Kortright Church Online: Recent Episodes
Kortright Church
Based in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, we are a friendly, diverse congregation from a variety of social, cultural, and religious backgrounds that seeks to know Jesus and make him known. Here, you can find the sermon from each service.
Message: Some Time Later
Series: Founders of the Faith
Speaker: Grant Vissers
Passage: Genesis 40
This week, Rev. Grant Vissers, continues our Founders of the Faith series by taking us through the story of the Cupbearer and the Baker in Genesis 40.
Episode 232-044: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Grasping or Trusting: Two Ways to Live
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Genesis 39:1-6, 20-23
In this episode of Joseph’s story Allison highlights the difference between what seems to be happening on the surface, and what’s actually happening that we can’t see. She helps us to see the contrast between how the world deals injustice and how Joseph’s response to it. We examine the contrast between how his brothers and his Egyptian masters look to their own position of power, and how Joseph looks to God’s expectations.
Episode 24-021: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Redeeming Our Lives from the Pit
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Genesis 3712-36
As we continue Joseph’s journey Justin Sytsma guides us through the story of how his brother’s sold him into slavery, impacting the lives of not just their father and their famail, but the lives of the whole world as well.
Episode 24-020: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Joseph & the Technicolor Dream Coat
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Genesis 37:2-11
This week we return to our ongoing series: The Founders of the Faith. Allison Pinches recounts her earliest experience with musical theatre as she leads us into the story of Joseph.
Episode 24-019: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Road to Emmaus
Speaker: Paul McLean
Passage: Luke 24:13-25
This week our guest speaker, Paul McLean, brings us a fresh look at the interaction between the Risen Jesus and his disciples on the road to Emmaus. Paul works as a full-time Bible translation consultant in partnership with The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) and The Bible Society in Taiwan (BSTWN).
Episode 24-018: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: How Do They Have Hope?
Speaker: Lindsay Sytsma
Passage: Matthew 9:18-26
This week Lindsay Sytsma presents the last of our follow ups to our 4-week Community Bible Study. The passage this week is Matthew 9:18-26, in which we find two people who are each in a seemingly hopeless situation. And yet, somehow, they have each found some small glimmer of hope. How?
Episode 24-017: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Faith vs Fear
Speaker: Miranda Valentini – World Hope International
Passage: Matthew 8:23-27
This week we continue to follow up on the passages covered in our 4-week Community Bible Study. The passage this week is Matthew 8:23-27, the story of Jesus calming the storm on tee a of Galilee. Our guest speak is Miranda Valentini, currently with World Hope international and former5 classmate of our Pastor of Vision & Staff Development – Allison Pinches.
Episode 24-016: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Jesus and the CenturionSpeaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Matthew 8:5-13
This week Justin follows up on the passage from our weekly Community Bible Study – the story of Jesus and the Roman Centurion.
Episode 24-015: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: What are You Packing?
Speaker: Shannon Bell
Passage: Luke 9:1-10a
This week, Pastor Shannon Bell of Cariboo Ministries, asks us to consider just what it is we are packing as we set out in ministry for Jesus?
Episode 24-014: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The End of the Gospel is the Beginning of Discipleship
Speaker: Howard Sullivan
Passage: Mark 16:1-8
As we celebrate the Ressurection of Jesus Christ, Pastor Howard Sullivan encourages us to exband or imaginations as we seek for fully understand the ramifications of what really happened that day.
Episode 24-013: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: You Could be Replacedby a Rock
Speaker: Daniel Dorman
Passage: Luke 19:28-40 (ESV)
This week, Daniel Dorman, who is also one of our music leaders, challenges us to look at Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem from a slightly different perspective. Was it really as triumphal as it appears to be?
Episode 24-012: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Call and Response
Speaker: Sean Howard
Passage: Exodus 3:1-18
This week, Sean Howard of Intervarsity, brings us an update on what Intervarsity is up to here in Guelph, with the U of Guelph student Ian Fuller-Thompson.
Sean also brings us a message from the life of Moses, highlighting six principles that we can refer to when seeking the call that God has placed on our lives.
Episode 24-011: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: He Who Sees in Secret
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Matthew 6:1-18
As we continue in our series of teachings for Lent, Justin draws our attention to the Sermon on the Mount. Specifically to a place where Jesus points out three areas where he asks us to do things differently from the established practices of the day.
Episode 24-010: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Vine and the Branches
Speaker: Matt Naismith
Passage: John 15:1-11
This week we welcome Matt Naismith, formerly pastor at Church in the City here in Guelph, now the Church Planting Catalyst for Send Network Canada. He joins us today to share with us from John 15, where Jesus explains the relationship between the vine, the branches, and the fruit.
Episode 24-009: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Gift of Creation
Speaker: Roland DeVries
Passage: Mark 5:1-20
The principle of Presbyterian College in Montreal, Roland DeVries, joins us this morning with a message from the story of Jesus casting out the demon known as Legion from the demon-possessed man.
Episode 24-008: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Lenten Scripture Reflections
Speaker: Justin Sytsma & Howard Sullivan
Passage: Isa. 11:6-9, Zech. 9:9-10, Col. 1:15-20, Phil. 2:5-11
As the season of Lent begins Pastors Justin Sytsma & Howard Sullivan guide us through four brief meditations that will help to prepare our hearts fo0r the weeks approaching the events of Easter Weekend.
In addition this episode includes a mission update from Jim Klass, formerly a pastor here at KPC, who is deeply involved in providing online discipleship opportunities through http://www.mobiledecipleship.orgor www.discipulado.net
Episode 24-007: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Reconciliation
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Genesis 33
In this episode Justin Sytsma continues our Founders Series by guiding us through Genesis 33 and the story of Jacob and Esau’s reconciliation.
Episode 24-006: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Wrestling with God
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Genesis 32:22-32
This week Pastor Allison explores a number of mysteries surrounding the story of Jacob Wrestling with God in Genesis 32.
Episode 24-005: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Choosing God’s Peace Over Worry & Fear
Speaker: Annabelle Edward
Passage: Philippians 4:4-7
This week we turn the service over to KPC Youth ministry. One of our youth leaders, Annabelle Edward, recounts an experience she had watch the popular musical “Come From Away, and how it lead her on a journey of discovery regarding God’s peace.
Episode 24-002: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Who Will Go For Me?
Speaker: Kenn Oke – Avant Ministries
Passage: Isaiah 6
This week we hear from one of KPC’s mission partners, Kenn Oke, serving with Avant Ministries in Spain. He challenges us to consider God’s question to Isaiah and how this question impacts our personal lives.
Episode 24-003: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Take the Long Way Home
Speaker: Howard Sullivan
Passage: Genesis 31
This week we return to our Founders Series as Pastor Howard Sullivan, our Interim Moderator, guides us through an understanding of Genesis 31, which chronicles Jacob’s attempt to flee from his servitude to Laban.
Episode 24-004: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Nature of Prayer for Healing
Speaker: Barb Ferrier
Passage: Various
For our first service of 2024 we return to a tradition that got waylaid during the pandemic – our healing services.
Done in conjunction with communion, KPC offers an opportunity for individuals to come forward for healing prayer. In her explanatory message, Barb relates the purpose, nature, and importance of prayer, prayer ministry, and the relationship to communion.
Episode 24-001: © 2024 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Happy New Year
Speaker: Phil English
Passage: Hebrews 4:12-66
On the last day of 2023, and as we look ahead to the new year of 2024, we are joined by Phil and Carolyn English, on recorded video. They provide a personal update on their ministry and Phil then guides us in a meditation on God’s Word, from God’s Word, encouraging us in the scriptures as we reflect on this past year, and the year ahead, as God does his work in and through us.
Episode 28-050: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Christmas Eve
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Luke 2
For our Christmas Eve service, Justin gives us a wonderful take on the story that is likely the most preached passage in Christ history. From Popes, to Billy Graham, to Linus on A Charlie Brown Christmas, all have related their insights into Luke chapter 2, the story of Jesus’ birth.
