Leadership
Get to know all of the people who help shepherd the people who call Redemption Bible Chapel their Church family.
Elders
Ian Havercroft
Elder
IAN HAVERCROFT
IAN HAVERCROFTIan joined the pastoral team at Redemption in 2021 to oversee small groups and adult discipleship. He was drawn to the church because of its reputation for solid leadership and teaching, its heart for disciple-making and church planting, and its desire to submit all it does to God’s will and God’s way. Ian believes God has called and equipped him for pastoral ministry and is eager to serve the church family with the gifts, wisdom, and experience of which God has made him a steward. Ian joined the elder team in Fall 2023.
Ian and Amy and were married in 2006 and we have three children. Amy’s a trained developmental service worker who has worked with special needs children in both public and Christian schools. Their family enjoys visiting our extended family, going on road trips, singing songs and playing games.
Colin Heise
Elder Intern
Colin Heise
Colin HeiseStacey and I have been married since 2007 and have been blessed with four children (Levi, Jordyn, Micah and Josiah). We moved to Komoka, Ontario in 2013 and began attending Redemption Bible Chapel shortly thereafter. We quickly felt at home and enjoyed the teaching and fellowship. Over the years, Stacey and I have been involved in numerous ministries at Redemption Bible Chapel including children’s, small groups and set up (at the Banting Location). I currently work in the emergency medical services sector and I am grateful Stacey is willing to be at home with our children. She is a great blessing to our family and actively demonstrates a kind, patient and compassionate heart.
Our family enjoys the outdoors, playing sports (especially hockey and baseball), spending time with friends and playing various instruments.
Psalm 119:9-11 has been a great exhortation to us as a family: “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”
John Klassen
Elder
Hello, my name is John Klassen, I am honoured to serve at Redemption London as an Elder. I am married to Pauline and we have 3 grown daughters, who are now raising their families.
I am a Bus driver for the London Transit Commission, since 2006. We are very active in our children’s and grandchildren’s lives and feel very blessed by God with our family. Some prominent interests of mine are physical fitness and being a motorcycle enthusiast.
When this church began in 2000, as SouthWest Community Church, we felt led by the Lord to move on from our former church and join this exciting new beginning in order to be used by God and to watch and be apart of this new work.
Besides my role as an elder, we serve as Small group leaders, marriage mentors and prayer ministry leaders. We are truly blessed and thankful to God to be able to share our passion for serving Christ in His church.
Just one of many verses that strengthens my heart would be:
1Cor. 15:58 “Therefore my brothers, stand firm, let nothing move you, always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord because you know your labour in the Lord is not in vain.”
Samuel Lyra
Elder
SAMUEL LYRA
Claudia and I have been married since 2004. We have four children, Gabriel, Beatriz, Amanda, and Lucas. Since 1997 Claudia and I have been involved in many church ministries such as children, youth, young adults, and couples. I was also an elder from 2012 to 2017, in my old church in Brazil. In 2017, when we came to Canada while living in Kitchener, we started a Sunday School ministry for Portuguese speakers at Good News Church in Cambridge. In 2019, when we moved to London, we started attending RBCL and started a family group of Portuguese speakers where we teach adults and children. We love to serve Christ by serving others.
Claudia works for our private school in Brazil, and I work as a software developer for Trudell Medical, a company in London. In my youth, I felt called by God to become an elder, I had a great example in my house because my father was too an elder. Over the years, the Lord has used my father and many other leaders (pastors and elders) as well as many trials to mold me to His calling.
I am tremendously honored to serve as an elder in Redemption. I know my inabilities, I know my weaknesses, but I also know that the One who called me is powerfully able to equip me and use a broken vessel like me to bring the wonderful perfume of Christ to others. I carry in my heart and mind these verses that remind me that it’s nothing about me, and everything about the One who is to be glorified now and forever: Jesus, my Lord, and Savior.
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Norm MIllar
Elder
NORM MILLAR
In the spring of 2000 God brought a group of 30 of us together to plant SouthWest Community Church. This was an amazing journey as God grew this young church, saving people and building them up in their faith. Then in the spring of 2006 God led us to transition SouthWest to become Redemption Bible Chapel of London and our journey as Redemption has been nothing short of amazing. We love being a part of the Great Commission Collective family and seeing God at work in and through the ministry of Redemption.
