Northview Staff By Ministry Area
Lead Pastor
Jeff Bucknam
What do I do: I have the honour of preaching God’s Word most weeks and I do a bunch of teaching and leadership stuff with all the time I have left over.
Spouse: The Wonderful Jeanne Bucknam
Children: Ethan, Micah, and Sophie
Education: Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Washington University. Master of Theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. Doctor of Ministry degree from Talbot School of Theology. Also, I have a Certificate of Completion for a First Aid Course.
How I Got Involved at Northview: I was minding my own business teaching and preaching in New Zealand when God opened a door for ministry for me in Canada in 2006. I came to Northview as the Young Adults Pastor that year and was asked to take on the Lead Pastor role in 2008.
Hope and Vision for Northview: That we would glorify God by multiplying healthy local churches in our region and around the world. The more the better.
A Few of My Favourite Things: Jesus Christ. Arsenal FC. Cycling. The Seattle Seahawks and Mariners. Coconut smothered in chocolate. A good story.
Favourite Kind of Music: Reflective piano. Driving guitar (not usually with the reflective piano, but I’m open to it). U2. Switchfoot. Early 90s rap.
Favourite Author: God.
I Like This Quote: “I hope if dogs ever take over the world, and they choose a king, they don’t just go by size, because I bet there are some Chihuahuas with some good ideas.” – Jack Handey
Favourite Scripture: Philippians 3:7-11 – “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. ”
Hometown: The Emerald City. Seattle, Washington, USA.
Email:jbucknam@northview.org
Executive Pastor of Ministry Development
Ezra Okoti
What I do: I am the Interim Executive Pastor of Ministry Development and the Mission Campus Pastor.
Wisdom or bit of advice: A.W Tozer says it best; “For not only does sound reason direct us to refuse the guidance of those who do or teach anything wrong, but it is by all means vital for the lover of truth, regardless of the threat of death, to choose to do and say what is right even before saving his own life.”
Spouse: Tamara Okoti
Favorite preacher: I have a long list of preachers whom I enjoy… here is my short list…
John Piper – he is diligent in teaching the text.
Tim Keller – Has a deep awareness of cultural trends and has a beautiful way of contextualizing the gospel message to challenge cultural trends.
Alistair Begg – Always challenging, always passionate, always down-to-earth.
John Neufeld – A student of the word. Has a deep commitment to expositional preaching.
Favorite author: I love reading biographies, classics by men like J. Edwards, J. Calvin, M. Luther among many others plus a variety of contemporary authors such as D.A Carson, John Piper, A. Mohler, N.T Wright and others.
I like this quote: “Involuntary ignorance is not charged against you as a fault; but your fault is this—-you neglect to inquire into the things you are ignorant of.” Augustine
Hometown: Nairobi Kenya
Email:eokoti@northview.org
Pastor of Discipleship
Kristal Toews
What I do: Pastor of Discipleship
Spouse: Bob Toews
Children: 3 children and a daughter-in-law (Clayton & Taylor, Jessica, Trevor)
Education: BA from Simon Fraser University, Currently completing my Masters of Arts in Theology at Regent College.
How I got involved with Northview: We started attending Northview on Saturday nights in 2008 because our boys were hockey players and Bob coached their teams so they were often busy on Sunday mornings. After a few months I applied for a job at Northview and we have been here ever since.
Hope and vision for Northview: To make disciples who trust in the Lord and do not cease to bear fruit in the midst of heat and drought (Jeremiah 17:7-8)
A few of my favourite things: Reading, Running, Relaxing with family and friends, Cheering for my kid’s sports teams, Camping, Waterskiing, German Shepherd Dogs
Favourite kind of music: Keith and Kristen Getty
Favourite authors: JI Packer, Wendell Berry, Jane Austen, George Eliot
I like this quote: “At crucial moments of choice, most of the business of choosing is already over.” Iris Murdoch
Favourite scripture: Psalm 34:8 – Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Hebrews 10:19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Hometown: Bradner BC
Email:ktoews@northview.org
Campus Pastor
Greg Harris
What I do: East Abbotsford Campus Pastor
Spouse: Sarah
Children: Benjamin (2014), and Emily (2018)
Education: Diploma in Biblical Studies (Columbia Bible College), Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts (Columbia Bible College), MDiv (in progress – Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary)
How I got involved with Northview: My first weekend attending with my family was Johnny Markin’s candidating weekend! I’ve been involved as a volunteer leader in youth, served as a Children’s and Worship Ministries summer worker, and Interned in 2009. I was hired as a Director of Local Missions in 2010, and have held various roles on staff since then.
