BVCC 2024

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” ‭
Jesus in John‬ ‭15‬:‭5

Our Annual Report is more than just a summary of our accomplishments; it's a sincere expression of gratitude to God for His guidance, blessings, and faithfulness over the past year. This report serves as a moment for us to pause and thank God for all that He has done. It offers a glimpse not only into what we are doing, but also into who we are becoming as a community.

2024 was a year where we were blessed with stability and growth as a congregation. Under the leadership of our exceptional Eldership and Staff team, we have increasingly fulfilled our mission to help others find and follow Jesus.  The result has been a steady increase in growth and impact across nearly every area of ministry.

In the Fall of 2024, we transitioned to a two-service Sunday morning format, which has led to increased attendance, a higher number of volunteers, and a renewed sense of connection as new relationships are formed. Our staff team has adapted well to this change, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead as we continue to discern our next steps with this format.

Our facility remains a thriving hub where hundreds of people engage in Kingdom work each week. However, we often find ourselves with limited space to accommodate all our ministries and community service initiatives. In response, our Elders have announced plans for a building renovation and expansion to address our current needs and future growth. These are exciting times to be a part of BVCC and I am continually amazed and thankful that God is growing our congregation into a united outpost of His Kingdom!

Steve McMillan

Here are a few encouraging stats from 2024.

483

Avg. Sunday Attendance

33

Community Groups

19,028

Total Online Views for Sunday's
Message/Service
(366 views/week)

22

Baptisms

702

Christmas Eve Services Attendance

654

Easter Sunday Attendance

1300

Stampede Breakfast Attendance

Our benevolence ministry took on new momentum in 2024, fueled by vision-casting and one individual's dream of paying forward God's blessings. What began as an expansion of financial assistance soon grew into something much greater—moving beyond crisis aid toward deeper generosity, service, and meaningful relationships.

A turning point came when Tom, Kim, Alvin, and Marilyn joined the team, bringing fresh energy and passion. With their help, we expanded our outreach and formed key partnerships, including Country Lane Foods and Friends Café, which donate food to support struggling families. This blessing allowed us to launch regular food deliveries, ensuring that those facing food insecurity receive not just groceries but also encouragement and care. Another exciting step was partnering with Prison Fellowship Canada to sponsor training for the BridgeCare Ministry, which supports individuals reintegrating after incarceration. These efforts have strengthened our community connections and reinforced our commitment to a holistic, compassionate ministry.  

As our impact has grown, so have our conversations about poverty and how we can help people in more lasting ways. Instead of simply addressing immediate needs, we are now exploring sustainable solutions to uplift individuals and families long-term. This shift in focus is shaping our vision for 2025, where we plan to expand our partnerships and deepen our ability to serve. With new opportunities ahead, our benevolence ministry is no longer just about meeting urgent needs—it’s about creating lasting change through collaboration, compassion, and faith in action.

Cal Hultgren - Associate Pastor

My name is Emilie and I am originally from New Brunswick, I moved to Calgary in 2023 for work after finishing university.

As a new believer, I was nervous joining a new church.  I didn’t know anyone that went to church, none of my friends or family were Christian, and being new to Calgary, I didn’t know many people in the city yet.  Walking in Bow Valley’s Sunday service for the first time in September was very welcoming, having people greet me at the door and guiding me to the Welcome desk.  I was introduced to one of the pastors (Cal) and he helped introduce me to some members of the church my age and connected me with the young adults group.

Since then, I have been attending the church as much as I am able to, as I have to travel often for work. I also attended the First Steps Luncheon and was able to meet others that are new to the church as well.

As a new Christian, I have been wanting to improve my prayers and connection with God.  I have talked to elders and pastors at the church, and they have been very helpful, understanding, and encouraging for me.  They have prayed with me and were there to answer any questions I had.  So, for anyone looking for a church but are scared to go alone or that they don’t know anyone, Bow Valley is a great place that will welcome you.  You can talk to anyone, and I really enjoy that this church has many events that can help you connect with other fellow Christians.

Emilie

When I first came to Bow Valley around 7-8 months ago, I felt somewhat out of place due to the fact that I wasn't familiar with any faces.  As we attended church on Sundays, my brother and I started getting a bit more familiar with others.  We were told about youth on Friday nights, and were encouraged to attend.  My mom of course pushed us to go, as she wanted us to get more involved and see ourselves as a part of a community.

We started going to youth once it started in September.  I found myself socializing with others and having fun.  Of course, I was nervous as even though I have attended youth groups previously, I didn't know what to expect at BVCC.  When walking through the doors for the first time, I only saw completely new faces.  My brother and I were greeted by our youth pastor, Andrew, and he made us feel welcomed.  

