Mortgage Payoff Celebration
Posted on January 29, 2025
On Sunday, February 2, 2025, the Norval community came together to celebrate a huge milestone—paying off our building’s mortgage! Both worship services marked the occasion, with the 10 a.m. service bringing some extra surprises. Rev. Heather and Rev. Jen kicked off the joy by surprising the congregation with streamers that filled the sanctuary. After worship, we gathered outside for a real fire, where the Crawford family helped us symbolically burn the mortgage. And what’s a fire without s’mores? We wrapped up with a special cake, refreshments, and plenty of joy. Thank you to everyone who made this celebration unforgettable!
Rev. Heather crafted a special liturgy to share in our worship services as we celebrated this significant day:
One: We gather today with hearts full of gratitude for the faithful journey that has brought us to this moment, as we celebrate the blessing of paying off our mortgage. We give special thanks for the generosity of the Crawford family, whose gift of five valuable acres made it possible for us to live out our vision. Together, we honour the bold faith, hope, and generosity of all who made the courageous decision to sell the old church and step forward into the future, trusting in God’s guidance to lead us to this new place.
All: We celebrate the vision of those who dreamed, the courage of those who acted, and the generosity of those who gave. This building stands as a testament to the strength of our community, rooted in God’s love and guided by faith.
One: We remember the many hands and hearts that came together—families, individuals, and groups—who gave of their time, energy, resources, and spirit to make this vision a reality. They did not simply build a church; they built a home where all are welcomed, loved, and valued.
All: We honour the past, knowing that it is the foundation upon which we stand today. But we also celebrate the present, the vibrant life we share, and the future that God is inviting us into. A future filled with hope, innovation, and the continuing power of love to transform lives.
One: As we reflect on this milestone, let us remember our mission: To be a caring, forgiving Christian community that welcomes people of all ages to join us on life’s journey in finding God, growing spiritually, sharing our faith, and reaching out to serve others.
All: We commit ourselves anew to this mission. With God’s love at the center, we will continue to change lives, bringing healing and hope to those in need, building a community of peace, and sharing God’s boundless love.
One: Let us pray: God of love, we thank you for the generosity and vision that has brought us to this place. We thank you for the light of Christ that shines in and through this community, lighting our way forward. As we light our Christ candle today, we celebrate not only this moment but all the milestones, big and small, that have led us here. Whether gathered in person or online, we are united by the spirit of love and faith that transcends distance. We ask for your continued guidance as we move forward, trusting in your presence to lead us into a future where we can serve, grow, and reach out with the love of Christ. May this space, both here and virtually, be a beacon of hope and a home for all who seek you. Bless us as we continue to change lives through your love, today and always. Amen.
