FA Church

This past Vision Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Unless the Lord Builds the House.” Pastor Ben reminded us that “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1), emphasizing the importance of resting in God while faithfully taking responsibility to build what He has placed on our hearts. As First Assembly looks ahead to its 100th anniversary in 2029, we reflected on God’s faithfulness throughout our church’s history and celebrated the many lives impacted through salvations, baptisms, missions, and ministry. Pastor Ben also shared the vision for making room for more through the South Property. As we look ahead, we are invited to become champions of this vision through prayer, planning, planting a financial seed, and participating in faith, trusting God’s provision and following His will, His way, and His timing. ✍️ Notes Title: Vision Sunday – Ben Johnson Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "Faith that Builds." Pastor Ben explored the faith of Noah, who trusted God’s warning and built an ark to save his family, as described in Hebrews 11:7. He reminded us that faith begins with hearing God through His Word, as Romans 10:17 teaches. Pastor Ben also highlighted how faith builds for others, showing us that our obedience can have an impact beyond ourselves. Finally, he reminded us that the door is still open, pointing to Jesus’ words in John 10:9: “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved.” This message encourages us to hear God, build in faith for the sake of others, and respond to the open invitation of Jesus. ✍️ Notes Title: Faith that Builds – Ben Johnson It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "The Walk of Faith." Pastor Ben explored the life of Enoch and what it means to walk with God by faith, reminding us that walking with God is relational, directional, and gives us faith for the future. Through Hebrews 11:5–6, we see that “without faith it is impossible to please Him,” as we believe that God exists and diligently seek Him. Pastor Ben also highlighted that walking with God means agreeing with His direction, as Amos 3:3 asks, “Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?” Enoch’s walk with God ultimately gave him faith for the future, pointing to the coming of the Lord. This message encourages us to walk closely with God, follow His direction, and trust Him for what lies ahead. ✍️ Notes Title: The Walk of Faith – Ben Johnson By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, “and was not found, because God had taken him”; for before he was taken he had this testimony, that he pleased God. 6…

In this special episode, Pastor Ben Johnson brings us a powerful message from our Team Day on The Heart of a Church Builder. What does it mean to truly serve Jesus and build His Church? Discover the heart, posture, and commitment that shape the way we live out this calling every day. Tune in and be encouraged, challenged, and inspired to build His Church with the right heart. 📅 UPCOMING EVENTS Check our Calendar here: https://fachurch.churchcenter.com/reg... 🔗 STAY CONNECTED Take your NEXT STEP: fill out a short form that’ll help us get the conversation started: https://www.fa.church/nextsteps First Assembly | @fa.church @fa.seton https://www.fa.church / fa.church / fachurchyyc 🎵 LIKE OUR WORSHIP Tehillah Worship | @tehillahworshipyyc https://www.tehillahyyc.ca/worshiphttps www.instagram.com/tehillahworshipyyc / tehillahworshipyyc

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeremiah Niengor preached a message entitled "Faith that Worships." Pastor Jeremiah explored the faith of Abel, whose offering to God reflected a heart of genuine submission and worship. He reminded us that we can’t accomplish the mission without addressing our motives, and that sometimes our response to correction reveals what our worship has been hiding. Faithful worship and faithful love cannot be separated, and when faith is lived out faithfully, it becomes a testimony that outlives us. Abel’s faith still speaks today, reminding us that worship is a way of gladly reflecting back to God the radiance of His worth. ✍️ Notes Title: Faith that Worships – Jeremiah Niengor By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. Hebrews 11:4 ⭑ A better offering? Now Abel kept flocks, and Cain worked the soil. In the course of time Cain brought some of…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "Live by Faith." Pastor Ben reminded us from Hebrews 10:35-39 that we are called to persevere in faith, holding onto our confidence in God and His promises rather than shrinking back. He explained that biblical faith is more than simply believing—it is confident trust in what we hope for and assurance of what we cannot see. Pastor Ben highlighted three characteristics of faith: faith is confident trust, faith is active and demonstrated through our actions, and faith pleases God. This message encourages us to live with a faith that trusts God’s promises, responds with action, and seeks to please Him in every area of our lives. ✍️ Notes Title: Live by Faith – Ben Johnson So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For, “In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.” And, “But my…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "Calvary’s Three Crosses." Pastor Ben explored the three crosses at Calvary: the Cross of Rebellion, the Cross of Repentance, and the Cross of Redemption. Through the responses of the two criminals, we are reminded that while rebellion hardens our hearts, repentance opens the door to God’s grace. Ultimately, the Cross of Redemption points us to the hope we have in Jesus, who offers forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life to those who turn to Him. ✍️ Notes Title: Calvary’s Three Crosses – Ben Johnson When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals – one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. Luke 23:33-34 (NIV) 1. The Cross of Rebellion One of the criminals who hung there, hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” Luke 23:39 (NIV) The…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "Make this Valley Full of Ditches." Drawing from 2 Kings 3:11–20, Pastor Ben reminded us that the valleys we face can drive us to the source — God himself. When Jehoshaphat sought a prophet to inquire of the Lord, Elisha declared, “Make this valley full of ditches,” calling the kings to prepare in faith for what God was about to do. Pastor Ben emphasized that the valley requires faith, even when we cannot yet see how God will provide. Though there was no wind or rain, God miraculously filled the valley with water and turned what appeared to be a hopeless situation into victory. This message encourages us to trust God in the valleys of life, prepare in faith, and remember that what seems impossible to us is a simple matter in the sight of the Lord. ✍️ Notes Title: Make this Valley Full of Ditches – Ben Johnson But Jehoshaphat said, “Is there no prophet of the Lord here, that we may inquire of the Lord by him?” So one of the servants…

