So as we lift up friends and neighbors in prayer... as we pray for the names on the sticky notes from Vision night... as we pray for our friends in Vineland as they make a big decision about their future... Let us pray with passion and sincerity.  God desires to do many more remarkable things in our midst!