About
Our Staff
Chad McLaren
Chad is all about seeing God transform people’s lives. He and his wife Melissa have been in Stratford since 2013 and love the city. He is proud to be the father of two amazing kids, Myles & Emma who will always keep the party going! Dangerously a Senator’s fan in these parts of town, Chad makes things right by repping our beloved Blue Jays.
Melissa McLaren
Melissa is passionate about spending time with her favourite people in the world, her husband Chad and kids Myles and Emma. She has a heart of worship and believes thatwhen people get a glimpse of who God really is that He will change their life forever. Her heart is also for women to become fully daughter’s of God, so that nothing can hold them back from fulfilling God’s destiny on their lives.
Charles Swartwood
Charles is the legend, and has pastored here at Bethel for over 25 years. He loves his wife Grace and their kids, who have their own kids! Charles loves the city of Stratford and everyone loves him! He is also the Stratford Police Chaplin!
Carlo Rosati
Carlo served as our Youth Pastor for 6 years, and now has transitioned to our Site Pastor for Bethel St. Marys launching in 2023! He loves his wife, Madison, their dog, Moose, and all things music and tech. Carlo is an avid football fan, but is still grieving the last World Cup… where Italy did not even qualify.
Ashley Speck
Ashley has been married to her best friend, Alex, since 2013, and now they have the most adorable and lovable kids, Keian, Landon, and Aniah. She absolutely loves children and has a passion to see them know, experience, and share Jesus. Ashley is driven to make Bethel Kids a safe place for all children! Her siblings say she is the human form of Pinterest because she absolutely loves crafting and being creative.
Lorraine Nolan
Lorraine and her and her husband John (best known for shredding guitar solos on Sunday’s) have called Bethel home for many years. She has a tender spirit and heart for people to encounter the presence of God. She also helps make sure all things financial are a-okay!
Catherine Jamieson
Catherine is the most welcoming person! She will be the first person you meet as you walk through the doors during the week. She helps keep us all on track when it comes to the calendar and communicating. She loves to read and will keep you updated on all the new great releases!
Sandy Bender
Sandy is the newest member on our team and is finishing his degree with Masters College and Seminary. He grew up at Bethel and loves serving the local church. He is passionate about youth ministry, music, and has been a Toronto Maple Leafs fan all his life. Sandy is the serves as a Youth Pastor in his Assistant Pastor position and would love to connect with you!
Jim Williams
Jim is a seasoned pastor who loves Jesus, his wife and two adult kids. Jim has a pastor’s heart; passionate about seeing people find Christ, grow in their faith and connect with the family of God. Jim currently serves as the Connections Pastor and would love to help you discover how to take your next step on your faith journey.
Our Vision
Here at Bethel Church we exist to help equip people with purpose to know that God has an incredible plan for your life, passion to live life to its fullest, and power by the Holy Spirit to accomplish great things!
We Value
The Bible
We value the Bible as the final authority in all aspects of life. We value Biblical preaching and teaching. We seek to be innovative, creative and flexible as we follow scriptural principles.
our approach
We will administer the teachings or Scripture with accuracy, clarity, and in an equipping fashion. We will do this in a way that emphasizes grace and obedience. (2 Tim 3:16-17)
Evangelism
We value Evangelism that involves outreach at home and mission abroad.
our approach
We will provide environments that invite people into the presence of God and clearly communicate the born-again experience. (Mat 28:29; Mark 16:15)
Transformation
We value the Transformation of individuals, families and communities, brought about by salvation and the Work of the Holy Spirit. We desire that everyone would experience that abundant life in Christ.
our approach
We will meet and disciple people into healthy, God-honouring lifestyles that include physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. (Rom 12:1-2)
The Holy Spirit
We value the indwelling, leading, and empowering of the Person of the Holy Spirit. We will encourage the gifts and the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives.
our approach
We will be open to the moving of the Holy Spirit. We will cultivate understanding of the ministry of the Holy Spirit and provide opportunities for receiving the Baptism of the Spirit. (Acts 1:8; 2:4)
Effectiveness
We value Effective Servant Leaders and Volunteers. Since God gave His best (Jesus Christ) we will seek to honor Him by Pursuing effective and excellence in all our ministries and activities.
our approach
We will adapt our ministry to effectively meet those changing trends in the culture that God has places in us. Our facilities will reflect and support current and future growth. (Col 3:23,24; John 17:15)
Love
We value the command of Christ to love God with all our being and to love others as we love ourselves.
our approach
We seek to provide opportunities to show love for God through worship and show love for others through fellowship. (Mark 12:30-31)