Hope and vision for Northview: That we would be healthy so that we can be involved in helping multiply healthy local churches.
A few of my favorite things: Days off with my family, going to live sporting events (especially Canucks, Whitecaps, Seahawks, Lions, Canadians, and Mariners), coffee, barbecuing, and movies.
A Few of my lease favorite things: Running, seasonal allergies, gluten.
Favourite kind of music: Anything by Rhythm and News (of which Todd Wickens was a part), or Riven (Jonathan Giesbrecht’s High School band), or Broken Under One (Jonathan Giesbrecht’s other High School band)
Favourite author: Fred Sanders
Favourite scripture: Romans 12:12
Hometown: Abbotsford
Email:gharris@northview.org
Theological and Leadership Development Pastor
Kyle Meeker
What I do: It’s a great honour to serve as Pastor of Discipleship. Theological education summarizes my role, especially in directing our Intern program and Immerse program. Additionally, I help with Thursday Morning Theology, resourcing other Northview departments, and connecting with Columbia Bible College in both the classroom and on the Board of Directors. Why theology? We can’t love what we don’t know (marriage is a great picture of this!). Knowing God should fuel our love for God. Theology prompts doxology. And doxology empowers service. That’s discipleship. That honours God. That is pure joy!
Family: Rebekah and I have a son (Kaden, Middle School) and a daughter (Karis, Elementary School). Rebekah keeps me grounded and growing. Kaden and Karis keep us both on our toes and thankful to be their mom and dad. Family is a daily reminder of seeking God’s glory in all of life.
Education: My bachelor’s degree is from the University of Rochester (New York) where I studied world religions and met a cute young lady in the training room. Even though that first meeting was anything but the typical boy-meets-girl story, we eventually got married (ask Rebekah about the story sometime). My master’s degree is from Dallas Theological Seminary with an emphasis in New Testament and Systematic Theology. And, to see how long I could draw out my education, my doctoral degree is from Talbot School of Theology in Los Angeles, studying the connection (and often collision!) between of faith and culture. But life is one of the best teachers. We are all students of Jesus. And the world is His classroom.
How I got involved with Northview: Born in Southern California, raised in upstate New York, briefly moved to Mongolia after college, and lived in Texas for over a decade, I got to Northview because of the desire to plug into this community as we seek to love God, love one another other, and love the world.
A few of my favourite things: Hanging out with my family and friends. Pondering great mysteries like the Trinity, God’s intense love and deep justice, and why Reese’s Peanut Butter cups taste so good. Laughing at old-school comics (Calvin and Hobbes and The Far Side). Sampling exotic foods, including hot sauces of all varieties. Watching sports (especially basketball) and old Columbo episodes. Exegeting films. Avoiding household painting. And with two active kids, napping about twice a year.
Favourite authors: St. Augustine, Pascal, Ravi Zacharias, John Piper, Tim Keller, Dr. Seuss.
A Favourite Scripture: ‘I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. I do not nullify the grace of God. For if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.’ – Galatians 2:20-21
Email:kmeeker@northview.org
Children's Ministry Pastor
Dwight Stephen
Spouse: Amanda Stephen
Children: We’ve got three beautiful and busy kids (Micah, Aaliayh, & Norah)
Education: After high school (Burnaby Central) spent four and a half years studying Christian Ministries at Briercrest College.
Hope and Vision for Northview: My hope is that Northview would remain a community committed to loving God and making Christ known while at the same time seeing parents transformed by the power of the Gospel, seeing broken relationships restored, seeing men, women, and children come to know Christ personally, and being relentless in our pursuit of reaching those who do not yet know Christ.
What I do: I live out my passion: equipping moms & dads to know and live out their responsibility as laid out in Scripture while at the same time making sure every boy & girl knows the saving grace of Christ!
How I got involved with Northview: Through the providence of mentors the Lord has placed in my life.
