New Life Sanctuary Church

New Life Sanctuary Church: A Long Name With a Biblical Basis

“New Life Sanctuary Church” (NLSC) is a rather long and odd sounding name to be sure. Nevertheless, the concepts it describes are wonderfully biblical. The meaning behind our name is illustrated below.

“New Life”

The moment a person accepts Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior they are “born again” (John 3:3-8; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:23). That is, they are given a new spiritual nature, a new future, and a new hope (2 Corinthians 5:17). With their sins forgiven, they can enjoy unending fellowship with the Lord (1 John 1:7-9).

“Sanctuary”

“Sanctuary” is a Latin word for a holy place. At NLSC we trust the Holy Spirit of God to illuminate His word the Bible (1 Corinthians 2:12), which testifies of Jesus Christ (John 5:39). We also trust in the Spirit’s ministry to intercede to God for the saints (Romans 8:26) and to grant to God’s people the peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6-7), even in troublesome times.

“Church”

“Church” comes from a Greek word that means “pertaining to the Lord.” At NLSC we strive to do as the early church, who “ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” (Acts 5:42). We believe that Jesus Christ is the grand, unifying theme of the Bible and of all history. He is God’s message and messenger. “All things are of Him and through Him and to Him” (Romans 11:36). “As God,” wrote Augustine, “He is the goal; as man, He is the way.” Above all else, we want to know Jesus Christ and make Him known.

Our History, Originating as Friendship Baptist Church

Friendship Baptist Church was established in Winnipeg in 1974 by Pastor Eugene and Janet Laird. This godly man was succeeded by another of God’s faithful servants, Richard Blackaby, who went on to serve as president of the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary in Cochrane, Alberta and who continues to serve as the seminary’s Chancellor. In 2006, Friendship Baptist Church changed its name to New Life Sanctuary Church (NLSC) and moved from its former location outside the West Perimeter to its current location at 618 Muriel St. in Winnipeg. NLSC is still a contributing member in good standing of the Canadian National Baptist Convention.

A Journey to Our Current Blessed State

The history of NLSC is in some ways like the history of Israel. Like Israel’s long succession of kings, the succession of pastors and leaders of NLSC displayed the complete range of godliness, competence, and moral integrity. As a result, NLSC has seen God’s blessings for faithfulness, and chastening for disobedience. Through it all, the Good Shepherd has shown amazing grace and favour toward this “candlestick” in this part of the world.

Responding to the church’s decision to serve and obey God rather than men, God has blessed NLSC abundantly in these last of days. By His leading and enablement, the church is structured and functions according to His known will. From its pulpit resounds the everlasting Gospel. In its pews and classrooms sit a Holy Priesthood, offering up spiritual sacrifices to God. Through its doors and out into the world flows a Royal Priesthood, who show forth the praises of Him Who called them out of darkness and into His marvellous light (1 Peter 2:5,9). We praise and thank our God for His abiding presence and enduring faithfulness.