Hello and Welcome!
My name is Rev. Stephen Sparks of St. John's United Church. I was born and raised in Kitchener, Ontario. During my early years, I lived in several other communities: New Hamburg, Toronto and Kingston, Ontario. I graduated from the University of Waterloo with a B.A. in Political Science and from Queen's University at Queen's Theological College with a Masters of Divinity degree. I have served in Alberta since my graduation, as a Ordained Minister for the United Church of Canada some 34 years. I am married to Melissa who grew up on a local farm outside of Vegreville, Alberta whom I met while living in Redwater.
I provide heart - felt, thought provoking sermons that relate to today's lived context. While my order of service is traditional, I also incorporate rich music and the sanctity of prayer with a brief children's story time. I enjoy biblical study, congregational transformation, a variety of workshops and spiritual practice.
I provide counselling, guidance and a warm open presence that is accepting of all. Weddings and funerals are never refused, and tenderly administered with compassion and presence of the Holy. I also like to have a lot of fun; to laugh and rejoice; to convey a empathetic ear and an open heart to the weak and brokenhearted. I also love life in all of its complexities and profound wonderment. I especially enjoy sharing my personal experience and faith journey as a window to the Holy.
Please feel free to join us on the journey that is our faith.