My wife, Cindy and I were married in 1979 and we have five children, two sons-in-law and three daughters-in-law, and 17 grandchildren. We are so thankful for each one and overwhelmed at God’s grace that all of the adults love and serve Christ and the children are being taught God’s Word as they grow.
My initial training was as a computer programmer and system design analyst through Fanshawe College and I worked for London Life Insurance Company, in total, for about 18 years. I also have a Master of Divinity degree from The Master’s Seminary in Los Angles California. It was such a blessing to attend this school (1988-92) and to spend four years serving and attending Grace Community Church sitting under Dr. John MacArthur’s ministry. In 2012 I began working on my Doctor of Ministry degree at Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky and received my D.Min in expository preaching in the spring of 2017.
Ephesians 1:17-19 is my prayer for everyone at Redemption and beyond, “[17] that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, [18] having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, [19] and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe”.
Ben Tucker
Elder
BEN TUCKER
Caitlin and I have four young daughters that we delight in. I’m very thankful that Caitlin is able and willing to be a full-time mom at home with our girls. She faithfully serves our family, and is an incredible blessing to me from the Lord. We were married in 2009, and have steadily added to our Tucker clan since then! I am a chiropractor and have owned a clinic since 2014, and have been so thankful to see how God has shown us favour as we strive to balance owning a business and family life. I enjoy spending time outdoors, playing sports, family bike rides, reading, and playing the drums (and singing in the shower).
Caitlin and her family were part of Redemption back when it originated under the name Southwest. I remember going to visit on Sundays and joining for youth events nearly 20 years ago. After marrying and living in Toronto for 4 years to complete my education, we moved back to London and began attending Redemption in 2014. God made it clear that this was to be our church home, as we had (and still have) many strong relationships in this church, and love the “heart after God” displayed by the body of believers at Redemption. We love the leadership at Redemption and passionate worship. I have enjoyed being part of the worship team on the drums, and Caitlin and I both also serve in Kid’s Ministry.
Psalm chapter 101 has long-since been an encouragement to me to live with integrity and to honour the Lord with my choices, and those who I surround myself with.
“I will sing of your love and justice; to you, Lord, I will sing praise. I will be careful to lead a blameless life— when will you come to me? I will conduct the affairs of my house with a blameless heart. I will not look with approval on anything that is vile…”
Scott Vanderform
Elder
Scott Vanderform
Scott VanderformRebecca and I have been attending Redemption for seven years. The Lord’s leading to Redemption was providential and we are so blessed to call it home. We were married in 2002, and have three children (Sophia, Abi and Micah). Our family enjoys skiing, singing together, and playing games.
I was asked to join the preaching team at Redemption in 2022, and we are so thankful for the opportunity that this allows for me to use my gifting. We serve as small group leaders in the church, and our family serves in Kids ministry.
I manage a local office manufacturing business in London. Rebecca is an RN, homeschools our school aged children, and has been used by the Lord to encourage many women in their walk with the Lord.
Our family verse is currently Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
Tim Wiebe
Elder Chair
TIM WIEBE
Deb and I have two daughters, Olivia & Lauren who are still living at home. Deb enjoys being a mother. She serves in the Children’s Ministry faithfully and I’ve heard that they would like to be able to clone her! I am thankful to God for giving me Deb and our girls. He has been abundantly gracious to me in this. Deb is the kindest person I know and such a Godly example to me of what humility and service look like as she fulfills her God given role in our family so well. Our girls too are a great gift from God to us.
I work for the Children’s Aid Society and enjoy my role there. I enjoy running, reading and watching sports. As a family we enjoy tent camping in the summer, hiking & biking.
After high school I attend Briercrest Bible College graduating with 2 degrees with an emphasis on Youth and Counselling. My current role at CAS involves searching within families of children in our care for placements and ongoing supports. Other jobs included planting tree’s in BC to pay for college, summers volunteering at a Church Camp in Manitoba in a variety of roles including Program Director although my favourite roles were being a camp counsellor and water ski instructor.
