In this special anniversary episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with a panel of "senior saints"—longtime members who have witnessed God’s work at NorthCreek for decades. Dubbing themselves survivors of the "Stone Age" (a nod to the church's first shepherd, Pastor Mel Stone), these guests share heartwarming and humorous stories of the church's early days, from meeting in a women's club to the construction of the first buildings on the current campus.

The conversation highlights the church's enduring commitment to the sufficiency of Scripture and the importance of investing in the next generation. The guests reflect on the impact of early youth programs like the "Jet Cadets," the vibrant "Body Life" services of the 1970s, and the hospitality that knit the body together. They also candidly acknowledge that the church has weathered difficult seasons, yet through it all, God has remained faithful to preserve a people for His name.

This episode is more than a history lesson; it is a testimony to the power of the gospel in the local church. As these faithful members recount 70 years of ministry, listeners are encouraged to cherish their own spiritual heritage and look forward with hope to what the Lord will do next.Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

What does it look like for a local church to remain faithful for seven decades? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow joins Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to reflect on NorthCreek Church’s 70th anniversary. While the campus has transformed from open walnut orchards to a built-out ministry hub, the conversation focuses on the spiritual trajectory of the church—from its planting in the 1950s through seasons of doctrinal stabilization and growth.

The pastors discuss the unique history of the "Stone Age"—the era of the church's first pastor, Mel Stone—and how the church has matured over time. They also engage with a sobering warning from Dave Harvey about the danger of ministry becoming a "monument," emphasizing that a healthy church must always prioritize present faithfulness and future gospel work over resting on a legacy.

Whether you are a longtime member or new to the community, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how God preserves His people. It is a reminder that while buildings change and leaders pass the baton, Christ remains the head of the church, sustaining His work through every generation.

Welcome to NorthCreek Church!In glad reliance on the Holy Spirit and Scripture, we exist for the glory of Christ, to make disciples who worship God, walk in love, and witness to the world.Connect With Us:Sunday Services: 9:00AM & 10:45AM Address: 2303 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek, CA 94598Online Resources:Main Website: https://www.northcreek.org/ NorthCreek Academy (TK-8): https://ncapschool.org/ Sermon Archive: https://northcreek.churchcenter.com/channels/19901 Church App: Download the Church Center App and search for "NorthCreek Church"

In this New Year’s episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow is joined by Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to discuss the spiritual trajectory of 2026. The conversation begins with a lighthearted look at personal hobbies—from dirt biking and water sports to reading and writing—serving as a bridge to explore the deep, biblical concept of "delight" found in the Psalms.

The pastors examine the "bookends" of the Psalter, specifically connecting Psalm 1 and Psalm 149. They observe that the "blessed man" of Psalm 1 is defined by a heart that delights in the law of the Lord and a mind that meditates on it day and night. Using their own hobbies as an illustration, the hosts explain that meditation is like "muttering" or "chewing" on a subject—a natural mental preoccupation that occurs when we truly find pleasure in something.

The discussion also highlights the profound truth in Psalm 149:4: that the Lord Himself "takes pleasure in his people" and "adorns the humble with salvation". This episode encourages believers to move beyond seeing Scripture as a mere duty and to instead cultivate a life where God’s Word is the primary object of their focus and affection. By framing spiritual growth through the lens of delight, the pastors offer a warm, pastoral invitation to a closer walk with Christ and deeper fellowship within the local church.