martensville baptist events

We've Moved!

2009-06-02T11:50:00.002-06:00

Update your bookmarks!

We've moved!

For the past few years the blog has served us well & now with our brand new homepage we can now blog within our new site.

To navigate there simply click on the link to the right or type in www.martensvillebaptist.com into your web browser. Once there click on the 'Events Blog' button and you can stay up to date on all the special events at MBC.

Remember... visit the new homepage for all the MBC events & in 29 days the events blog will be discontinued.

Church Garage Sale

2009-05-26T15:19:00.008-06:00

On May 22-23 we hosted a church garage sale/bake sale/BBQ here at MBC. We had a blast!! It was a great opportunity to meet people in our community and to just spent time connecting with each other. The weather was great and many of us went home with sunburns! A big thanks to Jamie and Judi for putting it together and thanks to everyone who came out to help!

Look at these guys working hard!

Lloyd is an expert burger maker.Gord is an expert burger eater.

A great time was had by all - thanks again to everyone who came out!

New Look!

2009-04-28T15:43:00.002-06:00

As you may have already noticed, we've changed the look of our events blog. We all hope that you enjoy the new look and will continue to check back for up to date information. Keep your mouse on the Martensville Baptist events blog for up to date info on special events & activities that happen in & around our church!

Easter Sunday

2009-04-23T15:31:00.009-06:00

Easter Sunday was another amazing day of celebration and praise! Many people from the community, visiting from other areas, and regular attendees were at the Easter Morning service and the sanctuary was overflowing with people, even into the lobby. It was a time of celebration, a time to recognize God’s eternal grace as Jesus conquered death and rose again to save us all from death’s grip.

This amazing grace was emphasized with child dedications, testimonies, a baptism, powerful music and a message that clearly displayed the gospel of Christ. We pray that all who heard the message of God’s love

for the first time would come to love him and know that he cares for them. We praise God for the many lives that were changed.

Good Friday Service

2009-04-16T13:32:00.016-06:00

Although spring seems to be slow in coming this year, the warmth and fellowship that is found at MBC is in full blossom. On Friday, April 10, MBC had its first Good Friday service. We all knew God was at work in people’s hearts, but once again God surpassed our expectations and filled the sanctuary with people who came out to remember the sacrifice that saved us all.

The fresh baked bread and four-corner, self-serve option for communion added a personal and renewed touch to an important practice in the Christian life. As we made the steps toward the communion elements, it helped us to really remember and reconsider what Christ’s death really was about and how it has impacted everyone.

The pantomime illustrated the journey of mankind always in search for the God-shaped void in life. It reminded us that Christ is always right there, holding out His hand, waiting for us to choose to come to Him to be renewed and to fill that void.

God breathes life into man.
Man comes to life and enjoys God's creation.

Evil enters mans heart.

In his unhappiness he seeks for fulfillment...

In fame and fortune.

In beauty and love.

In alcohol and fun times.

In substance abuse.

None give satisfaction only more turmoil and pressures from all sides. The man uses all his own strength to win this battle....

But he cannot win. He does not have the strength.

Christ comes to take the chains and free the man.

He offers himself as a sacrifice for all, allowing all the sins of the world to fall on Him.

Gloriously the story does not end there. Christ conquers sin and death. Easter Sunday is coming! He has made a way for His relationship with man to be restored.

Thank you Director Pete and the Drama Team for an excellent reminder of God's love for us.

Lent Sermon Series - Short Films

2009-04-16T11:14:00.003-06:00

Prayer // 001 - Relying On Christ

Label // 002 - Identifying with Christ (Baptism)

Stuck // 003 - Pursuing Christ (Fasting)

Day // 004 - Surrendering to Christ (Worship)

Behind the Scenes

2009-02-26T11:37:00.006-06:00

We've been busy here at the church since Christmas.

The building project is nearly finished but there are always small things to complete. One of the areas that most needed work was the storage room so that we could also clean up and use the classrooms where the "junk" was kept.

Thank you Aron, for building strong shelves in our new storage room! Someone commented at the painting stage that we would never fill all these shelves. Well, look at us now....
Can you believe all these priceless storage items were crammed into that tiny space under the stairs before?

Also, during that workday, we sorted all the children's craft things and organized the Children's Education Resource room (formerly, Pastor Tim's office). It's a great room for teachers to go get the supplies they need each Sunday.In February, we had a wedding here! Many thanks to Gary & Betty who blessed us by painting the floor of the new Games Room. It was much nicer for Christi's wedding reception too!
There's always more odd jobs to be done around here. If you like painting, we have a brush for you!

It's such a great place to work. We are so blessed to be here everyday and so excited to see God working in the lives and hearts of so many people who come on Sundays!

Happy New Year!!

2009-02-26T09:45:00.006-06:00

Hey! We're back!
No excuse for the delay in posting but I will say this... I LOVE San Diego! From walking along the beach, to exploring the city, to standing on the high cliffs watching the dolphins play in the surf... it's all very beautiful and I'd go back any time!

But now, we must do some catch up. First, I'd like to start by reminding you about the last post... the children's Christmas musical. Before I left I had a hard time posting more pictures, so I'll give you a few more and tell you this...

If you are looking for a DVD copy of the musical as a memory of your kids' involvement, please contact the office.

Live from Bethlehem: Children's Musical

2008-12-24T13:25:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve Service

2008-12-19T13:44:00.003-06:00

Bring family and friends to our

Christmas Eve Service
6:30 p.m.

Sunday Mornings

2008-11-04T14:34:00.007-06:00

Start your Sunday with friends!
At Martensville Baptist, we serve fresh coffee at the all new Sunday morning cafe in our spacious new lobby. Often, there is also fresh baking or something that will fill your breakfast needs!
One thing is always there: good friends who are waiting to get to know you and hear about your week.
Come have coffee with us Sundays at 10 a.m.

Morning Worship Service
10:30 a.m.
New sermon series:
ONE IN CHRIST
November 2: One Faith: Communion--Identification with Christ's Sacrifice
November 9: One Hope: Missions--Identification with God's Plan (Mike McDonald will share from their mission in Mexico)
November 16: One Baptism--Identification with Christ
November 23: One Body--Identification with the Family
November 30: One Spirit--Advent 1
December 7: One Father--Advent 2
December 14th: Kid's Christmas Musical -- Advent 3
December 21: One Saviour--Advent 4
December 24: 6 p.m. Christmas Eve Service

We hope to see you all at each of these services!
Invite your friends to come too!