Deb and I have been at Redemption since the beginning in 2006. We attended SouthWest Community Church for about 5 years prior to the transition to HBC. God plainly led us to SouthWest CC when they were less than 2 years old.
Philippians 2:1-11 has been a go to passage for me since I was a teenager. In my desire to continue to eliminate the pride in my life this passage reminds me of the standard I am to measure myself against – Jesus Christ himself – “who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant,”
Rod Bray
Elder
ROD BRAY
Connie and I have been blessed with a wonderful family. Our eldest daughter, Sarah, is married to Steve Greydanus; they, in turn, have two wonderful children, beautiful, petite Halle, and smiling, sturdy Knox. Our youngest daughter Siobhan is married to Ivan He. We are so blessed that all adult members of our family are actively involved in various ministries at Redemption including Young Adults, Worship Team, Greeters, Small Group leadership, and Youth Ministries. It is a joy and an honour to be a part of this amazing church body that God is building at Redemption.
I currently work for a consulting company focusing on software project management. Though my company is based in Toronto, my work takes me all around the world. Connie is a Learning Supervisor with the Thames Valley District School Board.
Connie and I grew up in rural Ontario and in many ways we still consider ourselves to be “country folk” though we have both been in London since coming here to go to university. Connie was raised in a Christian home but I came to saving faith as a young adult – thankful for the prayers of those who never gave up on me.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Staff
Carlos Carmona
Custodial
CARLOS CARMONA
I was born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, in a close-knit family with strong humanist values. I’m married to my wife, Marcela, and we have a son who is currently studying Electronic Engineering in Colombia. We arrived in London two years ago, and from our very first week, we were blessed to find Redemption Bible Chapel—our spiritual home. It is the place where we worship the Lord, where we were baptized, and where I publicly recognized Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Since then, we have continued to grow in our faith and in His Word.My academic and professional background combines technology and the social sciences. I studied Web Development and Internet Applications at Fanshawe College and trained as an anthropologist, with additional studies in Linguistic Anthropology at the University of Michigan. Most of my career has been dedicated to teaching Social Studies and consulting on environmental issues. I’m currently focused on finding opportunities to continue learning about coding and expanding my skills in technology.I’m especially drawn to Bible verses about wisdom and knowledge, such as Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” I also keep James 3:17 close to my heart: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” Together, Marcela and I are dedicated to growing in our relationship with God. We are currently on a mission to bring our son to Canada. In the meantime, we enjoy opportunities to travel, dance, and enjoy a good film together.
Cathy Carrier
Administration
CATHY CARRIER
I was born and raised, along with my three brothers, on a small, family farm in Ridgetown, so I’m a country girl at heart. I married my best friend and high school sweetheart Duane. Through the years of life’s ups and downs, God has taught us and grown us both as individuals, and as a couple. We have four kids – Zachary, Quintin, Bethany and Maya. I graduated college as a Registered Nurse. When the kids came along, I had the privilege to be a stay at home mom and practice my bandaging, wound care, and tender-loving nursing care on my busy, adventurous patients at home. I home schooled the kids for ten years and each has graduated and moved on to the next phase of their young adult lives. Duane and I love to spend our summers in the kayaks exploring the smooth, glassy waters of nature and fishing together. We find it peaceful and relaxing. Duane and I have an unwritten rule about fishing – If I do any catching, he does ALL the releasing. Although they are fascinating to look at, I’m not as interested in handling fish. Give me a farm animal, any day. Duane has been gracious to humour me in this every time. While I can drive him crazy with my weird, wild and adventurous spirit, Duane is my greatest support, and loudest fan. God has blessed me with a husband who loves me sacrificially, encourages me consistently, and balances out my ‘extra’ with his steady, practical and devoted care. We were invited by friends to attend a service at Redemption (Harvest, at the time) about 13 years ago and have been attending and serving here ever since. The commitment to the Word -with faithful preaching, honest worship, and the open and genuine adoration of Christ is what kept us coming back week after week. Before this amazing opportunity to join the staff at Redemption, I was working in office administration for a landscaping and snow removal company. Prior to that, I was the assistant manager of a small retail business. My favourite verse has sustained, strengthened, and comforted me in my most difficult days. It reminds me of the hope I have in Christ and God’s unchanging faithfulness in every promise. Hebrews 10:23 – “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.”