This past Sunday, guest speaker Rob Snow, preached a message entitled "Journey in the Valley." Drawing from Psalm 84:5-7, Rob reminded us that God’s presence is not limited to the mountaintop moments of life but is with us even in the valleys of sadness, despair, and uncertainty. He explained that the valley of Baca, an arid place watered by tears, becomes a place of springs as God meets His people there and leads them from strength to strength. Pastor Rob emphasized that God knows our valleys and hears our groaning, pointing to His presence throughout Scripture and ultimately to Jesus, who experienced the deepest valley on the cross. Yet through Christ, the valley becomes a place of redemption, making it possible for us to be with God on the mountain. This message encourages us to trust that God is present with us in every valley and that He can bring hope, renewal, and redemption even from our deepest places of sorrow. ✍️ Notes Title: Journey in the Valley – Rob Snow “Happy are those whose strength is in…

This past Sunday, Pastor Sebastian Martinez, preached a message entitled "How’s your Walk?" Pastor Sebastian challenged us through 1 Kings 18 to consider whether we are wavering between two opinions or wholeheartedly following the Lord. He contrasted Baal as appealing but ultimately unavailable and powerless with the Lord, who hears, answers, and acts. Through Elijah’s faith and prayer on Mount Carmel, we were reminded that the Lord is faithful and desires to turn our hearts back to Him. This message encourages us to walk wholeheartedly with the Lord through both the valleys and the mountains, trusting Him and choosing to follow Him wholeheartedly in every season. ✍️ Notes Title: How’s your Walk? – Sebastian Martinez 20 So Ahab sent word throughout all Israel and assembled the prophets on Mount Carmel. 21 Elijah went before the people and said, “How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.” But the people said nothing. 22 Then Elijah said to…

This past Sunday, Pastor Hunter Gillis, preached a message entitled "The Evergreen Faithfulness of God." Pastor Hunter reminded us through Psalm 121 that our help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth, who watches over us faithfully and never grows weary. He encouraged us to recognize God’s faithfulness not only on the mountaintops but also in the valleys, trusting His presence through every season. Drawing from Psalm 23, Pastor Hunter emphasized that God’s faithfulness is best expressed in us when we allow Him to lead us down the mountain rather than remain at the top, and when we follow Him through the valley instead of trying to escape it. This message invites us to trust God’s unwavering presence and goodness, knowing that He faithfully guides, comforts, and sustains us through every high and low. ✍️ Notes Title: The Evergreen Faithfulness of God – Hunter Gillis I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. He will…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "What Kind of People Ought We Be?" Pastor Ben encouraged us to live with eternity in view, drawing from 2 Peter 3:8–14 and God's promise of a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. He reminded us that while the Lord is patient, His return is certain, calling us to respond by living lives that reflect His heart. Pastor Ben highlighted three key characteristics every believer should pursue: being holy, set apart for God; hopeful, confidently looking forward to Christ's return and His promises; and ready, making every effort to be found spotless, blameless, and at peace with Him. This message challenges us to live faithfully today as we eagerly anticipate the day when God makes everything new. ✍️ Notes Title: What Kind of People Ought We Be? – Ben Johnson But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "The Hope of His Coming." Pastor Ben reminded us of the incredible hope we have in Christ’s promised return, encouraging us with the assurance of 1 Thessalonians 4:16–18 that one day we will be with the Lord forever. He highlighted both the promise and the picture of Christ’s coming, reminding us that Jesus will return for His people just as He promised. Pastor Ben also challenged us to prepare for His coming by staying close to God, living holy lives, and boldly sharing the hope of the Gospel with others. This message encourages us to live with expectation, confidence, and readiness as we await the return of Jesus Christ. ✍️ Notes Title: The Hope of His Coming – Ben Johnson For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in…

