Dear Bramalea church family,
Grateful! That’s what I feel right now. My family is overwhelmed by your gracious love. We are just so excited to serve with you as we experience God together. There is nothing better than a family bonded by the love of Christ. And that’s what you have been to us since we came.
In a week’s time, we are turning one month here in Ontario. Moving is stressful. Although I have moved to various pastoral assignments several times, uprooting one’s family from another country is even more stressful. But here’s a list why we thank God and you for making this move a positive and rewarding experience:
1. GOD’s LOVE FOR HIS BRIDE. And we are part of that worldwide family wherever any of its members are found. Aren’t you grateful that we are His children? I exists to be a pastor and my family enjoys ministering with you. I believe with all my heart that God sent me here to help our church fulfill God’s vision.
2. YOUR WARM WELCOME. My installation during my first Sabbath at Bramalea SDA church is memorable. It was special because you are all special. We enjoyed your smiles, your warm hugs, your hospitality, your kind gestures. You made us feel at home once more.
3. YOUR MATURED LEADERSHIP. I have very good impressions of our leadership and members. I have sensed your maturity as Christians and willingness to bid God’s plan for your lives. My first Sabbath with you was my first exposure to the community as we handed out invitations to the nearby community for our 4th Community Health and Food Fair. Isn’t that a good way to start my family’s ministry here?
4. YOUR HELPING HAND. As we moved to our apartment yesterday, you were there! Hauling, pushing, pulling, fixing, feeding, baby-sitting, setting-up. You are just amazing! And in advance I want to thank you for all the help, support, and gifts. Just a day after moving in, our cabinets are being filled with groceries, dining wares & cooking wares ; our rooms with bed and beddings and closets; a growing number of appliances – microwave oven, vacuum cleaner, rice cooker..;and other stuffs from toys to furnitures.Even the food that we will eat for the day (and even good enough to last for two days!) has already been cooked for us! Thank you! And thank you in advance for your gifts!
5. YOUR SUPPORT. My family’s transition is emotionally stressful. But you were there to help. Thanks for driving us around, for touring us around, for baby-sitting, for welcoming us into your homes, for orienting us about the Canadian life, for assisting in the processing of all necessary papers to get our life and ministry started, and for all other things you do and will do for me, my wife, and my kids. My wife is so thankful for your support. Thanks for bearing with my naughty kids – they are now your kids as well.
6. YOUR PRAYERS. Our conference leaders prayed for a pastor. You prayed for a pastor. I prayed for God’s will. After six months of waiting, God has finally put us together. And you know what? I am excited as to what God is about to do in us, for us, and through us. I am deeply convicted God has sent me to you. Let’s start riding the wave all for His glory!
Again, in behalf of my family, thanks for making us a part of your church family. We can’t wait to meet everyone and be a part of your lives.
Love,
Bernardo Family
P.S. Kindly send this message to all
Dr. Dan Linrud, Ontario Conference Executive Secretary, prays for Pastor Ardison D. Bernardo during his installation at Bramalea SDA church, Brampton, Ontario, Canada on May 22, 2010
and regular visitors of Bramalea church.
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