Episode 28-049: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Advent 3: Joy
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Luke 1:26-56
On the Third Sunday in Advent we light the pink candle and celebrate Joy. To guide us in our search for God’s Joy, our Pastor of Worship and Outreach, Justin Sytsma, walks us through the Mary’s visit with Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist.
Episode 28-048: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Advent 2: Peace
Speaker: JasonDockeray
Passage: Luke 2:1-15
On this second Sunday in Advent, our guest speaker is Jason Dockeray, Director of services at Lighthouse For Grieving Children, and a former classmate of our Pastor of Vision and Staff Development, Allison Pinches.
It seems appropriate that Jason, committed to helping children and their families find peace as they work through their grief, give us his insight into the peace that comes through the birth of Jesus.
Episode 28-047: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Advent 1: Hope
Speaker: Lindsay Sytsma
Passage: Matthew 1:1-6, 5:3-9
As we start the Advent season, looking forward to the birth of Jesus at Christmas, Lyndsay Sytsma helps us see the Hope that is before us.
Episode 28-046: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: After God’s Own Heart
Speaker: Jim Danielson
Passage: Romans 12:2, Acts 13:22
This episode, Pastor Jim Danielson from Milton, who teaches at Milton Christian school, and serves as a worksite chaplain for businesses in the Greater Toronto area, brings us a message that looks at Three Qualities of a Godly Heart.
Episode 28-045: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Things We Do For Love
Speaker: Howard Sullivan
Passage: Genesis 29:31-35, 30:1-24
The married lives of leaders and celebrities are often a fascination for a lot of people. Newspapers and magazines make their living off sharing the lurid details.
In this episode Pastor Howard guides us through the intricacies and machinations of the married life of Jacob, Rachel, and Lea. It’s a twisted tale indeed.
The episode opens with the audio from the last in a series of mission videos intended to help people better understand what is happening as Kortright seeks to understand who God wants us to BE.
Episode 28-044: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: If I Could Walk 500 Miles
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Genesis 29:1-30
How far would you go to proclaim your love for a woman? Or a man? How long would you work for that dream spouse?
Kortright’s habit of referencing 80’s music aside, this episode Allison Pinches continues our Founders of the Faith series, guiding us through the story of Jacob's pursuit of Rachel as his wife.
As has been our habit of late the episode opens with the audio from the 8th video in a series of videos we are producing to help people better understand what is happening as Kortright seeks to understand who God wants us to BE.
Episode 28-043: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Jacob’s Defining Moment
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Genesis 28
Continuing our Founder’s Series, this time Pastor Justin Sytsma takes us through what could be described as Jacob’s defining moment. Up to now he has been something of a trickster. But with the events of this chapter he reaches a truly life-changing moment.
Episode 232-042: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Hidden with Christ in God
Speaker: Philip and Robyn Serez
Passage: Colossians 3:1-4
In this episode, guest speakers Philip & Robyn Serez share some of their amazing journey as they have learned to trust God rather than blame him for Philip’s ALS. In this journey they have found joy rather than despair.
For two decades they have worked with the Eastern Canada team of the world missions organization Multiply. They also happen to be the parents of some of Kortright’s Worship music team.
As has been our habit of late the audio from the 7th video in a series of videos we are producing to help people better understand what is happening as Kortright seeks to understand who God wants us to BE is included in the podcast. However, this time, it follows the message.
Episode 28-041: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Surviving the Storms
Speaker: Jim Danielson
Passage: Matthew 14:22-23
In this episode our guest speaker, Jim Danielson, helps us to understand how faith in Jesus can carry us through the various storms that we encounter in life.
The episode opens with audio from the 6th in our series of videos to help people better understand what is happening as Kortright prepares for the pastoral search.
Episode 232-040: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Jacob’s Birthright
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Genesis
As we continue our Founder’s series, Allison Pinches guides us through the various deceptions and subterfuges carried out by Jacob and his mother, Rebekah, to deny Esau not only of his birthright, but of his father’s blessing as well
Again this episode opens with audio from the 5th in our series of videos to help people better understand what is happening as Kortright prepares for the pastoral search.
Episode 232-039: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Story of Isaac and Rebekah
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Genesis 24
This time, Pastor Justin Sytsma will be preaching from Genesis 24, exploring the story of Isaac and Rebekah. Have you ever considered just how remarkable this story is? How unlikely that Abraham’s servant would find just such a woman? And what does it mean for us today?
Today’s episode also begins with audio from the next in a series of videos we are producing to help people better understand what is happening as Kortright seeks to understand who God wants us to BE.
Episode 28-038: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Then Jesus… Loads of Love Ukraine Update
Speaker: Ed Dickson – Loads of Love Ministries
Passage: Mission Update – No specific passage
Ed Dickson and his family have been serving orphan children, seniors, refugees and local churches in Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and the Middle East since 1996. Ed was born in Canada, raised on a tomato farm, and received a Masters Degree in Agricultural Economics. One day, visiting orphan children in Ukraine, his life goals were changed. He has been serving children since that day.
Episode 232-037: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Unclean No More: Why Jesus Came
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Mark 1:32-39 and 5:34b-34
Have you ever wondered how people could see all the miracles that Jesus did and still not believe? What if we told you miracles aren’t why Jesus came? What if we told you miracles don’t lead to faith? Allison explains.
Today’s episode begins with audio from the first in a series of videos we are producing to help people better understand what is happening as Kortright seeks to understand who God wants us to BE.
Episode 28-037: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Our Legacy of Faith
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Judges 2:6-23
If there is a universal constant from one culture to another, one century to another, it's the attitudes of the older generation about the younger generation. We've seen the memes and heard the jokes, but what do the scriptures say? What is our responsibility to the next generation, and the generation after that? Justin gives us a few ideas.
Episode 232-026: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: No Matter What You Are
Speaker: Howard Sullivan
Passage: Philippians 3
This morning, our Interim Moderator Howard Sullivan, examines the third chapter of Paul’s letter to the Philippians with the help of Badfinger, the Welsh rock band from the 60s & 70s. Need we say more?
Episode 28-035: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Providence of God
Speaker: Karla Wubbenhorst
Passage: Philippians 1:1-26
This morning, our good friend Rev. Karla Wubbenhorst, shares with us from Paul’s letter to the Philippians. She re-introduces us to a term that was one very prominent among Presbyterians, but has, in some circles, fallen into disuse – The Providence of God.
Episode 28-034: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: From Babel to Pentecost
Speaker: Howard Sullivan
Passage: Genesis 11:1-9, Acts 2
This morning, our Interim Moderator Howard Sullivan, takes us on a journey from the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 to the events of Pentecost in Acts 2, with a brief side trip into outer space.
Episode 28-033: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Sowing Jesus Everywhere
Speaker: Kevin Coghill
Passage: Mattherw 13:1-9; 18-23
It's interesting that on the Sunday when we announce that Kortright will become a satellite distribution point for the Guelph Food Bank, Kevin Coghill, executive director for Royale City Mission, who feed 200 people every day, comes takes the pulpit to walk us through his take on the Parable of the Sower. Preaching on this passage usually focuses on the three kinds of soil. The question is, just what exactly is being sown, and where?
Reading the scripture this morning is Elenè Wadsworth - Matthew 13:1-9; 18-23.
Episode 032-023: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: I AM Who I AM
Speaker: Lindsay Sytsma
Passage: Exodus 2: 23 – 3:15
In our last episode Daniel Dorman explained to us that when we praise the Name of God we are praising God because his Name is who He is. This week, with no collaboration we are assured, Lyndsay Sytsma helps us to better understand the name of God itself.
Episode 28-032: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Psalm of Praise
Speaker: Daniel Dorman – Partners International Canada
Passage: Psalm 113 (ESV)
In this episode Daniel Dorman concludes a two part mini-series that looks at the difference between the two most common types of psalms. This week: the psalm of praise.