This past Sunday, Guest Speaker Mark Hazzard preached a message entitled "Be Ready." Speaker Mark Hazzard walked us through Matthew 24, where Jesus reminds His disciples that while no one knows the day or hour of His return, His followers are called to live with watchfulness and readiness. Drawing from Jesus’ comparison to the days of Noah, We are challenged not to become distracted or complacent but to recognize the urgency of the times and remain faithful in our walk with Christ. He also encouraged us to consider those in our circle of influence who do not yet know Jesus, reminding us that the call to be ready includes sharing the hope of the Gospel with others. This message invites us to live each day prepared for Christ’s return, faithfully serving Him and pointing others to Him while there is still time. ✍️ Notes Title: Be Ready – Mark Hazzard Then Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, "Do you not see all…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "Signs of the Times." Pastor Ben walked us through Jesus' teaching in Matthew 24, reminding us that what we believe about the end times influences how we live today. He highlighted Jesus' warnings that deception, global unrest, persecution, and false prophets will increase, while the Gospel continues to be proclaimed to all nations. Rather than living in fear, Pastor Ben encouraged us to remain watchful, steadfast in our faith, and ready for Christ's return, holding firmly to His promise that He will come again in power and glory. ✍️ Notes Title: Signs of the Times – Ben Johnson "Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. “Do you see all these things?” he asked. “Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. “Tell us,” they said,…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "Marriage Matters." Pastor Ben unpacked Ephesians 5:25–33, reminding us that God's design for marriage reflects the profound relationship between Christ and His Church. He encouraged us to believe right by embracing God's purpose for marriage, build right through the foundational principles of love and respect, and love right by following Christ's example of sacrificial, selfless love. This message challenged us to honor God's design for marriage by cultivating relationships marked by humility, mutual respect, and Christlike love that points others to the Gospel. ✍️ Notes Title: Marriage Matters – Ben Johnson Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love…

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeremiah Niengor preached a message entitled "Dear Family Member." Through Hosea 2:14–15, Pastor Jeremiah walked us through the story of God's relentless pursuit of His people despite the relational fracture caused by sin. He showed us that God's response is not to abandon us, but to pursue us – to allure us, bring us into the wilderness, speak tenderly to us, give generously, and transform our places of trouble into doors of hope. Pastor Jeremiah reminded us that the wilderness is not a place of punishment but a place where God has our full attention and restores intimacy with Him. He also emphasized that while love operates on covenant, God's love is so faithful that even when the covenant is broken, He pays the price anyway. This message reminded us that although humanity's deepest wound is relational rupture, God never stops coming after His children, offering restoration, hope, and the invitation to return to Him. ✍️ Notes Title: Dear Family Member – Jeremiah Niengor “Therefore…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Act Like Men, Marks of a Godly Man.” Pastor Ben unpacked Paul’s exhortation in 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 to “be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong,” while reminding us that everything we do must be done in love. He explained that biblical manhood is not about dominance or pride, but about living with courage, humility, and steadfast faith in Christ. Pastor Ben encouraged us to remain spiritually alert, grounded in God’s Word, and clothed in the character of Christ, as described in Galatians 3:27-28. He also highlighted that godly men lead with love, reflecting God’s heart by pursuing justice, mercy, and humility, while caring for the vulnerable as seen in Micah 6:8 and Psalm 68. This message challenged us to pursue a life marked by strength, faithfulness, and Christlike love. ✍️ Notes Title: Act Like Men, Marks of a Godly Man – Ben Johnson Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.Let all…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled "The Baptism in the Holy Spirit - The Promise is for You.” Pastor Ben explored Jesus’ promise to His followers that they would be baptized in the Holy Spirit and receive power to be His witnesses, as recorded in Acts 1:4–9. He explained the three baptisms found in Scripture: being baptized into the body of Christ by the Holy Spirit, being baptized in water as a public declaration of faith, and being baptized in the Holy Spirit by Jesus for empowerment in ministry. Pastor Ben also taught about the gift of tongues, describing it as a sign of the Spirit’s filling, a prophetic exhortation that builds up the church, and a prayer language that enables believers to speak directly to God. Through this message, we were reminded that the promise of the Holy Spirit is still for believers today, empowering us to live boldly and faithfully for Christ. ✍️ Notes Title: The Baptism in the Holy Spirit – Ben Johnson On one occasion, while he was…