More on the Grand Opening

2008-10-17T15:49:00.004-06:00

Grand Opening

2008-10-15T15:37:00.007-06:00

Well, here we are in October ... where did that last month go? The office move was great but then so many other things took place that I had to leave you for a time. Sorry, especially to those who are following this blog from a distance. I know you don't get to see it first hand so I will try to keep up the pictures and the info.

Our Grand Opening this past weekend was so great! Everyone was scrambling to get things done before Sunday but it all turned out great even though we had to leave a few things unfinished. The service was celebrative and upbeat with a special dedication time and a message reminding us that this is God's building and we need hold it with an open hand to His purposes. People will always be more important than buildings.

Church Chairman George called up Dave, who donated the land for the first church to be built, over 30 years ago. The children brought their piggy banks that they made to collect their Building for Eternity gifts. This one took a LONG time to empty! Holly was happy to not have to carry it any further!

We had a full house with 211 people in church. A delightful lunch was served right after church giving people time to look around and explore the new facility.

In the afternoon, there was a public Open House for all who were curious to see the new building and happy to celebrate with us.

We are so thankful for all the God has done and for what He is still doing. Finishing the project will take just a little more time and money. The first we have, the second, God will provide. Thank you for your interest and prayers.

The day has come -- the office move.

2008-09-09T16:16:00.005-06:00

If you live near, you will have noticed that the stucco guys have been here.
The guys moved their offices today. Tim's office looks very "put together" for just having moved but then, as you can see... he had some help! Harv's office is looking good too but he will need a few book shelves before he can unpack those boxes of books.
This is Jared, he had to work for a week without an office or desk but he looks happy now! His biggest problem today was trying to hang on to that new chair that everyone is trying to steal. And this is where they left ME! All by myself in this big basement room. Oh well, maybe I will finally get some work done.
The reason I'm still here? See picture of my new office below...Not quite ready but it will be soon! Below is Shawn removing stipple from the basement ceiling so that it can all be done with the new basement bathrooms at the end of this room.
Stop by sometime, I'm sure there are a few pastors here who would love to give you the tour.

The NEW Guy!

2008-09-09T16:01:00.004-06:00

Well, you've heard us talk for some time now about hiring a Youth Pastor.
An opportunity has just come up in the past few weeks to hire a Bethany student who only has to complete a four month internship to finish his degree. We are happy to build into young leaders so we have hired Jared Brandes as an Intern Pastor for 4 months. He will work with the youth but he will do lots of other things too while he learns all about becoming a pastor.

We are happy to introduce to you Jared & Karis Brandes.

Come stop by the church any time from Tuesday to Friday to chat with him and get to know him better. And be sure to welcome Karis on Sunday mornings! She's the quiet one beside Jared.

September Already!

2008-09-09T15:37:00.005-06:00

Where did that last month go? Sorry for the delay in posting... again. Things are moving along here very well. Since the last post, we have opened up the lobby and are using the front doors in the car port. It's really nice for everyone to get a good feel for the new space and to be able to use it if only partially for Sunday mornings. It's especially nice with the rug in now!

One of the upstairs bathrooms below... tile is starting to look real good!
This is the finished floor.

Doesn't this floor look great! This is the entrance half done. Tomorrow he will finish the other half and the landing at the top of the stairs. Off to the right is where they will build coat racks.

VBS 2008 Power Lab

2008-08-15T15:11:00.004-06:00

What a great week! Thank you! Thank you to everyone!

I told you it was a busy week!

2008-08-14T15:24:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the delay in posting. I won't even start with all the excuses ... some of which might even be valid.

The biggest change this week is all the painting that has been done. We all need to say a HUGE thank you to our painters. Wes Long, Helena Goertzen, Judi Doerksen, Eva Buller, Heather Pegg and Carey Thiessen. Thank you and we hope your sore backs and arms recover soon!!!

Thank you, as well, to the ladies who cleaned out the garden area! It really looks great!
We have our 4th VBS evening tonight. It's going great! Please pray for Laurie tonight as she has an important message to present to the kids tonight. I'll try to post some VBS pictures tomorrow.

A busy week ahead

2008-08-05T15:01:00.005-06:00

This should be a fun week. Things are really moving along. They are working hard to get the building ready for VBS. Not that it will be done but there are a few things that will need to be finished before that week. For example:
Holes in the floor are not a good thing for crowds of children. The stucco crew was here today. It's good to have the paper and wire on as it will protect the wood from the rain.
Another entrance change! The door is out and this temporary entrance will be no more by the end of today. Could somebody please tell Gord that it's ready for siding now. He was complaining that he couldn't do the siding until this door was gone. There you go, Gord, just for you!
The grass at the back is looking good. It will need a mowing soon and then it will be ready for the kids to play games at VBS.

Inside the main area, the drywallers are nearing the finish on the mudding. By the end of this week, we will be doing some painting. In case you haven't heard, we are going to try to save around $12,000 and do this job ourselves. So, if you have some experience painting, and have some time to donate, we would love to hear from you!

Brick by brick

2008-07-25T13:46:00.004-06:00

This is my friend Doug. We are friends because I keep taking pictures of the poor guy while he is working. I suppose he could just throw bricks at me but he has chosen to be nice for which I'm happy.
I take lots of pictures because I really admire his work. I also admire his work ethic. Get to it, keep working, he's fast and he rarely takes a break. That's the way I like to work too, although I've learned the importance of interruptions in my job.
The only good an interruption will do for Doug is that he gets yet another picture on this widely known, world class blog. Right? Look at that dust fly!!!

Almost done those pillars. Now here's a good start on the front.

Thanks for your great work Doug!

Next week he will finish the front and start on the brick work inside. I will not be able to keep you updated on this process because I'm going to a funeral in BC next week and Pastor Tim is away at camp. I'm back in the office on Thursday afternoon and Friday. If I have time, maybe I can get a few pictures.

Thanks for remembering the pastors in prayer this week.

