Elevation Church - Toronto — Local services in Mississauga

TL;DR Concert vibes with smoke machine and lights, nice welcome goodie bag, zoom call preaching, probably why they want to take away charity status from churches

Arrived to a packed parking lot but they had attendants that directed you towards spots. They asked if it was our first time, which it was so they directed us to special parking right by the entrance. The parking lot is huge so you probably won't have a problem getting in but you may have to walk a bit. The building is very big as well, so it can be a bit intimidating if it's your first time. If you arrive late, they have overflow areas in case the main areas get full.

The attendants were quick to interact and pretty kind but everything was pretty fast paced. Being new, they walked us to our seats which were front row. They hang live with smoke and lights, as if it was a concert, which cool if you're going for that vibe but it's 9:30 AM...especially for a newcomer, this is overwhelming.

The pastor on campus seems to just basically be there to supervise and talk about the offering on Sunday. I'm assuming he has a more active role during the week but the spot light was on the screen when Steven Furtick came on like a zoom call to preach, which felt very impersonal and idolizing.

They had a bookstore that sold some books and clothes which I guess is part of creating a community around elevation. I was with someone who wanted to start going to church for the first time and they told me they felt that it was very commercialized.

Ultimately, To each their own. If this is helping people then great but it's definitely not my vibe or anyone I was with. Went for the hype but won't...

When I first visited this church, I felt somewhat awkward. I hadn’t been involved in this type of church before because I was spiritually exhausted and completely broken. During my first times attending, I found myself crying constantly during the sermons and worship sessions.

Then, Pastor Steven Furtik delivered a powerful message about Jesus Christ. At that time, I was very emotional and, honestly, quite religious. I remember the day he started his sermon with the title, "THAT’S WHAT I THOUGHT." I recall how my thoughts were overwhelming me, even to the point of wanting to end my life. Gradually, I started attending church regularly, and the word of God began convicting me. Through this church, I learned about my relationship with Jesus Christ. It genuinely transformed my life, as well as my perspective on Him. I prayed to Jesus about certain issues, and He spoke to me through Pastor Steven Furtik. I give all glory to Jesus Christ for this transformation.

I am from India, and I discovered this church through my cousin. I chose to attend during a challenging phase in my brother's life. It took me some time, but I eventually started attending.

I recommend this church to anyone seeking a relationship with Jesus Christ. This church solely focuses on Jesus. Jesus didn't deliver me instantly; He works in me patiently, and today I am able to help others by sharing the word of God. All glory to the...

I went for a Celebration of life ceremony. The ceremony itself was very well done. The building itself though in no way felt like a church. Not sure if this is by design or not. The congregation itself appeared to be fairly young also not a bad thing at all. It was easy to find with a very large parking lot. Would have been a four star if it looked more like a church building. I don't know what a regular service is like here so I could not give a star for the service either. I should come back here to see a regular service. Then I can give a more accurate rating for this place. Church and religion are very spiritual and personal to the individual and I would encourage anyone to make go and not worry about what I or anyone else have to say...