This past Sunday, Guest Speaker, Marshall Eizenga preached a message entitled “The Divine’s Benefit Package.” Drawing from Psalm 103, Pastor Marshall highlighted the incredible benefits God graciously gives to His people — forgiveness, healing, restoration, favour, contentment, and spiritual enablement. Focusing on the promise that God “heals all your diseases,” Pastor Marshall reminded us that God cares deeply about every part of our lives — physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. He encouraged us to trust God even in seasons where healing may not yet be visible, choosing faith over fear and believing in the unseen because we know the One who is faithful. Through David’s example, we were challenged to hold onto a faith that remains strong and alive, confidently resting in God’s power, goodness, and sustaining grace. This message invited us to remember God’s faithfulness and to walk daily in gratitude for His divine care and provision. ✍️ Notes Title: The Divine’s Benefit Package – Marshall…

This past Sunday, Guest speaker Mark Hazzard preached a message entitled "Devoted: One Church, One World, One Mission." Drawing from Matthew 28:18–20, Pastor Mark emphasized both the urgency and clarity of Jesus’ Great Commission to "go and make disciples." He challenged us to consider four important questions: Who should be making disciples? What does making disciples look like? Who should we disciple? And when should we make disciples? Pastor Mark reminded us that disciple-making is not reserved for a select few but is the calling of every believer, empowered by Christ’s authority and presence. This message encourages us to live with purpose, embracing our mission to make disciples wherever God has placed us. ✍️ Notes Title: Devoted. One Church, One World, One Mission – Mark Hazzard “18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Still Room at the Table.” Pastor Ben reminded us that God’s invitation is open to everyone, pointing to Jesus’ parable in Luke 14 where the master continued to welcome more guests because there was still room at the table. He encouraged us to see the heart of God for people who may feel overlooked, forgotten, or far from Him, and challenged us to make room in our lives for others just as Christ has made room for us. Pastor Ben also reflected on Acts 2:46-47, highlighting the beauty of biblical community as believers gathered together with glad and sincere hearts, sharing meals, praising God, and witnessing lives being transformed daily. This message calls us to live with open hearts, open minds and open tables, inviting others into the life-changing love and community found in Jesus. ✍️ Notes Title: Still Room at the Table – Ben Johnson “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes…

This past Sunday, guest speakers, Darcy and Leanne McAlister shared a message entitled “The Power of Sending.” They reminded us that God is still calling people into His mission and that the Church is called to participate through evangelism, discipleship, justice, creation care, and community. Drawing from Acts 13:1–3, Darcy and Leanne highlighted how the church at Antioch identified, discipled, and sent out leaders like Barnabas and Saul for God’s work. They encouraged us to see sending as a community responsibility — one that requires a willingness to mentor, develop, and release the next generation into ministry both locally and globally. Through stories of mission work, marriage ministry, and investing in young leaders around the world, they challenged us to say “yes” to God’s calling and to faithfully send our sons and daughters into His mission. ✍️ Notes Title: The Power of Sending – Darcy and Leanne McAlister Connecting Women & Men into God’s Mission • French translation • International groups •…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Passing on the Faith.” Pastor Ben walked us through 2 Timothy 1:2–7, reminding us that faith is passed on through lives that genuinely reflect Christ, through stirring up the gifts God has placed within us, and through intentionally imparting faith to the next generation. Drawing from the examples of Timothy’s grandmother Lois and mother Eunice, Pastor Ben emphasized that sincere faith is often cultivated through faithful relationships and daily example. He also reminded us of God’s heart for family and discipleship, as seen in Ephesians 1:5 and Psalm 78:4–5, encouraging us to share the goodness and power of God with future generations. ✍️ Notes Title: Passing on the Faith – Ben Johnson 2 To Timothy, my dear son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. 4 Recalling your…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “The Way of Missions.” Pastor Ben reminded us, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel… it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16), and pointed to Jesus’ prayer that “all of them may be one… so that the world may believe” (John 17:20–21), and that “by this everyone will know… if you love one another” (John 13:35). He taught that the Great Commission is what we do: “go into all the world and preach the Good News” (Mark 16:15), the Great Commandment is how we do it: “love the Lord your God… and love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37–39), and Great Compassion is why we do it: because people are “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). ✍️ Notes Title: The Way of Missions – Ben Johnson For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, –Romans 1:16 (NKJV) “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those…

