Light Magazine December 2024 by lightmagazine6

Warm-A-Soul this Christmas

ach year, it is our joy to give filled Christmas stockings to disadvantaged children, youth, First Nations communities, and individuals living in local shelters, supportive housing, and on our streets – those who may not otherwise receive a gift at Christmas. According to the BC Child Poverty Report, one in seven children in BC live in poverty. Thousands of children in our community are caught in the treacherous cycle of poverty, and we desire to make a difference! This year, our goal is to provide 2500 stockings!

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she asked ‘is that for me?’ and then tears started flowing down her face. This had been the first stocking she had ever received in her life.”

ach year, Extreme Outreach Society gives filled Christmas stockings to disadvantaged children, youth, First Nations communities, and individuals living in local shelters, supportive housing, and on our streets – those who may not otherwise receive a gift at Christmas. According to the BC Child Poverty Report, one in seven children in BC live in poverty. Thousands of children in our community are caught in the treacherous cycle of poverty, and we desire to make a difference! This year, our goal is to provide 2500 stockings!

gave her the stocking and

“I gave her the stocking and she asked ‘is that for me?’ and then tears started flowing down her face. This had been the first stocking she had ever received in her life.”

Help us fill 2500 stockings with gifts, hygiene items, and treats. Our Warm-A-Soul campaign runs from November 15 to December 15. Stockings for children are given during our SuperKids Drive-Thru Christmas and personally delivered to communities on Vancouver Island and the lower mainland. Stockings for the homeless and poverty-stricken adults are given in December. Everyone can get involved and bring joy to those in need this Christmas! Businesses, schools, groups, and individuals can choose to: donate funds for us to purchase and fill stockings, donate items or filled stockings, or help us fill stockings. You can find stocking stuffer guidelines and posters at www.extremeoutreach.com Help warm the souls of those in need this Christmas!

Help Us Provide 2500 Stockings

Help us fill 2500 stockings with gifts, hygiene items, and treats. Our Warm-A-Soul campaign runs from November 15 to December 15. Stockings for children are given during our SuperKids Drive-Thru Christmas and personally delivered to communities on Vancouver Island and the lower mainland. Stockings for the homeless and poverty-stricken adults are given in December. Everyone can get involved and bring joy to those in need this Christmas! Businesses, schools, groups, and individuals can choose to: donate funds for us to purchase and fill stockings, donate items or filled stockings, or help us fill stockings. You can find stocking stuffer guidelines and posters at www.extremeoutreach.com. Help warm the souls of those in need this Christmas!

Help us fill 2500 stockings with gifts, hygiene items, and treats. Our Warm-A-Soul campaign runs from November 15 to December 15. Stockings for children are given during our SuperKids Drive-Thru Christmas, which will provide over 70 local families with stockings and gifts for the children and youth, and items for the family, and personally delivered to communities on Vancouver Island and the lower mainland. Stockings for the homeless and poverty-stricken adults are given in December. Everyone can get involved and bring joy to those in need this Christmas! Community support is essential in order to provide these valuable outreaches. Your financial donation will help make a difference. Help warm the souls of those in need this Christmas!

Donate Now!

Donate by calling our office at 250-384-2064, visiting us online at www.extremeoutreach.com, or scanning the QR code.

The light has overpowered the darkness

Isaiah 9:2 (NASB)

The people who walk in darkness Will see a great light; Those who live in a dark land, The light will shine on them.

John 8:12 (NASB)

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”

All around us it is a time of great uncertainty. Wars and rumours of war, the economies of the world are shaky, political uncer-

tainties abound, personal debt is higher than ever, homelessness and poverty are very real in our neighbourhoods and in communities around the world.

Perhaps for many of us the greatest darkness is more personal; a sense of loss and powerlessness. It might be a troubled marriage, difficulties with kids, job loss or job changes, illness, loneliness, addiction, or there is simply too much month left at the end of the money. Many of us live with personal darkness.

There is, however, a light shining on all that darkness. There is a joy that overcomes all uncertainty.

God’s love for us is absolute. No matter what we might face, or what we might have done, God’s love is absolute. Jesus came into this world as a human child, and in that most vulnerable of states lived his life for our Father and gave his life for us.

With the vulnerability of a child we experience the fullness of God’s love. It is in our powerlessness that the fullness of God’s love is truly experienced.