I got to know most of the leaders, and have grown closer with my small group leaders as well.  I love their enthusiasm and the way they're easy to talk to.  Even though it was a bit scary at first, I now look forward to getting ready for youth on Fridays.  It's a place where I can go to have fun, while also gaining some insight about God and His word.  I get the chance to discuss and chat with other girls my age, while enjoying and reflecting on what was taught that night. 

I love how youth can vary from worship nights, our casual game + small group nights, or any other type of activity our leaders have planned.  I truly do feel blessed as I get the chance to say I am part of the Bow Valley Church family.  I've gained new friendships, and have met many amazing people all in six months of attending. 

I'm currently looking forward to attending the summer camp that's happening at Pine Lake, and getting even closer to others.  Even though I'm still working on strengthening my faith, and growing closer to God, coming to youth has been a big help as it keeps me in tune with God's word.  I'm hopeful that I'll eventually get better at reading it on my own, on a daily basis, and I'm grateful I have the opportunity to attend every week.

Alexis (Grade 10)

My relationship with God really became a priority for me in 2024.  Youth group every Friday has definitely been a major contributor to making Christ a bigger part of my love.

Meeting people with similar values and having friendships within Bow Valley Christian Church was so inspiring to get involved.  My first worship night was such an experience.  Sitting back and listening to the auditorium fill with the voices of God's children was truly chilling.  That night I really felt God's presence.

As 2024 progressed and I started diving into my faith, I felt God's calling for me to profess my faith.  After praying about it and going back and forth over if it was the right time, I landed in a place of denial. I thought my faith wasn't strong or "good enough" to get baptised.  Nevertheless, after worship night I just got this sudden urge to talk to Delaney.  During the time for silent prayer, God gave me the courage to go up to her and tell her about my struggles.  I am so grateful that I had such supportive and knowledgeable people all around me that were so willing to help me and answer my questions.

Ellen

2024 was a year full of new opportunities and kingdom impact in our Family Ministry. BVCC Kids had an average of 53 kids attend each Sunday and our volunteer team grew to more than 60 members, helping us to smoothly transition to two services in September.  BVCC Youth had an average of 47 youth attend our Friday night ministry and we deepened our sense of belonging and spiritual growth by adding Saturday gym drop-ins and Sunday Bible studies.  In total, 9 kids and youth made the decision to follow Christ and be baptized in 2024.

For our parents, we added many new ministry opportunities.  One highlight was a group of fathers and sons participating in our newly developed 6-month program called Journey to Manhood.  The program helps fathers intentionally disciple their sons and guide them through the transition from boyhood to manhood.  We also had a group of parents participate together in Family Life Canada’s Parenting Conference in April, where they attended a series of workshops designed to educate and equip them for the challenges of Christian parenting.  In September we welcomed a guest speaker who provided valuable insights and guidance on raising children in today's rapidly evolving digital world.

In addition to all of this, we had some great belonging opportunities in order to build community and relationships among our families.  We had over 60 people attend our Family Day at the Lake event in February 2024 and enjoyed the addition of two new Family Fun Nights throughout the fall.

Peter Roberts – Family Pastor

We are so blessed to have so many outstanding and talented people serving in our worship and tech ministries at BVCC.  As the worship pastor I can say that I am thoroughly impressed not only by the skills of the individuals involved, but also by their hearts, their devotion to Christ, and their desire to serve this community.  To be honest, we have a blast at our mid-week rehearsals!  We aren’t dealing with attitudes or pride or infighting – but rather, encouraging and speaking words of life to one another.  Everyone has a voice as we creatively work through arrangements - and when there are challenges, whether in finding harmonies or having tech issues, everyone exhibits both patience and kindness.

I would like to especially give a shout out to some of our worship leaders who have really made a significant impact on our worship services: James Knibbe and Cam Rankin.  Both James and Cam have truly been a joy to have on the team – they have been faithful to prayerfully prepare the music for the weeks they are serving, and exhibited grace, skill, and servant hearts as they lead the team and the congregation in worship.  They have also been a gift to me, for me to be able to take the occasional Sunday off, knowing that everything is in good hands (especially when I had to rush away at a moment’s notice for my dad’s funeral in Arizona last October).

In addition to them, I would like to recognize Delaney Anderson.  She has not only been faithfully involved in singing and co-leading regularly on Sunday mornings, but also taken a great deal of responsibility in the planning and leading of our monthly Friday night youth worship events, as well as at PYPA and youth camps at PLCC.  I look forward to watching her continue to grow and step out more and more into her calling as a worship leader both at BVCC and beyond.

In addition to those we see on stage, there are also so many who faithfully serve week after week behind the scenes in our tech teams.  I would especially like to thank Dave Schulz and Lito Hubilla, who serve in sound - both in the auditorium and the online livestream services almost every week.  They have been so helpful not only with the sound, and training new people on our system, but also helping with maintenance and repairs of our audio and lighting equipment (even sometimes showing up when they aren’t scheduled to serve, so as to work on those extra projects).  Their servant hearts of worship are truly commendable and I am grateful not only for how they help with our ministries and services, but also for their genuine friendship.