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeremiah Niengor preached a message entitled “Becoming the Will of God.” From Romans 12:1–2, he urged us, “in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God — this is your true and proper worship,” and to “not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Pastor Jeremiah spoke to the real questions people are asking today: about identity, relationships, emotions, growth, and truth challenging us with: What are you looking for? Why does it matter? Are you willing? He reminded us that “if you are not intentionally being transformed, you will unintentionally be conformed,” and that “if He is not your greatest treasure, He won’t be your deepest worship.” This message calls us to live fully surrendered—for to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain (Philippians 1:21) as we become aligned with God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will. ✍️ Notes Title: Becoming the Will of God – Jeremiah Niengor Therefore, I…

This past Sunday, our pastor, Adam Meckelborg, preached a message entitled “The Glorious Gospel: Before and After.” Pastor Adam contrasted life without God and life with Him through Ephesians 2, showing that apart from Christ we are spiritually dead, following the world, the flesh, and the enemy. But in Ephesians 2:4–5, we see the turning point: “But because of his great love for us, God… made us alive with Christ — it is by grace you have been saved.” He emphasized that God’s motive is love and His character is rich in mercy, covering every sin. Through the gospel, we are brought from death to life and raised with Christ. ✍️ Notes The Glorious Gospel: Before and After – Adam Meckelborg Contrasting Realities Live Without God VS. Life With Go Life Without God Ephesians 2:1 (NIV) “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins” Ephesians 2:1b-3 “… you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “The Power of the Gospel.” Pastor Ben reminded us through Romans 1:16 that the gospel is “the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes,” emphasizing that the gospel is not what we do, it’s what Jesus has done. Walking through 1 Corinthians 15:1–4, he highlighted the foundation of our faith: that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. Using the imagery of baptism – into the water, under the water, and up out of the water, he illustrated Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. This message calls us to stand firmly in the gospel, holding fast to the truth that saves us. ✍️ Notes Title: The Power of the Gospel – Ben Johnson For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, –Romans 1:16 (NKJV) ⭑ The Gospel is not what you do – it’s what Jesus has done! Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “The Good News of Easter.” Pastor Ben walked us through Matthew 28:1–10: “I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified… He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” He also shared from G.B. Hardy, “When I look at religion, I have two questions. One: has anybody ever conquered death? Two: if they did, did they make a way for me to conquer death?” concluding, “I came to the tomb of Jesus, and it was empty… ‘Because I live ye shall live also, Jesus is Lord.” Referencing 1 Corinthians 15:20, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead,” he pointed to the moment, “Suddenly Jesus met them… they came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him.” ✍️ Notes Title: The Good News of Easter – Ben Johnson After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled…

This past Sunday, Pastor Hunter Gillis preached a message entitled “What King is This?” Pastor Hunter walked us through Matthew 21, where as Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds asked, “Who is this?” a “proper, profitable, personal, pressing question.” Looking at both His ride and His rule, we see a King who comes “gentle and riding on a donkey,” Zechariah 9:9. Through Matthew 11, Jesus invites, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened… and you will find rest.” He is a King who rules with gentleness and humility, inviting us to take His yoke and learn from Him. ✍️ Notes Title: What King is This? Hunter Gillis As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, say that the Lord needs them, and he will send them right away. “This took place to fulfill what was spoken through…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Just Ask, When Prayer Feels Hard.” Pastor Ben walked us through Matthew 7, reminding us to first examine our own hearts before judging others, and to approach God with humility and sincerity. He emphasized that prayerlessness often reveals a heart that feels self-sufficient, rather than dependent on God. Drawing from Jesus’ words—“ask, seek, knock”— he encouraged us to admit our need, pursue God’s direction, and persist in prayer with urgency and faith. Pastor Ben reassured us that God is near, attentive, and eager to respond, giving good gifts to His children. This message invites us to move toward God in honest, humble prayer, trusting that He hears us and responds according to His will. ✍️ Notes Title: Just Ask, When Prayer Feels Hard - Ben Johnson “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. “Why do you look at the…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “The Way Out of Worry.” Drawing from Matthew 6:25–34, Pastor Ben reminded us that Jesus calls His followers to live free from worry by trusting in the faithful care of our Heavenly Father. Just as God provides for the birds of the air and clothes the flowers of the field, He lovingly provides for our needs and invites us to place our confidence in Him. Pastor Ben emphasized that worry loses its grip when we choose to trust God fully, live in the present rather than fearing tomorrow, and make seeking His Kingdom our highest priority. He also encouraged us to bring everything to God in prayer, cultivating gratitude as we remember His faithfulness. This message challenges us to deepen our trust in Jesus, knowing that the more we trust Him, the less we allow worry to shape our lives. ✍️ Notes “Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than…