Episode 28-031: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Psalm of Lament
Speaker: Daniel Dorman –Partners International Canada
Passage: Lamentations 3:16-24; Psalm 11 (ESV)
In this episode Daniel Dorman begins a two-part mini-series that looks at the difference between the two most common types of psalms. This week: the psalm of lament.
Episode 28-030: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: An Unexpected Gospel
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Luke 4:14-30
As we take a break from our Founders Series, Pastor Justin Sytsma take us into the Gospel of Luke and asks the questioon, "What is the Gospel?" Many theologians has answered this question in many ways, but what did Jesus say the gospel is?
Episode 29-023: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Test
Speaker: Rev. Howard Sullivan
Passage: Genesis 22
Every June students, at various levels of education, face their “finals”, a series of tests. Abraham faces a testing as well, and it is often a very contentious account among those who resist the Gospel. In this episode our Interim Moderator, Rev. Howard Sullivan, guides us to a better understanding of this challenging story.
Episode 28-023: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Waiting to Witness
Speaker: Doug Schonberg
Passage: Acts 1
This morning we welcome Doug Schonberg to the KPC pulpit. Doug served as an ordained minister with the Presbyterian Church in Canada for 25 years, 22 of them with Chippawa Presbyterian Church in Niagara Falls. He currently works with a number of ministries including PAN Missions, which has long had a special place in the heart of KPC.
Episode 27-023: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Founders of the Faith 6: The Birth of Isaac – Allison Pinches – June 11, 2023
Message: The Birth of Isaac
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Genesis 21
Sarah Laughed when the visitors foretold that she would give birth in her 90s, and to be fair, who wouldn't. we have all found ourselves in situations we would have previously thought unbelievable. Our investigation of Abraham’s (Abram’s) story continues as Allison takes us through the account of the unbelievable birth of Isaac.
Episode 26-022: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Covenant of Circumcision
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Genesis 17
The Covenant of Circumcision. What does it mean? Why just the men? Are women excluded? Is there a Christian equivalent? And why the name change? These questions and other will be addressed as Pastor Justin Sytsma guides us through the next chapter in Abram’s story.
Episode 25-022: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Ministry Wisdom from Thessalonica
Speaker: Sam Strauss – Liebenzell Mission of Canada
Passage: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
On this Pentecost Sunday, we welcome Sam Strauss of Liebenzell Mission, who shares some wisdom to be found on the subject of ministry work in the story of Paul & Silas in Thessalonica.
Episode 24-022: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Founders – Part 4: Hagar’s Story
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Genesis 16
Slavery, sexual abuse, and oppression are prominent dynamics in the cultural identity of many people in our culture. So what does it mean when the Founders of our Faith are seen to be guilty of all of these things? This week Justin guides us through the story of Hagar and helps us to understand that God has always been the God of the downtrodden and the oppressed.
Notice: This message does not shy away from these themes, and those who are sensitive to issues of slavery and abuse should consider this before listening.
Episode 23-022: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Founders – Part 3: Abram’s Covenant With God
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: Genesis 15:1-17
What better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than by talking about animal sacrifice? Okay, it’s a bit strange way to start a topic, but this week our Pastor of Vision and Staff Development, Allison Pinches, continues our exploration of Abram’s journey by examining the covenant that God makes with him, helping us to understand the significance of each aspect of the process.
Episode 23-021: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Founders – Part 2: Abram’sSojourn in Egypt
Speaker: Rev. Howard Sullivan
Passage: Genesis 12:10-20
Continuing our Founders series, our Interim Moderator, Howard Sullivan, takes us through Abram’s sojourn in Egypt. Why did Abram engage in this deception? Why didn’t Sarai object? Why does God afflict Pharaoh? Most importantly, what can we learn from this story?
Episode 23-020: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Founders – Part 1: The Calling of Abram
Speaker: Rev. Howard Sullivan
Passage: Genesis 11:27 - 12:9
This week, our Interim Moderator, Rev. Howard Sullivan, launches a new series on the founders of our faith. He begins with the calling of Abram, and the importance of his journey from Haran to Canaan, and the depth of what it means to be blessed.
Episode 23-019: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Restoration of Peter
Speaker: Lindsay Sytsma
Passage: Hebrews 21: 15-17
In this episode Lindsay Sytsma continues our examination of the resurrection of Jesus Christ by taking us through the story of Jesus and the disciples having breakfast on the beach. As we look at Peter's restoration, what can we learn about our own walk with Jesus?
Episode 23-018: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Hold Fast
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Hebrews 10:19-25
Our Pastor, Alex MacLeod, is moving on at the call of God to another charge. In his farewell message to us he asks us to remember Jesus, to remember who we are in Christ, and to hold fast to the gospel, the good news that by his grace we are called to be his church.
Episode 23-017: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: An Old Story That Makes Things New
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: John 20:1-29
For our Easter Sunday message, Pastor Justin Sytsma shares an old story that has been shared many, many times. But it is a story that continues to make thingsnew.
Episode 23-016: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Paying Attention to the Story
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: John 18:1-13; 19:14-30
For our Good Friday offering, our Director of Discipleship, Allison Pinches invites us to slow down, take some time, set aside our paradigms, and pay attention to the story of Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion.
Episode 23-015: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: A Kingdom of Faith or Fear?
Speaker: Karla Wubbenhorst
Passage: II Samuel 5-7; Hebrews 12:14-29 (selected verses)
On this Palm Sunday, Rev. Karla Wubbenhorst invites us to consider if our Western culture has made us more risk-sensitive. Does our reliance on governmentprograms, safety regulations, and various form of insurance decrease our capacity to absorb uncertainty and function by faith in our daily lives? As she considers the triumphal entry to Jerusalem in the light of Old Testament scriptures, Karla draws parallels with Israel’s desire for a king.
Episode 23-014: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Pioneer Camp Mission Update
Speaker: Jacob Morris
Passage: Ephesians 4:1-16
As we continue our journey to Holy Week, our Director of Music & Outreach, Justin Sytsma, guides us through a meditation the unity of the body of Christ fromEphesians 4.
This is follow3ed by a Pioneer Camp Mission update present by Jacob Morris.
Episode 23-013: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Mt. Nemo: Judgement & Mercy
Speaker: Rev. Karla Wubbenhorst
Passage: Selected Verses from Deuteronomy 19-20 & 31-34
As we continue our journey to Holy Week, a long-time friend of Kortright, Rev. Karla Wubbenhorst, brings us word from the book of Deuteronomy. She examines the story from the end of Moses ministry, focusing on the fact that Moses did not get to see more than just a glimpse of the “Promised Land” that he had been guiding the Israelites to for fourty years. What can we learn from this, and from the act of disobedience that ultimately led Moses to this fate?
Episode 23-012: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Way of Lament
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Psalm 142
In this episode, we begin our journey to Holy Week and to the cross. In scripture, Jesus is referred to as “a man of sorrows — acquainted with grief.” And yet, we seldom consider our own sadness to be part of true Christian life. Many assume that we should simply trust and obey and then we'll be happy in Jesus. So, if we're not happy, then is our faith lacking? Jesus bids us come as we are and he has given us, in his Word, a way to deal with life’s suffering & grief — the way of lament.
Episode 23-011: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Becoming a Trusted Neighbour
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: John 4:1-29, 39-47
In this episode, Justin Sytsma, our Director of Worship & Outreach, takes us through the third phrase of our new Mission Statement “Becoming a Trusted Neighbour”. As we examine the story of the Samaritan “woman at the well” in the fourth chapter of John’s Gospel, we consider the question “How do we approach those from different perspectives, backgrounds, and theologies?” Jesus shows us how to love the "outsider" and how we can do the same.
Episode 23-010: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Rooted in Christ
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Luke 24:13-35
In this episode, we begin a three-part sermon series about the new KPC mission statement that was recently approved by Session as part of a visioning process undertaken by elders and staff since last spring.
The first phrase: "ROOTED IN CHRIST". We'll be exploring what it means for Kortright, and all of us, to be rooted in Jesus by looking at the two disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24. Starting in a place of discontent, anxiety, and confusion, they encounter Jesus in a new and life-changing way, taking them to a place where they ready to embrace a community that witnesses to the hope of His resurrection.
