Kate's Story | North Shore

September 7, 2023

Share this Article:

It was Easter 2021, one of the very first services I had attended at The Orchard North Shore campus. What struck me was the very different experience I had that day compared to the experiences I had grown accustomed to, attending a Christian church with my grandparents in my youth. This experience was one of joy, excitement, and happiness. A jubilance I had never felt at church before. This almost tangible feeling was what church should feel like!

So, in the Fall of 2021, I joined a LIFE Group, where the Lord has grown my faith tremendously through its teachings, discussions, and relationships.


A year later—just this past Fall—I walked through an exceptionally tough season, losing three very close friends and family members in just 3 weeks. Not having time to grieve through one loss before diving into another was impossibly hard, but I found myself turning to the Lord to carry me, particularly through the power of prayer.

On November 15, sitting at the bedside of my ailing grandfather as he drew his last breath, I called my LIFE Group leader and requested prayer for my grandfather, that the Lord would welcome him with open arms, and prayer for me to make it through yet another loss.


These incredibly challenging experiences highlighted for me the hope I have in Christ. Saved by grace through faith, I have surrendered myself to Him and know I am not deserving of the gift he has given me. The victory is ours. Salvation is mine; and He is truly my living hope. For me, this is more than enough. This is all that matters.


Connect with Us:

February 13, 2026
The Orchard Barrington shared the following testimony from Steve Bond. There’s an urgency senior year as parents consider their kids’ readiness to face the world views of college. In March, Matt and I were compelled by the Spirit to not squander the chance to equip our 18-year-old sons, Grant and Ty, with Truth before their departure. We dads can unintentionally outsource the training up of our kids to preachers and small group leaders… but Solomon’s caution in Proverbs 3:1 “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments” modeled the intimate privilege and obligation Matt and I owed our boys.
January 5, 2026
Mark Wilson, a long-time business owner and faithful member of The Orchard, recently took a bold step to share his faith with his team of 50+ employees. While known for his kindness, Mark realized he had never openly shined for Christ at work. So, he hosted a voluntary lunch to share his story of faith. The impact has been incredible—sparking new conversations and inspiring others. Watch Mark’s story and consider how you too can shine for Christ. Do you, or someone you know, have a SHINE story? Let us know!
December 19, 2025
The Orchard Itasca shared the following testimony about Kenny's baptism during their weekly Sunday service. Kenny is a resident of the Forest View Nursing and Rehab Facility in Itasca where our people have been ministering for the past two years. Kenny and his friend, Karen now regularly attend services, and Kenny was baptized on Sunday, September 28. We rejoice in the fruit that is being born through this ministry! We are also excited that one of the couples who regularly participates in the ministry has plans to offer a Bible study at the facility. We pray that The Orchard Itasca will continue to bring light and hope to the residents and staff!