Susan Chorney
Office Manager
SUSAN CHORNEY
Born in Stephenville, Newfoundland, I moved to Ontario when I was 19. I’m happily married to Dean and have one adult daughter (Kady) that I would move a mountain for. I love pretty flowers and being outside so I spend lots of time playing in the dirt. I also like to play billiards.
I worked as a paralegal before getting the opportunity to work here. Before that, I worked as a technician for many years. I did my paralegal studies at Westervelt College and took several computer related night courses at Fanshawe.
I started attending Redemption, formally Southwest Community Church, in 2002. A friend who had just been saved invited me out and I will forever be thankful for her. I was raised Catholic and hadn’t been to church since I was a teenager. I had never heard Christian music or seen a Jesus freak worship. It was very unsettling to say the least, but the music got me to come back a second time. This is when I realized that these Jesus freaks had a connection with God that I didn’t know existed. I had to have it and it wasn’t long until I put all that I was in His hands. I have been attending since then and came to work here in 2012.
I am so thankful God loves me so much that He offered me an eternal home. I love my life here but I can’t wait for the day I get to see His glorious face.
Jeremy Giesbrecht
Director of Youth
JEREMY GIESBRECHT
My name is Jeremy. I have a lovely wife, Nardeen. We met at the church we were attending at the time, but it wasn’t until I saw her serving and loving people on a missions trip that she stole my heart in 2014. After almost 6 years of dating and engagement by long distance (four of those where she was in Australia earning her doctorate in dentistry), we got married in July of 2020. Happiest day of my life.
My BA in Religious Studies comes from Tyndale, where I studied for 4 years, as well as being elected Student Council President while there. Before that, I worked in a number of restaurants (I secretly love cooking) and even got my Network Administration Degree from Everest College.
I began attending Redemption London in August 2015, when I was hired on as the Youth Intern. Before then, I was the Youth Intern at Hope Bible Church Markham. God really taught me about His sovereignty in the move here – “The heart of a man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” – Proverbs 16:9
A lot of people ask me if youth ministry is what I want to do forever. Short answer – yes, if that’s what the Lord has for me!
I am thankful for this church. I love what God has been doing here, and that it’s nothing about what the leaders do – it’s about what God is doing. “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!” – Psalm 115:1
Lauren Wiebe
Administrative Assistant
LAUREN GREEN
I was born and raised in London by my two amazing parents. I am the youngest of two, and my sister and I are good friends. Some of my favourite things to do are hiking, camping, reading a good book, and rock climbing with friends.
My parents made the decision to homeschool us when I was just finishing JK and continued until I was in grade 10. At this point I attended H.B. Beal Secondary school for my remaining years of high school.
In 2022, I graduated from Heritage Bible College with a certificate of Christian Studies and a great deal of personal and spiritual growth. Near the end of my time at Heritage, I was praying that God would give me a sense of direction as to what the next step of my life would be. God answered my prayers and led me to Fanshawe College where I have recently completed a certificate in Office Administration. Lord willing, I will be returning to Fanshawe in the fall to complete a diploma in Office Administration – Executive.
I have been attending Redemption for the majority of my life, as I was raised in the Church. I have attended other Christ-following churches during my time at Heritage, but there was always a feeling of being “home” whenever I would visit Redemption on a Sunday.
I am one of those people who find it difficult to choose a favourite Bible verse, however, Psalm 84 is a passage that I keep coming back to. Specifically, verse 10, “For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness”. This passage reminds me of the joys of abiding with God and how I can one day look forward to being with Him for eternity. Reflecting on this helps reorient my heart towards a kingdom perspective.
