Our Leadership
Our Staff
Dale Dawson
Lead Pastor
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
It was not always easy. Our church was small. I had very few Christian friends. I often felt the disparity between my faith and the surrounding world. I tried to live the way I should but often failed. I tried to share my faith as a teenager but felt unprepared and insecure. I knew God was with me but I felt alone and isolated in my faith.
Nearing the end of high school a group of strong Christian young people from a Bible College in Toronto visited my church. I was deeply impressed by their warmth and vibrant Christian life. They invited me to consider studying the Bible and deepening my faith for a year at the school before going off to University. It was life altering! I learned to love the word of God and delight in Christian fellowship far behind what I had experienced earlier. Finding a nurturing community of committed followers of Jesus Christ and having dedicated time to study the Scriptures proved to be a transformational setting for my spiritual and theological growth. It was there that I first sensed God‘s call to Christian ministry.
For a while I resisted. I went off to University, having my faith reinforced in Christian community and truth. That preparation served me well as my Arts and Science studies presented challenges to the authority of Scripture and the uniqueness of Christ. My faith was tested. Significant doubts arose. But the truth of God continued to shine brighter than the ill-formed charges against it. I grew more committed to Christ and his word and more eager to understand the deeper truths of the Bible. I grew more confident in my faith and more desirous to live for God in all my life. I wanted every moment to count for the glory of God.
I decided to continue taking courses in Bible and Theology while I was finishing my undergraduate degree at the University. It was there at the Bible College, where I met the love of my life and future wife, Linda. At the same time I was continuing to sense the call of God to serve him with my life as a pastor and teacher. I shifted further into theological studies. I couldn’t get enough. Eventually I gained clarity about God‘s call upon my life to serve as a minister of the gospel, and pursued theological training as my primary focus.
Linda and I married and entered almost immediately into life as a ministry couple. God has blessed us with four amazing children, two incredible daughters-in-law and three precious grandchildren. We have served in various Baptist churches for over 35 years. We are living proof of the goodness and faithfulness of God which prevails despite our weaknesses and failings.
I accepted the role of Lead Pastor at Uxbridge Baptist Church in September 2007. Our time here has been a truly wonderful experience of loving friendships, rich Bible-centred ministry and fruitful ministry partnership as we have sought the Lord and journeyed together. We give thanks and glory to God for his incredible kindness and love through these many years.
Dale Dawson
Lead Pastor
Darren Kendall
Community Pastor
Life Story
I grew up in a small town just outside of Ottawa, and attended church with my family for as long as I can remember. And yet, I struggled with what it meant to really have a relationship with God. I knew He existed, but I was more focused on finding my place in the world than learning what it meant to follow Jesus. And so my life started going in two different directions. On Sunday, I went to church and learned how to play the part of a good Christian, and during the rest of the week I followed my friends in whatever they were doing.
By the time highschool came around, my life was a mess. I knew something was wrong, but I figured things would get better eventually so I pushed forward. And then two things happened that changed everything. First, I broke my femur playing hockey and fell into a dark depression. Sports were my life and without them I questioned if I had any value at all. But even though I was furious at God for letting me get hurt, His presence became a source of comfort for me. And in the weakness of my recovery, I learned to depend on God’s strength. He wasn’t just someone I learned about on Sunday mornings, he was my heavenly Father who loved me and sought a relationship with me.
The second thing that happened was that I participated in Medeba’s Summer Leadership in Training program. And at Medeba I was surrounded by a loving community of people who truly lived the adventure that God has called each one of us to. I learned that God didn’t just want part of me, but He wanted my whole life. And so, at the age of 16 I was baptised as I committed my everything to Him.
The next year, I returned to Medeba as an assistant cabin leader, and met my future wife Carina. Together we worked at Medeba for five summers, as I attended Tyndale University, majoring in Biblical Studies and Theology, with a focus in Youth Ministry and a Minor in Philosophy. Carina and I were married in 2014, and soon after we moved to Welland ON where I was hired as a Youth & Young Adult Pastor.
When COVID hit, we had just moved to Michigan after I had accepted a job at Michindoh Conference Center as the Summer Camp General Director. And yet, God is faithful. Michindoh continued to offer programming in a limited capacity and we witnessed many kids giving their lives to Christ summer after summer. While we were in Michigan, I graduated from Spring Arbor University with a Masters in Leadership and Communication.
Carina and I came to Uxbridge Baptist Church in 2023 after our temporary work visa had run its course. From our very first visit, we immediately fell in love with Uxbridge, and how God was working in and through the family of UBC. Carina and I have 4 children; Ryder, Lexi, Willa and Braeya.
Darren Kendall
Community Pastor
Phil Pharoah
Youth Pastor
Life Story
I was born and raised in a Christian family in Guelph, my family was very involved in the local church, and it has been a staple in my life for as long as I can remember. Around the age of 5 my parents and I were discussing what it means to have a relationship with Jesus, and the value that comes from knowing him. I accepted Jesus into my life, and was baptized a few years later.
My family was involved in many ministries at the Church, and I slowly fell instep with them volunteering and trying to find the ministry I’d like to serve with. From tech to kids, I would use my gits to the best of my abilities, but always felt there was more I could do, and while these ministries were vital, and important I didn’t feel God was calling me to stay with them.
It wasn’t till grade 11 that my Youth Pastor asked if I’d work with him, and see how youth Ministry runs that I really hit my stride. Grades 6-8 became a place I could invest, and share all that God was doing in my life, I felt this was the place for me, and where I could serve God to the best of my abilities. I graduated Bible College, and am blessed to call UBC my Church to serve.
Phil Pharoah
Youth Pastor
Brooke Weir
Children’s Director
Life Story
I grew up in Uxbridge all my life and was raised in a Christian household. As a young teenager I began to follow Jesus seriously with my life and continued to grow in my faith. Through the low moments and struggles that life brings I saw him drawing me closer to him and shaping my heart. In high school a friend invited me to UBC’s youth group. That invitation led to countless things that impacted my life substantially. I began to co-lead Kids dance and my family started attending UBC. I’m so grateful for the amazing family that we have at this church! Finishing highschool and taking a gap year, I felt God leading me into ministry. I graduated Bible college in 2024 and am so excited to be serving as the Kids Ministry Director here at UBC!
Brooke Weir
Children’s Director
Adelle Lauchlan
Church Administrator
Steve Oad
Church Custodian
Brittney Jones
Worship Director
Matt McTaggart
AV Director
Our Elders
Keith Daly
Elder
Life Story
I was raised in an Irish Catholic home, the third of seven children. My upbringing was very strict, catholic home, catholic church, catholic schools. I was looking for an ‘off ramp’ from about the age of fourteen. Emigration to Canada came at the age of twenty-three. Marriage followed a year later. But I married a girl from the Church-of-England. We attended both churches for a while. But settled in the Anglican church in Agincourt.
I was pulled into youth ministry and teaching Sunday school – neither of which I had any personal experience. It was at an annual youth retreat, during one of the youth sessions, when the speaker asked a question I had never heard before. He asked, “Have you received Jesus Christ as your personal saviour?” This was the ‘gap’ in my faith that was missing. I had been in church every Sunday for thirty-two years and never heard that question. I immediately responded in my spirit. That was the moment of my salvation.
My faith grew rapidly, I read the bible and many Christian books. As my faith in Jesus grew my Sunday school teaching changed dramatically. Because I taught from the scripture, and considered it the authoritative eternal Word of God, I ran afoul of ‘Anglican thought.’ I was soon looking for another ‘off ramp.’