That's our prayer and vision for Kortright's future!
Episode 23-008: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Politician or Mountain Guide? – Lindsay Sytsma – February 12th, 2023
Message: Politician or Mountain Guide?
Speaker: Lindsay Sytsma
Passage: Matthew 19:16-26.
We often approach Jesus looking for answers, but do we really want to hear what he has to say? In this episode, using the story of the Rich Young Ruler, Lindsay Sytsma, a gifted member of KPC who works with Mission Aviation Fellowship, explores different ways we approach Jesus and how Jesus teaches us that the Kingdom of God is built with and for those with open hands rather than clenched fists.
Episode 23-007: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Sabbath
Message: Pt 4: A Mother's Arms
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Psalm 131
In this final episode of our Sabbath Series, Alex takes us to the Psalms, poems that guide our emotions and give us a language for prayer. In Psalm 131, a prayerful meditation on rest centres on the image of a young child in its mother's arms, not crying and clamouring for its needs to be met, but completely at peace. This psalm also offers a warning and guidance regarding that which distracts us from the rest that God wants us to have.
Episode 23-006: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Sabbath
Message: Jesus Gives Us Rest from the Storm
Speaker: Howard Sullivan
Passage: Matthew 14:22 - end
In this episode, Pastor Howard Sullivan, a great friend of Kortright, takes us through the storm with Peter, and helps us understand how Jesus rescues us from the storm and gives us rest.
Episode 23-005: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Come to Me and I will give you Rest
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Matthew 4:17-22 & Matthew 11:28-30
In this episode, we continue to explore the meaning of sabbath and the ways that the Holy Spirit wants to bless us with greater, deeper, fuller, and more satisfying rest. It all comes down to Jesus. In Matthew 11, Jesus offers the invitation: "Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Let’s consider just what he means by “rest”.
Episode 23-004: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Sabbath
Message: What is Sabbath?
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Genesis 1:31-2:1-3, Mark 2:23-25 & 27-28
This Sunday we start a new series on Sabbath. Sabbath helps to root us in God, to ground our identity in Christ and the gift of his amazing grace, and to enable us to flourish in the unburdened creativity of the Holy Spirit.
The book Alex mentions: Tech-Wise Family Everyday: Putting Technology in Its Place
https://www.amazon.ca/Tech-Wise-Family-Everyday-Putting-Technology/dp/0801018668
Episode 23-003: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Pandemic Testimonies
Speaker: Abi Buckle, Bruce Dunk, Frank Brewster, Annabelle Edward
Passage: John 6:68, Ephesians 3:20-21, Matthew 6:25-27
This week, as we prepare for what 2023 will bring, four members of our congregation reflect on the last three years and how the pandemic has affected their walk with God.
Episode 2023-02: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: A Visit With Simeon
Speaker: Daniel Dorman - Partners International Canada
Passage: Luke 2:21-38
This week, Daniel Dorman, a frequent speaker at Kortright and brand new father, introduces us to Anna & Simeon as Jesus is presented at the temple at the age of eight days. As he does he directs to a place where we can prepare our hearts to face the year to come.
Episode 23-001: © 2023 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Advent at KPC
Message: Part 5: Christmas Eve - Silent Night
Speaker: Alex Macleod
Passage: Luke 2:8-20
On Christmas Eve we celebrate God’s love coming into the world in Jesus Christ by looking at what is perhaps the most famous of all Christmas carols, “Silent Night” and reflecting once more on the miracle of the incarnation – the Word made flesh – as recorded in Luke 2. In a broken world, Emmanuel arrives with good news of the peace he brings. We’re invited to wonder at the dawn of redeeming grace, to worship, and to put our trust in Him.
Episode 22-052: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Advent at KPC
Message: Part 4: Hopes, and Fears
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Luke 2:1-15
This episode we read and reflect on the account of Jesus' birth in Luke 2 and look at the words of the Christmas carol "O Little Town of Bethlehem." There's an amazing line in that song -- "the hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee tonight" -- and we'll ask ourselves how Jesus meets us in our anxiety and in our longing for a better future.
Episode 22-052: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Advent at KPC
Message: Part 3: Joy
Speaker: Alex Macleod
Passage: Isaiah 9:2-7, Psalm 98
This Sunday, we light the Advent candle of JOY. Now God surprises us and fills us with JOY as we wait for the coming of Christ into the world. We take a careful look at the words of one of our most beloved Christmas carols, "Joy to the World" written by Isaac Watts.
Episode 22-051: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Advent at KPC
Message: Part 2: A Testimony of Waiting
Speaker: Rev. Howard Sullivan
Passage: Matthew 3:1-12
From our guest speaker Howard Sullivan: When asked to preach this Sunday on an Advent theme I was uncertain what to choose so I turned to the Revised Common Lectionary. There I found an unusual recommendation in Matthew 3:1-12 the account of John preparing the way in the wilderness. The question the text provoked for me was are we waiting correctly? I hope to share my reflection on this question with you all. Blessings, Pastor Howard
Episode 22-050: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Advent at KPC
Message: Part 1: Hope
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Psalm 80
This first Sunday of Advent, Justin will be preaching from Psalm 80 as we reflect on longing and future hope in light of the incarnation of Christ.
Episode 22-049: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 11: The Ressurection of the Dead
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Revelation 21:1-6; 22:1-5
In this final episode of our Apstle's Creed series, we'll consider the ALREADY/NOT YET of God's purposes. Jesus has already come, but his promises are not yet fulfilled. He has already declared healing for all the nations, but his Kingdom of peace and justice has not yet been established. The Holy Spirit has already empowered the church, but we have not yet realized the perfect holiness and unity to which we are called. Neither Presbyterian nor Pentecostal, ALREADY/NOT YET is a big, biblical idea that can help pave the way to greater spiritual maturity for all of us.
Episode 22-048: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 10: The Forgiveness of Sins
Speaker: Kenn Oke
Passage: Ephesians 1:3-14
In this episode Kenn Oke, of Avant Ministries, makes his first in person visit to Kortright in a few years (he has spoken via video). He continues our series on the Apostle's Creed, preaching from Ephesians 1 on the Creed's assertion that we believe in "the forgiveness of sins."
Episode 22-047: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 9: The Holy catholic Church
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: John 15:1-17; 21:1-19
How can we call the church "holy" or call Christians "saints" when we see so many scandals and divisions in the body of Christ? What is truly the church of Jesus Christ and what are merely the institution and the fading legacy of its Christendom "glory" days? Maybe the most important question for all followers of Jesus and for us at Kortright is this: Who does God want us to be as the community he has called together in Christ and where is the Holy Spirit leading us next?
Episode 22-046: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 8: I Believe in the Holy Spirit
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: John 14:16-20; 16:7-15
This week we come to a new section in our examination of the Apostles Creed and it begins with "I believe in the Holy Spirit." Our Director of Discipleship, Allison Pinches, will consider how the Holy Spirit has been present throughout Scripture, what Jesus says about the Holy Spirit and what this means for us today.
Episode 22-045: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 7: To Judge the Living and the Dead
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: John 12:37-38; 42-50
This episode, in the doctrine of the final judgment, we have the part of the creed that is most actively avoided by the western Church. But you will find descriptions of God's judgment all over the place in the bible and, perhaps surprisingly, his judgment is presented as part of the good news of Christianity. So what is God's judgment and what about it is good? Why does there need to be judgment at all if God is a god of love who forgives us? If we accept that God does judge us and that there will be a final judgment, how can we bear that judgment? Will we have to live in fear, especially as we grow older and our days are numbered?
Episode 22-044: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 6: He Ascended Into Heaven
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Luke 24: 45-53 & Acts 1:1-11
The doctrine of the ascension might be the part of the creed most neglected by Protestant Christians. Isn't that enough? Why does he then proceed to float up to heaven on a cloud? In this episode Alex answers the question: Why would he need to ascend on high?