Have a most blessed Christmas this year and as you read the various stories in this month’s issue it is our prayer that you will

know that there is no circumstance or sin that can separate us from the love of God in Jesus Christ. The Light has come into the world and overpowered the darkness.

Steve Almond Publisher/Editor

Extreme Outreach 27th annual Christmas outreaches

Extreme Outreach Society is a Victoria-based non-profit organization with a vision to break the cycle of poverty, addiction, and homelessness. Providing unique free programs and services for disadvantaged children, youth, and their families. Through love and acceptance, aiming to transform communities one life at a time.

Help make a difference this Christmas!

Join in sharing hope and joy this Christmas with disadvantaged children, youth, families, First Nations communities, and individuals living in local shelters, supportive housing, and on the streets - those who may not otherwise receive a gift at Christmas. Businesses, schools, and individuals alike can help provide 2,500 stockings, 350 gifts, and 15 brandnew bikes for the 27th Annual Christmas Outreaches, SuperKids Drive-Thru Christmas and Warm-A-Soul. Community support is essential in order to provide these valuable outreaches. Financial donations will help make a difference for those in need this Christmas. Donate by calling our office at 250-384-2064, or online at www.extremeoutreach.com, or scanning the QR code on the ad on the previous page. Christmas is a special time of year for everyone but it also brings a lot of challenges for many families. Bringing hope is the main mission at Extreme Outreach and this is one of the ways we share hope.

In place of the Annual Christmas Dinner, we will once again be hosting the SuperKids Drive-Thru Christmas on December 14, 2024, which will serve over 70 families. This event provides for local disadvantaged children, youth, and their families. They sign up on our website to receive a stocking and gift for their children and youth, and items for the family. We are also hoping to once again give away 15 brand-new bikes.

Help us fill 2,500 stockings with gifts, hygiene items, and treats by sending a financial donation. The Warm-A-Soul campaign runs until December 15. To donate, volunteer or find more information about Extreme Outreach Society, please visit: www.extremeoutreach.com.

Other programs:

BBQ Outreach Program: This interactive outreach has proven successful since 1997. Connecting with children and families in need at low-income housing complexes by providing FREE hot meals, games and fun, rain or shine! Kids learn how to BBQ and serve their community, which builds their confidence. Sponsor a BBQ ($300)

SuperKids Camp: We are committed to ensuring that kids in our community have the opportunity to enjoy a true summer camp experience regardless of the economic circumstances of their families. At camp, we cultivate positive

The Elisha Code

by David Kitz & Dr. Ed Hird

Is there a “hidden code” to the Bible – a code hidden in plain sight-we have been missing for generations? By studying the ministry of Jesus, we can rediscover the blueprint he was following to launch the first-century church. It is a blueprint patterned after the prophetic Old Testament ministries of Elijah and Elisha. Together, let’s crack the Elisha Code, renew our first love, and become participants in the next great endtimes revival – a revival marked by a double portion of Christ’s miraculous anointing.

life skills, teach kids how to work together and have fun, and develop future leaders in a way that appeals to kids. Sponsor a child to go to camp ($200)

Extreme Coffee House: Come by for a coffee, latte, lunch or baked good – all available by donation. Proceeds help fund our programs! Complimentary WiFi is available, as well as a fun children’s play zone. Rent the Coffee House with full barista services for events up to 40 people. Information available on our website.

Youth Job Skills Training: Extreme Coffee House welcomes youth ages 15 to 25 to join our Youth Job Skills Training Program, which is free of charge. We provide onthe-job training in barista skills, light food prep, FOODSAFE procedures, sanitation, and customer service skills. We help nurture youth by providing them with encouragement, mentorship, and skills that will build their confidence for the future. Youth are given the chance to gain valuable work skills in an uplifting environment while serving their community.

Extreme Adventures: Activities in this program are designed to bring hope to children and youth, and to inspire them to become leaders in the community. Extreme Adventures include surfing, boating, wilderness field trips, hockey games and other events at Save-On arena, and more – creating memories that last a lifetime.

Light Christian Media

Journey of Peace

by Phil Wagler

As we enter Advent 2024 we experience a second Christmas where war in Israel dominates our headlines, and a third Christmas with full-scale war in Ukraine. In Christian churches we light candles of love, joy, peace, and hope and hear familiar scriptures about a Prince of Peace and yearn with the beautiful twelfth century hymn, O Come, O Come Emmanuel.