Our family arrived at Uxbridge Baptist in August 1995. I was immediately impacted by the strong biblical preaching of the pastors. UBC became our new spiritual home. From UBC I was called into pastoral ministry and served in Newmarket for 10 years, returning to UBC in 2019. I now serve on the Elders Board.
Keith Daily
Tim Daily
Dale Dawson
Elder
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
It was not always easy. Our church was small. I had very few Christian friends. I often felt the disparity between my faith and the surrounding world. I tried to live the way I should but often failed. I tried to share my faith as a teenager but felt unprepared and insecure. I knew God was with me but I felt alone and isolated in my faith.
Nearing the end of high school a group of strong Christian young people from a Bible College in Toronto visited my church. I was deeply impressed by their warmth and vibrant Christian life. They invited me to consider studying the Bible and deepening my faith for a year at the school before going off to University. It was life altering! I learned to love the word of God and delight in Christian fellowship far behind what I had experienced earlier. Finding a nurturing community of committed followers of Jesus Christ and having dedicated time to study the Scriptures proved to be a transformational setting for my spiritual and theological growth. It was there that I first sensed God‘s call to Christian ministry.
For a while I resisted. I went off to University, having my faith reinforced in Christian community and truth. That preparation served me well as my Arts and Science studies presented challenges to the authority of Scripture and the uniqueness of Christ. My faith was tested. Significant doubts arose. But the truth of God continued to shine brighter than the ill-formed charges against it. I grew more committed to Christ and his word and more eager to understand the deeper truths of the Bible. I grew more confident in my faith and more desirous to live for God in all my life. I wanted every moment to count for the glory of God.
I decided to continue taking courses in Bible and Theology while I was finishing my undergraduate degree at the University. It was there at the Bible College, where I met the love of my life and future wife, Linda. At the same time I was continuing to sense the call of God to serve him with my life as a pastor and teacher. I shifted further into theological studies. I couldn’t get enough. Eventually I gained clarity about God‘s call upon my life to serve as a minister of the gospel, and pursued theological training as my primary focus.
Linda and I married and entered almost immediately into life as a ministry couple. God has blessed us with four amazing children, two incredible daughters-in-law and three precious grandchildren. We have served in various Baptist churches for over 35 years. We are living proof of the goodness and faithfulness of God which prevails despite our weaknesses and failings.
I accepted the role of Lead Pastor at Uxbridge Baptist Church in September 2007. Our time here has been a truly wonderful experience of loving friendships, rich Bible-centred ministry and fruitful ministry partnership as we have sought the Lord and journeyed together. We give thanks and glory to God for his incredible kindness and love through these many years.
Dale Dawson
Tim Maxson
Elder
Life Story
I grew up in Ethiopia, East Africa. My parents were missionaries there for 15 (+/-) years. I went to a mission boarding school in Ethiopia for all my elementary school years plus 9th grade. It was in my 5-6th grade that I first professed to be a believer in Jesus, like many young people I would doubt my sincerity and recommit my life to the Lord several times after that.
It was in my High school years that I more fully understood that it was not about me but about what Jesus had done for me. Having said that my sense of resting in His work rather than my actions and words is something that I still continue to realize more and more. The rest of my high school years were in California in public and Christian schools.
Immediately after high school I volunteered to work in a refugee/ famine relief camp in Somalia, East Africa where the Lord also brought Dale, my now wife into my life. When I finished my time in Somalia I came up to Canada and Dale and I were married shortly after. We spent our first few years of Marriage doing various short term mission assignments.
We then started our Family and have lived in and around The Uxbridge area for the past 42 years, our 2 children are now grown up, Married and have 6 children between their families. We have been blessed to be a part of Uxbridge Baptist for the past 35 years. We are so glad to be a part of a Bible believing, gospel centred church.
Tim Maxson
Brett McKenney
Ron Wagner
Elder
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
After finishing High School I attended the Lay Leadership Training Course at the Baptist Training Institute in Brantford, where I met my wife, who was already a Registered Nurse. We married the following September, and I spent 3 years at Ryerson Polytechnical in the Architectural Technology Course. During those years we were members at Temple Baptist Church in Toronto and gave leadership to the Youth Group and Sunday School. Next came a move to the Uxbridge Area and ministry opportunities at UBC – Sunday School Teacher for Teens, Sunday School Superintendent, Adult leadership for the Youth Group, Deacons Board, and Building Committees for two additions to the UBC facility.
I thank God for a wonderful wife, who has used her gifting and commitment to Christ to walk with me in this journey of faith and service to Christ. In my bedroom, as a child, there was an old calendar hanging on the wall with the words “Only one life, Twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.” I have experienced that and pray that I will seize the opportunities that He continues to give me during my lifetime.
Ron Wagner
Bill
Our Council
Dave Burns
Jon Grove
Council
Life Story
I have lived in Uxbridge for most of my life and have been attending UBC for over 30 years. I attended youth group and was baptized here in 1997! This church has played a big role in shaping my faith, and now that I am serving in leadership I want be an encouragement and glorify God in all I do. My desire is to honor Him through faithful service and want to help spread the name of Jesus and live out the truth of the gospel.
Jon Grove
Heather Hockley
Council
Life Story
I grew up in Goodwood. In my younger years my mom would gather up my brother, sister, and me on Sundays and head off to her family’s church about an hour away. Not having a local christian community, it became very easy to live a ‘church life’ on Sundays and not give Christianity much thought during the week. Eventually I stopped going to church. However, God had not let go of the youngster who had asked Jesus into her heart. In high school I met my future husband Dale who was not ashamed of his faith. Eventually I returned to attending church regularly with him at Goodwood Baptist Church. We married young and were blessed with a daughter and son. Our young family settled into faithful church attendance and serving in various ministries.
It was at Goodwood Baptist that I found myself one Sunday sitting front and centre during a sermon on baptism (very unusual for a tradition back-seat Baptist!). I could not ignore God asking how I could call myself a Christian but not take the next step and be baptized. And so I finally made my public declaration that Jesus had died but rose from the dead triumphant over my sin.
Over 20 years ago, we began attending Uxbridge Baptist because we believed it was important that our (then) teenage kids were a part of a church youth program with their high school peers. I am now in the grandparent years and with age comes the blessing of having lots of life to look back upon and acknowledge God’s presence, provision and protection. God’s not done working on me yet! I am still growing and maturing.
Heather Hockley
Brad Jones
Brad Lawerence
Elder
Life Story
I grew up in the beautiful landscapes of Northern Ontario, raised by loving Christian parents who both modeled faith, service with a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit. The lessons learned from my early experiences formed my outlook and perception of the world while igniting my sense of curiosity. Involvement in our local church was always modeled and encouraged throughout the year. Many memorable summer sessions at Bible camp added vibrant chapters to my early life, and through Vacation Bible School, I made a confession of faith and embraced salvation at a young age.
I can trace God’s hand in my life as I met my eventual wife as a teen and later attended university, majoring in Computer and Mathematical Sciences. After graduating and marrying Maxine, we headed south after gaining employment in southern Ontario. Launching my career in IT, I quickly immersed myself in a rapidly evolving field. Over the years, I started and managed several IT companies, gaining not only hands-on technical experience but also honing my skills as an entrepreneur and business leader. Each challenge along the way expanded my understanding of how technology can be a tool for change.