Episode 22-043: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 5: The Third Day He Rose Again From the Dead
Speaker: Justin Systma
Passage: Luke 24:1-12; 36-43
This episode, we get a little bit of Easter Sunday in October as we continue on in our Apostle’s Creed series. The miraculous bodily resurrection of Jesus had radical implications for his followers then, and it still matters today. Join us as we learn from the resurrection account in Luke 24 and express our thanks to God for this wonder.
Episode 22-042: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 4: He Suffered Under Pontious Pilate
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Matthew 27:11-26 (NLT); John 19:28-30 (NIV)
In this episode Alex continues to follow the story of Jesus told in the Apostles’ Creed reflecting on how “HE SUFFERED UNDER PONTIUS PILATE, WAS CRUCIFIED, DIED, AND WAS BURIED; HE DESCENDED TO HELL.”
Jesus was falsely accused and yet he said nothing in his own defense. Why was he silent if he cared about the truth? Even more, why did he have to suffer such a terrible injustice and die such a horrible death? And what does it mean that he descended to hell? The atonement – the work of Christ at the cross – is at the very heart of Christian faith and it’s the key to our salvation.
Episode 22-041: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 3: Jesus Christ, His Son, Our Lord
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Luke 9:18-22; John 6:16-24
In this episode of our Foundational Series on The Apostle's Creed, Alex looks at the very cornerstone of the Christian faith - Jesus, the only begotten Son of God. This episode includes a reading of the Apostle's Creed by young Graham Dennis.
Episode 22-040: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 2: Creator of Heaven & Earth
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Genesis 1:1-2, 26 - 2:2 ; Colossians 1:15-20
As our series on the Apostles Creed continues Pastor Alex takes us back to Genesis as we look at CREATOR OF HEAVEN AND EARTH.
Episode 22-039: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Foundational - A Study on The Apostle's Creed
Message: Part 1: I Belive in God the Father
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Isaiah 40:21-31, John 14:1-7, Galatians 4:4-7
You have often heard the quote "IN ESSENTIALS UNITY, IN NON-ESSENTIALS LIBERTY, IN ALL THINGS CHARITY." But what are those "essentials"? In his series we will look at the most well-known list of those essentials - The Apostle's Creed. This week we start with the first phrase as Alex takes us through, "I believe in God the Father Almighty."
Episode 22-038: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: God's Wisdom For You #9
Message: Whatever
Speaker: Howard Sullivan
Passage: Philippians 4
In the last Message of this series Rev. Howard Sullivan Takes us back for another look at Phjilippians chapter 4.
Episode 22-037: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: God's Wisdom for You - Part 8
Message: Friends, Freedom & Christ
Speaker: Alex Macleod
Passage: Philemon 1:1-25
This week Lead pastor Alex MacLeod returns from his vaction to guide through the entire book of Philemon. (Relax, it's only 25 verses.)
Episode 22-036: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Human Effort vs Faith
Speaker: Lindsay Sytsma
Passage: Galatians 5 & 6
In this episode Lindsay Sytsma looks at Paul's response to those who would insist that Gentile Christians in Galatia need to be circumsized in order to be part of the family of God. On the surface this appears to be a Jewish things, or even a guy-thing. But is it?
Episode 22-035: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Throwing Up Barriers to Faith
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Galatians 2:11-21
In this episode our own Justin Sytsma helps us to understand how, even without intending to, our zeal for the scriptures can cause us to errect barriers to faith. That is, barriers that stand in the way of people considering the Gospel.
Episode 22-034: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: God Breath
Speaker: Kevin Coghill
Passage: 1 Timothy 3:14-17
This week our guest speaker is Kevin Coghill, of Roayal City Church. Starting from Paul's cpmment on scripture from 1 Timothy 3:16 he helps us understand just how far-reaching the breath of God truly is.
Episode 22-033: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Taking Responsibility
Speaker: Karla Wubbenhorst
Passage: Genesis 38
As our series on mentoring continues guest speaker Rev. Karla Wubbenhorst looks at how we all need to accept responsibility for our actions, even when it is costly to do so.
Episode 22-032: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Desires & Feelings
Speaker: Daniel Dorman
Passage: Ephesians 5:15-24
As our series on mentoring continues guest speaker Daniel Dorman examines how Western culture would have us belive that our true identity can be found in what we feel and in the things we desire. But is this truly where our identity lies?
Episode 22-031: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Listening
Speaker: Pastor Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Samuel 3:1-23
This week we start a new series on mentoring relationships. The first episode centers on listening for the voice of God and responding to it.
Episode 22-030: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Ukraine Update
Speaker: Ed Dickson - Loads of Love
Passage: Philippians 4:1-9
This week, Ed Dickson, the founder of Loads of Love Humanitarian Aid & Mission Society, visits to bring us up to date with what is happening in Ukraine during this time of war in the Light of Paul's letter to the Phillipians.
Episode 22-029: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Would You Like To Get Well?
Speaker: Diane Boyd - Roskwood Presbyterian Church
Passage: John 5:1-15
This week Rev. Diane Boyd, A former member of KPC and now minister at Rockwood Presbyterian Church, changes places with our own Alex MacLeod in a pulpit exchange. Diane brings us some insight from the story of the man by the Pool of Bethesda.
Episode 22-028: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt18: Victory Over Death
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Corinthians 15 (Complete)
One of the more difficult aspects of Christian belief for others to accept is the fact of Jesus' resurrection from the dead. Apparently some of the Corinthians had problems with it as well. This week Alex takes us through Paul's response.
Episode 22-027: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt16: Corinthians Pastoral Panel Review
Speaker: Alex MacLeod, Justin Sytsma, & Allison Pinches
Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
With one chapter left to address, our pastoral team takes some time to review what we have been hearing for the last four months. This is done to highlight some of the more significant aspects of Paul's letter, along with some additional insights, so that we might better apply what we have been learning on a personal level.
Episode 22-026: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt16: Gifts are for the Common Good
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: 1 Corinthians 14:1-25
Understanding the various dynamics of spiritual gifts and what they are for is important for the family of God. Our Director of Discipleship, Allison Pinches, helps us get a handle on this as she guides us through the 14th chapter of Paul's first letter to the Corinthians.
Episode 22-025: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt15: Love Is At The Core
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Corinthians 12:27 - 13:13
1 Corinthians 13 is one of the most copmmonly read passages of the New Testament, mostly at weddings. But what is it really about? Pastor Alex gives us some insight as we continue our examination of Paul's letter.
Episode 22-024: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt14: Paul's Introduction to Spiritual Gifts
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Back from his Study Leave Pastor Alex gives us some perspective as he guides us through Paul's introcustion to the topic of Spritual Gifts, helping us to understand their role in the mife and mission of the church.
Episode 22-023: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt 13 - Colour Me Christ-like
Speaker: Karla Wubbenhorst
Passage: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Returning to our series working through 1 Corinthians, this week looking the latter portion of chapter 11 (v. 17-34), Karla Wubbenhorst helps us to understand the sacrament of the Lord's Supper as a meal that changes the body of Christ.
Episode 22-022: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Youth Testimonies
Speaker: Callum MacLeod, Meilanie Sharpe-Berges, Hannah Bier
Passage: 2 Timothy 2:22
This week Justin Sytsma introduces three of Kortright's Youth who, having finished high school and moved on to explore the future, have returned to share with us what God has been doing in their lives.
Episode 22-021: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt 12 - Honouring
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: 1 Corinthians 11:1-16
It may seem rather odd that on Mother's Day we would address the subjects of head coverings and how a woamn should wear her hair. However, Justin helps us to see the much broader lesson in the passage that is highly contectualized for a specific community and time.
Episode 22-020: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt 11 - Contextualization
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Corinthians 9
We return now to our study in Corinthians as Alex helps us to understand how Paul's message relates to our culture here today.