Jack-hammering fun

2008-07-24T13:13:00.005-06:00

No it's not really fun. That jackhammer shakes your insides loose and I don't envy the guys who have to run it all day. But it's a powerful tool so these guys think it's cool and all have to take a turn.
In fact, they insisted that I give it try.

It looks like I'm just standing here which is true but then I found the switch and turned it on. That's how I know I would not want to do this all day!
This area is the old men's washroom (previous washroom--not just for OLD men) and to the left is where Harv's and my offices were.

OK, I promise the next blog will be much "prettier".

A Fireplace!

2008-07-23T13:05:00.003-06:00

Since we have moved our offices to the youth room, they have continued destruction of the old offices and the washrooms. On Sunday, the ladies washroom (seen here at the back right) was still usable. Not so much anymore. That doorway is just being cut (see Shawn on the left of the doorway) to allow access to the large new basement area. The area where the washrooms and office were will be re-built into new washrooms, much larger than before.
Our lovely paint job on the ladies washroom looks somewhat strange here. As does the rocking chair in the middle of the mess and rubble.

The new lobby is ready for the mudder. Here it is... the Fireplace.

Sod for VBS Games

2008-07-19T12:36:00.006-06:00

Did you hear the thunder storms last night? Did anyone else lie in bed thinking that we will never be able to do the sod at the church this morning! It was a beautiful morning but we were sure the ground would be too wet. Well, it was nicely packed and we had no problem!
Here are a few pictures of the fun...

Thank you to Mark, Tim, Mark, Oliver ...
Scotty & Gord...
Mark P.....
Rick, Tammy, George,
Rod and Kurtis. Harv and I were also there ... I'd like to say supervising, but my arms and hands are too sore to say that!!!

Tammy, this looks heavy! She said that the middle rolls were very hot! Good thing we didn't have to wait until Monday to do this!

Mark E looks like the inspector!

Or maybe it's Gord who is inspecting... testing for level-ness. This took him hours to test the whole area. We are not too sure what the rock represents unless "like" matter prefers to hang out in close proximity. Just kidding Gord... remember this picture was YOUR idea!

Rod learns from his kids how to clean up!

Ann Doell baked for us this morning. Just when we finished she brought in the baking and we enjoyed hot sausage rolls! MMmmm. Thank you Ann!

Thanks for joining us Erwin and Ann. Erwin it is so great to see you out and about... well, maybe more out than about but I'm sure the next time you will be able to come for a tour of the new building.

Praise God for all His provisions today! Thank you God!

The Sod is here... Can You Help Tomorrow?

2008-07-18T11:55:00.002-06:00

This is a friendly reminder that we need your help tomorrow to lay sod back here. As you can see we will need to do some raking and we also would like to dig in the water lines for the sprinklers. So please, please, if you can come help for a couple hours, we would really appreciate it! We will start at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 19. See you there.

The First Office Move

2008-07-18T11:13:00.004-06:00

Isn't this great? Our offices are now in the future Youth Room under the stage. It is bright, clean, spacious and OUT of the mess! Come visit us in our new location!
What WAS the men's washroom...
I didn't hate the old office that badly but sometimes it's just good to take out frustration's on the wall, you know?
This is Henry's contribution....
Shawn coming through the wall at the entrance to the women's washroom.

A new look at my old office.

I wonder how many trailer loads of junk we have hauled out. Tearing out drywall sure makes a mess! The new washrooms under the stage will be ready to use on Sunday. So if you were thinking about not coming on Sunday, I've just given you a good reason to change your mind!!

A few basement pictures and a drywall update

2008-07-15T11:15:00.006-06:00

Did you know there is a back stairwell? If you walked through that door at the top of the stairs you would look right at the back of the insurance office. Going out this door to your left is the area we are going to sod on Saturday. So we are hoping to be able to use the large areas for VBS and have the kids exit this door for the games time. This is under the front entry... the lower area when you come in at the car port. This will all be storage (left, around the back and to under the stairs) and mechanical room (middle area, on the right of this picture). Here I'm standing near the part that is under the stairs, looking back to the entry of the storage area. That door will not be there, it's just leaning against the wall. We will have a huge storage area!!!
Today they unloaded all these light fixtures into the storage area.Can you see my office in the background? That's the men's washroom wall that Ryan is tearing apart today.
He only saw a few sparks so everyone is OK. I'll just close my door so I don't have to watch.
We will be moving our offices this afternoon so I may not be able to update the blog too much more this week. Hopefully, we will get online quickly and the move will go smoothly. We are moving to the Youth Room under the stage so they can tear these offices apart to make new washrooms.

Oh, here's what's happening upstairs today...

Drywall progress at the end of last week

2008-07-15T10:50:00.002-06:00

This is Reception office looking out to the door for the lift.
Don't you just love these lights going down the hallway? Is that what they call Mennonite chandeliers? No, that toilet does not stay. It is still functional but there are no more reports of it's usage.

More mess and a little distraction outside my office.

2008-07-10T10:13:00.005-06:00

Don't you just love this door?
Henry and Ryan were back on this jobsite today. I think they enjoy creating mess. They found another wall to move. This room has changed size 3 times now in the past 5 years.

Taking Shape with Drywall

2008-07-10T09:29:00.008-06:00

They started with the ceilings and then they went to the walls in the back offices. The stacks of drywall are getting lower. They are working above the stairwell in this picture.This is taken at the doorway of the first Nursery Room...

This is the Mom's room loooking into the Sleeping room on the left. To the right, past the ladder is a doorway going to the hallway near the offices.
This is Pastor Harv's office.
Pastor Tim's.
Sharon / Reception Office. OK, so not much has changed here but it's coming...
They put in some light in the basement so I'll throw in a couple pictures of the new area down there.

I just went upstairs to see how much farther they are on the walls. This is a picture looking in the reception window of my office ... note the difference from the other pictures in this blog.

We are back!

2008-07-08T15:39:00.005-06:00

Hi Everyone, did you miss me?

Well, I missed you... even I was annoyed, checking the blog and not seeing any updates. Well, a lot of what has happened while we were away. We did have a relaxing week off and then a great week in Winnipeg at the National BGC conference. Some of my very favorite people were able to attend with us... Tim & Juanita, Tim S. and lots of friends from other provinces that we have not seen before. It was great!