My commitment to service extended beyond the world of business. I actively joined and served various local churches—first taking on service and leadership roles and later rising to the responsibilities of board member and board chair. Additionally, I contributed to the broader community by advising a camping missions organization during those formative years, merging my passion for technology, business and faith with a steadfast desire to enable Kingdom outreach. Throughout this journey, I have been privileged to share life with my wonderful wife, Maxine, as we raised our four children. Now rooted in the Uxbridge area, my family and I continue to serve at Uxbridge Baptist Church, witnessing the beautiful cycle of our children maturing into adults and the natural transition of our roles as we embrace the blessing of grandparenthood. Together, our story is one of constant growth and a continuing desire to serve and grow in God’s kingdom.
Brad Lawrence
Adrian Lobbezoo
Sydney Pierce
Council
Life Story
My testimony is one of how I have seen the Lord work in my life through athletics and the church. I was raised in a family who loves Jesus, His people and our sports. Growing up, playing competitive hockey was a big part of my life, which often meant I was unable to participate in
the “normal” children and youth programs at my church. Still, my parents and extended family played a key role in helping me prioritize my relationship with Jesus from a young age. I accepted the Lord as my Saviour while attending my church’s summer sports camp yet it wasn’t until I was in high school that I would say my faith became my own.
While playing Junior hockey, after being given a spot to return and asked to be a captain for my team for the following year, I was unexpectantly cut. This experience was challenging as it felt
like a reaction to my profession of faith and expressed desire to play collegiate hockey at a Christian university. That was a pivotal moment in my faith, one the Lord intentionally used to strengthen my trust in Him and desire to share my beliefs with others boldly. I was baptized the
following summer after I graduated high school, before moving to the States to attend Liberty University. I graduated from Liberty in May 2021 with my Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and after four years on the women’s varsity hockey team.
After graduating from Liberty, I was accepted into a Doctorate of Physical Therapy program in New York; however, felt led to turn it down. I returned home and to my summer job as a sport ministry intern with Scripture Union Canada before accepting a position as a physiotherapy assistant at a local clinic. It was during this season in my life that I wrestled with the lack of peace I felt in my job and the sense that the Lord was closing doors, leading me away from a career in physiotherapy. He then made His path for me clear. I returned to Scripture Union fo my third summer and by the fall I took on my full-time role as the Sports Ministry Coordinator. It is in this role that I continue to connect children, youth, their families and communities across Canada with Jesus and His story through sport and the local church.
Throughout this journey, the Lord placed Uxbridge Baptist Church in my path a few times. First as the Scripture Union Camp Director for sports camp, then through an invitation to our Haven Young Adults group. Over time, I became more involved in the young adult community, attended UBC more regularly and serving in youth ministry. So, when the Lord opened a door for me to move to Uxbridge in April 2023, it was only fitting that I would call UBC home.
Sydney Pierce
Rhonda Tennet
Council
Life Story
Hi – I’ve been attending UBC with my parents since the early 1970’s. I have lived in Uxbridge all my life. I currently live with my family just outside of town, where my husband and family own and operate a small business. I have 3 adult children who have all attended school in Uxbridge and each one of then has been involved in many church programs at Uxbridge Baptist Church and various community programs and events.
I was baptized when I was 14, and became a church member then as well. I attended youth group here, was in leadership for that ministry, and made many lifetime friends! My leadership training has involved a year at Baptist Leadership Education Centre, and a 2 month overseas mission trip for light construction work and counselling.
I love to meet and serve people in many various ways, and UBC is a great place to do that! I am involved in a mid- week small group, which I love because it allows a deeper connection with people and a more in-depth look into God’s word and His promises. My faith and has grown because of the biblical teaching, love and support I have received from the collective church family at UBC, and I would love to pass that encouragement and friendship on to others
.
Rhonda Tennent
Marcia Wilson
Our Deacons
Kevin Clarke
Deacon
Life Story
I began my journey with Uxbridge Baptist Church in 1979, when a friend invited me to join their family’s congregation. Even after that friend left due to the loss of both their parents, I continued to attend, finding solace and community within the church. It was during this time that I was encouraged by the Adult Leader to participate in the Young People’s group, which became a pivotal part of my spiritual growth. In July of 1980, I accepted Christ and was baptized, marking a significant transformation in my life. Over the years, I met my wife, Lisa, at the church, and we began dating in May 1989, eventually getting married at UBC on October 3, 1992. Together, we have raised two wonderful grown children. Throughout my time at UBC, I have served as a deacon for several years and have recently re-engaged with a small group, continuing to deepen my faith and connection with this cherished community.
Kevin Clarke
Lisa Clarke
Deacon
Life Story
I started attending UBC at the age of 12yrs through a friend bringing me to Pioneer Girls and youth group. The ministries I have been involved in are Pioneer Club, youth, young adults, and have led in Nursery, Junior church and kids connect.
I met my husband Kevin at church in May 1989 and we were married On October 3, 1992. We have been blessed with two children Brittany (Nate) and Trevor
We love being involved in small group. We enjoy encouraging, praying for and loving people and Serving as a deacon for a couple years.
A favourite Bible verse of mine is Proverbs 3 verses 5&6
Lisa Clarke
Linda Dawson
Deacon
Life Story
I was born and raised in a Christian family, and loved the Lord for as long as I can remember. I wanted to please Him, but it wasn’t until my early teen years that I realized I could not use the faith of my parents as that basis of my relationship with Jesus. I needed to acknowledge Jesus as Lord of my own life and decided to profess my personal faith in Him by being baptised. Since that time God has been faithful in guiding and directing my path to serve Him. My husband Dale and I have been serving here in Uxbridge since 2007, and it is a privilege to continue to walk with our church family.
Linda Dawson
Dale Hockley
Deacon
Life Story
I’m a husband, a father of 2, a father in law and grandfather to my two grandsons. Foremost though, I’m a child of God.
I grew up on a family farm south of Uxbridge. I am the sixth generation to own the farm and thankful for the opportunity to steward it for the glory of God. I grew up in a good Christian home with my older brother and younger sister. My family went to Goodwood Baptist Church and we grew up very involved. I accepted Christ as my saviour when I was 14 and was Baptized. I had a few great church leaders and some great friends at Goodwood Baptist that put a lot of time into me and I’m eternally grateful for them. Life wasn’t perfect but I soon started dating my wife-to-be and got through my later teenage years. Things still weren;t perfect but looking back the things that were difficult have made me who God had wanted me to be. Life has been full of challenges, accidents, injuries, job losses and business issues. These have shown me that putting my faith in God is so important. I proved to myself too many times that doing things on my own strength didn’t work.
My wife and I now call Uxbridge Baptist our place of worship and look forward to being involved where God leads.
Dale Hockley
Don Kennedy
Deacon
Life Story
Hi, my name is Don Kennedy and I am a grateful believer in Jesus Christ. My journey began on a small dairy farm north of Leaskdale, Ontario. I was the youngest of four siblings. Even though we attended church and Sunday school regularly, I would hardly consider our home a Christian home. My mom became a Christian in 1975 when I was ten and my dad came to Christ just before he died in 1993. My sister, being 12 years my senior, became a Christian through the witness of a workplace friend. My oldest brother became a Christian in his teens and my next brother in grade eight after a youth group meeting. My siblings were all Christians by 1977. I came to Christ in 1988, meaning that between when I was 12 until I was 23, I did everything I could do to keep God at arms length and out of my life, despite a praying mother and siblings (and a praying grandmother who died in 1979).