A few of my favorite things: Playing with my Kids /Writing/being in nature / cooking great tasting food for others / watching NFL football / listening to good music
Favorite preacher: Matt Chandler / Francis Chan / Tim Keller
Favorite kind of music: Folk / Bluegrass / Alternative
Various other Sentient Beings in the Household: With three kids in the house we don’t feel the need for pets. Kids are enough!
Hometown: Burnaby
Email:dstephen@northview.org
Young Adults Pastor
Andy Steiger
What I do: Pastor of Young Adult Ministries (and Director of Apologetics Canada)
Spouse: Nancy Steiger
Children: Tristan and William
Education: B.A. CBC, Masters BIOLA University, PhD(c) Aberdeen University
How I got involved with Northview: As the director of Apologetics Canada, I started working with Northview to host the Apologetics Canada Conference. Long story short, I stayed the director of Apologetics Canada and became the Young Adults Pastor.
Hope and vision for Northview: Grow young adults in community with God and each other.
A few of my favorite things: Traveling, hiking, snorkeling and paddling with my family.
Favourite kind of music: Currently, I’m listening to the band Chrvches…
Favourite author: Eager Rice Boroughs – I have all 22 volumes of TARZAN!!
I like this quote: “We need more thinkers and writers like Andy Steiger. His new book is a terrific example of how to engage people on the questions that really matter” Lee Strobel. Thinking? Answering Life’s Five Biggest Questions is available on Amazon 
Favourite scripture: John 17:3
Hometown: Portland, Oregon
Email:asteiger@northview.org
Middle School Pastor
Dan Sparrow
What I do: I oversee the Middle School Ministry @ Northview
Spouse: I cannot imagine another person in the world who would put up with all of my craziness besides my wife, Lena, LOL!
Children: My wife & I have seven children. We were blessed with 4 girls first & then 3 boys. We kinda got stuck on the “A” page in the baby naming book for our daughters as their names are Amy, Amanda, Anita, & Allyson. Then our boys are Daniel Jr., Jonathan, & Liam. With ages ranging from 30-9 yrs old we are always guaranteed a household of perpetual excitement & noise. Just the way we like it!!
Education: I have a degree in Youth Work from Columbia Bible College but my real education comes from being surrounded by youth & immersed in their world on an ongoing basis.
How I got involved with Northview: My oldest daughter was attending the middle school youth group and asked if we could attend the church as a family. My wife and I were immediately drawn to the worship and especially the preaching of Pastor Vern. God led us to a perfect fit!
A few of my favorite things: While I do have a kinda manic personality & there’s nothing I like better than a high energy youth night, I also really enjoy just chillaxn at home with Lena & the kids. I also really enjoy a good cup of coffee accompanied by a tasty pastry, hmmm.
Favorite author: Due to the nature of youth ministry, I am always doing research on youth culture and ministry. Books, blogs, magazines, podcasts…I devour them all!
Email:dsparrow@northview.org
Family Pastor
Ron Friesen
What I do: Currently I am a professor at Columbia Bible College where I teach youth ministry. I have been a youth pastor for over 25 years, including 6 years at Northview (1999-2005). I love Youth Ministry.
Spouse: Nancy, whose outer beauty is matched by her inner beauty. I married up big time.
Children: Cody, Luke, Janaya and Mikayla
Education: Kicked out of high school but……..(God is in Control)….. managed to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Religious Education, Grace University, Omaha Nebraska, Masters in Youth Ministry, Trinity Evangelical School, Deerfield, Ill.
Hope and vision for Northview: That Northview would be a church that is centered around Jesus Christ, grounded in the word of God and Spirit-driven for His Glory.
A few of my favourite things: Family time, the lake, camping, storage lockers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Saskatchewan Roughriders, Green Bay Packers and the Toronto Blue Jays
Favourite preacher: Andy Stanley, John Piper, RA. Tozer, Em Bounds, Max Lucado, Tim Keller, Francis Chan
Favourite quote: “For I am crucified with Christ it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me, the life that I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20
Hometown: Born and raised in Saskatchewan where flat is cool and mosquitoes are wild. I love the prairies.
Email:rfriesen@northview.org
Youth Admin Assistant
Haley Friesen
Email:hfriesen@northview.org
Care Pastor
Vic Schellenberg
What I do: My role is called Pastor of Care. Some of the things that I do are visitations, counseling, care funding as well as overseeing ministries such as Care Courses, Memorial Care and Seasons (Seniors).
