April 16, 2026

News from Isabel Acheson for issue of April 16, 2026

Somerset Bible Chapel 

Occasionally the AGC churches in Manitoba do a “pulpit exchange” Sunday when the pastors visit other congregations in western Manitoba. Sunday April 12 was the first such day this year. Pastor Jeff Peacock was visiting speaker at Parkside Gospel Church near Dauphin. Pastor Jarrod Clur of Grace Bible Church in the city of Dauphin visited Somerset Bible Chapel. 

The worship service opened with Jamie Grenier giving the announcements including an update from the church council meeting the Thursday before. The music team were Ernie and Lorna Unrau using selections from the hymnal. Matthew Penner served as usher, Kevin Friesen led the Prayer Focus and Isabel A. had the Scripture reading from Ephesians 5:22-33. 

The hymns chosen were “O Worship the King”, “All Hail The Power of Jesus Name”, “Holy, Holy, Holy”, “Praise the Lord, the Almighty”, “This Is My Father’s World”, “How Firm a Foundation” with the closing being “The Church’s One Foundation”. 

Pastor Jarrod Clur chose the title of “The Beauty of the Church” for his message. The scripture reading uses the relationship of marriage, bride and bridegroom, to illustrate the relationship between Christ and the church. 

The speaker first addressed what this comparison tells us about Jesus. We have just celebrated Easter which reminds us of the price that was paid to win the church to himself. This is a relationship founded on love. The bride is cleansed by the washing of the Word (of God), is sanctified (purified) and presented in great splendour. The Spirit of God works within the believer to accomplish this. 

The church is described as the Bride of Christ. One who submits to his leadership, to be nourished and cherished, to be held fast, to hold him in respect. 

Additional readings included John 17:18-23, Jesus’ prayer for his disciples and those who will believe later; Philippians 2:1-11, encouragment and comfort for the church to live in unity, in humility, following Christ’s example of service to others; and Colossians 3:12-17, the virtues of God’s chosen ones as the identity of Christ is perfected in His followers. 

The final section of the message dealt with forgiveness. It can be hard to do. It is necessary because whenever people gather together there is potential for friction. When one is willing to be considerate of the needs of others, healing can happen. 

Monthly bulletins and previous reports are available on the website  www.somersetbiblechapel.com.