Our church seemed to have a rotation of pastors through my years growing up. Some knew and loved Jesus and others left me scratching my head. There were loving Christians in our church that certainly left a mark on my life.
In my determination to live life my way, I became rooted in sinful behavior. I ended up being engaged at 23 yrs old, only to realize (thankfully), that I was on the wrong path for the wrong reasons. In May of 1988, I committed my life to following Jesus Christ, but it might be more accurate to say that God pulled me out of my old life. He rescued me. Six weeks after my broken engagement, I met my wife, Kathleen. We became friends over the next two and a half years before we began dating. During that time, I was growing in my faith and God was helping me deal with a lot of personal things in order to be ready to consider a serious relationship. Kathleen and I married in June of 1992.
The strongest part of my story is my faithful Father God and my Saviour King Jesus. Even when I stumbled, he picked me up every time. I can’t begin to say how thankful I am for my wife Kathleen and the opportunity we’ve had to parent our three children. Vocationally, I worked as a firefighter, a fire training officer and a school bus driver. I am busy with different volunteer activities and currently I serve in the worship leading ministry here at UBC as well as being the Chair of the Deacons Board. I am so grateful to be a part of Uxbridge Baptist Church and to be serving alongside real people who know their need for God and our mission to love and make Jesus known.
Don Kennedy
Kathleen Kennedy
Deacons
Life Story
I am a grateful believer in Jesus who grew up in the heart of the Niagara Region. Growing up,my family and I went to church regularly. My parents were pretty ‘private’ about their faith in those days, so I would not say I grew up in a deeply-Christian home, although having faith in God and a respect for the scriptures was definitely valued.
I was taken to Sunday School each week, but I did not hear a lot about a relationship with Christ. We did have solid Bible-teaching ministers, though, and I am so grateful for that as I know God was putting down roots through it, even though at the time, I would not have realized it.
It was really after high school that I came to understand that God loved me and had a plan for my life. While I struggled at times to see what that plan was, I grew to learn that Jesus is a good Shepherd (and I still continue to grow in this!)
My father went on to enter pastoral ministry when I was in my early twenties, and it was during a visit with my parents at Dad’s first church that I met my husband. Dad and Mom moved on…. and I kept visiting! We married in 1992 and together have raised three children. God has
taught me a lot through parenting, and I am still learning about His unconditional love and grace through my relationships with my adult kids.
I currently serve on the Deacons’ Board at Uxbridge Baptist Church. This is a challenging and rewarding ministry, and I am blessed to be a part of serving the family at UBC.
Kathleen Kennedy
Tamara Mckenney
Deacons
Life Story
I was born in B.C. and raised in a small coal mining town of just 2500 people. I grew up attending church and had a growing faith in Jesus but struggled with the fact that there very few Christians my age and often felt alone and at odds with the culture of my peers.
I attended university in Lethbridge, Alberta for a number of years. During these years my faith had its ups and downs but God never gave up on me! In 2000 I moved to Waterloo, Ontario to pursue a Master’s of Fine Art (painting and sculpture). After graduation in 2002 I moved to Newmarket where I met my husband, Brett McKenney. That brought me to Brett’s home town of Uxbridge and to his church, Uxbridge Baptist. As a mother of two boys, Uxbridge Baptist Church has been a welcoming and wonderful place for our family to find fellowship, friends and a place for all of us to deepen our relationship with Jesus. It’s been wonderful to watch my two sons find their place here too, in the Youth Ministry team.
Currently I work locally as a part-time administrative assistant, occasionally paint in my home studio and contribute to the local Christian radio program Hope Today as the voice of its Hymn Stories segment.
Tamara McKenney
Keith Daily
Elder
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
It was not always easy. Our church was small. I had very few Christian friends. I often felt the disparity between my faith and the surrounding world. I tried to live the way I should but often failed. I tried to share my faith as a teenager but felt unprepared and insecure. I knew God was with me but I felt alone and isolated in my faith.
Nearing the end of high school a group of strong Christian young people from a Bible College in Toronto visited my church. I was deeply impressed by their warmth and vibrant Christian life. They invited me to consider studying the Bible and deepening my faith for a year at the school before going off to University. It was life altering! I learned to love the word of God and delight in Christian fellowship far behind what I had experienced earlier. Finding a nurturing community of committed followers of Jesus Christ and having dedicated time to study the Scriptures proved to be a transformational setting for my spiritual and theological growth. It was there that I first sensed God‘s call to Christian ministry.
For a while I resisted. I went off to University, having my faith reinforced in Christian community and truth. That preparation served me well as my Arts and Science studies presented challenges to the authority of Scripture and the uniqueness of Christ. My faith was tested. Significant doubts arose. But the truth of God continued to shine brighter than the ill-formed charges against it. I grew more committed to Christ and his word and more eager to understand the deeper truths of the Bible. I grew more confident in my faith and more desirous to live for God in all my life. I wanted every moment to count for the glory of God.
I decided to continue taking courses in Bible and Theology while I was finishing my undergraduate degree at the University. It was there at the Bible College, where I met the love of my life and future wife, Linda. At the same time I was continuing to sense the call of God to serve him with my life as a pastor and teacher. I shifted further into theological studies. I couldn’t get enough. Eventually I gained clarity about God‘s call upon my life to serve as a minister of the gospel, and pursued theological training as my primary focus.
Linda and I married and entered almost immediately into life as a ministry couple. God has blessed us with four amazing children, two incredible daughters-in-law and three precious grandchildren. We have served in various Baptist churches for over 35 years. We are living proof of the goodness and faithfulness of God which prevails despite our weaknesses and failings.
I accepted the role of Lead Pastor at Uxbridge Baptist Church in September 2007. Our time here has been a truly wonderful experience of loving friendships, rich Bible-centred ministry and fruitful ministry partnership as we have sought the Lord and journeyed together. We give thanks and glory to God for his incredible kindness and love through these many years.
Bev Squires
Wayne Wilson
Len Wright
Deacons
Life Story
I was born & raised in a small town in Eastern Ontario on the shores of the St. Lawrence River with my sister. I attended church where our minister had been a professional musician. He encouraged me to follow my dream of being a musician.
Upon finishing high school, I moved to Toronto & joined a 4 piece R & B band. I played professionally for 3 years touring Ontario.
In 2001, I was doing landscaping on a home on the shore of Lake Ontario. I had a vision of Jesus coming toward me. Little did I know that I would ask him into my life 3 years later.
The year was 2004 & I had moved to Newmarket where I went to a church close to where I lived. I attended Alpha and I asked Jesus into my life. I also met my future wife there and Juhn & I were both baptized.I led Alpha there for 3 years and I led the Life Worth Living course & the Financial Peace course for 2 years.
In 2014, Juhn & I moved to Uxbridge Baptist Church where we are members. I presently serve on: (a) the Deacon’s team, (b) the Mission Committee, (c) the Heart 2 Heart team and I facilitate the Barnabas men’s bible study group. Previously I served on our Church Council for part of a term.
Outside of church, I am a volunteer Director & Treasurer of Community Living Durham North. It has 22 group homes to support people who have an intellectual disability. The vision is for residents to live, work and enjoy life in the community within which they live. I enjoy meeting people and I love serving our Lord.
Len Wright
Bonita
Learn About Our Story
Our Leadership
Our Staff
Dale
Dawson
Lead Pastor
Contact Dale
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
It was not always easy. Our church was small. I had very few Christian friends. I often felt the disparity between my faith and the surrounding world. I tried to live the way I should but often failed. I tried to share my faith as a teenager but felt unprepared and insecure. I knew God was with me but I felt alone and isolated in my faith.