Spouse: My wonderful spouse’s name is Sandy, whom I met at bible school in Saskatchewan. We have been married for 35 years. She currently works part time at Trinity Western University in the Wellness Center assisting international students in their transition to university.
Children: Nicole and her husband Scotty live here in Abbotsford and are raising three incredible boys. Rachelle (my middle daughter) lives in Vancouver, working and pursuing her Masters in Leadership. Finally, my son Jesse is married to Bradyn and they live in Camrose, Alberta where they pastor as a couple and have the task of raising their three children.
Education: I graduated from Abbotsford Senior Secondary School. Then after working several years went to Bethany Bible Institute intending to only go for one year but, however, felt a strong call to return to school and graduated after three years. While youth pastoring in Ontario I went to Ontario Bible College and Seminary.
How I got involved with Northview: After returning from Ontario we joined a small church that was just starting up called Northview. That was in 1983. We have been involved since that time starting as youth workers, care group leaders, Sunday school teachers, Children’s pastor, and now Care pastor.
A few of my favorite things: I love challenging situations. I enjoy working with my hands, doing things like renovating and carpentry. My leisurely past times are golfing, riding bike, playing tennis and hiking with Sandy and friends.
Favourite author: Paul Tripp
I like this quote: “At the heart of the problem is a problem of the heart.”- Unknown
Email:vschellenberg@northview.org
Care Pastor
Paul Siemens
What I do: Pastor of Care and Prayer. I have the privilege of sitting down with people and helping them see their lives through the lens of Scripture, pointing them to their resurrected Lord, and praying with them. I also oversee the various prayer ministries at Northview. It’s great gig, and the title rhymes.
Family: I’ve been married to Carla for 20 years and counting, and we’ve got 3 daughters and a son. So blessed!
Education: After graduating from MEI in 1994, I just plain ol’ worked for awhile before enrolling at BCIT and graduating with a Diploma in Technical Studies (Telecommunications) in 2001. Then after 11 years working in telecom, we made the leap to seminary and I graduated in May 2015 with a Master of Divinity degree from Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando. We really enjoyed the sun down there!
How I came to Northview: After graduating from RTS in 2015, I was hired as a Teaching Associate at Northview. That was a 2 year temporary position, getting my feet wet in all sorts of ministry opportunities. After about a year in that role, I was finding my heart drawn more and more towards the care ministry, and by the end of those 2 years, I was hired as a full-time Care pastor.
My favourite things: The Bible, dating Carla (yes, still happening), playing games with my kids, theme parks and beaches with the family, 4 Rivers Smokehouse (no other BBQ joint compares), Chick-Fil-A, sweet-tea, watching good football (NFL or CFL).
Authors: John Frame, Tim Keller, Paul David Tripp.
Sports team: This is tough because through the loss of franchises (Grizzlies, Sonics) and mismanagement (Raiders, Cowboys) I struggle to say I love many teams. BUT the BC Lions of the humble CFL will always hold a place in my heart.
Scripture: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8-10)
Quote:
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(Horatio Spafford, It Is Well With My Soul)
Email:psiemens@northview.org
Care Pastor
Thaleia Sawatzky
What I do: Pastor of Care
Spouse: Married to Mark, an accountant in Abbotsford.
Children: 2 young adult kids – Ava and Carter.
Education: I have my Masters degree in Counselling from TWU and I have the privilege of working with women, couples and families that are facing a variety of difficult situations.
How I got involved with Northview: We have attended Northview as a family for over 20 years. 6 years ago, I was asked to join the Care Department. It is a privilege to be able to teach and counsel from a Biblical perspective, and to pray with people about their struggles.
Hope and vision for Northview: I want everyone to know that we all have “muck” in our life – so welcome here with your “muck”!
A few of my favourite things: my family, a good book or tv show, walking or going for coffee with a friend.
Favourite kind of music: Spotify – mixed worship playlist.
Favourite author: too many to name since I read a lot!
I like this quote: He>I (John 3:30 (ESV) He must increase, but I must decrease)
Favourite scripture: Colossians 1:28, 29 “He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me”.
Hometown: North Vancouver.