As you know, we are blessed with an abundance of amazing musicians and vocalists, and I believe that we are also called to be a blessing outside of our church doors.  With that in mind, one of my dreams and prayers is that we would be able to send from our worship ministry to also minister to other congregations as well.  And one answer to that prayer is our very own Lee John May.  Not many may know this, but he has been heading over to one of our sister churches, Rosscarrock Church of Christ, to lead worship once a month.  I am so proud of him for stepping out in that way to use his gifts to not only minister to the heart of God, but to our extended family of faith as well.

Pete Justine – Worship Pastor
 

In the late fall of 2023, the Elders of BVCC provided a clear mandate to a newly formed Building Development Team to explore an Expansion and Renovation of our current building.

The primary purpose is to create a ‘Community Family Centre’ which will provide opportunities for our surrounding community to come to BVCC for a variety of reasons aside from Sunday services.  Our current facility is busy 7 days a week from 8am to 10pm, with up to 260 people in the building during weekdays alone.  This project will have long-term impact, providing a facility that can serve future generations of folks that will call BVCC their church ‘home’.

Throughout 2024, the team met with Architects, Construction Management Professionals, and selected a Capital Campaign Consulting firm to assist us with this endeavor.  We recognize and firmly believe God is ‘well ahead of us’ in our efforts, and this project will be a historical event in the continued life of BVCC well into the future.  You can click the link below for a glimpse into the project and expect to hear more updates throughout 2025 as we seek to hear God’s voice to help us move down the path of bringing this dream to fruition.

Without a doubt, live streaming our Sunday worship gatherings is the first impression most have of Bow Valley Christian Church. We continue to experience strong viewership with twice as many people watching the service after it broadcasts compared to watching it live.

To many of our viewers, watching online serves as a means to get and stay connected while otherwise there would be no way to do so. The top four locations of our viewers are Canada, the United States, India, and Israel — in that order! Our gratitude continues to the many volunteers who provide a great online experience every week for those unable to attend our live service.

11,020

Youtube Livestream (212/week)

1,088

Vimeo/Church Online Livestream (21/week)

6,920

Youtube Sermon Views (128/week)

We are blessed by the many seniors who have found belonging at Bow Valley.  Currently, about 200 people fit within our “Seniors” age range of the later 50’s to over 100.

For decades, Young at Heart (YAH) was Bow Valley’s group for seniors.  In the past year, we have begun to refer to “Young at Heart” events as “Seniors” events.  The long-standing Young at Heart potluck is now the Seniors Luncheon with food provided by the leadership team.  There are also Seniors Bible studies and Community groups each week.

Because a sixty-year-old senior has different interests and abilities than 80- and 90-year-old seniors, we have a second ministry to seniors known as BVCC PrimeTime.  Within PrimeTime there are activities and groups designed to create belonging: Coffee, Conversation & Games, Pickleball, Rosebud Theatre trips, and Dinner Clubs.  Leading and participating in Bible studies, the Grandparenting Matters seminar and the Aging Matters seminars keep seniors growing and investing in others.

The short-term mission trip to the Philippines in February 2024 was a big win. Beverley Rutherford longed to take a team to the Philippines and it was her calling and determination that made the trip happen.

Seven people from Bow Valley, along with a team from Grace Baptist Church, spent two weeks in the Philippines learning from, and working alongside the UCCP Christian Learning Center in Lamut as well as BVCC’s global partner Tabuk Refuge of Hope International.

While in Tabuk, the team shared testimonies, taught classes, cut hair, and worked on the Refuge of Hope’s new building. International travel, with a ministry focus, expanded and deepened the team’s love for God as the staff and girls at the Refuge of Hope shared their stories of God’s redeeming love and faithfulness.

Sandra Osborne - Associate Pastor

We are so thankful for our faithful, generous, and committed donors that support our work for His Kingdom! For 2024 Audited Financial Statements, 2024 members can contact our church office or pick up a copy at the Welcome Centre in the foyer.

If I have a question or comment about our finances or ministries who do I speak to?

The leadership and staff want to hear from you at any time of the year! Please call (403-286-5300) or email the office ([email protected]) and we will direct you to the person who can answer your questions. If you would like to have a conversation regarding a specific area, consider these options:

Finances: [email protected]

Elders: [email protected]

Global: [email protected]

Prayer Requests: [email protected]

Those wishing to become a member of Bow Valley Christian Church community can find out more on our membership page.

If you have any other questions, use the Connection Card below.
 

Every dollar given to BVCC goes to support ministry to our church members, to our local community and to our partners around the world. We could not do this without you. Our leadership is overwhelmingly grateful for your financial partnership in the gospel. We look expectantly to the next year of ministering together.