Nearing the end of high school a group of strong Christian young people from a Bible College in Toronto visited my church. I was deeply impressed by their warmth and vibrant Christian life. They invited me to consider studying the Bible and deepening my faith for a year at the school before going off to University. It was life altering! I learned to love the word of God and delight in Christian fellowship far behind what I had experienced earlier. Finding a nurturing community of committed followers of Jesus Christ and having dedicated time to study the Scriptures proved to be a transformational setting for my spiritual and theological growth. It was there that I first sensed God‘s call to Christian ministry.
For a while I resisted. I went off to University, having my faith reinforced in Christian community and truth. That preparation served me well as my Arts and Science studies presented challenges to the authority of Scripture and the uniqueness of Christ. My faith was tested. Significant doubts arose. But the truth of God continued to shine brighter than the ill-formed charges against it. I grew more committed to Christ and his word and more eager to understand the deeper truths of the Bible. I grew more confident in my faith and more desirous to live for God in all my life. I wanted every moment to count for the glory of God.
I decided to continue taking courses in Bible and Theology while I was finishing my undergraduate degree at the University. It was there at the Bible College, where I met the love of my life and future wife, Linda. At the same time I was continuing to sense the call of God to serve him with my life as a pastor and teacher. I shifted further into theological studies. I couldn’t get enough. Eventually I gained clarity about God‘s call upon my life to serve as a minister of the gospel, and pursued theological training as my primary focus.
Linda and I married and entered almost immediately into life as a ministry couple. God has blessed us with four amazing children, two incredible daughters-in-law and three precious grandchildren. We have served in various Baptist churches for over 35 years. We are living proof of the goodness and faithfulness of God which prevails despite our weaknesses and failings.
I accepted the role of Lead Pastor at Uxbridge Baptist Church in September 2007. Our time here has been a truly wonderful experience of loving friendships, rich Bible-centred ministry and fruitful ministry partnership as we have sought the Lord and journeyed together. We give thanks and glory to God for his incredible kindness and love through these many years.
Dale Dawson
Lead Pastor
Darren
Kendall
Community Pastor
Contact Darren
Life Story
I grew up in a small town just outside of Ottawa, and attended church with my family for as long as I can remember. And yet, I struggled with what it meant to really have a relationship with God. I knew He existed, but I was more focused on finding my place in the world than learning what it meant to follow Jesus. And so my life started going in two different directions. On Sunday, I went to church and learned how to play the part of a good Christian, and during the rest of the week I followed my friends in whatever they were doing.
By the time highschool came around, my life was a mess. I knew something was wrong, but I figured things would get better eventually so I pushed forward. And then two things happened that changed everything. First, I broke my femur playing hockey and fell into a dark depression. Sports were my life and without them I questioned if I had any value at all. But even though I was furious at God for letting me get hurt, His presence became a source of comfort for me. And in the weakness of my recovery, I learned to depend on God’s strength. He wasn’t just someone I learned about on Sunday mornings, he was my heavenly Father who loved me and sought a relationship with me.
The second thing that happened was that I participated in Medeba’s Summer Leadership in Training program. And at Medeba I was surrounded by a loving community of people who truly lived the adventure that God has called each one of us to. I learned that God didn’t just want part of me, but He wanted my whole life. And so, at the age of 16 I was baptised as I committed my everything to Him.
The next year, I returned to Medeba as an assistant cabin leader, and met my future wife Carina. Together we worked at Medeba for five summers, as I attended Tyndale University, majoring in Biblical Studies and Theology, with a focus in Youth Ministry and a Minor in Philosophy. Carina and I were married in 2014, and soon after we moved to Welland ON where I was hired as a Youth & Young Adult Pastor.
When COVID hit, we had just moved to Michigan after I had accepted a job at Michindoh Conference Center as the Summer Camp General Director. And yet, God is faithful. Michindoh continued to offer programming in a limited capacity and we witnessed many kids giving their lives to Christ summer after summer. While we were in Michigan, I graduated from Spring Arbor University with a Masters in Leadership and Communication.
Carina and I came to Uxbridge Baptist Church in 2023 after our temporary work visa had run its course. From our very first visit, we immediately fell in love with Uxbridge, and how God was working in and through the family of UBC. Carina and I have 4 children; Ryder, Lexi, Willa and Braeya.
Darren Kendall
Community Pastor
Phil
Pharoah
Youth Pastor
Contact Phil
Life Story
I was born and raised in a Christian family in Guelph, my family was very involved in the local church, and it has been a staple in my life for as long as I can remember. Around the age of 5 my parents and I were discussing what it means to have a relationship with Jesus, and the value that comes from knowing him. I accepted Jesus into my life, and was baptized a few years later.
My family was involved in many ministries at the Church, and I slowly fell instep with them volunteering and trying to find the ministry I’d like to serve with. From tech to kids, I would use my gits to the best of my abilities, but always felt there was more I could do, and while these ministries were vital, and important I didn’t feel God was calling me to stay with them.
It wasn’t till grade 11 that my Youth Pastor asked if I’d work with him, and see how youth Ministry runs that I really hit my stride. Grades 6-8 became a place I could invest, and share all that God was doing in my life, I felt this was the place for me, and where I could serve God to the best of my abilities. I graduated Bible College, and am blessed to call UBC my Church to serve.
Phil Pharoah
Youth Pastor
Brooke
Weir
Children’s Director
Contact Brooke
Life Story
I grew up in Uxbridge all my life and was raised in a Christian household. As a young teenager I began to follow Jesus seriously with my life and continued to grow in my faith. Through the low moments and struggles that life brings I saw him drawing me closer to him and shaping my heart. In high school a friend invited me to UBC’s youth group. That invitation led to countless things that impacted my life substantially. I began to co-lead Kids dance and my family started attending UBC. I’m so grateful for the amazing family that we have at this church! Finishing highschool and taking a gap year, I felt God leading me into ministry. I graduated Bible college in 2024 and am so excited to be serving as the Kids Ministry Director here at UBC!
Brooke Weir
Children’s Director
Adelle Lauchlan
Church Administrator
Steve Oad
Church Custodian
Brittney Jones
Worship Director
Matt McTaggart
AV Director
Our Elders
Keith
Daly
Elder
Life Story
I was raised in an Irish Catholic home, the third of seven children. My upbringing was very strict, catholic home, catholic church, catholic schools. I was looking for an ‘off ramp’ from about the age of fourteen. Emigration to Canada came at the age of twenty-three. Marriage followed a year later. But I married a girl from the Church-of-England. We attended both churches for a while. But settled in the Anglican church in Agincourt.
I was pulled into youth ministry and teaching Sunday school – neither of which I had any personal experience. It was at an annual youth retreat, during one of the youth sessions, when the speaker asked a question I had never heard before. He asked, “Have you received Jesus Christ as your personal saviour?” This was the ‘gap’ in my faith that was missing. I had been in church every Sunday for thirty-two years and never heard that question. I immediately responded in my spirit. That was the moment of my salvation.
My faith grew rapidly, I read the bible and many Christian books. As my faith in Jesus grew my Sunday school teaching changed dramatically. Because I taught from the scripture, and considered it the authoritative eternal Word of God, I ran afoul of ‘Anglican thought.’ I was soon looking for another ‘off ramp.’