Email:tsawatzky@northview.org
Graphic Design
Janine Boudreau
Email:jboudreau@northview.org
Facilities Project Director
Dave Baerg
Northview Staff By Primary Campus
Lead Pastor
Jeff Bucknam
What do I do: I have the honour of preaching God’s Word most weeks and I do a bunch of teaching and leadership stuff with all the time I have left over.
Spouse: The Wonderful Jeanne Bucknam
Children: Ethan, Micah, and Sophie
Education: Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Washington University. Master of Theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. Doctor of Ministry degree from Talbot School of Theology. Also, I have a Certificate of Completion for a First Aid Course.
How I Got Involved at Northview: I was minding my own business teaching and preaching in New Zealand when God opened a door for ministry for me in Canada in 2006. I came to Northview as the Young Adults Pastor that year and was asked to take on the Lead Pastor role in 2008.
Hope and Vision for Northview: That we would glorify God by multiplying healthy local churches in our region and around the world. The more the better.
A Few of My Favourite Things: Jesus Christ. Arsenal FC. Cycling. The Seattle Seahawks and Mariners. Coconut smothered in chocolate. A good story.
Favourite Kind of Music: Reflective piano. Driving guitar (not usually with the reflective piano, but I’m open to it). U2. Switchfoot. Early 90s rap.
Favourite Author: God.
I Like This Quote: “I hope if dogs ever take over the world, and they choose a king, they don’t just go by size, because I bet there are some Chihuahuas with some good ideas.” – Jack Handey
Favourite Scripture: Philippians 3:7-11 – “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. ”
Hometown: The Emerald City. Seattle, Washington, USA.
Email:jbucknam@northview.org
Executive Pastor of Ministry Development
Ezra Okoti
What I do: I am the Interim Executive Pastor of Ministry Development and the Mission Campus Pastor.
Wisdom or bit of advice: A.W Tozer says it best; “For not only does sound reason direct us to refuse the guidance of those who do or teach anything wrong, but it is by all means vital for the lover of truth, regardless of the threat of death, to choose to do and say what is right even before saving his own life.”
Spouse: Tamara Okoti
Favorite preacher: I have a long list of preachers whom I enjoy… here is my short list…
John Piper – he is diligent in teaching the text.
Tim Keller – Has a deep awareness of cultural trends and has a beautiful way of contextualizing the gospel message to challenge cultural trends.
Alistair Begg – Always challenging, always passionate, always down-to-earth.
John Neufeld – A student of the word. Has a deep commitment to expositional preaching.
Favorite author: I love reading biographies, classics by men like J. Edwards, J. Calvin, M. Luther among many others plus a variety of contemporary authors such as D.A Carson, John Piper, A. Mohler, N.T Wright and others.
I like this quote: “Involuntary ignorance is not charged against you as a fault; but your fault is this—-you neglect to inquire into the things you are ignorant of.” Augustine
Hometown: Nairobi Kenya
Email:eokoti@northview.org
Young Adults Pastor
Andy Steiger
What I do: Pastor of Young Adult Ministries (and Director of Apologetics Canada)
Spouse: Nancy Steiger
Children: Tristan and William
Education: B.A. CBC, Masters BIOLA University, PhD(c) Aberdeen University
How I got involved with Northview: As the director of Apologetics Canada, I started working with Northview to host the Apologetics Canada Conference. Long story short, I stayed the director of Apologetics Canada and became the Young Adults Pastor.
Hope and vision for Northview: Grow young adults in community with God and each other.
A few of my favorite things: Traveling, hiking, snorkeling and paddling with my family.
Favourite kind of music: Currently, I’m listening to the band Chrvches…
Favourite author: Eager Rice Boroughs – I have all 22 volumes of TARZAN!!
I like this quote: “We need more thinkers and writers like Andy Steiger. His new book is a terrific example of how to engage people on the questions that really matter” Lee Strobel. Thinking? Answering Life’s Five Biggest Questions is available on Amazon
Favourite scripture: John 17:3
Hometown: Portland, Oregon
Email:asteiger@northview.org
Pastor of Discipleship
Kristal Toews
What I do: Pastor of Discipleship
Spouse: Bob Toews
Children: 3 children and a daughter-in-law (Clayton & Taylor, Jessica, Trevor)
Education: BA from Simon Fraser University, Currently completing my Masters of Arts in Theology at Regent College.
