Defence against the dark arts
Satan is real and is a clear and present danger. This is not a widely accepted truth in many churches. We ignore this to our peril. In our final part on this subject, Ian Mitchell and Andy Cornell shine a light at the art of war in the days leading up to October 31, a significant day in pagan, Wiccan, and occult traditions. … Read more
The enemy is real
Behind the costume masks and jack-o'-lanterns lurks an inconvenient truth: October can be an evil month. It begins with a build-up to Thanksgiving then gradually becomes dark in the slide towards Halloween. This essay explores the reality of the darkness, the power of the contrary spirit, and the vital need for believers to be engaged in spiritual warfare. … Read more
The horrors of Hallowe’en
Autumn can be a glorious time. We rejoice in fall colours, fresh starts, and relief from the summer’s heat. October is the peak. While the month begins with a rapid build-up to Thanksgiving, it quickly turns dark. This essay is a statement against Hallowe’en that explores the reality of the darkness in which depression and anxiety are endemic, souls are lost, and spirits are troubled, tossed about and tempted by the lies and lures of Satan. … Read more
Quebec: an unholy mess of secularism and regulation
Tighter controls, no mercy and a moratorium mean hundreds of congregations are without a home. Mountainside United Church and St. Stephen's Anglican Church, both in Westmount QC, recently sold and are to be converted into condos. … Read more
The end of the world as we know it is not the end of the world
There is a promise that can help us face the present challenge with hope and confidence, instead of anxiety and despair. … Read more
Church planting: small communities
Small groups can achieve what large communities can’t. Part 3 in a series on church planting. … Read more
Restoring Spiritual Passion
I remember it so vividly I can almost feel the pain in my throat again. I had just finished my exams at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. It was the end of an intense term, filled with lots of activities. My wife Irene was expecting our first child, and she’d travelled ahead of me, up to our new home in Seattle on the airplane. And my job? My job was to … Read more
Speaking the truth in love
Text of the THEO Trio’s report to General Assembly DORA DAROCZI: Good morning, everyone! My name is Dora from the Calvin Hungarian Presbyterian Church in Calgary, and my friends speaking with me are Anna from … Read more
Creative licence caution
There are many excellent television shows online these days that have a solid biblical foundation. What could go wrong by watching them? … Read more
Courageous leadership: faith over fear
Leadership often brings us into moments where we are asked to move forward without having everything figured out. We are invited to make decisions that … Read more
“Reformed Ethics” – A suggested guide
Book Review: If you are looking for a Christmas (or New Year) present for yourself, probably the best choice among Bavinck’s major works are the two volumes of Reformed Ethics. … Read more
Everyone loves a good witness
In a world where people create their own versions of truth, many of us grow weary. Praise God for raising up new believers who are drawn to the light. … Read more
Dialogue, pluralism and discipleship
A challenge to repositioning the church in a post-Christendom age. … Read more
What is a Presbyterian General Assembly?
Rev. Paul Johnston, in blue shirt, takes in the proceedings at General Assembly 2025. A (possibly radical) proposal for a fresh answer. What is a Presbyterian General Assembly. The short answer is it’s the highest … Read more