Ian Havercroft
Associate Pastor
IAN HAVERCROFT
I was raised in a Christian home in the GTA and grew up in a loving local church. I was just a child when Jesus gave me new life in Him. He then grounded me in the faith as a young man through godly teachers, opportunities to serve, and leadership experiences. I graduated from Heritage Bible College with a BRS in 2004 and began work as a pastoral intern at Hughson Street Baptist Church in Hamilton’s inner-city. From there I planted and pastored an intercultural church plant in east Hamilton called Lightway Church (2007-2020) and completed an MDIV degree from Heritage Seminary in 2011.
My wife Amy and I were married in 2006 and we have three children: Aila, Luke, and Travis. Amy’s a trained developmental service worker who has worked with children with special needs in both public and Christian schools. As a family we enjoy visiting our extended family, going on road trips, singing songs and playing games. I’m an avid reader, an aspiring tennis player, and an under-appreciated joke teller.
I joined the pastoral team at Redemption in 2021. We were drawn to the church because of its reputation for solid leadership and teaching, its heart for disciple-making and church planting, and its desire to submit all it does to God’s will and God’s way. I believe God has called and equipped me for pastoral ministry and I am eager to serve our church family with the gifts, wisdom, and experience of which he’s made me a steward.
“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. “ Ephesians 3:16-19 (NIV)
Jason Johnston
Associate Pastor
JASON JOHNSTON
I am blessed to be married to an amazing godly woman who is my best friend! We’ve been married since 1994 and have 2 awesome kids, Anthony and Jessica. We are originally from the Saskatchewan prairies; we spent 10 years working in Alberta, and are now blessed to call London home. We moved here in 2010.
My education and professional career have been in business management and retail leadership field, where I spent the first 20 years of my career.
We started attending Redemption London in 2010 after moving here to go into full-time ministry. We had the opportunity to serve in a number of volunteer positions here at Redemption up until July 2015 when God called us into a full time position as the Director of Small Group Discipleship. Small groups and marriages are near and dear to our hearts and we have been very blessed to see the amazing work that God has been doing in His church and we look forward to seeing what He has for the future!
One of my favourite passages that has meant a lot to me over the years is Psalm 18:1-3, “I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.”
Samuel Lyra
Associate Pastor
SamUEL Lyra
Associate Pastor
(International Ministries and Congregational Integration)
SAMUEL LYRA
Claudia and I have been married since 2004. We have four children, Gabriel, Beatriz, Amanda, and Lucas. Since 1997 Claudia and I have been involved in many church ministries such as children, youth, young adults, and couples. I was also an elder from 2012 to 2017, in my old church in Brazil. In 2017, when we came to Canada while living in Kitchener, we started a Sunday School ministry for Portuguese speakers at Good News Church in Cambridge. In 2019, when we moved to London, we started attending RBCL and started a family group of Portuguese speakers where we teach adults and children. We love to serve Christ by serving others.
Claudia works for our private school in Brazil, and I worked as a software developer for Trudell Medical, a company in London. In my youth, I felt called by God to become an elder, I had a great example in my house because my father was too an elder. Over the years, the Lord has used my father and many other leaders (pastors and elders) as well as many trials to mold me to His calling.
I am now tremendously honored to serve on staff as Associate Pastor in Redemption. I know my inabilities, I know my weaknesses, but I also know that the One who called me is powerfully able to equip me and use a broken vessel like me to bring the wonderful perfume of Christ to others. I carry in my heart and mind these verses that remind me that it’s nothing about me, and everything about the One who is to be glorified now and forever: Jesus, my Lord, and Savior.
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Brandon McGilvery
Custodial
BRANDON MCGILVERY
BRANDON MCGILVERYTo be added
Norm Millar
Senior Pastor
NORM MILLER
In the spring of 2000 God brought a group of 30 of us together to plant SouthWest Community Church. This was an amazing journey as God grew this young church, saving people and building them up in their faith. Then in the spring of 2006 God led us to transition SouthWest to become Redemption Bible Chapel of London and our journey as Redemption has been nothing short of amazing. We love being a part of the Great Commission Collective family and seeing God at work in and through the ministry of Redemption.