Meanwhile, it seems they can work without us (who knew?) and lots has been done here at the church. The marks in the picture are dust particles that reflect the flash from the camera.

The picture below is Henry building the fireplace frame. George discussing the electrical progress with the electrician.
Good job Henry. Can I light a fire? Maybe it would help to dry that floor?
Then, a week later, this is what we came home to after conference...

Today they continue to hang drywall on the walls in the back offices. The nursery, washrooms and offices will likely be done by the end of today. You know, I have to say that I'm not really looking forward to the sanding days of ALL that drywall! But it sure will be nice when it's done!

Lots is happening in the basement too. You know that door across from my office that used to be Harv's office? Well, it's still there but those stairs are what you see if you go through it.Why is it that in order to improve things, they always get more messy before they get better? A good picture of life sometimes, don't you agree?

This is taken from the new basement, looking back at my office window. I'd love to show you how much room that new basement will have and how open and wonderful it is in there, but there's really not enough light and the pictures just don't look like anything. You may have to come see it for yourself!

Well, it's good to be home. I love it when Erwin D. phones and says, "How's my church?". That's how I feel too! Keep praying for Erwin. He has a long recovery ahead of him and longs to be able to get around. Right now the pain he is experiencing will not let him get out of bed.

I'll try to keep more pictures coming. Thanks for your interest!

Looking Good

2008-06-20T10:14:00.003-06:00

Well, that's it for this week. Next week we are on holidays so if you want to see updates, you'll have to "bug" Pastor Tim.
Have a great week!
ss

A Quiz

2008-06-18T11:39:00.005-06:00

Here's a fun distraction from all the construction mess. Study this picture and answer the question below:
How was this reflection made? Here's a few facts to consider. It came through the front north side window. It lasted only a few minutes.
If you are not sure how to respond, click "comment" at the bottom of this blog. Write your comment with you first name or your initials so we know who it is, then type in the security letters-if required-in the space provided. Then choose "anonymous" and "publish your comment". It's quite easy to do, I'm sure you can do it!
Maybe we can find a prize for the person who comes up with the right answer. Pastor Tim, you are excluded since you were there when I took this picture. (And Juanita is also excluded if he tells you the answer.)

Inside with the trades

2008-06-17T15:51:00.004-06:00

This is taken from just inside the front doors to the new lobby. This little hole in the men's washroom is the creation of the plumbers working in the new basement. I'm thinking it must be a mouse hole but I can't understand why they want to let the mice in. And, it's my understanding from all those years of Tom and Jerry that it should have a rounded top and a piece of cheese. Don't you agree?
This is the hole to the new basement where the stairs will go. The cement at the bottom is the base for the elevator or "chair lift" as they call it.
The plumbing and electrical are coming along. This the one of the small washrooms upstairs.
This is taken standing at the door of the new nursery. To the right is the door into the next room for the babies. There's going to be lots of room for the little ones!
It's hard to take pictures of the electrical work and the plumbing but it's sure good to see them making progress. The drywallers are nearly done in the Youth room under the stage. We'll be able to paint there very soon.

Carport

2008-06-17T14:53:00.006-06:00

Here comes the first beam for the carport. And, beam number 2!
After today, the handy zoom-boom will go back to it's owner. It's been such a great tool!

Notice the soffits are done on this end too! You don't see the crew in this picture because they are inside cooling off and enjoying a coffee break. Henry's not really sleeping in this next picture, he's just too "hot" to let me take his picture. Oh, did that come out wrong? I mean, it's really hot out there and he didn't want his picture taken.

(That comment was for his special girl in Foam Lake... hi Heather.)They have coffee break here every day so if you live close enough to treat them to a snack, they sure appreciate it! Just drop by the church any day of the week! Thanks! More tomorrow.

Windows and doors

2008-06-17T14:31:00.004-06:00

Don't you just love this front window?

I think this was also the day the shinglers finished the roof.
Ok, that's it for last week's events. The next blog will tell you about the busy week this week.

Blogger Blip

2008-06-17T13:51:00.006-06:00

Hi Everyone! Thanks for all the comments about missing the blog last week. I'll try to take them as a compliment and pretend that I'm appreciated.... or at least my blogging. If you have been wondering where I was, well here's the reason I took a week of holidays. Lisa was on holidays for a week and came home to help me with the gardens. We had a great week off together. We planted all our flower beds, visited greenhouses and coffee shops. But I'm back now and I'll try to catch up with the happenings from last week.

Last week they tore out the walls of the old lobby, joining it with the new lobby. It's a wonderfully big area and it's easy to just stand there and dream of all the connecting and ministries that will happen in that room. Here's a few pictures of the process... The spots are dust in the air that the flash picks up.

I don't even want to comment on this photo.... seriously, PT, did Margaret put you up to that photo and what are you drinking?

Finishing the Roof

2008-06-06T11:26:00.002-06:00

Racing the Rain

2008-06-04T16:21:00.002-06:00

We praise God for holding back the rain for the last two days while the roof was open. This morning, it started off to be a beautiful day but we kept hearing about this rain that was coming.

The guys worked hard to get those last rafters in and then started the sheeting.

We had one shower just after lunch but it didn't last too long. They are still working and I don't hear rain so I'm guessing they will have it closed in soon. Thank you God and good job crew!

Son of a Carpenter

2008-06-04T16:07:00.004-06:00

These next pictures feature our father and son team, Marty & Shawn.

Good job, guys, we are proud of you!

Getting on with the day

2008-06-03T15:48:00.004-06:00

Next step. This huge beam that has to sit on the back wall of the auditorium. To do this, they had to cut back the wall and into the ceiling. Another huge job.

I just wanted to show you the view from my new office window. Cool hey?

OK, I'm going outside now to see what all the yelling is about. I'll post more pictures tomorrow.

Another Monday of significant changes

2008-06-03T15:33:00.004-06:00

Harv & I have a very difficult time taking our day off on Mondays these days. It's so hard to not stop by and see what they are doing when they announce on Sunday that they are tearing off the roof of the old lobby. We just about managed to stay away, but then, we couldn't. But can you imagine? I forgot my camera. So, these pictures are from Tuesday morning after the "damage" has been done.