Will this just be part of our holiday routine alongside Christmas shopping and taking in what we’re told is the next “can’t miss” Christmas blockbuster?

What is the journey we are on together as a tilting planet? With North Korean soldiers now deployed with Russians against Ukraine; with Iran, Hezbollah and Hamas terroriz-

The Metzger Collection Presents

1525: Reform & Revolution

An exhibit to mark the 500-year anniversary of the Anabaptist movement in its historical context. Aug 28, 2024 to Feb 21, 2025

This current feature exhibit puts a single year, 1525, in focus. 500 years ago, this momentous year marked the birth of the Anabaptist movement as a key part of a larger escalation in the revolutionary fervour of the 16th-century Reformation. Witness the intricate web of connections between people and movements as the theology of the Reformation pushed into the realm of socio-political issues. Could force contain the revolution?

The Metzger Collection is a museum featuring replicas of artifacts and artwork, especially highlighting the biblical story within the broader context of human history.

Open Wednesdays & Fridays, 11am - 4pm

Also open by Appointment

Admission FREE during regular hours info@metzgercollection.org

604-853-3567 ext. 539

2940 Clearbrook Rd. Abbotsford, BC (Columbia Bible College) metzgercollection.org

ing Israel; with Israel unapologetically destroying the children of Gaza; with millions of Sudanese displaced by civil war; with a new BRICS alliance forming that opposes the ways of the west, and with western nations having no small part in directing these conflicts while often pretending they aren’t, we’re all together in a heap of hurt. To pretend otherwise is simply obtuse and callous.

“Blessed are the peacemakers,” said Jesus, “for they will be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

As Christians who are literally named and identified as people of Jesus Christ, Jesus equates peacemaking with God’s family mission and values. He is Son of God who came as peacemaker. His life, death and resurrection opened up the way of peace between God and humanity and humanity with one another (Ephesians 2:14). We who have been rescued from the kingdom of darkness and are children of God through Jesus Christ have become God’s new household of every tribe and language, Jew and Gentile, and cannot be known as God’s children apart from being peacemakers too.

Christians should always be on a journey of peace. That many Christians are now divided over political ideologies, pandemic reverberations, and how various theologies and eschatologies line up with current world events is just another example of why this journey of peace is crucial, necessary, and difficult. As we light candles of love, joy, peace, and hope, however, is it not incumbent upon us to get serious about this journey in and for this generation we have responsibility for?

The Peace and Reconciliation Network (PRN) is a commission of the World Evangelical Alliance, the global family of more than 600 million Evangelical Christians in more than 140 countries (like the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada). With regional and national teams in Africa, Central Asia, Europe, the Caucasus, Asia, Canada and the Middle East North Africa, PRN serves to inspire and equip every disciple, church, and alliance to know they are a centre of God’s ministry of reconciliation in a complex and conflicted world. When Paul said that God has given the new multi-cultural family of God the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18) he was talking about more than our Christmas eve services but of the robust Gospel of peace that works in the lives of sinners and creates communities through whom principalities and powers are confronted with a different way of being and living. Every Christian fellowship is truly a community of the resurrection, reconciliation and transformation, a new reality in the polis of every nation, a prophetic presence that is a city on a hill for humanity that has lost its way, and the advent of the shalom of God as we pray and act for the Kingdom to come and God’s will to be done on earth

as it is in heaven. Surely we would agree, the will of heaven is needed in our neighbourhoods and nations today.

As we keep on this journey of peace, PRN Canada under the leadership of Canadian Coordinator Joel Zantingh, is hosting a British Columbia Advent Tour with renowned scholar and PRN Regional Coordinator for the Middle East North Africa, Dr. Salim Munayer. Hosted in Kelowna and throughout the Lower Mainland November 30-December 8, this Advent Tour will give Canadian Christians the opportunity to hear the perspective of Evangelical brothers and sisters in the Holy Land, ask questions and engage in conversation, and seek together what it means to be on a journey of peace as followers of the Prince of Peace today. As PRN Global Director, I invite you on the journey with us! Kelowna, BC

• Saturday November 30, 10 am - How Do We Live With Our Neighbour: Understanding Paths to Peace in Israel and Palestine - Metro Community, 1265 Ellis St., Kelowna.