Our family arrived at Uxbridge Baptist in August 1995. I was immediately impacted by the strong biblical preaching of the pastors. UBC became our new spiritual home. From UBC I was called into pastoral ministry and served in Newmarket for 10 years, returning to UBC in 2019. I now serve on the Elders Board.
Keith Daly
Elder
Tim Daily
Dale Dawson
Elder
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
It was not always easy. Our church was small. I had very few Christian friends. I often felt the disparity between my faith and the surrounding world. I tried to live the way I should but often failed. I tried to share my faith as a teenager but felt unprepared and insecure. I knew God was with me but I felt alone and isolated in my faith.
Nearing the end of high school a group of strong Christian young people from a Bible College in Toronto visited my church. I was deeply impressed by their warmth and vibrant Christian life. They invited me to consider studying the Bible and deepening my faith for a year at the school before going off to University. It was life altering! I learned to love the word of God and delight in Christian fellowship far behind what I had experienced earlier. Finding a nurturing community of committed followers of Jesus Christ and having dedicated time to study the Scriptures proved to be a transformational setting for my spiritual and theological growth. It was there that I first sensed God‘s call to Christian ministry.
For a while I resisted. I went off to University, having my faith reinforced in Christian community and truth. That preparation served me well as my Arts and Science studies presented challenges to the authority of Scripture and the uniqueness of Christ. My faith was tested. Significant doubts arose. But the truth of God continued to shine brighter than the ill-formed charges against it. I grew more committed to Christ and his word and more eager to understand the deeper truths of the Bible. I grew more confident in my faith and more desirous to live for God in all my life. I wanted every moment to count for the glory of God.
I decided to continue taking courses in Bible and Theology while I was finishing my undergraduate degree at the University. It was there at the Bible College, where I met the love of my life and future wife, Linda. At the same time I was continuing to sense the call of God to serve him with my life as a pastor and teacher. I shifted further into theological studies. I couldn’t get enough. Eventually I gained clarity about God‘s call upon my life to serve as a minister of the gospel, and pursued theological training as my primary focus.
Linda and I married and entered almost immediately into life as a ministry couple. God has blessed us with four amazing children, two incredible daughters-in-law and three precious grandchildren. We have served in various Baptist churches for over 35 years. We are living proof of the goodness and faithfulness of God which prevails despite our weaknesses and failings.
I accepted the role of Lead Pastor at Uxbridge Baptist Church in September 2007. Our time here has been a truly wonderful experience of loving friendships, rich Bible-centred ministry and fruitful ministry partnership as we have sought the Lord and journeyed together. We give thanks and glory to God for his incredible kindness and love through these many years.
Dale Dawson
Tim Maxson
Elder
Life Story
I grew up in Ethiopia, East Africa. My parents were missionaries there for 15 (+/-) years. I went to a mission boarding school in Ethiopia for all my elementary school years plus 9th grade. It was in my 5-6th grade that I first professed to be a believer in Jesus, like many young people I would doubt my sincerity and recommit my life to the Lord several times after that.
It was in my High school years that I more fully understood that it was not about me but about what Jesus had done for me. Having said that my sense of resting in His work rather than my actions and words is something that I still continue to realize more and more. The rest of my high school years were in California in public and Christian schools.
Immediately after high school I volunteered to work in a refugee/ famine relief camp in Somalia, East Africa where the Lord also brought Dale, my now wife into my life. When I finished my time in Somalia I came up to Canada and Dale and I were married shortly after. We spent our first few years of Marriage doing various short term mission assignments.
We then started our Family and have lived in and around The Uxbridge area for the past 42 years, our 2 children are now grown up, Married and have 6 children between their families. We have been blessed to be a part of Uxbridge Baptist for the past 35 years. We are so glad to be a part of a Bible believing, gospel centred church.
Tim Maxson
Brett McKenney
Ron Wagner
Elder
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
After finishing High School I attended the Lay Leadership Training Course at the Baptist Training Institute in Brantford, where I met my wife, who was already a Registered Nurse. We married the following September, and I spent 3 years at Ryerson Polytechnical in the Architectural Technology Course. During those years we were members at Temple Baptist Church in Toronto and gave leadership to the Youth Group and Sunday School. Next came a move to the Uxbridge Area and ministry opportunities at UBC – Sunday School Teacher for Teens, Sunday School Superintendent, Adult leadership for the Youth Group, Deacons Board, and Building Committees for two additions to the UBC facility.
I thank God for a wonderful wife, who has used her gifting and commitment to Christ to walk with me in this journey of faith and service to Christ. In my bedroom, as a child, there was an old calendar hanging on the wall with the words “Only one life, Twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last.” I have experienced that and pray that I will seize the opportunities that He continues to give me during my lifetime.
Ron Wagner
Bill
Our Council
Dave Burns
Jon Grove
Council
Life Story
I have lived in Uxbridge for most of my life and have been attending UBC for over 30 years. I attended youth group and was baptized here in 1997! This church has played a big role in shaping my faith, and now that I am serving in leadership I want be an encouragement and glorify God in all I do. My desire is to honor Him through faithful service and want to help spread the name of Jesus and live out the truth of the gospel.
Jon Grove
Heather Hockley
Council
Life Story
I grew up in Goodwood. In my younger years my mom would gather up my brother, sister, and me on Sundays and head off to her family’s church about an hour away. Not having a local christian community, it became very easy to live a ‘church life’ on Sundays and not give Christianity much thought during the week. Eventually I stopped going to church. However, God had not let go of the youngster who had asked Jesus into her heart. In high school I met my future husband Dale who was not ashamed of his faith. Eventually I returned to attending church regularly with him at Goodwood Baptist Church. We married young and were blessed with a daughter and son. Our young family settled into faithful church attendance and serving in various ministries.
It was at Goodwood Baptist that I found myself one Sunday sitting front and centre during a sermon on baptism (very unusual for a tradition back-seat Baptist!). I could not ignore God asking how I could call myself a Christian but not take the next step and be baptized. And so I finally made my public declaration that Jesus had died but rose from the dead triumphant over my sin.
Over 20 years ago, we began attending Uxbridge Baptist because we believed it was important that our (then) teenage kids were a part of a church youth program with their high school peers. I am now in the grandparent years and with age comes the blessing of having lots of life to look back upon and acknowledge God’s presence, provision and protection. God’s not done working on me yet! I am still growing and maturing.
Heather Hockley
Brad Jones
Brad Lawerence
Elder
Life Story
I grew up in the beautiful landscapes of Northern Ontario, raised by loving Christian parents who both modeled faith, service with a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit. The lessons learned from my early experiences formed my outlook and perception of the world while igniting my sense of curiosity. Involvement in our local church was always modeled and encouraged throughout the year. Many memorable summer sessions at Bible camp added vibrant chapters to my early life, and through Vacation Bible School, I made a confession of faith and embraced salvation at a young age.
I can trace God’s hand in my life as I met my eventual wife as a teen and later attended university, majoring in Computer and Mathematical Sciences. After graduating and marrying Maxine, we headed south after gaining employment in southern Ontario. Launching my career in IT, I quickly immersed myself in a rapidly evolving field. Over the years, I started and managed several IT companies, gaining not only hands-on technical experience but also honing my skills as an entrepreneur and business leader. Each challenge along the way expanded my understanding of how technology can be a tool for change.