My wife, Cindy and I were married in 1979 and we have five children, two sons-in-law and three daughters-in-law, and 17 grandchildren. We are so thankful for each one and overwhelmed at God’s grace that all of the adults love and serve Christ and the children are being taught God’s Word as they grow.
My initial training was as a computer programmer and system design analyst through Fanshawe College and I worked for London Life Insurance Company, in total, for about 18 years. I also have a Master of Divinity degree from The Master’s Seminary in Los Angles California. It was such a blessing to attend this school (1988-92) and to spend four years serving and attending Grace Community Church sitting under Dr. John MacArthur’s ministry. In 2012 I began working on my Doctor of Ministry degree at Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky and received my D.Min in expository preaching in the spring of 2017.
Ephesians 1:17-19 is my prayer for everyone at Redemption and beyond, “[17] that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, [18] having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, [19] and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe”.
Susan Millar
Kids Ministry Coordinator
SUSAN MILLAR
Born and raised in Aylmer, Ontario, I moved to London permanently after graduating from Western University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2009. After some searching, I discovered Redemption Bible Chapel (Harvest Bible Chapel at the time). I quickly got involved in a small group, young adult ministry, and kid’s ministry. I also met my husband Josh through mutual friends at church, and we got married in 2011. We have three children- our daughter Brooklyn, and our twin boys, Link and Ronan.
I have served in various ministries at Redemption over the years, but never really anticipated working on staff at Redemption. This opportunity to serve on staff came at a time when I was looking for a change in my nursing career. I joined the staff at Redemption Bible Chapel in the summer of 2021. The Lord knew what I needed, and provided as only He can. This is one thing that God has been teaching me repeatedly over the past few years- He is sovereign, He is in control, and He knows best.
I am constantly amazed at the lovingkindness of our Saviour. Lamentations 3:21-23 really says it best- “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: the steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
Andrew Oldham
Production Director
ANDREW OLDHAM
Hello, My Name is Andrew. I’m married to Janice and together we have two boys, Russell and Carter. I was born in Barrie Ontario and raised in a Christian home by my parents.
In the spring of 2005, Janice and I moved to London from Sault Ste. Marie (Janice’s hometown). We immediately started attending Redemption London (at the time Southwest Community Church). From the first Sunday we attended, we were overwhelmed by the acceptance, love and support we received. We both felt that this is where God was calling us to be.
During our time at Redemption Janice has served in Children’s Ministry and Worship Ministry and I have served mainly in the Worship Ministry. I have been blessed to be able to play drums with the Redemption Worship Team, which has been a passion of mine that began when I was a young boy playing drums in my childhood church.
I spent many years in the Printing, Graphic & Web Design world, both in Sault Ste. Marie and here in London. Although I enjoyed many aspects of this work, it was not a job that I was passionate about.
As Redemption London continued to grow it was clear that Redemption needed to have someone oversee the Production of our weekend services as well as other ministry events throughout the week. In 2012 I began a contract with Redemption to alleviate the pressure on our Worship Pastor. In 2015 the role became a staff position.
If you had suggested to me that I would one day be working in a position at the church that would cause my drumming to take a backseat, I’m not sure that I would have chosen that path. Drumming was what I loved to do and where I felt called to serve. I could not have imagined that God had a plan for me that would create an even greater passion in my ministry life and sense of fulfillment in my professional life. The joy of working for Christ at Redemption London in Production is an incredible privilege that I could have never foreseen.
If I can leave you with one thing it is to not minimize the plans that God has for you. If you feel God’s call on your life in any way I encourage you to trust Him and stay faithful and He will give you more joy and passion than you could ever imagine.
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well”
Karen Plantt
Executive Assistant to Norm Millar
KAREN PLANTT
I was born in Winnipeg, then later moved to Caledon East, Ontario. At the age of 10, my family moved to Hanover, where I met my best friend, Richard, and we were married in 2004. We have three children – Ethan, Naomi, and Noah.
I took the one-year program at Heritage Bible College, then graduated from Conestoga College with a diploma in Microcomputer Administration. Before working at Redemption, I spent 14 years at an engineering firm, 12 of which as an Executive Assistant.