Episode 22-019: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Holy Week 2022
Message: The Meaning of the Ressurection
Speaker: Rev. Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Corinthians 15
What was it that carried the first Christians through all of the troubles and tribulations they went through? It's all about the hope of Easter Morning.
Episode 22-017: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: Holy Week 2022
Message: Responding to the Reality of Good Friday
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Passage: Matthew 26: 36-46
Christians get excited about Holy Week. We are eager to celebrate the Ressurection of Jesus Christ. But that's actually the last day of the week. Before that comes the lamentation of Good Friday. Some of us aren't as comfortable in how to respond to the Death of Jesus.
Episode 22-016: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt 10 - Elevating Weakness
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Corinthians 8
The Corinthians had questions about the practice of buying and eating meat that had been previously sacrificed to an idol, one of the Greek or Roman gods. Paul answers their question in the context of love and maturity. But how does his advice apply to us today in (mostly) temple free 21st century?
Episode 22-015: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt9: On Divorce
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Passage: Matthew 19:3-9
After discussing, sex, marriage, incest, and singleness, it only seemed proper to include Paul's (and Jesus') approach to divorce. With this in mind, our One Body in a Divided World series takes a little side-trip from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians to Matthew's Gospel for some insight on how to respond when the covenant is broken.
Episode 22-014: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt7: On Singleness
Speaker: Allison Pinches
Passage: 1 Corinthians 7:25-40
As we learned last week, marriage is a pretty universal idea. But what about those who don't get married? whether by circumstance or design? Allison points out that Paul has something to say to them as well.
Episode 22-013: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt7: On Marriage
Speaker: Rev. Alex MacLeod
Passage: 1 Corinthians 7:1-24
Marriage is a universal institution. Just about every culture practices it in some form. This wek Alex exmines Paul's advice for those who chose to spend their lives together.
Episode 22-012: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt6: Church Discipline
Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:9-20
Our world is obsessed with sex. It's all around us. In this message Pastor Alex looks at what Paull has to say about keeping our perspective on sex in line with Christ's.
Episode 22-011: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Parable of the Treasure & The Pearl
Passage: Matthew 13:44-46
Speaker: Peter Schuurman
To help us launch the season of Lent , Guest speaker Peter Schuurman takes us through the Parable of the Treasure & the Pearl asking, "What are you willing to give up?"
Episode 22-010: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt5: Church Discipline
Passage: 1 Corinthians 4:14-6:8
Speaker: Justin Sytsma
Our Worship & Outreach Director, Justin Sytsma, tackles what for many is an awkward and troubling subject: what to do when someone in the church is willfully not engaging in sinful behaviour.
Episode 22-009: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt 4: Church Leadership
Passage: 1 Corinthians 3:1-23
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
In this chapter of his first letter to the Corinthians Paul now addresses the question of leadership in the church. Spoiler: It's not a competition.
Episode 22-008: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt3: The Spirit of God Revealed
Passage: 1 Corinthians 2:6-16
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
As we continue in Paul's letter, he lays out how it is the wisdom of God is revealed to his people.
Episode 22-007: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Pt 2 : A Church Divided
Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:10 - 2:5
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
This week Alex examines Paul's reasons for writing this letter to the Corinthians. There are a number of problems in the church, and the first one is a division over leadership.
Episode 22-006: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Introduction
Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:1-19
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
As we start our look at 1 Corinthians, we begin with Paul's greeting and look at how this letter relates to the challenges we face in the near future.
Episode 22-005: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Series: One Body in a Divided World - A study in 1st Corinthians
Message: Paul's Backstory
Passage: Acts 9:1-19
Speaker: Alex MacLeod
Before we begin a new series on 1st Corinthians, Alex presents us with some of the backstory on it's author, The Apostle Paul.
Episode 22-004: © 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: Taking a Good Look at Ourselves
Passage: Psalm 130 (Complete)
Speaker: Guest Speaker - Justin Sytsma
The New Year is often a time for reflection and considering where we have come from and where we are goiong. Starting from Psalm 139 Justin helps us to understand that this good look at ourselves is part of the process of knowing God.
© 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Message: The Unchanging Word of God
Passage: Isaiah 40:1-11, Hebrews 4:1-13
Speaker: Guest Speaker - Rev. Ralph Neil
A long time friend of KPC, Ralph expounds on the confidcence we can have knowing that God's word is not subject to change.
© 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
January 2, 2022 - Something New - Karla Wubbenhorst
Series: New Years Message 1/1
Passage: Isaiah 43:16-1, Hebrews 11, and Luke 2: 25-38.
Speaker: Guest Speaker - Rev. Karla Wubbenhorst
Karla helps us to understand that God is always doing something new in our midst, not just at New Years.
© 2022 Kortright Presbyterian Church
Christmas Eve - A Charlie Brown Christmas
Passage: Luke 2
Speaker: Alex MacLeod - Lead Pastor
Advent 3: The Candle of Joy
Passage: Luke 1:26-56
Speaker: Allison Pinches - Discipleship Director
Advent 1: The Candle of Hope
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 9: The Four Beasts
Passage: Daniel 7
Speaker: Alex MacLeod - Lead Pastor
Advent 1: The Candle of Hope
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 8: The Lion's Den
Passage: Daniel 6
Speaker: Justin Sytsma - Director of Worship & Outreach
November 14, 2021 - Hiddeness
Title - Hiddeness
Passage: 1 Kings 17:1-9
Speaker: Lindsay Systma
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 7: The Writing on the Wall
Passage: Daniel 5:1-7, 5:17-31
Speaker: Alex MacLeod - Lead Pastor
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 6: The Dream of a Tree
Passage: Daniel 4:1-37
Speaker: Alex MacLeod - Lead Pastor
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 5: The Fiery Furnace
Passage: Daniel 3
Speaker: Alex MacLeod - Lead Pastor
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 4: The Statue of Kingdoms
Passage: Daniel 2:24-38
Speaker: Allison Pinches- KPC Discipleship Director
Sermon: Meditation on Thanksgiving
Passage: Psalm 118
Speaker: Alex MacLeod - Lead Pastor
Special Note: Includes a report by Justin Sytsma & Brian Watson on the harvest from this year's Food Security Vegetable Garden.
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 3: Pharoah's Dream
Speaker: Justin Sytsma - KPC Director of Worship & Outreach
Passage: Daniel 2:1-23
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 2: Avoiding the Royal Food
Speaker: Pastor Alex MacLeod
Passage: Daniel 1:8-21
Sermon Series: Daniel: Hope in Exile
Title - Part 1: Introduction
Speaker: Pastor Alex MacLeod
Passage: Daniel 1:1-8
Recorded at KPC's Fall Outdoor Service
Speaker: Pastor Alex MacLeod
Passage: Luke 9:10-17
Today Howard Sullivan continues our sermon series taking us through several of Jesus's parables.
Today, Allison Pinches continues our series on the Parables, preaching from Luke 10:25-37.
Today, guest preacher Kevin Coghill continues our series on the Parables, preaching from Matthew 20:1-16.
Today, we take a break from our summer series as Ken Michell looks at Psalm 89:1-18, preaching on the topic of worship.
Today, Daniel Dorman preaches from Matthew 13:47-50, continuing our series on the parables.
Today, Karla Wubbenhorst continues our summer series on the Parables, preaching from Luke 15:11-31.
Today, Justin Sytsma introduces us to our new sermon series on the Parables, reading from Matthew 13:31-32.
Today we conclude our "Why We Worship" sermon series as Allison Pinches preaches from Numbers 6:22-27.
Today, we continue our "Why We Worship" series. Join us this morning for a special outdoor service, where Alex MacLeod is preaching from Luke 24:13-35.
This week, pastor Alex MacLeod preaches from Psalm 19 as we continue our "Why We Worship" series.
Today, Justin Sytsma preaches from Colossians 1 on the sovereignty and supremacy of Jesus as a "one-off" sermon.
This morning, Justin Sytsma continues our "Why We Worship" series, preaching from Psalm 130 as we examine the practice of confession.