My commitment to service extended beyond the world of business. I actively joined and served various local churches—first taking on service and leadership roles and later rising to the responsibilities of board member and board chair. Additionally, I contributed to the broader community by advising a camping missions organization during those formative years, merging my passion for technology, business and faith with a steadfast desire to enable Kingdom outreach. Throughout this journey, I have been privileged to share life with my wonderful wife, Maxine, as we raised our four children. Now rooted in the Uxbridge area, my family and I continue to serve at Uxbridge Baptist Church, witnessing the beautiful cycle of our children maturing into adults and the natural transition of our roles as we embrace the blessing of grandparenthood. Together, our story is one of constant growth and a continuing desire to serve and grow in God’s kingdom.
Brad Lawrence
Adrian Lobbezoo
Sydney Pierce
Council
Life Story
My testimony is one of how I have seen the Lord work in my life through athletics and the church. I was raised in a family who loves Jesus, His people and our sports. Growing up, playing competitive hockey was a big part of my life, which often meant I was unable to participate in
the “normal” children and youth programs at my church. Still, my parents and extended family played a key role in helping me prioritize my relationship with Jesus from a young age. I accepted the Lord as my Saviour while attending my church’s summer sports camp yet it wasn’t until I was in high school that I would say my faith became my own.
While playing Junior hockey, after being given a spot to return and asked to be a captain for my team for the following year, I was unexpectantly cut. This experience was challenging as it felt
like a reaction to my profession of faith and expressed desire to play collegiate hockey at a Christian university. That was a pivotal moment in my faith, one the Lord intentionally used to strengthen my trust in Him and desire to share my beliefs with others boldly. I was baptized the
following summer after I graduated high school, before moving to the States to attend Liberty University. I graduated from Liberty in May 2021 with my Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and after four years on the women’s varsity hockey team.
After graduating from Liberty, I was accepted into a Doctorate of Physical Therapy program in New York; however, felt led to turn it down. I returned home and to my summer job as a sport ministry intern with Scripture Union Canada before accepting a position as a physiotherapy assistant at a local clinic. It was during this season in my life that I wrestled with the lack of peace I felt in my job and the sense that the Lord was closing doors, leading me away from a career in physiotherapy. He then made His path for me clear. I returned to Scripture Union fo my third summer and by the fall I took on my full-time role as the Sports Ministry Coordinator. It is in this role that I continue to connect children, youth, their families and communities across Canada with Jesus and His story through sport and the local church.
Throughout this journey, the Lord placed Uxbridge Baptist Church in my path a few times. First as the Scripture Union Camp Director for sports camp, then through an invitation to our Haven Young Adults group. Over time, I became more involved in the young adult community, attended UBC more regularly and serving in youth ministry. So, when the Lord opened a door for me to move to Uxbridge in April 2023, it was only fitting that I would call UBC home.
Sydney Pierce
Rhonda Tennet
Council
Life Story
Hi – I’ve been attending UBC with my parents since the early 1970’s. I have lived in Uxbridge all my life. I currently live with my family just outside of town, where my husband and family own and operate a small business. I have 3 adult children who have all attended school in Uxbridge and each one of then has been involved in many church programs at Uxbridge Baptist Church and various community programs and events.
I was baptized when I was 14, and became a church member then as well. I attended youth group here, was in leadership for that ministry, and made many lifetime friends! My leadership training has involved a year at Baptist Leadership Education Centre, and a 2 month overseas mission trip for light construction work and counselling.
I love to meet and serve people in many various ways, and UBC is a great place to do that! I am involved in a mid- week small group, which I love because it allows a deeper connection with people and a more in-depth look into God’s word and His promises. My faith and has grown because of the biblical teaching, love and support I have received from the collective church family at UBC, and I would love to pass that encouragement and friendship on to others
.
Rhonda Tennent
Marcia Wilson
Our Deacons
Kevin Clarke
Deacon
Life Story
I began my journey with Uxbridge Baptist Church in 1979, when a friend invited me to join their family’s congregation. Even after that friend left due to the loss of both their parents, I continued to attend, finding solace and community within the church. It was during this time that I was encouraged by the Adult Leader to participate in the Young People’s group, which became a pivotal part of my spiritual growth. In July of 1980, I accepted Christ and was baptized, marking a significant transformation in my life. Over the years, I met my wife, Lisa, at the church, and we began dating in May 1989, eventually getting married at UBC on October 3, 1992. Together, we have raised two wonderful grown children. Throughout my time at UBC, I have served as a deacon for several years and have recently re-engaged with a small group, continuing to deepen my faith and connection with this cherished community.
Kevin Clarke
Lisa Clarke
Deacon
Life Story
I started attending UBC at the age of 12yrs through a friend bringing me to Pioneer Girls and youth group. The ministries I have been involved in are Pioneer Club, youth, young adults, and have led in Nursery, Junior church and kids connect.
I met my husband Kevin at church in May 1989 and we were married On October 3, 1992. We have been blessed with two children Brittany (Nate) and Trevor
We love being involved in small group. We enjoy encouraging, praying for and loving people and Serving as a deacon for a couple years.
A favourite Bible verse of mine is Proverbs 3 verses 5&6
Lisa Clarke
Linda Dawson
Deacon
Life Story
I was born and raised in a Christian family, and loved the Lord for as long as I can remember. I wanted to please Him, but it wasn’t until my early teen years that I realized I could not use the faith of my parents as that basis of my relationship with Jesus. I needed to acknowledge Jesus as Lord of my own life and decided to profess my personal faith in Him by being baptised. Since that time God has been faithful in guiding and directing my path to serve Him. My husband Dale and I have been serving here in Uxbridge since 2007, and it is a privilege to continue to walk with our church family.
Linda Dawson
Dale Hockley
Deacon
Life Story
I’m a husband, a father of 2, a father in law and grandfather to my two grandsons. Foremost though, I’m a child of God.
I grew up on a family farm south of Uxbridge. I am the sixth generation to own the farm and thankful for the opportunity to steward it for the glory of God. I grew up in a good Christian home with my older brother and younger sister. My family went to Goodwood Baptist Church and we grew up very involved. I accepted Christ as my saviour when I was 14 and was Baptized. I had a few great church leaders and some great friends at Goodwood Baptist that put a lot of time into me and I’m eternally grateful for them. Life wasn’t perfect but I soon started dating my wife-to-be and got through my later teenage years. Things still weren;t perfect but looking back the things that were difficult have made me who God had wanted me to be. Life has been full of challenges, accidents, injuries, job losses and business issues. These have shown me that putting my faith in God is so important. I proved to myself too many times that doing things on my own strength didn’t work.
My wife and I now call Uxbridge Baptist our place of worship and look forward to being involved where God leads.
Dale Hockley
Don Kennedy
Deacon
Life Story
Hi, my name is Don Kennedy and I am a grateful believer in Jesus Christ. My journey began on a small dairy farm north of Leaskdale, Ontario. I was the youngest of four siblings. Even though we attended church and Sunday school regularly, I would hardly consider our home a Christian home. My mom became a Christian in 1975 when I was ten and my dad came to Christ just before he died in 1993. My sister, being 12 years my senior, became a Christian through the witness of a workplace friend. My oldest brother became a Christian in his teens and my next brother in grade eight after a youth group meeting. My siblings were all Christians by 1977. I came to Christ in 1988, meaning that between when I was 12 until I was 23, I did everything I could do to keep God at arms length and out of my life, despite a praying mother and siblings (and a praying grandmother who died in 1979).