Mission accomplished????

This is a pile of that awful insulation they had to get out of the roof area. It was everywhere!

The old entrance above and the nursery below.

Where Nursery meets Nature

2008-06-03T15:10:00.004-06:00

We've been working on bringing an outdoor theme to our nursery helping them to feel closer to nature. What do you think? Have we succeeded?

Excellent weekend for a Garage Sale!

2008-06-03T14:42:00.004-06:00

This weekend was the Monster Martensville Garage Sale. Our church participated by holding a church garage sale at the pastor's house.

It was a huge success both in the sale of the "wholesome junk" and the "healthy hotdogs". Actually, we BBQed nearly 400 hamburgers and over 200 hotdogs, frying onions all evening Friday and all day Saturday.

The bake sale table serving pies with the hamburgers and hotdogs was definately a hit!

I think we may have driven our neighbours crazy but they all finally gave in and came for the food. It was great!

The last wall, made of steel

2008-05-30T11:07:00.002-06:00

Did you know that cutting steel makes a lot of noise? Their ears will be ringing for the rest of the day. They are hoping to achieve lock up stage next week.
I'm going to the garage sale now... see you there!
ss

Don't forget the youth room!

2008-05-30T10:07:00.002-06:00

Meanwhile, the boarders were here and finishing boarding the youth room. We are hoping they come back soon to mud and finish the walls. It's looking pretty good! A nice size room!
AND... the Gord and Gary team worked as far as they could on the siding on the north side. It sure looks a lot better now! Maybe we could start landscaping this side soon?
South side.
Hey, this looks like the first meeting in Pastor Harv's office.
Have a great weekend and don't forget to stop by the garage sale at Harv & Sharon's Friday afternoon and all day Saturday. We are selling hot dogs and hamburgers and homemade pies. There's also a bake sale with some delicious items. See you there!

South side Rafters

2008-05-28T09:16:00.004-06:00

This south wall needs to be steel so that's why it's not done. But they put up the rafters without the wall being there.

Days like these it seems the building is coming up so fast! There's lots more to do on the roof and inside but the smaller inside jobs are not so noticable as walls and rafters. It's really fun to drive up and see this huge building where our front lawn once was.

Rafters

2008-05-27T15:09:00.003-06:00

This pile of rafters will be on the roof soon. The zoom-boom fork lift is a very helpful friend for jobs like this!

Friday framing

2008-05-27T14:41:00.003-06:00

The inside walls for the nursery and offices were started on Friday and finished on Monday Pastor Harv checking out his office.

Talking in the new lobby. The wall on the right with the windows will have a fireplace under the middle window. It has been such good weather for our crew! God is so good!

A beautiful day turned into a very busy day!

2008-05-22T16:17:00.004-06:00

One back wall, one front wall. Two front walls. That's a very handy machine!
Entrance wall going up.
Caught on the window but Shawn cleared it quickly. Good job Shawn!
This is the big wall. I'll try to post a video of this one going up. It was really cool!
It's really starting to look like a huge building! It's going to be so wonderful. God is so good! Thank you for your prayers! Keep praying for God to provide in so many ways: safety, supplies, financing, workers, volunteers, trades.

One Beautiful Thursday morning

2008-05-22T08:56:00.003-06:00

An early morning start to a beautiful sunny day. From the back alley.
The front wall.

The first wall at the back on the south side.

A bit over anxious on the office, perhaps.

2008-05-16T14:48:00.002-06:00

This is my new office, do you like it? I'm finding it has an open air, breezy kind of feel to it.
And I might ask for a bigger desk.
Where is everyone? Why is it so quiet here today?
At least I have the phone... hello? hello?
Have a great long weekend everyone!

The floor is done!

2008-05-16T14:39:00.003-06:00

Thank God for great weather to build the floor!

2008-05-15T11:16:00.005-06:00

I was thinking today that we sometimes take the weather forgranted.
Now I know that some people would like it to rain but for this project, it has been great weather! Praise God for that! George tells us that the project is on schedule and doing well.
It looks like we were having some trouble with people STILL wanting to use that door, so George and Marty put a stop to it!
A floor stop. Here George and Marty are standing on the entrance level right where the stairs will to to the lobby level. Shawn is walking on the wall right where the fireplace will be. They told me I should wait a bit to go try out my new office. Maybe tomorrow.
By the time we go for lunch in 10 minutes, most of the joists will be in.
I'll post more tomorrow.

This was interesting!

2008-05-14T16:51:00.002-06:00

The basement beam was no easy task!

As you can see, there are certain times in a day when it's really hard for me to get work done!

Here come the floors

2008-05-14T10:47:00.002-06:00

One of these walls is not like the other

2008-05-13T09:21:00.003-06:00

This morning we drove to church and could see exactely where it was from a long way down the street. That huge pumper truck is hard to miss.

The wall near the lot next to us needed to be cement for fire regulations, so, yes, it is differenet from the other walls. Looks like a lot more work too.

More later.

A week later!

2008-05-08T13:19:00.003-06:00

Lots is happening here at the church. Marty has been busy with preparing the youth room and the washrooms under the stage for the drywaller who might come tomorrow. So many little things to finish before the drywall covers the walls.

George and the crew were outside most of the week building the walls of the basement. A much bigger job on this end than it was on the other end!

End of the Day ... Thursday

2008-05-01T16:49:00.003-06:00

Pouring the footings
We sure have some great volunteers!

This is Kaleb distracting Jake from setting up chairs. Good job Kaleb!

Moving right along

2008-05-01T09:22:00.003-06:00

The auditorium looks SO good!

The first few days this week were interesting. It was great to watch the carpet come in but with that is the glue smell. It was rather strong but fortunately we now have windows that open and most of the stong smell soon cleared out.

They are starting the footings for the front section today.

This is a picture of the new bathrooms under the stage.

Henry and Ryan are working on "boxing". Well, at least they know what they are doing.

We might have had a bit of a mishap with the new guy. Henry is a friend of one of the pastors (no seems to be admitting it) who came out from Foam Lake to help for the week. George is considering hiring him, however, after this incident, it might not be such a good idea.