Today, we continue our series "Why We Worship", exploring the different facets of our worship gathering and worshipping life. This morning, pastor Alex MacLeod will be preaching from Psalm 147.
Today, we celebrate Pentecost - the gift of the Holy Spirit. Our lead pastor Alex MacLeod preaches from Acts 2:1-13 as we continue our new sermon series.
Today, we launch a new sermon series titled "Why We Worship" with Pastor Alex preaching from 2 Samuel 6:1-19.
This morning pastor Alex MacLeod will be preaching from Mark 10 as we prepare our hearts for a testimony from Amanda Tanner.
This morning pastor Alex MacLeod preaches from John 15:1-17 as we wrap up our "I AM" series.
This morning, Justin Sytsma continues our "I AM" sermon series, looking at John 14:1-14.
After celebrating Easter, we return to our sermon series looking at Jesus's various "I AM" statements. This morning, Kenn Oke joins us and preaches from John 11:17-37 and John 20:1-10.
Happy Easter! Christ is Risen!
Today, we relive the resurrection of Jesus as Alex MacLeod preaches from John 20:1-18.
Thank you for joining us this Friday. As we celebrate Jesus's death and resurrection, we will be hearing five short readings and reflections from the book of John:
Jesus before Pilate - John 18:28-40 - Kristen Rekker
Jesus Sentenced to be Crucified - John 19:1-16a - Chelsea Giesbrecht
The Crucifixion of Jesus - John 19:16b-27 - Callum MacLeod
The Death of Jesus - John 19:28-37 - Rowena Ridder
The Burial of Jesus - John 19:38-42 - Francie and Howard Sullivan
Today we look at one of Jesus's simplest, yet most impactful, I AM statements as Alex MacLeod preaches from John 18:1-11.
This morning, we continue through our "I AM" sermon series as Alex MacLeod preaches from John 10:1-22.
This morning, Allison Pinches continues our new sermon series, looking at John 8:12-20.
This morning, we start a new sermon series focussing on the various "I AM" statements of Jesus. Alex MacLeod will be preaching from John 6:25-40.
Join us this morning of our AGM for a one-off sermon. Today, Alex MacLeod is preaching from Luke 10:38-42, with a special focus on unity.
This morning, Justin Sytsma continues our VOCARE sermon series, preaching from Acts 17:16-34.
This morning, we get back on track as Alex MacLeod preaches from Matthew 28:16-20, as well as Acts 2:41-47.
Unfortunately, Pastor Alex was not feeling well this week. Instead, we hear from Lindsay Sytsma, who preaches from 2 Corinthians 4:5-10.
We're so glad you're with us! This morning, Allison Pinches continues our series on vocation, preaching from Luke 5:1-11.
This morning, we continue our new sermon series on vocation as Alex MacLeod preaches from Jeremiah 29:4-14.
Today, we start a new sermon series, where lead pastor Alex MacLeod seeks to answer the question: "What is our calling?"
Good morning and Happy New Year! We are ringing in the New Year with more stories of God's faithfulness as we hear from Ruth Horn and Reid Burton.
Over the next two weeks, we will be hearing from many of KPC's young adults about what God is doing in their lives. Today, we'll be hearing from Chelsea Giesbrecht and Callum MacLeod.
This evening, we hear a Christmas message from pastor Alex MacLeod, taken from the gospel according to Luke.
As we prepare for Christmas, we start wrapping up our series on Isaiah. This morning, Alex MacLeod preaches from Isaiah 40.
This morning, we start a new sermon series about the gospel according to Isaiah, with Alex Macleod preaching from Isaiah 9.
This morning, Allison Pinches wraps up our sermon series on Ruth, preaching from Ruth 4.
This morning, we continue our new sermon series on Ruth as Alex MacLeod preaches from Ruth 2.
This morning, Alex MacLeod and Justin Sytsma are reviewing our teachings from the book of Ephesians.
This morning, Alex MacLeod is continuing our series on Ephesians by "Putting on the Armour of God".
This Sunday we have the privilege of hearing from an old friend of our congregation’s, Andrew Douglas!
This Sunday we hear from one of the missionaries Kortright supports through our mission budget: Kenn Oke who works with Avant Ministries!
This Sunday we are blessed to hear from the Emerging Generations Facilitator for the Presbytery of Waterloo-Wellington Mike Wasyluk.
This Sunday we are able to hear from retired presbyterian minister Howard Sullivan about the biblical hero King David.
This Sunday we are blessed to hear from Kevin Coghill, the lead pastor at Royal City Mission in downtown Guelph.
This Sunday we have the opportunity to hear from Lindsay Sytsma as she preaches from Psalm 51, the Davidic psalm of repentance.
This time, pastor Alex MacLeod will be sharing from Psalm 46 as we begin our summer series featuring a number of guests.
This week, lead pastor Alex MacLeod will be wrapping up the first half of our Ephesians series, examining Paul's prayer for the Ephesians in chapter 3, verses 14-21.
Today Justin Sytsma will be continuing our "All In" series, preaching through Ephesians 3:1-13 - The mystery revealed.
Today we continue our series through Ephesians, "All In", where pastor Alex MacLeod will be working through Eph. 2:11-22.
In today's service, Pastor Alex MacLeod goes through one of the most powerful pieces of Scripture - Ephesians 2:1-10. We celebrate God raising us to new life in Christ - not by any merit of our own, but because of the precious gift of God.
Welcome to our service for June 14, 2020 - A healing prayer service where we hear a powerful testimony from Helen Duhamel in response to our sermon from last week on Ephesians 1:15-23.
Today, Allison Pinches continues on in our “All In” series through Ephesians, examining Paul’s prayer for the people of Ephesus in Ephesians 1:15-23.
Today we are celebrating the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost! We continue our series "All In" on Ephesians. Lead pastor Alex MacLeod will be preaching from Ephesians 1:1-14.
Today we start a brand new series, "All In", going through the book of Ephesians. This morning Pastor Alex MacLeod takes us through the first 3 verses of Ephesians 1 as we set up the series.
This week, pastor Alex MacLeod will be preaching a sermon called "Inventive in Love", sharing from Hebrews 10:19-25 for the second time this year, focusing on how we live out this Scripture in our new reality both now and moving forward.
This week, we'll be wrapping up our series "Hard Pressed" with a sermon from Justin Sytsma. Today we'll be exploring Paul's "thorn" in 2 Corinthians 12:1-10.
This week, Allison Pinches is giving the sermon for our 3rd week of our "Hard Pressed" series, exploring the Beatitudes from Matthew 5:1-12.
This week, our lead pastor, Alex MacLeod, will be continuing our sermon series "Hard Pressed", exploring Jacob's wrestling with God in Genesis 32.
This morning, we launch a 4-week series entitled "Hard Pressed" on suffering. Pastor Alex MacLeod will be sharing from Job 1.
Happy Easter! He is risen!
Thank you for celebrating with us, even if we can't physically gather!
This week, we finish up our sermon series as Alex shares a powerful message on the hope of resurrection with the story of Lazarus.
As Guelph, Canada, and the world struggle to cope with COVID-19, there's no denying it's been a tough few weeks. As we continue towards Easter with empty churches and workplaces, Alex begins a three-part series on what could be described as the worst week ever; the week leading up to that first Good Friday.
On the first Sunday of cancelled services due to the Covid-19 preventative measures, our Director of Discipleship, Allison Pinches, delivers a rather timely examination of James 5 in our Walk This Way series. A video of this service was posted to the church's Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/KortrightChurch/
Our series on James continues with Alex examining the role of humility in the Christian walk.
As children, we sang "Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me." But is this true? Alex examines this question and others as we continue our series in the book of James.
As our series in James Continues, Justin looks at a passage that was not a favourite of a famous Reformed theologian, then introduces us to a budding theologian that might surprise you.
There's an old saying that describes a common problem in Christian circles, "Too much talk; not enough walk." But what should the Christian walk look like? Over the next few weeks, Alex MacLeod and the pastoral team will address that question in a new series on the book of James.