This past Sunday, Pastor Merrie Eizenga preached a message entitled “Come Closer.” Pastor Merrie walked us through Matthew 6, reminding us that God invites us into a real and personal relationship with Him. She shared how giving, prayer, and fasting are simple ways we can draw near to the father in the quiet place. Through the Lord’s Prayer, we were encouraged to come to God with honest, childlike faith, trusting that He already knows what we need. This message warmly invited us to come closer to God with humility, authenticity, and a heart that simply wants to be with Him. ✍️ Notes Matthew 6:1-4 (NLT) “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do —blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Heart Level Righteousness.” Pastor Ben reminded us that true righteousness goes beyond outward behaviour and begins in the heart, because “above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). Walking through Matthew 5, he showed how Jesus calls us deeper — addressing anger, lust, dishonesty, retaliation, and even how we treat our enemies — revealing that God is after inward transformation, not just external obedience. Pastor Ben encouraged us to live with integrity, purity, and love. Reflecting the character of our heavenly Father. Ultimately, this kind of righteousness is only possible through Jesus, as we receive His righteousness by faith and loving on others because He first loved us. ✍️ Notes Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) “Above all else, guard your heart for everything you do flows from it.” Matthew 5:20 (NIV) For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the…

This past Sunday, Pastor Adam Meck preached a message entitled “The Salt of the Earth.” Pastor Adam reminded us that Christians are called to be a necessary ingredient for the good of the earth, just as salt was essential in the ancient world. Drawing from Matthew 5:13, he explained that salt was used to savour, preserve, and purify, and that while salt cannot stop being salt, it can stop being used. He emphasized that salt does not exist for itself and that we lose our saltiness when we stay in the shaker. Pastor Adam challenged us to remember that the purpose of the Church is for those not in the room. He encouraged us to live with the right vision and mission by humbly serving within our spheres of society for the sake of God’s Kingdom. ✍️ Notes Title: The Salt of​ the Earth​ - Adam Meck “If Christianity is such an inessential add-on, why become a Christian?​ Still, if someone has a faith worth following, I feel that​ their beliefs should make me feel uncomfortable for not​ doing so. If they share 90…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “The Blessed Life.” Pastor Ben taught from Matthew 4:23–25 and Matthew 5:1–10, showing how Jesus redefines what it truly means to be blessed. We saw that blessing flows from our posture toward God, our response to sin, our relationships with others, and how we endure suffering. Jesus invites us into a life marked by humility, mercy, purity of heart, and peace, a life shaped by the Kingdom of Heaven. Through Christ, we are brought near to God and called to live out His peace in the world. ✍️ Notes Title: The Blessed Life – Ben Johnson Matthew 4:23-25 Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed; and he healed them. Large crowds…

This past Sunday, Pastor Mandi Gillis preached a message entitled “The Kingdom Breaks In.” Pastor Mandi focused on Jesus’ words in Matthew 4:17, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near,” reminding us that God’s kingdom is present and breaking in now. She highlighted Matthew 4:13–17, where Isaiah’s prophecy is fulfilled: “The people living in darkness have seen a great light.” Drawing from Jeremiah 23:5–6, she pointed to Jesus as the righteous King who “will reign wisely” and is called “The Lord Our Righteous Savior.” This message called us to repent, to change our lives and to continually repeat our response to the nearness of God’s kingdom. ✍️ Notes Matthew 4:17 NIV “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” "Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali — to fulfill what was said through the prophet Isaiah: “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles — the people living…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “When Temptation Comes.” From Matthew 4:1–11, Pastor Ben reminded us that “temptation is common to man” (1 Corinthians 10:13) and that God does not tempt us (James 1:13). He taught that temptation often comes after a spiritual high or in moments of weakness, just as Jesus was led into the wilderness and fasted forty days. Pastor Ben pointed to Jesus’ responses to temptation, declaring “It is written” and affirming that we are called to worship the Lord and serve Him only. He encouraged us that God is faithful and always provides a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13) as we endure temptation. ✍️ Notes Title: When Temptation Comes – Ben Johnson Matthew 4:1-11 (NKJV) Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” But He…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Here Comes The Kingdom.” Pastor Ben walked us through Matthew 3:1–17, highlighting how the arrival of God’s Kingdom is marked by announcement, a voice, and affirmation & anointing. He reminded us that John the Baptist’s call to repentance was a clear announcement that the Kingdom of heaven had come near, preparing hearts for the coming of Jesus. Pastor Ben emphasized the power of being a faithful voice in the wilderness—calling people back to God with humility, obedience, and a life that bears fruit. As Jesus was baptized, we see the Father’s affirmation and the Spirit’s anointing, revealing Jesus’ identity and mission. This message invites us to respond with repentance, live as a clear voice for God’s Kingdom, and walk confidently in the affirmation and calling God places on our lives. ✍️ Notes ⭑ Announcement ⭑ A Voice ⭑ Affirmation & Anointing Matthew 3:1-17 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea…

