SUMMER 2022
Our Walk to Freedom
Our Purpose
with Peter Mitchell (Committee Member)
“Calling and equipping every man to be a transforming influence in their family, church and community.”
Years ago, I had the opportunity to go to South Africa. While I was there, I went to Robbin Island where Nelson Mandela had been incarcerated. I went to his jail cell where there is an inscription that says, "It's a long walk to freedom." Here at Harvest Community Church, we have had the opportunity to minister to many families over the last 4 years. And over the last 6 months, we have been working alongCaptain Peter Mitchell side many families that have arrived here from South America, more specific Columbia. From there we have met many families that have traveled a long way via Mexico and USA, and finally arriving in Canada. They have walked a long way to their freedom. Fleeing persecution, gangs, violence and government corruption. Some of these men have made a large connection at Harvest Community Church in Burnaby, British Columbia. Weekly we meet for Bible Study, Family Nite and Sunday Worship. The men in our church have connected and started a men's ministry. We have had hikes, Pool/Billiards nights and Emergency Disaster Services. These men are growing strong in their faith. They are becoming role models in their families, and they are contributing to the kingdom of God here in our community. We are continually growing and are seeing the move of God right before our eyes. Psalm 63 states, “You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your Name I will lift up my hands.” (Continuation in page 3)
Encourage • Embrace • Equip • Engage ENCOURAGING:
Authentic encouragement helps people overcome fear and builds morale. It sets the example to build each other up and builds confidence to face challenges. The gift of encouragement can transform people and circumstances while creating the desire to take positive, forward thinking action. Encouragement establishes hope. When you encourage others, you encourage yourself. We believe in you and that you can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. The desired end-result would be stronger men who can influence others in doing the right thing.
EMBRACING:
Local corps events like Monthly Men’s Breakfasts, sporting events, golf outings, etc. and area and divisional events like The Gatherings, and other large men’s events with a focus to embrace men in each corps/ unit through multiple non-threatening portals of entry into a fellowship of men for friendship, inspiration and connections. The desired end-result would be men connected to each other in every unit and to create avenues where men can invite their friends and co-workers to attend these events and eventually to attend church with them.
EQUIPPING:
Using pre-existing discipling tools like “Blue Print” from Promise Keepers Canada and other available resources, the focus is to facilitate the work of the Holy Spirit to purify and transform men to pursue a life long path of Holiness. This would occur on a local corps/unit level but also in area wide gatherings for teaching. The desired end-result would be Godly men committed to a life of purity and Holiness.
ENGAGING:
Upon embarking on a transforming life journey, partnered with other men, the focus is to re-engage the men to be a transforming influence in their families (husband, father, grandfather, etc.) church and the communities and relationships they find themselves. The desired end-result would be increase spiritual leadership in the home and church and an embodiment of Christ where ever these men go in their communities.