With the topic of Marriage before us this weekend it's great timing to fill you in on the Great Date Weekend Escape that took place April 27 & 28.  Held at the beautiful Four Points by Sheraton Niagara Falls, this years event was a huge success.  26 couples set aside time and resources to make a long term investment in their relationships.  The topic "The Language of Sex - experiencing the beauty of sexual intimacy" certainly did not disappoint.  Ted Cunningham and Dr. Gary Smalley did an awesome job using story and humor to unpack this …

Hey Married Couples,

Have we got something special for you.  You simply are not going to want to miss this years Great Date Escape.  In just over a month we are going to broach the fascinating and seldom talked about topic of Sex.  Yes, you read that correctly!  Through teaching and story we have designed a weekend to inspire and encourage. 

Based on the recent book by Gary Smalley and Ted Cunningham "The Language of Sex - Experiencing the Beauty of Sexual Intimacy" this interactive event is sure to rekindle the sizzle …

There is no doubt that this day sparks emotion.  For the romantics in the crowd it is a high point in the year offering a great excuse to shower love on their partner.  On the other extreme many do not buy into the hype and wonder why all the fuss.  (Just don’t forget the card and chocolates).  Still others actually loathe this day as it triggers emotions of regret or loss.  There is no question that Valentines Day can be packed with emotion.

At Southridge we have committed ourselves to being a transformative …

Now that VMB has become our newest location some of you may secretly be wondering: “Who are the MB’s?  I mean, I get what the V stands for but I’m really not clear on those last two letters – Mennonite Brethren?  Who are they?”

If that question has been rattling around in your brain, it might come as a surprise to hear that Southridge is technically the great-great grand child of VMB.  It may also be a surprise to discover that we are part of 35 other churches spread across this province …

The Great Date Experiment is back…

Hey married couples.  With Valentines just around the corner what better time to take stock of your marriage?  How’s it going?  I mean, honestly, how is it going?  If you were truly transparent and you could trust the person who was asking, what would you say?  Dynamic: never been better…  Average: considering all that you’re facing…  Bored: it’s lost its luster…  Broken: we are barely holding on…

At Southridge we want to encourage and inspire …

Quietly and peacefully on the morning of December 31, 2011 God called home one of his long time saints - Abe Dyck.  Abe would depart just days shy of 87 - from complications of a stroke.  Abe was known as a prayer warrior, a farmer, a faithful husband and father, and one who loved the church.  He was part of VMB for most of their history.

On Wednesday morning of this week I had the distinct privilege of joining the family for a memorial service.  Although I had never met Abe - I have been fortunate to know 4 of …

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 …

As I was leaving the Global Leadership Summit this Friday evening a colleague fired a question in my direction, "So - were you ravaged by the Summit?"  The words cut deep since I knew they were code for "Did God mess with your heart these past two days?"  The short answer that I managed to blurt out was something like "Oh my goodness... you have no idea..."  Two days later and with a little more time to reflect I think I can offer a slightly more articulate response.  So for …

This summer I've been motivated and personally challenged by two stories of NE folks who are really going for it in their lifestyle of mission.  What they have in common is an RV and a deep passion to serve Jesus in creative and unique ways.  I remember when RV's were a personal status symbol - used exclusively for recreation and relaxation.  Apparently that's no longer the case.  Here is a glimpse into their journey but check out their blogs to hear from them personally!

Jason and Corina Reimer and their sons Jesse and …

I recently had the privilege of watching a life group deal with conflict in a most positive manner.  I was so taken by the healthy process amidst an explosive situation that I felt others should hear about it.

Some time back an event occurred in our Southridge journey that ruffled some feathers and became quite a conversation.  When this particular life group met they discovered that they had some very strong feelings about what had transpired.  Their conversation soured – feelings were expressed with passion – frustration grew and became palatable.  It became tense and awkward.&…