• Sunday December 1, 6:30 pm - Public Event - Mission Creek Alliance Church, Kelowna.

• Monday December 2, 10 am - Pastor’s and Leader’s Coffee - Mission Creek Alliance Church, Kelowna.

• Monday, December 2, 7 pm – Dialogue Across Divides – Public Event and Panel Discussion – University of British Columbia Okanagan, Room ART 114.

Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, BC

• Tuesday December 3, 7 pm - Dunbar Home Gathering, Vancouver.

• Wednesday December 4, 10 am - Pastor’s and Leader’s Coffee - West Coast Christian Fellowship (Hastings).

• Wednesday December 4, 7 pm - Public Event - Killarney Park MB Church, Vancouver.

• Friday December 6, 10 am - Morning Pastor’s and Leader’s Coffee - White Rock Community Church, White Rock.

• Friday December 6, 7 pm - Public Event - New Life Christian Reformed Church, Abbotsford.

• Saturday December 7, 6:30 pm - Public Event - Gracepoint Community Church, Surrey.

Phil Wagler, PRN Global Director and Joel Zantingh, PRN Canadian Coordinator. You can follow PRN Global on Facebook, subscribe to the All Things Reconciled podcast for global stories, and follow PRN Canada on Instagram.

Not everyone gets a family Christmas feast around the table following a time of laughter and games. We think of the women and men who will be at The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope on Christmas Day. Their experience is vastly different because they are not in their own home, making their own meal to share with family and friends. Their hands do not prepare the meal. The Christmas meal is served to them. Their blood relatives are likely not with them in this setting. Their “family” are often their colleagues from the streets. They share much in common having perhaps lived a “hard life.”

We might have trouble relating this story if we’ve been spared the “scars.” Nevertheless, these women and men are our neighbours; people for whom Jesus loves and lives daily to care for. The Salvation Army and the myriads of people within this movement are Jesus’ hands and feet. We represent Jesus in this world that God so loves. Jesus, the King, commands us that when we see the hungry, to feed them; when we hear the thirsty ask, to give

them something to drink; when the stranger shows up, invite them in; when people need clothes, clothe them; when they are sick, look after them.

(Matthew 25: 35-36, 40) For when we do it to others, we do it for Him.

This Christmas season we are again launching into another prime opportunity to extend our love and support not only to the above individuals, but also the many individuals and families that make up the “working poor” in our Abbotsford community. These individuals that utilize our services so that they can make a Christmas meal for their family or have presents under a tree for their children. Such acts of kindness through your financial generosity make it possible for them to transition from struggle, anxiety and sorrow into hope. That hope comes in the form of a God who cares for his creation and their daily needs. He is the only God who has come into this world in the form of humanity and lives amongst us. Let’s work together with him!

by Major Ian Gillingham

Interpersonal relationships in a scrambled world

An Interview with Dr. Terence C. Young, Senior Consultant, CREST Leadership Presenter &

by Nancy Kingdon

The greatest investment in yourself, and your future, that you can make is to look for two or three people you feel you can trust and begin to commit to a deeper level of communication, thus sharing your thoughts, business dreams, praying together and doing life together.

Terry Young has some valuable insights on building depth of relationship, which he identifies as the key distinction between biblically focused friendships and secular relationships.

Henry Cloud, in his book The Power of Other strongly recommends that we find, shape and nurture a small band of trustworthy brothers and sisters as a leadership priority. That is how intimacy grows, and leaders flourish in their ability to build others up and intentionally touch the lives of others with God’s favour and encouragement.

Terry’s Story

Raised in a pastor’s home, Terry spent thirty years as a pastor himself, plus nine years as a professor of Pastoral Theology at Ambrose University. After observing how students struggled with discerning healthy interpersonal relationships, he decided to write a book.

This led to publishing Base Camp Manifesto: How a Secure Base Can Save Your Life and Leadership in a Scrambled World. Terry outlines four major benefits in building strong interpersonal relationships, namely: clarity, agility, durability and generativity.

Clarity results in less confusion. Agility produces freedom from carrying backpack loads of guilt, shame, regrets, and unforgiveness. Durability deepens through connections. Generativity is the opposite of de-generativity. For example, when a leader uses influence and power for goodness, justice, righteousness, abundant life happens. People are blessed and lives flourish in a generative direction. Whereas abuse of power, and the need to control others for personal gain, ignites degenerate outcomes.