Our church seemed to have a rotation of pastors through my years growing up. Some knew and loved Jesus and others left me scratching my head. There were loving Christians in our church that certainly left a mark on my life.
In my determination to live life my way, I became rooted in sinful behavior. I ended up being engaged at 23 yrs old, only to realize (thankfully), that I was on the wrong path for the wrong reasons. In May of 1988, I committed my life to following Jesus Christ, but it might be more accurate to say that God pulled me out of my old life. He rescued me. Six weeks after my broken engagement, I met my wife, Kathleen. We became friends over the next two and a half years before we began dating. During that time, I was growing in my faith and God was helping me deal with a lot of personal things in order to be ready to consider a serious relationship. Kathleen and I married in June of 1992.
The strongest part of my story is my faithful Father God and my Saviour King Jesus. Even when I stumbled, he picked me up every time. I can’t begin to say how thankful I am for my wife Kathleen and the opportunity we’ve had to parent our three children. Vocationally, I worked as a firefighter, a fire training officer and a school bus driver. I am busy with different volunteer activities and currently I serve in the worship leading ministry here at UBC as well as being the Chair of the Deacons Board. I am so grateful to be a part of Uxbridge Baptist Church and to be serving alongside real people who know their need for God and our mission to love and make Jesus known.
Don Kennedy
Kathleen Kennedy
Deacons
Life Story
I am a grateful believer in Jesus who grew up in the heart of the Niagara Region. Growing up,my family and I went to church regularly. My parents were pretty ‘private’ about their faith in those days, so I would not say I grew up in a deeply-Christian home, although having faith in God and a respect for the scriptures was definitely valued.
I was taken to Sunday School each week, but I did not hear a lot about a relationship with Christ. We did have solid Bible-teaching ministers, though, and I am so grateful for that as I know God was putting down roots through it, even though at the time, I would not have realized it.
It was really after high school that I came to understand that God loved me and had a plan for my life. While I struggled at times to see what that plan was, I grew to learn that Jesus is a good Shepherd (and I still continue to grow in this!)
My father went on to enter pastoral ministry when I was in my early twenties, and it was during a visit with my parents at Dad’s first church that I met my husband. Dad and Mom moved on…. and I kept visiting! We married in 1992 and together have raised three children. God has
taught me a lot through parenting, and I am still learning about His unconditional love and grace through my relationships with my adult kids.
I currently serve on the Deacons’ Board at Uxbridge Baptist Church. This is a challenging and rewarding ministry, and I am blessed to be a part of serving the family at UBC.
Kathleen Kennedy
Tamara Mckenney
Deacons
Life Story
I was born in B.C. and raised in a small coal mining town of just 2500 people. I grew up attending church and had a growing faith in Jesus but struggled with the fact that there very few Christians my age and often felt alone and at odds with the culture of my peers.
I attended university in Lethbridge, Alberta for a number of years. During these years my faith had its ups and downs but God never gave up on me! In 2000 I moved to Waterloo, Ontario to pursue a Master’s of Fine Art (painting and sculpture). After graduation in 2002 I moved to Newmarket where I met my husband, Brett McKenney. That brought me to Brett’s home town of Uxbridge and to his church, Uxbridge Baptist. As a mother of two boys, Uxbridge Baptist Church has been a welcoming and wonderful place for our family to find fellowship, friends and a place for all of us to deepen our relationship with Jesus. It’s been wonderful to watch my two sons find their place here too, in the Youth Ministry team.
Currently I work locally as a part-time administrative assistant, occasionally paint in my home studio and contribute to the local Christian radio program Hope Today as the voice of its Hymn Stories segment.
Tamara McKenney
Keith Daily
Elder
Life Story
I was born and raised in a loving Christian home in a small town in southwestern Ontario. Church has always been a large part of my life. My family attended multiple times a week. It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about the love and forgiveness of Jesus and committed my life to him. At the age of twelve I was baptized in my local church and embarked on a life of discipleship.
It was not always easy. Our church was small. I had very few Christian friends. I often felt the disparity between my faith and the surrounding world. I tried to live the way I should but often failed. I tried to share my faith as a teenager but felt unprepared and insecure. I knew God was with me but I felt alone and isolated in my faith.
Nearing the end of high school a group of strong Christian young people from a Bible College in Toronto visited my church. I was deeply impressed by their warmth and vibrant Christian life. They invited me to consider studying the Bible and deepening my faith for a year at the school before going off to University. It was life altering! I learned to love the word of God and delight in Christian fellowship far behind what I had experienced earlier. Finding a nurturing community of committed followers of Jesus Christ and having dedicated time to study the Scriptures proved to be a transformational setting for my spiritual and theological growth. It was there that I first sensed God‘s call to Christian ministry.
For a while I resisted. I went off to University, having my faith reinforced in Christian community and truth. That preparation served me well as my Arts and Science studies presented challenges to the authority of Scripture and the uniqueness of Christ. My faith was tested. Significant doubts arose. But the truth of God continued to shine brighter than the ill-formed charges against it. I grew more committed to Christ and his word and more eager to understand the deeper truths of the Bible. I grew more confident in my faith and more desirous to live for God in all my life. I wanted every moment to count for the glory of God.
I decided to continue taking courses in Bible and Theology while I was finishing my undergraduate degree at the University. It was there at the Bible College, where I met the love of my life and future wife, Linda. At the same time I was continuing to sense the call of God to serve him with my life as a pastor and teacher. I shifted further into theological studies. I couldn’t get enough. Eventually I gained clarity about God‘s call upon my life to serve as a minister of the gospel, and pursued theological training as my primary focus.
Linda and I married and entered almost immediately into life as a ministry couple. God has blessed us with four amazing children, two incredible daughters-in-law and three precious grandchildren. We have served in various Baptist churches for over 35 years. We are living proof of the goodness and faithfulness of God which prevails despite our weaknesses and failings.
I accepted the role of Lead Pastor at Uxbridge Baptist Church in September 2007. Our time here has been a truly wonderful experience of loving friendships, rich Bible-centred ministry and fruitful ministry partnership as we have sought the Lord and journeyed together. We give thanks and glory to God for his incredible kindness and love through these many years.
Bev Squires
Wayne Wilson
Len Wright
Deacons
Life Story
I was born & raised in a small town in Eastern Ontario on the shores of the St. Lawrence River with my sister. I attended church where our minister had been a professional musician. He encouraged me to follow my dream of being a musician.
Upon finishing high school, I moved to Toronto & joined a 4 piece R & B band. I played professionally for 3 years touring Ontario.
In 2001, I was doing landscaping on a home on the shore of Lake Ontario. I had a vision of Jesus coming toward me. Little did I know that I would ask him into my life 3 years later.
The year was 2004 & I had moved to Newmarket where I went to a church close to where I lived. I attended Alpha and I asked Jesus into my life. I also met my future wife there and Juhn & I were both baptized.I led Alpha there for 3 years and I led the Life Worth Living course & the Financial Peace course for 2 years.
In 2014, Juhn & I moved to Uxbridge Baptist Church where we are members. I presently serve on: (a) the Deacon’s team, (b) the Mission Committee, (c) the Heart 2 Heart team and I facilitate the Barnabas men’s bible study group. Previously I served on our Church Council for part of a term.
Outside of church, I am a volunteer Director & Treasurer of Community Living Durham North. It has 22 group homes to support people who have an intellectual disability. The vision is for residents to live, work and enjoy life in the community within which they live. I enjoy meeting people and I love serving our Lord.
Len Wright