OK, stop worrying. It's just Henry's silly sense of humor. He set it all up and made me take the picture.

Dumb sign Sharon!

2008-04-30T13:16:00.003-06:00

Ya think?

Florida is good but home is better!

2008-04-30T09:53:00.006-06:00

Hi everyone! It's good to be home.

It was so fun to see all the changes! Wow! it looks good.

And Tuesday was a very big day around here.

First the porch came down!

Harv & I were here at 7 a.m. as the only witnesses to this incredible event. Fortunately, for YOU, I had my camera and caught it on video!

As this is happening, the carpet layers are finishing their work in the auditorium. (pictures of this in the next blog ... OR come on Thursday afternoon to help set up for Sunday and you can see it yourself!!)

Outside, Joe was wasting no time with digging the hole in the front.

Well, maybe a few minutes for family. But let's call it his coffee break as I'm pretty sure he didn't take a break in 2 days of digging! Here's a couple young excavators learning the job with dad.

Joey

Colton

Good job boys! If you grow up to be as good as your Dad, you will do well!

We just might make it!!

2008-04-25T13:26:00.002-06:00

Well, on Thursday and Friday we've had a great group of volunteers working long hours. They've made quite the transformation in the auditorium.

Check out these pictures: from priming right through to the painting:

Doesn't the new paint look fantastic? I love it!

And this is the first light fixture to go up.

I'll really miss those old ones*... (*the previous statement was intended to be as sarcastic as you can possible read it to be).
And now it's time to clean up!

Of course there was a lot of other stuff going on as well but it's not all that visible: a lot of electrical and duct work was going on while the painting was happening.

Well, see you Sunday. But if you have some time, swing by the church on Saturday at 10:00 and help us do a quick clean up and set up the chairs for Sunday.

Thanks.

Will We Be Ready for Sunday?

2008-04-24T08:42:00.002-06:00

Well, it's Thursday and the expanded auditorium is getting close to being finished... but will it be ready for Sunday? We already know that we won't have carpet in for the weekend but what about painting, lighting, sound, etc...? I think we can do it!

Spraying the ceiling is a dirty job.
Here's what the furnace room looks like now.
And they've started framing out the basement under the new stage. This area will eventually become the Youth Area. Here you can see them framing men's and women's bathrooms.

Today painting is the name of the game. I'm looking forward to that because it makes such a big difference in such a short amount of time. Pics of that will come tomorrow.

See you then.

We're Getting Close!

2008-04-22T10:34:00.004-06:00

Hello Everyone! It's Pastor Tim here this time. Here's just a quick update on what's happened since the last post:

On Friday the cement truck came and poured the floor for the basement under the stage.

Marty got right at it. When he gets excited about something he moves so fast he's a blur! Well, actually the problem is that I'm not much of a photographer... but you get the idea.

Here are the mudders hard at work. We all like watching him work on the stilts.

And this morning they've started doing the stone-work for the front of the stage. You can't tell from this crummy picture (sorry) but it looks great.

Here, this one's a little better.

I'll have more updates later on but that gets you caught up for now. This morning they are also swapping out the furnaces so we have no heat for the moment. I wish that could have happened when it was 20 degrees outside. Right now my fingers are freezing as I type this!

Siding and Windows

2008-04-17T15:42:00.004-06:00

Juanita here. I'm filling in for Sharon just for this post as she is away on holidays. Yes, hello Harv and Sharon. We know you're checking in even though you are away! Hope you are having a wonderful time in the heat.

A big thanks to Gord and Gary who have started with the siding. Continued thanks to the crew and their volunteer helpers for all their hard work. It's really starting to look different around MBC.

The Day Before Florida

2008-04-16T15:20:00.012-06:00

Dusty. That's all I can say.
Dusty. You can see the dust in this picture!
I thought my camera was not working but then we realized that the flash went off and it reflected on the dust particles in the air.

Drywall, scraping ceilings and hammering. Dust. What else can you expect, really.

The first coat of drywall is on.

Aron scraping the ceilings.

Basement, ready for the concrete.

They were working on that first new window this afternoon. It will probably be in by the end of the day.

Are you wondering about the title for this blog--The day before Florida? Well many of you know that Pastor Harv and I (Sharon) are taking a short vacation ... a week in Florida. We don't like the timing but it's been booked for a few months and I underestimated the speed of our building crew. We will miss you all ... hope you enjoy all the changes as much as we do. God bless... see you Sunday, May 4.

Nice window!

Bye!

Trouble with the rug! It doesn't want to go!

2008-04-15T15:55:00.011-06:00

Today again proved to be an interesting day.
First, the drywallers were there all morning and it's looking so good.

Then several volunteers worked all afternoon to remove the rug. Most of it had been easily removed on Monday but this one piece was VERY stubborn. Even 3 or 4 men on one corner couldn't budge it.

What could they do?

Bring in the tough truck!

They hooked up the straps to the rug and then to the truck out the door.

It was still a difficult job because the rug would just tear.

Finally, they cut it in small strips and went back to the man power.

Good job, Bill, John, Lloyd & Aron!

Huge changes.

2008-04-15T15:34:00.006-06:00

April 13. The last service in the current building.

It was club Sunday.
The Olympians group sang a couple of their songs!

Shortly after church...

With in a short time, the auditorium was completely empty.

This is what we saw on Monday evening when we dropped by the check out the days progress...

A New Door!

2008-04-11T13:54:00.001-06:00

Can you guess where this door is?

I'll give you a hint.

It's temporary and, yes, it's in the church.

Such a welcoming place!

2008-04-11T13:35:00.003-06:00

We've been having a good laugh all week at the condition of our church building. It's just getting worse and worse. I guess that's what transformation does.

I wonder if that holds true for us as well. Do we really have to get to the bottom of the mess before we can be transformed?

Welcome! Welcome!
Don't you just love the new entrance?

Soon we will have to say goodbye to this old entrance.

Oh, and fortunately the eletricians ARE here and this light switch isn't finished yet. I can relate to this switch... if you ever see ME looking like this, just remember, God isn't finished with me yet!

Another doorway ... gone!

2008-04-10T16:02:00.003-06:00

With the wheelchair ramp gone, the extra door in the lobby has become not only unnecessary but rather dangerous with that very large step to the ground.