How I got involved with Northview: We started attending Northview on Saturday nights in 2008 because our boys were hockey players and Bob coached their teams so they were often busy on Sunday mornings. After a few months I applied for a job at Northview and we have been here ever since.
Hope and vision for Northview: To make disciples who trust in the Lord and do not cease to bear fruit in the midst of heat and drought (Jeremiah 17:7-8)
A few of my favourite things: Reading, Running, Relaxing with family and friends, Cheering for my kid’s sports teams, Camping, Waterskiing, German Shepherd Dogs
Favourite kind of music: Keith and Kristen Getty
Favourite authors: JI Packer, Wendell Berry, Jane Austen, George Eliot
I like this quote: “At crucial moments of choice, most of the business of choosing is already over.” Iris Murdoch
Favourite scripture: Psalm 34:8 – Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Hebrews 10:19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Hometown: Bradner BC
Email:ktoews@northview.org
Middle School Pastor
Dan Sparrow
What I do: I oversee the Middle School Ministry @ Northview
Spouse: I cannot imagine another person in the world who would put up with all of my craziness besides my wife, Lena, LOL!
Children: My wife & I have seven children. We were blessed with 4 girls first & then 3 boys. We kinda got stuck on the “A” page in the baby naming book for our daughters as their names are Amy, Amanda, Anita, & Allyson. Then our boys are Daniel Jr., Jonathan, & Liam. With ages ranging from 30-9 yrs old we are always guaranteed a household of perpetual excitement & noise. Just the way we like it!!
Education: I have a degree in Youth Work from Columbia Bible College but my real education comes from being surrounded by youth & immersed in their world on an ongoing basis.
How I got involved with Northview: My oldest daughter was attending the middle school youth group and asked if we could attend the church as a family. My wife and I were immediately drawn to the worship and especially the preaching of Pastor Vern. God led us to a perfect fit!
A few of my favorite things: While I do have a kinda manic personality & there’s nothing I like better than a high energy youth night, I also really enjoy just chillaxn at home with Lena & the kids. I also really enjoy a good cup of coffee accompanied by a tasty pastry, hmmm.
Favorite author: Due to the nature of youth ministry, I am always doing research on youth culture and ministry. Books, blogs, magazines, podcasts…I devour them all!
Email:dsparrow@northview.org
Family Pastor
Ron Friesen
What I do: Currently I am a professor at Columbia Bible College where I teach youth ministry. I have been a youth pastor for over 25 years, including 6 years at Northview (1999-2005). I love Youth Ministry.
Spouse: Nancy, whose outer beauty is matched by her inner beauty. I married up big time.
Children: Cody, Luke, Janaya and Mikayla
Education: Kicked out of high school but……..(God is in Control)….. managed to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Religious Education, Grace University, Omaha Nebraska, Masters in Youth Ministry, Trinity Evangelical School, Deerfield, Ill.
Hope and vision for Northview: That Northview would be a church that is centered around Jesus Christ, grounded in the word of God and Spirit-driven for His Glory.
A few of my favourite things: Family time, the lake, camping, storage lockers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Saskatchewan Roughriders, Green Bay Packers and the Toronto Blue Jays
Favourite preacher: Andy Stanley, John Piper, RA. Tozer, Em Bounds, Max Lucado, Tim Keller, Francis Chan
Favourite quote: “For I am crucified with Christ it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me, the life that I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” Galatians 2:20
Hometown: Born and raised in Saskatchewan where flat is cool and mosquitoes are wild. I love the prairies.
Email:rfriesen@northview.org
Care Pastor
Vic Schellenberg
What I do: My role is called Pastor of Care. Some of the things that I do are visitations, counseling, care funding as well as overseeing ministries such as Care Courses, Memorial Care and Seasons (Seniors).
Spouse: My wonderful spouse’s name is Sandy, whom I met at bible school in Saskatchewan. We have been married for 35 years. She currently works part time at Trinity Western University in the Wellness Center assisting international students in their transition to university.
Children: Nicole and her husband Scotty live here in Abbotsford and are raising three incredible boys. Rachelle (my middle daughter) lives in Vancouver, working and pursuing her Masters in Leadership. Finally, my son Jesse is married to Bradyn and they live in Camrose, Alberta where they pastor as a couple and have the task of raising their three children.