We started attending Redemption late in 2011. Seeing all the baptisms and God at Work stories gave us new life in our walk and we are thrilled to be here.
My favourite verse since childhood has been Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Grace Reynolds
Kids Ministry Director
GRACE REYNOLDS
I have spent the greater portion of my life living in London with my mom, dad and younger sister. I have been blessed to have the support of a Christian family and I gave my life to Christ at a very young age. We as a family started attending Redemption when I was in grade three and my years through youth at this church gave me a deeper understanding of my faith and pushed me to grow in obedience to God’s word.
I graduated from Saunders Secondary School in 2019 and began attending Western University in the fall of that year; graduating with a Bachelor of General Science in the fall of 2023 with a double major in biology and history. For six summers starting in 2017 I worked at Muskoka Bible Center as a part of their Kids Ministry, and in 2022 worked as the Assistant Director of the program. I started serving as a leader in the Redemption’s youth ministry in 2021 and have been encouraged to see many youth grow in their faith just as I had.
Coming out of university, I was searching for what God wanted me to do with my gifts He has grown in me. It was then that I was approached with the opportunity to serve at Redemption on staff! I was reminded again, as I am now so often, that God provides exactly what we need, even before we know to ask.
I love diving into the Psalms for encouragement in the highs and lows of my walk with Christ. Psalm 9:9-10 reminds me that, “The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.”
Linda Seabrook
Director of Women’s Ministry
LINDA SEABROOK
I grew up in London where I attended Central Baptist Church and came to know Jesus as my Saviour as a young child. After high school, I attended both Moody Bible Institute and Heritage College where I received a Bachelor of Religious Education degree. After graduation, I was employed at Heritage College for eleven years, including six year of ministering to the young women who lived in residence. As a young wife and mother, I continued to take every opportunity to connect with other women, whether in my neighbourhood or church community.
My husband, Guy, and I have four married children and three grandchildren. We started attending Redemption Bible Chapel in 2009. I became involved in women’s ministry in the fall of 2013 and, in June 2017, I was hired as Director of Women’s Ministry. During this time, I also returned to complete my Master of Theological Studies degree which has included specific courses on ministering to women and learning to teach God’s Word to others. I consider it an immense privilege to encourage other women to live their lives for the glory of God, no matter what stage in life they may find themselves and wherever their sphere of influence may be. So I am both thankful and humbled for the opportunity to serve the women of Redemption in this way.
A verse that has been my comfort and hope throughout my life’s journey is 2 Corinthians 12:8-9: But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Dan Taylor
Director of Communications
DAN TAYLOR
My name is Dan. I am joyfully married to my best friend, Nicole. We met back in 2003 while we were in high school. She invited me out to Redemption (Southwest Community Church at that time) where I first heard and realized that I was a sinner in need of saving. That’s where I heard the good news of Jesus’ salvation. Soon after I repented of my sin, turned to Christ, and made Him my Lord and Saviour. Nicole and I were married in 2007. Our daughters were born: Ivy in 2014, Amelia in 2016, and Eden in 2019.
I studied at Fanshawe College for two years in the Multimedia Design & Production program, and graduated in 2007. I worked at a print shop for almost five years and then at Teen Challenge in their national office as a graphic designer in their marketing department. After being at TC for just over a year, I was offered to come on staff at Redemption in July of 2011.
I am so thankful to God for His constant working in my life. I’m not perfect by any means, but as it says in 2 Timothy 2:4, “No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is the please the one who enlisted him.” I try to live a God-pleasing life, and am humbled that He would call upon a wretch such as me to join His family.
David Steele
Custodial
DAVID STEELE
I grew up in London and went to Victoria Public School, Beal Tech and South C.I. I then took Economics and History at Western. I worked at Fanshawe Pioneer Village for 2 seasons and then spent 12 seasons at Black Creek Pioneer Village in Toronto.
I love history and read many old books and listen to history podcasts.
One of my first jobs was as part time custodian at the church I grew up in, which I did for about 15 years before going to Toronto. I moved back to London to take on the full time custodial job and when they sold the building to Redemption I stayed with it.