On the Sunday when we dedicate our newly renovated sanctuary, Alex helps us to a better understanding of what it truly means to be at home with God. Longer than our usual episode, this message includes a children's moment at the beginning, the dedication of the sanctuary, and a testimony from one of our elders, Krysia Lear.
There is no greater leadership example for the Church than Jesus himself. Out of the many events in His life that could be used as an example, Alex has chosen to walk us through an event that preceded the start of his ministry - his temptation by Satan.
Our director of Discipleship, Allison Pinches, continues our series on leadership by looking at one of the most famous leaders in the entire Bible - Moses. We also learn that leadership is not a solo gig.
In the second message of our new Leadership series, Alex looks at Nehemiah and how the people of God responded to the Word.
In the first message of a new series on Leadership, our Director of Worship and Outreach, Justin Sytsma, gives us some insight into a problem leaders have been struggling with since the days of Elijah—Burn Out.
Advent usually ends with Christmas Day, but that doesn't mean our Advent series is done. This week Alex looks at our last "Song of Advent", the song of Simeon who has been waiting for the promise and is excited to see its fulfillment in his lifetime. The message includes a testimony from Kristen Rekker as part of our healing/communion service.
On the last Sunday of the year, our good friend Rev. Ralph Neil shares with us a message from the Apostle Paul to carry us forward into the New Year.
On the Sunday before Christmas and the first Sunday in our newly renovated sanctuary, Kortright presents our version of a traditional Lessons and Carols service.
As our series looking at the four songs of Advent continues, Alex explains how sometimes, before we can sing, we need to listen.
As we continue through Advent, Alex looks at the story of Mary, from her visitation to the Magnificat.
On the first Sunday of Advent, Alex wraps up our look at the first part of Genesis with the introduction of Abram and the covenant that God established with him as He called him out of his comfort zone and into a new life.
As we near the end of our examination of Genesis, Alex examines the story of the Tower of Babel and what it means for us as individuals and as a church.
While Alex is on study leave, our Director of Worship and outreach, Justin Sytsma, takes us on a trip through the story of Noah and the Flood.
As we move on to Genesis chapter 4, Alex takes us through the story of Cain and Abel and the world's most notorious case of sibling rivalry.
On this Sunday all three of our pastoral staff, Alex MacLeod, Justin Sytsma, and Allison Pinches recap the highlights of our exploration of Genesis Chapters 1 through 3. Due to equipment failure, the opening portion of the message is not available. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Our Director of Discipleship, Allison Pinches, continues our look at Genesis 3 with an exposition of the text that considers the consequences of "The Fall" and the true extent of "The Curse".
Do you ever get the feeling that there is something that's just not right in the world? Alex continues our examination of the book of Genesis with a look at the event commonly known as "The Fall".
"You can give without loving, but you can't love without giving." Starting with a clip from Abba's "Money, Money, Money", Alex guides us to a better understanding of Thanks-giving.
The next story in our examination of the story of Genesis is the search for a suitable companion for Adam. Alex presents some important lessons we can learn from the Bible's first couple.
As our series on Genesis continues, Director of Worship & Outreach, Justin Sytsma, shows us the vocation to which all of us have been called in the opening passages of the first book of the Bible.
In the third message of our Genesis series, Alex helps us to understand the meaning and purpose of the Sabbath.
In this second message in our Genesis series, Alex examines the Creation Story - a source of conflict between people of faith and people of science for decades. But need that be the case? Includes testimony by evolutionary biologist Even Versteeg.
Alex starts this 12 part series on the Book of Genesis by taking us back to the beginning and giving us some insights into the fundamental nature of God.
Our summer series has come to an end. A new series on Genesis starts next week. In between, Justin revisits one of the most universally know parables and helps us put it in the context of right where we live.
In the last message of our summer series (and his first since returning from summer vacation), lead pastor Alex MacLeod takes us through Psalm 118 and helps us to understand the meaning of "His mercy endures forever."
As our summer series continues our Family Ministries Director, Rowena Ridder, presents her thoughts on Psalm 91 and just what it is God is our refuge from.
This week our Director of Worship and Outreach, Justin Sytsma, takes us through the last chapter of the book of Psalms as our summer series continues.
P.A.N. Missions Director Annette Vickers and Pastor Ernan from Nicaragua bring us news from their work in that country and a message from Ezekiel 47.
You've heard it said that God will not give you anything you can't handle, but is it true? That's just one of the things Director of Discipleship Allison Pinches helps understand from this psalm.
While Alex is preaching elsewhere, Justin brings us a new appreciation for the reading of scripture that encourages us to slow down and savour the Word of God.
As our summer Psalm series continues, Alex looks at Psalm 142 and offers some sage advice on after church coffee conversation.
As we begin a new series for the summer today's message opens with a testimony from Terry Posthumus, who is our guest worship leader this morning. It is then followed by a homily on Psalm 127 from our lead pastor Alex MacLeod.
Our Director of Worship and Outreach, Justin Sytsma, picks up our series on 1 Corinthians with one of the more problematic chapters, number fourteen. He helps us to understand what Paul is really saying about the role of spiritual gifts in the church.
As our series on 1 Corinthians continues, Alex looks at the chapter that gets read at more weddings than probably any other. But is matrimony really what the chapter is about?
As our series on 1 Corinthians continues, our Director of Discipleship, Allison Pinches, takes us through the rich complexity that is the 12th chapter.
In the third installment of our series on 1 Corinthians, Rev. Ralph Neil walks us through Paul's admonitions regarding the Lord's supper.
In the first message of a new series, Alex starts to explore the person of the Holy Spirit and how the Spirit impacts who we are in Christ.
KPC's new Director of Worship and Outreach delivers his first message delivering a primer on outreach and the church. This episode include a short interview with Justin so we can get to know him and a presentation regarding the upcoming renovations to the KPC sanctuary.
In the last of our series paralleling the Community Bible Study in John, Alex looks at another of Jesus's "I am" statements. I am the vine.
After taking a break over Easter we now return to our series on John that parallels our Community Bible Study. This week Alex looks at the raising of Jesus' friend Lazarus.
For our Easter Sunday message, Alex draws our attention to the truncated embrace that takes place in the garden around the open tomb.
On the most solemn day of the church calendar, Alex helps us understand the full significance of what happened on that terrible day.
As we continue our series in John, Alex explores the manner in which Jesus promises to feed the hunger and thirst we find in our lives.
On this Sunday KPC welcomes Peter Bush, former moderator for the Presbyterian Church in Canada, who shares with us his insights on Jesus's reference to the bronze snake Moses was commanded to raise up before the people.
This message starts a new series that follows the passages we are examining in our Community Bible Study of John's gospel. This week, the wedding feast at Cana.
Our fifth message in the hospitality series comes to us from Roland DeVries of Missional Imagination and Director of Pastoral Studies at Presbyterian College in Montreal. Roland helps us to understand how accepting hospitality can be as challenging as extending it.
For the 4th message in our hospitality series, we welcome Mike Wasyluk, the Emerging Generations Engagement Facilitator for the Waterloo-Wellington Presbytery. Mike shares with us some ideas on how to be more welcoming to the younger generations.
On the first Sunday of Lent Alex presents the third message in our Hospitality series and we discover that hospitality involves more than just having a few folks over for dinner.
In the second installment of our series on hospitality, Allison shares some stories of the example set for her by her family in the ministry of hospitality.
Alex starts a new series on the subject of hospitality. In the first message, he considers the question, "Are we up a tree?"
As has become a custom at KPC, Pastor Luke Vanderkamp of St. Andrew's Church in Trenton, Ontario joins us on the Family Day holiday weekend. He shares with us this time, appropriately, what the scripture has to say on the subject of family.
In this message we learn that even an unenthusiastic missionary can bring about revival.
Our third message in this Jonah series is presented by our Director of Discipleship Allison Taylor-Pinches. This time, we look at the prayer that Jonah offers up from the belly of the fish.
Our look at the book of Jonah continues as we examine Jonah's initial response to the call of God.