That's two entrances gone this week. But don't worry, they are preparing to add one ... that's what the platform is for to the left of this picture.

Inside.

One less entrance

2008-04-10T08:57:00.005-06:00

It's amazing how much work there is to changing a room.

It's easy to say, "Those stairs will go and this area will become part of the furnace room." Much easier to say than to do.

This week they spend a couple days tearing out the back stairs, walls and doorway.

Finally, they are out!

The new furnace room. The dark wood on the top right is where the door was.

From the outside... Marty just ran past my desk from the new end of the church and said, "That's a long way around now."

More Demolition

2008-04-08T16:29:00.009-06:00

The outside walls are being prepared for siding and new windows.

The back stairwell needs to come out. What a dusty job!

More plumbing happening!

A very good start to a busy week!

Answer to Prayer

2008-04-04T11:30:00.007-06:00

The Plumber is here!!!! One day I'll get his name but for now it's just great to see him and his crew working on site! Thanks to all who were praying for this.

This is the trench in the new basement ready for the plumber.

We've been waiting each day now for the doorway to the new basement to open. One day they marked through the drywall with a nail.

Then a few days later, they cut the drywall. I stood there with the camera waiting to see a hole punched through. But NO, George came down the stairs and said "Not today."
This morning, there it was. I MISSED THE SHOT! Oh well.

It's kind of strange to be able to walk through a doorway there! Fortunately, they have added a temporary door to keep in our heat.

So, that will be all for this week. I'll post more pictures next Tuesday or Wednesday.

At last, an update!

2008-04-04T11:07:00.004-06:00

Sorry for the break in blogging! Something about all the church staff getting the flu on the weekend. Not fun.

So, last week they continued work on the stage and it's coming along nicely. I think they have now started on the step all around the stage.

Would you look at that? I think Rick might like to be a preacher. At least I couldn't get him to stop talking so you never know.

Sean, though fighting a flu bug himself, tore out the wheelchair ramp this week.

Somtimes things have to look worse before they get better... that's for sure!

Gord & Gary, evening volunteers started on the soffits! It's starting to look more finished. Thanks G & G!

Shingling in a Snowstorm

2008-03-25T13:37:00.010-06:00

What? The title doesn't match the pictures, you say?

But it's true, these pictures were taken on Monday morning, March 24.

Beautiful blue sky.
It being my day off, I didn't feel obligated to stay for the entire process and within an hour, the weather changed!
Yes, there was a snowstorm!
They tell me they were sweeping snow off the roof so the roofer could put down the last of the shingles on the north side. But they got one side done that morning in spite of the snowstorm! Way to go!
Thank you to Jake W. and Marvin F. who volunteered some time and lots of effort to help the crew take off the old shingles.

Why didn't they finish all the way to the front?
Because the new part on the front will wrap around this part of the roof. So the part of the roof that is still light shingles is coming off and will be new roof.

The backfill was also done before the snowstorm.

On Tuesday, they finished shingling the south side.

The afternoon was spent in the new addition, building the stage.

Please pray for these crews as they work and especially for scheduling that takes place each day with work efforts, volunteers and trades. Prayer is especially needed right now for a plumber who will take this job. The guy they had lined up is not able to do it.

Easter Sunday Service March 23

2008-03-19T13:33:00.006-06:00

EXCUSES FOR NOT GOING TO CHURCH THIS EASTER
#327 Didn't hear about it.

GOOD NEWS
In case you didn't hear...
Easter brings us the hope of new life. Join us to hear how you can experience a fresh start in your life.

10:30 a.m. Martensville Baptist
Worship Singing with Band
Drama
Life Story
Relevant Life Message
Casual , Family Atmosphere

See you on Sunday! Come early to get a good seat!

Snow to Sunshine

2008-03-17T21:27:00.005-06:00

Monday morning... Where did spring go?

By mid-morning it was snowing and cold.

Not the best day to put up raftors! And with one of the guys sick and one injured... well, they did a great job inspite of the difficulties.

By afternoon, the sun came out and jackets started coming off.

Finishing up on Friday

2008-03-17T20:59:00.006-06:00

The last wall came up on Friday.

Ryan & Mike taking off the last of the stucco on that wall

Raising the Walls

2008-03-14T14:11:00.005-06:00

Thursday

Friday afternoon

This First Beam

2008-03-12T16:14:00.002-06:00

Morning

Noon4:30 p.m.

Week Two of Church Construction

2008-03-11T16:12:00.004-06:00

The forms were covered and left to set for the weekend.

Marty had fun on Monday with the bobcat and that pile of gravel. He pushed it all into the hole and then drove down into the hole on top of the gravel. Wish I had been here to see that but I missed it by a few minutes.

Taking stucco off the side is the loudest part for us inside! It's amazing how it sounds like it's coming right through! I was working in my office and a hammer inside the closet by the men's washroom fell off the shelf from all the banging.

Tuesday was the day to build the walls of the basement.

A Firm Foundation

2008-03-07T16:33:00.007-06:00

Day Two of "Building for Eternity" project.

True to our vision and mission, we are starting with a good foundation.
Marty and George whipped up the footings and the cement truck arrived at 4 p.m.

Marty's comment... "I think we will need a little more."

I'd like to give you an end of the day picture but these guys work longer than I do!!!

More pictures next week.

Construction has started!

2008-03-06T13:07:00.011-06:00

Getting started: Digging the hole.

The frigit -28 temperatures didn't stop these guys this morning as they started digging the hole. The ground is still partially frozen and then there are those nasty rocks that Martensville is so famous for.

The construction will start with the auditorium expansion at the back of the church near the alley. This is the smaller part of the building project that will extend the exisiting building by 20'.

The gas line had to be moved so SaskEnergy came and asked the backhoe driver to turn off the machine. That was all the machine could take of this cold weather and it refused to start again. But by just after lunch, it received a new starter and they were back at the job.
George & Marty, our builders, happy to get started.

Last picture around 4:30 pm.

4:40 ... he's still going... sounds like the wall is coming in!
I think I'll just go home now.
Sharon

Exciting Weekend!