Terry’s face lit up as he shared an early story about Lloyd

Matheson, before he became CEO of Cooperators Insurance.

Longshoremen between Halifax and St Johns liked working alone, and did not seem interested in the co-op Lloyd was offering. One day, as was his daily habit, Lloyd cheerfully greeted a short, very stocky local switchboard operator, thanked her with a smile and overlooked her gruff, abrupt way of speaking to customers. No one liked her. But she warmed up to Lloyd because of his smile. When asked why he treated her differently from the way others treated her, Lloyd said he believed everyone was made in God’s image, and therefore deserved to be treated with kindness, respect and dignity. He tried to live this way.

One day in early spring, this lady beckoned Lloyd over, saying: “There’s a delivery truck here with bait for the whole season of fishing, but no one from fisheries has arrived to meet him. He’s ready to leave,” she said. “Do you want to talk to him?” she added, an unexpected wink in her eye.

Lloyd went downstairs to meet the driver and immediately bought his entire shipment of bait. He then picked up the phone to invite a dozen longshoremen to come to unload the bait. That season was special because the longshoremen had a three day start on the fishing season, ahead of the huge local fisheries plant. That fisheries plant may have lost millions. But the little business longshoremen profited mightily and also joined together as a co-op. This led to the start-up of the Cooperator Insurance company, close to seventy years ago, that Lloyd eventually led as CEO.

Biblical Principles

Look for imperatives on how to relate with one another. For example, love one another (John 13:34); encourage and build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11); forgive one another (Ephesians 4:32); confess our sins to one another (James 5:16); teach and admonish one another (Colossians 3:16); plus over 40 additional passages to build relationships of trust with one another.

Creston B.C.

Two is powerful is taught in Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12. Note two is better than one because two produce a good return on labour, they help one another and keep one another warm in cold climates.

In conclusion, relationship building matters. Since the quality of our relationships can be directly translated into the quality of our leadership, it is imperative to carefully select our friends and close connections. Are these people trustworthy, spiritually mature, courageous? How robust is each relationship? Will they help to carry us, in times of anxiety and fear?

In today’s explosive world of social media, there’s a crisis growing: people are hungry for truth and meaningful relationships, longing for stronger intimacy and trust in their interpersonal relationships. Fortunately, the bible teaches us that having a strong relationship with Jesus and developing faithful, and trustworthy personal relationships with mature Christians deepens our capacity to be fruitful as leadership kingdom builders.

“Connecting your Sunday Faith to your Monday Work”

The Canadian Christian Business Federation exists to support business leaders in the study and application of Biblical Leadership Principles with peers, in order to transform lives, strengthen businesses, and positively influence and impact our world. www. ccbf.org

Nancy Kingdon is an author and freelance writer who writes these stories as a gift to the CCBF ministry. She may be reached through: www.writinglegacy.com

Christian Service Brigade

Christmas 2024 is upon us. We anticipate good things, but God knows what’s best for us. In CSB, we have felt His leading through a natural progression from where He had us to where He wants us to be. All in His timing. From the fear of a post-Covid barrenness, through a reminder that He has truly Called us, to being on our knees seeking opportunities to share the mystery of Christ, to now being warned to “‘Be careful, be quiet, do not fear, and do not let your heart be faint because of these two smoldering stumps of firebrands, at the fierce anger of…’” the enemy. (Isaiah 7:4) Through rough waters, God has guided

our ship. Multiplied illnesses, the loss of a dear friend, organizational uncertainty as we recovered our technical services, too much work, and too little time. But God grew our staff. He opened doors for four new churches to partner with CSB. He has warned us of the enemy’s “fierce” anger, and shown us His perspective –they are smoking embers in a dying campfire. They are something to be stepped over, kicked aside, ignored. He has new opportunities for us.

Pray for us. Help us win and train boys and girls for Christ. Learn more at www.CSBcan.ca.

Facilitator,

When Ministry and Marriage Collide book review

By Rev. Dr. Ed and Janice Hird

Jack Taylor has three Master’s Degrees and a PhD. He has been married 47 years, in leadership for 43, a counsellor for over 30, and now works as a certified relationship coach. When he writes a book on marriage, he works hard intellectually. As Jack mentioned in his book, ‘I focus on the abstract…I may seem out of touch with reality and too theoretical.’ What makes his book accessible is that he gives many marriage tools to make marriage transformation more doable. Throughout the book, he weaves the stories of seven clergy couples seeking to strengthen their marriages and ministry.