This past Sunday, Pastor Hunter Gillis, preached a message entitled “The King Is Here.” Drawing from Matthew 2:1–12, Pastor Hunter reminded us that the wise men modeled hearts that seek, surrender, and worship Jesus as the true King. He challenged us to confront the “Herod” within our own hearts, laying down anything that resists Christ’s rule. This message calls us to seek Jesus wholeheartedly and respond with joyful worship and surrendered lives. ✍️ Notes Matthew 2:1-12 'Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in…

Merry Christmas FA Family! This past Wednesday on Christmas Eve, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “The King Has Come.” Pastor Ben reminded us through Matthew 1:23 that Jesus is Immanuel, God with us. He emphasized that the greatest gift of Christmas is God’s presence with us, echoing John Wesley’s words, “the best of all is that God is with us.” ✍️ Notes Matthew 1:23 (NIV) The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means God with us)." The best of all is that God is with us" John Wesley 📅 UPCOMING EVENTS Check our Calendar here: https://fachurch.churchcenter.com/reg... 🔗 STAY CONNECTED Take your NEXT STEP: fill out a short form that’ll help us get the conversation started: https://www.fa.church/nextsteps First Assembly | @fa.church @fa.seton https://www.fa.church / fa.church / fachurchyyc 🎵 LIKE OUR WORSHIP Tehillah Worship | @tehillahworshipyyc https://www.tehillahyyc.ca/worshiphttps www.instagram.com/tehillahworshipyyc

This past Sunday, our pastor, Travis Holownia, preached a message entitled “The Small Things.” Pastor Travis reminded us that spiritual growth often happens through faithfulness in the ordinary, pointing to Luke 2:52 as a picture of Jesus growing step by step in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and others. Through the story of Jesus calling His first disciples in Luke 5:1–11, he highlighted how God uses small acts — availability, staying faithful, obedience, humility, and waiting — to bring about life-changing purpose. As Simon Peter obeyed Jesus despite exhaustion and doubt, God moved powerfully, showing us that when we are faithful in the small things, God can use them to accomplish something far greater than we could imagine. ✍️ Notes “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” - Luke 2:52 (NIV) One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the…

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeremiah Niengor preached a message entitled “This Is Not How I Planned It.” Pastor Jeremiah walked us through Matthew 1:18–25, showing how the trouble in Joseph’s story reflects the disruptions we face when God’s faithfulness collides with our plans. He reminded us that grace often doesn’t arrive as comfort, but as interruption—and that what looks like a problem may actually be God’s work of redemption. Through Joseph’s obedient response, we were invited to surrender control, seek discernment in confusing seasons, and say yes to God even before we fully understand, trusting that He is forming Christ in us. ✍️ Notes The trouble in the text → The trouble in our world 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary​ was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind…

This past Sunday, Pastor Sebastian Martinez preached a message entitled “A Faith that Costs.” Pastor Sebastian walked us through Mary’s story in Luke 1, highlighting three movements in the text: God’s initiating grace in the Annunciation, Mary’s faith-filled response in the Conversation, and her worshipful surrender in the Magnificat. He emphasized Mary’s remarkable faith—one that trusted God despite the cost and the scandal of grace—captured in her words, “I am the Lord’s servant… may your word to me be fulfilled.” By connecting Mary’s song with Hannah’s prayer, Pastor Sebastian reminded us that God is faithful to His promises, lifts the humble, fills the hungry, and reverses human power. This message calls us to a faith that responds to God’s revelation with worship, surrender, and trust, knowing we are part of a much greater story. ✍️ Notes ⭑ The call that changed it all​ 3 Movements of the Text​: 1. The Annunciation - God's initiating grace​ 2. The Conversation – Mary’s Faith​ 3. The Magnificat – Mary’s…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “A Saviour for All Generations.” Pastor Ben walked us through Matthew 1:1–17, showing how the genealogy of Jesus reveals God’s faithfulness across every generation. He highlighted the promises made to Abraham, the prophetic hope spoken through Isaiah, and the righteous King promised in Jeremiah—reminding us that God always keeps His promises. Pastor Ben also emphasized that people matter deeply to God, as seen in the diverse and imperfect individuals included in Jesus’ family line. Finally, he pointed us to the depth of God’s grace, encouraging us through Hebrews 4:16 to approach the throne of grace with confidence, trusting that we will receive mercy and help in our time of need. ✍️ Notes 1 This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham: 2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, 3 Judah the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was…

