From chaplain at UGM to pastoring a church

After a few short months, a new Winnipeg pastor is sharing the ups and downs of leading a church.

Timothy Harris is the new lead pastor at Christian Fellowship Chapel on Osbourne. 

"I've been here for just over three months now," says Harris. "Before this, I was a chaplain at Union Gospel Mission (UGM) for three and a half years. I really felt called to get involved in local church ministry."

Although Harris hasn't been at the church long, he's enjoying getting to know the congregation.

"It's been good, and a little challenging keeping up with the way the regulations have been changing. It's been important for me to spend time with our members. I'm trying to work my way through the church directory and do as much face-to-face with people as possible."

Harris shares that the church is steeped in history. In fact, one couple has been attending Christian Fellowship Chapel for 69 years. 

"Having been to Awana as a child I appreciate the church has an established and growing Awana program."

People Hungry for God's Word

Harris had a conversation with one of the church's elders that said the congregation's greatest strength and weakness is their Biblical knowledge. Harris only sees this as a strength, as they continue to hunger for the Word of God.

"Biblical truths are important to people because it's the Word of God. If we want to have a relationship with Him, we need to get into His Word and take it to heart."

Starting off, Harris taught on the book of 1 John. Now, he shares that they will delve into the book of Acts once he returns from Millar College of the Bible, after attending a modular course.

"I'm looking forward to encourage other people and help them grow in their walks. I'm passionate towards unity and being able to have meaningful conversations with people."

Regardless of people's opinions on the pandemic, Harris hopes people respond with a Christ-like attitude, ultimately building each other up.