Taylor says that we live in a society that is quick to discard marriage. A seasoned ministry leader can make a powerful impact

petual, intractable and largely unsolvable. Conflict can easily leave us feeling rejected by one’s spouse. In every conflict, we are asking: “Can I count on you? Are you there for me? Will you respond to me when I need you? Do I matter to you? Am I valued and accepted by you? Do you need me?” When we become entrenched and unwilling to budge, emotional detachment often follows. Often our anger, criticism, withdrawal, demands, and reactions are attempts to draw attention to our feeling of disconnection.

Because few clergy are well paid, the financial stresses on clergy marriages can be intense. Taylor noted in his book that ‘finances are near the top when it comes to conflicts that destroy marriages.’ One third of clergy marriages suffer from spousal abuse. Taylor recommends replacing blaming one’s spouse with taking responsibility for our own mistakes and failures. It is far too easy to focus on criticism and

contempt instead of affirming each other’s strengths. Rather than seeing oneself as a victim, he recommends viewing your spouse as a ministry partner.

Taylor explores what he calls the quagmire of calling. Many spouses, like Taylor’s wife, did not want to become a pastor’s wife. Only later after much prayer did his wife endorse his calling. Taylor quotes Charles Spurgeon: “If you can stay out of the ministry, stay out of the ministry.” A ministry calling can become so overwhelming that it functions as an idol. A calling can also be a marriage resource because it helps one understand the why of your existence. In an age of great identity confusion, clarifying our identity in Christ helps builds better clergy marriages. Taylor notes that: “a (ministry) calling helps one transcend fear, discouragement, doubt, shame, guilt and pain. It unleashes strength, courage, hope, truth, healing and peace.”

He has much wisdom in his book on re-

Pacific Academy

Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Pacific Academy seeks to cultivate a community of Christ-centred learners, equipped to lead and inspired to serve. Providing exceptional education is at the core of our mission. However, to truly deliver the finest academic experience, we believe it is vital to interweave a spiritual component into students’ daily lives. Pacific Academy is unabashedly Christian and we emphasize the life-changing importance of a relationship with Jesus Christ in everything we do. One of the ways

building marital intimacy in this busy, distracted culture. Notably he quoted a German study showing that men live around ten years longer if they kiss their wife for at least six seconds before going to work each day.

Taylor’s 16th book has much to teach ministry couples about how to thrive in 2024.

we live this out is through our exciting outreach program. All students - from junior kindergarten through grade 12 - take part in sharing God’s love, both here in the Surrey community and around the world. To discover more, visit pacificacademy.net or come to our open house on October 16th, from 10am - 2pm and 4pm - 6pm. We look forward to connecting with you! pacificacademy.net | 604.581.5353 | contact@mypacificacademy.net

A culture of giving at BC Christian Academy

The Christmas season is a time of giving, where we reflect on the ultimate gift—God Himself. In this season, God gave His Son for us, doing for us and giving to us what we could never do or earn on our own. This is the heart of Christmas, as beautifully expressed in John 3:16:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Through His Son, God demonstrated the greatest act of generosity. At BC Christian Academy (BCCA), we embrace this spirit of giving as a vital part of our mission and identity. It reflects our biblical values and aligns with our core principles of Christ, Community, and Compassion.

Already, the spirit of giving is alive and well here at BCCA. Our recent Shoebox Collection for Samaritan’s Purse’s Operation Christmas Child saw over 300 boxes sent to children across the globe. Our high school students will also be serving the homeless in downtown Vancouver on November 30th, preparing sandwiches, distributing food, and praying with those in need. Meanwhile, our elementary and middle school students are making Christmas cards for the elderly and will be singing carols for them in December.

As we celebrate our 6th year participating in GivingTuesday, we are reminded that supporting a shared cause unites us and connects us to something much greater than

ourselves. This global movement encourages all of us to consider how we can make a positive difference in the lives of others. As we embrace this season of giving, we also invite you to consider directing your support to BC Christian Academy. With enrollment now exceeding 500 students, we are seeing an increasing demand for the Christ-centered education we offer. Our Annual Fund helps bridge the gap between tuition fees, partial government funding, and the operational costs of running the school. Generous donations allow us to enhance educational resources, hire skilled teachers, and improve our facilities, all in service to our students’ growth and development.