This past Sunday, Lead Pastor Ben Johnson preached a message entitled "The Power of Together." Pastor Ben reminded us of Ecclesiastes 4:9 — two are better than one — calling us to walk in unity as families, in vision, and in giving. Through the example of Exodus 35, we were shown how the people gave willingly — bringing offerings, skills, and craftsmanship to the Lord’s work. We were encouraged to respond to God not only with obedience, but with our whole hearts, gifts, and talents. This message invites us to move from being consumers to contributors and champions, recognizing that God builds His church as we come together — willing, obedient and generous. ✍️ Notes Two are better off than one, because together they can work more effectively. Ecclesiastes 4:9 (GNT) GOD IS CALLING US TOGETHER:​ ⭑ Together as Families​ ⭑ Together in Vision​ ⭑ Together in Giving 21 All whose hearts were stirred and whose spirits were moved came and brought their sacred offerings to the Lord. They brought all the materials needed…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “Excel in the Grace of Giving.” Pastor Ben taught from 2 Corinthians 8–9, emphasizing Paul’s call to “excel in this grace of giving” just as we excel in faith, speech, knowledge, earnestness, and love. He highlighted the Macedonian churches, whose overflowing joy and extreme poverty produced rich generosity as they “gave themselves first of all to the Lord.” Pastor Ben reminded us that giving multiplies blessings, should be cheerful and free, and brings freedom from financial worry. Scripture teaches that God is able to bless abundantly so we “will abound in every good work” and be “enriched in every way” to be generous on every occasion. Giving supplies the needs of the Lord’s people, inspires others to praise God, and is our response to His “indescribable gift.” ✍️ Notes 7 But since you excel in everything​ in faith, in speech, in knowledge,​ in complete earnestness and in the​ love we have kindled in you - see that you also excel…

This past Vision Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “God’s Not Finished Yet.” Preaching from Habakkuk 1-2, God is actively at work and calls us to hold to His vision with faith, trusting that delay is not denial. Pastor Ben shared three exciting steps God is leading us into: Phase 1 is the building plan for our South Property, a developing Christian high school partnership between GCA, Trinity, and First Assembly, and progress on the Calgary Dream Centre’s Erlton House — providing safe, supportive housing for women and mothers with children. He closed with a Champions Call to Fast and pray, to plan for the Kingdom Builders Vision 100 Miracle Offering Sunday, to plant a financial seed, and to participate by stepping boldly into the vision God is unfolding. ✍️ Notes “Look and be amazed! For I am doing something in your own day, something you wouldn’t believe even if someone told you about it. ” Habakkuk 1:5 (NLT) “Write the vision​ and make it plain on tablets,​ that he may run…

This past Sunday, our Lead Pastor, Ben Johnson, preached a message entitled “From Decision to Disciple.” Drawing from Matthew 28:16 - 20, Pastor Ben reminded us that while becoming a Christian happens in a moment, becoming a disciple is a lifelong journey of knowing, obeying and following Jesus. He emphasized that true discipleship begins with personally knowing Jesus, continues through faithfully obeying His commands, and overflows into inviting others to follow Him as well. Pastor Ben encouraged us to live with confidence in Christ’s authority and comfort in His presence, knowing that He is with us always as we walk out His Great Commission together. ✍️ Notes 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of…

This past Sunday, Pastor Jeremiah Niengor preached a message entitled “The Basin, the Towel & the Blood.” Drawing from John 13, Pastor Jeremiah spoke about the descent of majesty, where Jesus, knowing His hour had come, laid aside His outer garments, took up a towel, and washed His disciples’ feet—revealing a love that “went to the end.” He reminded us that we are already made clean, yet our feet still need washing—that baptism is a once-for-all cleansing, while foot-washing is the continual grace of God. The towel, Pastor Jeremiah explained, represents discipleship—humility walked out. He also shared about the battle for the basin, contrasting selfishness with servanthood and quoting, “If we do not serve one another, we have not yet understood the cross.” Finally, Pastor Jeremiah pointed us to the cleansing power of love, from the upper room to Golgotha—where Jesus poured water in a basin and later poured out His blood to cleanse sin—inviting us to let Him wash us, lay aside our garments, and find joy in…