Education: I graduated from Abbotsford Senior Secondary School. Then after working several years went to Bethany Bible Institute intending to only go for one year but, however, felt a strong call to return to school and graduated after three years. While youth pastoring in Ontario I went to Ontario Bible College and Seminary.
How I got involved with Northview: After returning from Ontario we joined a small church that was just starting up called Northview. That was in 1983. We have been involved since that time starting as youth workers, care group leaders, Sunday school teachers, Children’s pastor, and now Care pastor.
A few of my favorite things: I love challenging situations. I enjoy working with my hands, doing things like renovating and carpentry. My leisurely past times are golfing, riding bike, playing tennis and hiking with Sandy and friends.
Favourite author: Paul Tripp
I like this quote: “At the heart of the problem is a problem of the heart.”- Unknown
Email:vschellenberg@northview.org
Children's Ministry Pastor
Dwight Stephen
Spouse: Amanda Stephen
Children: We’ve got three beautiful and busy kids (Micah, Aaliayh, & Norah)
Education: After high school (Burnaby Central) spent four and a half years studying Christian Ministries at Briercrest College.
Hope and Vision for Northview: My hope is that Northview would remain a community committed to loving God and making Christ known while at the same time seeing parents transformed by the power of the Gospel, seeing broken relationships restored, seeing men, women, and children come to know Christ personally, and being relentless in our pursuit of reaching those who do not yet know Christ.
What I do: I live out my passion: equipping moms & dads to know and live out their responsibility as laid out in Scripture while at the same time making sure every boy & girl knows the saving grace of Christ!
How I got involved with Northview: Through the providence of mentors the Lord has placed in my life.
A few of my favorite things: Playing with my Kids /Writing/being in nature / cooking great tasting food for others / watching NFL football / listening to good music
Favorite preacher: Matt Chandler / Francis Chan / Tim Keller
Favorite kind of music: Folk / Bluegrass / Alternative
Various other Sentient Beings in the Household: With three kids in the house we don’t feel the need for pets. Kids are enough!
Hometown: Burnaby
Email:dstephen@northview.org
Theological and Leadership Development Pastor
Kyle Meeker
What I do: It’s a great honour to serve as Pastor of Discipleship. Theological education summarizes my role, especially in directing our Intern program and Immerse program. Additionally, I help with Thursday Morning Theology, resourcing other Northview departments, and connecting with Columbia Bible College in both the classroom and on the Board of Directors. Why theology? We can’t love what we don’t know (marriage is a great picture of this!). Knowing God should fuel our love for God. Theology prompts doxology. And doxology empowers service. That’s discipleship. That honours God. That is pure joy!
Family: Rebekah and I have a son (Kaden, Middle School) and a daughter (Karis, Elementary School). Rebekah keeps me grounded and growing. Kaden and Karis keep us both on our toes and thankful to be their mom and dad. Family is a daily reminder of seeking God’s glory in all of life.
Education: My bachelor’s degree is from the University of Rochester (New York) where I studied world religions and met a cute young lady in the training room. Even though that first meeting was anything but the typical boy-meets-girl story, we eventually got married (ask Rebekah about the story sometime). My master’s degree is from Dallas Theological Seminary with an emphasis in New Testament and Systematic Theology. And, to see how long I could draw out my education, my doctoral degree is from Talbot School of Theology in Los Angeles, studying the connection (and often collision!) between of faith and culture. But life is one of the best teachers. We are all students of Jesus. And the world is His classroom.
How I got involved with Northview: Born in Southern California, raised in upstate New York, briefly moved to Mongolia after college, and lived in Texas for over a decade, I got to Northview because of the desire to plug into this community as we seek to love God, love one another other, and love the world.
A few of my favourite things: Hanging out with my family and friends. Pondering great mysteries like the Trinity, God’s intense love and deep justice, and why Reese’s Peanut Butter cups taste so good. Laughing at old-school comics (Calvin and Hobbes and The Far Side). Sampling exotic foods, including hot sauces of all varieties. Watching sports (especially basketball) and old Columbo episodes. Exegeting films. Avoiding household painting. And with two active kids, napping about twice a year.
Favourite authors: St. Augustine, Pascal, Ravi Zacharias, John Piper, Tim Keller, Dr. Seuss.
