A Welcoming Community United in Christ

We all long for happy lives, for a sense of belonging, for lasting relationships, and to be loved. All of us have a deep desire to be connected with others.

We connect with others through simple everyday interactions, through the joy of shared moments, and also through shared worship as a part of a Christian community. The church provides us the opportunity to have a personal and loving relationship with Jesus Christ and also to build meaningful relationships with our fellow Christians.

Listen to that Longing in Your Heart

Christ Church has been a source of strength and joy to many generations of Christians in and around the Stouffville areas for almost 140 years. If you were affiliated with Christ Church in the past, or another faith community, but have not attended church for some time, we want you to know that we miss you and would love you to join us again.

We understand that there are many reasons why people stop regularly attending church, but regardless of what may have happened in the past, you are loved by the church and are warmly encouraged to join us again. If you are feeling a longing in your heart to share in worship with other Christians, that’s the Holy Spirit reaching out to you. Stop and listen to that voice in your heart, pray about it, and then join us as soon as you're ready.

“We loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so very dear to us.” 1 Thesselonians 2:8

Reasons to Come Back to the Church

We are all looking for answers as to why we’re here and how to best live our lives. Belief in our Heavenly Father and the redemptive power of Christ Jesus’ sacrifice provide real meaning in our lives. If you have questions in your heart, Christ can help you to find the answers and to fulfill your purpose. Families that regularly share in worship and a common faith together are stronger, happier and are more likely to stay together.

Perhaps you have been carrying guilt related to past sins or mistakes. Accepting God’s forgiveness is the sure path to healing and will help you to put the past behind you and to move forward with a fuller, more meaningful life. Jesus died for us so that he could take away our sins and pain, giving us peace and the opportunity for a fresh start.

the promise of a better life when we align ourselves with Christ Jesus

A Life Full of Purpose
"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12
Real Freedom
"There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
Romans 8:1
True Peace of Mind
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God ... will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6-7
Meaning
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
1 Corinthians 15:58
Rediscover Your Faith
"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened."
Matthew 7:7

Dealing with Painful Past Experiences

If the reason you have not been to church is due to a painful experience with people within the church we recognize that it can be difficult.

The church is made up of people who are very human and are each broken in some way or another due to sin. They are people who make mistakes, and who often disappoint. We suggest that rather than be discouraged and pull away you should lean on Jesus even more and rely on the strength he provides through the power of the Holy Spirit and the church.

Do not allow the actions of an individual to come between you and your Heavenly father who loves you deeply.

The shared experience of the Christian community, including worship and the partaking in sacred traditions such as the Holy Eucharist, has the power to truly heal the deepest of wounds. People may still disappoint us, but just know that God’s love is so much bigger than all us, he loves you, and he wants you to draw close to him.

Next Steps

If it's been a while and you're still not sure, contact the parish office when you're ready and set up a time to have a private discussion with one of our Reverends, either on the phone or in person. They would be so happy to spend time with you, to make sure that all your questions are answered, and also pray with you.

Wonderful things are happening in the church right now, we want you to be a part of it. Its never been a more exciting time to be a Christian. As a baptised Christian you are part of the church, we miss you and we want you to join us again.