2008-03-05T18:14:00.004-06:00

On Sunday, March 2, we had a Sod Turning Celebration.
The church was full, the singing, communion and sharing was inspirational, and the sermon, powerful. But the morning didn't end there. After church we all bundled up, braved the icy wind and went outside to the spot where they will be digging later this week. Leadership Team chairman & builder, George Ginther gave a little talk that reminded us of where we have been and how God's grace and power has brought us to where we are standing today. Pastor Harv prayed a prayer of dedication and they turned the sod. Also helping to turn sod was Martin Goertzen, member & builder and Dawson Unruh, a six year old life-time attender who was asked to help as a representative of the next generation... and how we want to build so that we can continue to minister to young and old alike.

By this time, we were all nearly frozen but we made our way back to the church where a festive Luau lunch welcomed us. An ocean and sand mureau with palm trees, pineapple and delicious salads along with the warm fellowship topped off the day and made this a great event that we will remember for a long time. Thanks to all who helped with the lunch and planning of this event.

Peter's Dedication

2008-02-27T09:11:00.002-06:00

On Sunday, Feb. 24, Peter Russell Fehr was dedicated to the Lord by his parents, Rod & Julie Fehr.

Why Child Dedication?

Parents choose to dedicate their children to the Lord as a public declaration of their intention to raise their child in the training and instuction of the Lord. (Eph. 6:4) The congregation is also challenged to provide support for these parents through encouragement, prayer and to help wherever possible to teach the children to love the Lord.

Events this week

2008-02-22T15:03:00.007-06:00

Sunday, February 24
NEWCOMERS LUNCH
New to MBC?
Please join us for lunch and a chat right after church.

The Great Escape
Young mom's group is having a night out with no kids.
This FRIDAY, February 29 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Young (or not-so-young) mom's are welcome. Call the church for details or just come!

*******************
Who are Cruisers?
A groups of "middle of the road", "empty nesters", people who used to cruise 8th St.... Purpose of the group? To connect and build friendships.
Saturday, March 1, 6 p.m.
POTLUCK SUPPER at the church
Games to follow.
******************************************
Sod Turning Celebration
Sunday, March 2 after morning service
Lunch to follow

Olympians Wedding

2008-02-03T09:33:00.001-06:00

Last week Margaret was teaching the children about how we, the church are the bride of Christ. To illustrate this, they held a wedding.

Fortunately, Juanita fit into her wedding dress (only a few months after having a baby... way to go Juanita!!!) and the boys leader, Daniel acted as the groom.
Dirk was the pastor who married them,

other leaders and children played the members of the wedding party

and they all enjoyed the reception with toast to the bride and groom and a wonderful cake.

What a creative bunch.
Looks like they all had a great time!

BIG CHANGE: Pews to Chairs

2008-02-03T09:09:00.000-06:00

We are so happy to have sold the pews to a church in Saskatoon.
Good bye pews.
What a mess! Thank you to all who came to help!
23 stacks of chairs to unpack with each leg wrapped.

This is a big step for us as we move towards a new building. The chairs will allow us to use our auditorium for different events.

Praise God for His provision.

NEW Plans for the Building

2008-02-01T16:04:00.000-06:00

Exciting news! We have just recieved the latest, greatest plans for the church building project! They are posted on the back wall in the church lobby. Hope you can come see them this Sunday!

ANNUAL MEETING
Last Sunday we held our church's AGM. We voted on a new budget where we clearly chose to trust God for another year of providing for the ministries here. Thank you to all who attended and participated.

We are excited that this budget gives room for hiring another pastoral staff sometime this year. YOUTH, do you have any suggestions of what kind of pastor would like us to hire? Please remember to pray for the Leadership Team in the next months as this important decision will be made and they will look for someone to fill the role.

Happy New Year -- 2008

2008-01-09T08:35:00.000-06:00

What an exciting year at Martensville Baptist!
Here's a few things we are looking forward to...

A new sermon series in Exodus shared by our pastors.

The kid's club program, Olympians starts again on Jan. 10
MBC Annual Meeting: January 27 Lunch will be served right after church followed by the AGM
Our music teams are changing... Jonathan & Pamela are getting married in Feb.!
March 2: Sod Turning Celebration with lunch
March 2008: Watch for the construction guys digging through the snow and frozen ground! Construction for our new facility will start at the east end of the church.

Easter drama presentation
Spring Garage sale
MBC Annual Golf Tournament in June
And VBS... coming soon ... August 11 - 15, 2008

And, of course, much more. If you have any questions about these events or anything else about Martensville Baptist, please don't hesitate to call us at 931-2688.

Christmas in Reverse - MBC Kid's Musical - Dec. 16

2007-12-17T19:40:00.000-06:00

Sunday morning, on December 16 Martensville Baptist was full. 221 people came to hear their children, grandchildren, the kids of our church performing a musical that proclaimed the true message of Christmas loud and clear.

The program started with the younger class telling their version of Christmas through a poem they recited together ... well, mostly together... when that silly microphone wasn't distracting them!

(Click on the pictures to enlarge them, then click the "back" button)

"Christmas in Reverse" was directed by Tammy W. and Lori G. The kids acting and singing were Kindergarten to youth. They started with a lively song as they moved into their places creating the nativity scene, a choir of angels and the narrators. In order to tell the story of how God planned this scene from the very beginning, they cleared the stage by sending all the characters of the nativity scene to join the choir to make room for Adam and Eve. The Old Testament story continued through the songs, telling how God had prepared the way for us to receive the gift of Jesus on that first Christmas day.

What a great way to re-tell such an amazing, life changing story.

Everyone in attendance was amazed at the children's incredible performance and we went home tremendously blessed. Congratulations kids for doing such a great job! We are very proud of all of you!

Praise God for all the amazing things He is accomplishing in and through our church!

If the World were a Village of 100

2007-11-29T09:09:00.000-06:00

This video was used by Pastor Harv during his sermon on Sunday, November 25th. It is a good reminder to all of us of how blessed we are here in Martensville. But it is also a good reminder to us of the responsibility that comes with that blessing.

Upcoming December Events

2007-11-28T09:47:00.000-06:00

Dec. 23rd – 4th Sunday of Advent: Hope

Dec. 24th – 6:30 Christmas Eve Candle-Light Service

Dec. 25th – Merry Christmas!