A Favourite Scripture: ‘I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. I do not nullify the grace of God. For if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.’ – Galatians 2:20-21
Email:kmeeker@northview.org
Facilities Project Director
Dave Baerg
Youth Admin Assistant
Haley Friesen
Email:hfriesen@northview.org
Graphic Design
Janine Boudreau
Email:jboudreau@northview.org
Care Pastor
Paul Siemens
What I do: Pastor of Care and Prayer. I have the privilege of sitting down with people and helping them see their lives through the lens of Scripture, pointing them to their resurrected Lord, and praying with them. I also oversee the various prayer ministries at Northview. It’s great gig, and the title rhymes.
Family: I’ve been married to Carla for 20 years and counting, and we’ve got 3 daughters and a son. So blessed!
Education: After graduating from MEI in 1994, I just plain ol’ worked for awhile before enrolling at BCIT and graduating with a Diploma in Technical Studies (Telecommunications) in 2001. Then after 11 years working in telecom, we made the leap to seminary and I graduated in May 2015 with a Master of Divinity degree from Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando. We really enjoyed the sun down there!
How I came to Northview: After graduating from RTS in 2015, I was hired as a Teaching Associate at Northview. That was a 2 year temporary position, getting my feet wet in all sorts of ministry opportunities. After about a year in that role, I was finding my heart drawn more and more towards the care ministry, and by the end of those 2 years, I was hired as a full-time Care pastor.
My favourite things: The Bible, dating Carla (yes, still happening), playing games with my kids, theme parks and beaches with the family, 4 Rivers Smokehouse (no other BBQ joint compares), Chick-Fil-A, sweet-tea, watching good football (NFL or CFL).
Authors: John Frame, Tim Keller, Paul David Tripp.
Sports team: This is tough because through the loss of franchises (Grizzlies, Sonics) and mismanagement (Raiders, Cowboys) I struggle to say I love many teams. BUT the BC Lions of the humble CFL will always hold a place in my heart.
Scripture: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8-10)
Quote:
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(Horatio Spafford, It Is Well With My Soul)
Email:psiemens@northview.org
Campus Pastor
Greg Harris
What I do: East Abbotsford Campus Pastor
Spouse: Sarah
Children: Benjamin (2014), and Emily (2018)
Education: Diploma in Biblical Studies (Columbia Bible College), Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts (Columbia Bible College), MDiv (in progress – Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary)
How I got involved with Northview: My first weekend attending with my family was Johnny Markin’s candidating weekend! I’ve been involved as a volunteer leader in youth, served as a Children’s and Worship Ministries summer worker, and Interned in 2009. I was hired as a Director of Local Missions in 2010, and have held various roles on staff since then.
Hope and vision for Northview: That we would be healthy so that we can be involved in helping multiply healthy local churches.
A few of my favorite things: Days off with my family, going to live sporting events (especially Canucks, Whitecaps, Seahawks, Lions, Canadians, and Mariners), coffee, barbecuing, and movies.
A Few of my lease favorite things: Running, seasonal allergies, gluten.
Favourite kind of music: Anything by Rhythm and News (of which Todd Wickens was a part), or Riven (Jonathan Giesbrecht’s High School band), or Broken Under One (Jonathan Giesbrecht’s other High School band)
Favourite author: Fred Sanders
Favourite scripture: Romans 12:12
Hometown: Abbotsford
Email:gharris@northview.org
Care Pastor
Thaleia Sawatzky
What I do: Pastor of Care
Spouse: Married to Mark, an accountant in Abbotsford.
Children: 2 young adult kids – Ava and Carter.
Education: I have my Masters degree in Counselling from TWU and I have the privilege of working with women, couples and families that are facing a variety of difficult situations.
How I got involved with Northview: We have attended Northview as a family for over 20 years. 6 years ago, I was asked to join the Care Department. It is a privilege to be able to teach and counsel from a Biblical perspective, and to pray with people about their struggles.
Hope and vision for Northview: I want everyone to know that we all have “muck” in our life – so welcome here with your “muck”!
A few of my favourite things: my family, a good book or tv show, walking or going for coffee with a friend.
Favourite kind of music: Spotify – mixed worship playlist.
Favourite author: too many to name since I read a lot!
I like this quote: He>I (John 3:30 (ESV) He must increase, but I must decrease)
Favourite scripture: Colossians 1:28, 29 “He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me”.
Hometown: North Vancouver.
Email:tsawatzky@northview.org