John 11:33-38 is a passage that reminds me that Jesus weeps with those who mourn. As someone who has suffered from depression this is very comforting to know that Jesus weeps with us.
Steve Toombs
Pastor of Worship
STEVE TOOMBS
I serve as Pastor of Worship giving leadership to our music and production teams. My wife Jody and I were married in the summer of 2000 and are so thankful for the 3 young boys we have been entrusted with.
I was hired by the church (known as SouthWest Community Church at the time) in the summer of 2002 serving as youth pastor and volunteering in the worship department. In 2006, SouthWest became Harvest Bible Chapel London and the elders transitioned my role from youth ministry to pastor of worship ministry.
By God’s grace I was born into a family that loves and serves the Lord. I am blessed to have a Pastor Dad and a Teacher Mom who have modelled passion and love for the Saviour and His church all their lives.
I was born on the Manitoulin Island where my parents were serving as missionaries. With short stops in Sudbury, Whitby and Windsor my family landed in London during the summer of 1992. After completing High School at London Central SS, I graduated with a Bachelor of Religious Education from Heritage College and Seminary.
Through-out the 90’s I had the opportunity to serve the Lord with a fantastic group of musicians. We travelled around Ontario, with a stop in Ireland, sharing the gospel, recording a few albums and leading people in worship. It was during this time that Lord grew in me a passion to see local churches awaken in worship.
There is no greater joy then lifting up the name of Jesus in song. Praying that the Lord would bring a great revival to His church. Psalm 103 Bless the Lord, Oh my Soul and all that is within me…Bless His Holy Name.
Chris Walker
Hospitality Coordinator
CHRIS WALKER
I was born and raised and still live in east London. I grew up hearing of God’s love for me in Sunday school, and where I accepted Jesus into my life at a young age in the little Brethren church on the corner of my street. My summers, for many years, were spent serving in the kitchen at Forest Cliff Camp. This is where I saw faith lived out in people’s lives and where I learned how to cook in large quantity and my passion grew for serving others.
I graduated from H.B.Beal Secondary School with a secretarial certificate and went right into a career of reception and office work. I have also worked in cafeterias, food service and catering.
My husband, Mark and I, have three grown children. We began attending Redemption Bible Chapel as it was in transition from Southwest to Harvest in the summer of 2006. I found the message to be challenging to my Christian walk and enjoyed the worship, walk and work as it pertained to my daily life.
I am thankful for God’s faithfulness over the years. 2 Chronicles 20:6-12, has become one of my favourite passages. Jehoshaphat’s prayer begins by recalling and praising God for all He has brought him through and ends with “we do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.”
I feel incredibly blessed to be able to serve God’s people and the community here at Redemption.
Filomena Wood
Financial Lead
FILOMENA WOOD
Hi, my name is Filomena or Fil for short.
I was born in Vancouver, lived in Portugal until my teen years and finally moved to London, Ontario. I met my best friend and husband at the workplace, and we were married in 2007. Isaac and Rachel are our children and we love to homeschool them along with watching them play their favourite sports, hockey and soccer.
Before we had children, I had multiple jobs in the automotive and aviation industry, some of those being hands on, while others having more of an administrative and financial background.
Our family started attending Redemption, while it was still called Harvest, back in 2008. I have loved being involved and watching the Lord at work in Women’s, Kids and Small Group Ministries.
One of my favourite verses is Galatians 6:9-10 “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
Mike Zurawski
Custodial
MIKE ZURAWSKI
I grew up in London. After attending Medway High School, I went to Fanshawe College for Civil Engineering, along with Police Foundations. I am currently working for the City of London. I also have an interest in Finance which I’m hoping to explore further.
I always knew about Redemption Church and visited occasionally, but decided to make it my home church in 2020.
I had a growing interest for Apologetics early on in my Christian life and have been consistently growing in the topic of ‘giving a reason for my faith’.
I hope to continue serving at Redemption wherever I am needed, and pray to be growing in my faith in Christ.
1 Peter 3:15- “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”
We are called to be ready in all seasons to spread the Gospel to all people, with prayers that they may also come to the knowledge of Christ.