This GivingTuesday and Christmas season, we invite you to join us in creating a lasting legacy of joyful giving. Whether through financial contributions, participating in our fundraisers, or offering prayerful support, your gift will make a meaningful impact and invest in future generations.

On behalf of everyone at BC Christian Academy, may your Christmas season be filled with peace, hope, and joy. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission to impact the world for Christ.

To donate or learn more about giving opportunities, please visit our website at bcchristianacademy.ca

Proverbs 22:6

Train a child in the way he [should] go; and, even when old, he will not swerve from it.

The Christmas Blessing

By Dr Neil Campbell (National Director Family Foundations Canada)

As we approach the Christmas season, it is important to remember that Jesus was probably not born on December 25. Historical evidence suggests that early Christians chose this date in the 4th century, perhaps to provide a Christian alternative to pagan festivals like Saturnalia. The Bible doesn’t pinpoint the exact day of Christ’s birth, but December 25 has become the day we set aside to celebrate one of the most powerful and world-changing events in history: the incarnation of Christ. For our family it is an important day to celebrate the birth of Jesus and to take the time to bless our children and grandchildren.

Incarnation

Though the exact date may be uncertain, what remains undeniably true is the significance of the virgin birth. Jesus, both fully God and fully man, entered the world to fulfill God’s redemptive plan. Philippians 2:6-7 tells us that Christ, “being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” This is the miracle of the incarnation – God stepping into our broken world to reconcile us to Himself.

The identity question

The angelic announcement to Mary marks one of the most profound moments in history, as the angel Gabriel visited her with a message from God. In Luke 1:28, Gabriel greets her with the words, “Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you.” This blessing before conception was a divine affirmation of Mary’s role in God’s plan for salvation. In this moment, the identity question, “Am I welcome in the world?” is answered resoundingly as God, Himself, prepares to enter creation through the birth of His Son, Jesus. Mary’s

acceptance of this blessing reminds us of the powerful truth that every life, including the life of the Saviour, is divinely appointed by God.

In today’s society, we are confronted with the heartbreaking reality that the womb is not always a safe place for a child, as nearly 50 percent of children conceived out of wedlock are aborted. This raises deep questions about the sanctity and protection of life. Several years ago, in the movie portrayal of Jesus of Nazareth, we see a young Mary, visibly pregnant, facing the scrutiny of her small community. People begin to whisper, questioning her faithfulness to Joseph, with some even speculating a Roman soldier was involved. To protect her from shame, Mary’s father sends her to stay with her older cousin Elizabeth, who is also expecting – carrying John the Baptist. When Elizabeth hears Mary’s greeting, the baby leaps in her womb, and she is filled with the Holy Spirit and declares, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!” (Luke 1:41-42) In this moment, we see that God’s plan for life transcends human judgment and the identity question at pregnancy “Is there a safe place for me?” is answered for Jesus, even in uncertain and challenging circumstances.

Welcomed and named

Blessing at birth answers the critical question: “Will my needs be met in this world?” Only God could orchestrate the beautiful birth of His Son, Jesus. In Luke 2:8-20, we see angels sent from heaven to announce His arrival and shepherds came praising God. This divine celebration at the birth of Emmanuel – God with us –was a powerful declaration of His purpose to save us. Today, every child should be welcomed and celebrated at birth. Naming a child is a profound act of blessing that shapes their identity and destiny.

Xwist Memin Kin

Mary Jane Joe, Interior Salish, recounts memories of her 12 years at Kamloops Indian Residential School. Lecturing in Vancouver schools in 2019, students wanted to hear about Mary Jane’s lived-experience at a boarding school. All those questions resulted in this book. Now a Christian believer Mary Jane has forgiven those who mistreated her.

When we held our grandson Jude Alexis Neil in our arms, we blessed his identity as ‘son of praise,’ his gender and destiny as a ‘defender of others’ and a ‘champion of men.’ Just as God named His Son Yeshua (Jesus), meaning “He will save us,” we affirm the future of our children through the power of blessing.

Christmas blessings

Each Christmas, after our family dinner, I share a special Christmas blessing (that I have prepared in advance) for each of our children, their spouses, and grandchildren. I begin by looking up the meaning of their names and gathering pictures that capture highlights from the past year. I add a scripture that speaks to their journey and a personalized word of blessing. In crafting these blessings, I ensure they include five key elements: a meaningful touch, a spoken word of encouragement, the affirmation of their immense incredible value, a vision of their bright future, and my commitment to stand with them

in seeing the blessing fulfilled. This annual tradition is a way to pour God’s love and purpose into their lives.

This year, take a moment to give each of your loved ones the gift of a powerful Christmas Blessing. A Christmas blessing is more than just kind words or gifts; it is an opportunity to speak life and hope, reminding others of the miracle of Emmanuel – God with us.

This Christmas may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ fill your hearts and homes. As you celebrate His birth, may you experience the fullness of His love and presence. I bless you and your entire household with emotional healing, spiritual growth, and unity as a family. May the Prince of Peace guide you and may His joy overflow in every aspect of your lives. May this season be a time of renewed faith, deep connection, and abundant blessings for you and your loved ones.

Merry Christmas and may His light shine brightly in your hearts!

A Spotlight on Christian mission and ministry

Maple Ridge Christian School

Open House and new registrations

At Maple Ridge Christian School (MRCS), we believe learning is about more than just gaining knowledge – it’s about shaping hearts and minds to live out God’s story in the world. MRCS has made it our mission to create a learning environment that is centred around holistic education and strong community. Over the past year, our entire staff has been engaging in a professional development program called Teaching for Transformation (TfT), which has been an exciting journey, providing new thoughts on how we teach and connect with our students to take this mandate from simple words to action.

Through TfT, our teachers have been diving deep into what they hope for each student – not just academically, but spiritually as well. The program encourages and equips our staff to help students understand that everything they do and learn – whether it’s solving a math problem, writing a paper, or creating art – can be connected to God and His story in a deeper way. We want students to see that learning is about more than just completing assignments or memorizing information; it’s about participating in God’s bigger story and engaging in real work to meet the needs of real people. Our mission is to equip students with the necessary skills and values to lead a life for God.

MRCS has a rich history, with deep community roots. New families can rest assured that every student is treated equally, with supportive teachers mentoring them every step of the way. Our various programs such as our extracurricular Athletics program and International student program display the talents and diverse backgrounds of our vibrant and inclusive community. By integrating faith and learning, MRCS curriculum is designed to engage students in creative, problem solving, and critical thinking all while strengthening their understanding of their Christian values.

With MRCS expanding its facilities with new classroom and social spaces and a full-size gym, it also opens its doors to new and exciting opportunities for our current and incoming students.

This expansion project reinforces the school’s commitment to investing in our students, creating new spaces for students to thrive academically and spiritually. For the upcoming 2025-2026 school year, spots will be available across all grade levels, from K-12. This presents a unique opportunity for families seeking to have this TfT experience for their children. By enrolling in MRCS, families can be confident that their children will receive a high-quality education within a nurturing and supportive environment.

MRCS invites you to see what the school is all about for yourself. The Open House is on January 13, 2025, and you will have the opportunity to tour the school with a staff member. Registrations for new families will be open from January 15-31, 2025.

Quentin Flokstra - Lead Principal

Stacy Sowerby - Vice Principal of Learning & Programs

Mission Defining

By John Hall

I’ve had a few interactions recently where it has become clear to me that church tradition trumps scripture when it comes to a definition of mission. Many Christians from a Protestant background would define mission as crossing from one culture to another for the purpose of spreading the Gospel. They’re not completely wrong, but it doesn’t seem to do justice to Jesus’ invitation for his Church to join him in his mission. Instead, the definition seems to reflect a system we’ve grown comfortable with which has, unwittingly, led to a domino effect of unexamined implications and impacts.

Below are three knock-on concerns I have with using the definition above.

• We believe that mission (for the most part) is the job of a missionary.

• Mission happens away from home.

• If I do share the Gospel locally, that is called evangelism.

I’ll address the implications of each of these concerns in a bit. First, I’d like to introduce a couple of good definitions of mission.

The well-known missiologist David Bosch says: “Mission (is) understood as being derived from the very nature of God. It (is) thus put in the context of the doctrine of the Trinity, not of ecclesiology or soteriology. The classical doctrine of the missio Dei as God the Father sending the Son, and God the Father and the Son sending the Spirit (is) expanded to include yet another “movement”: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit sending the church into the world.” (Transforming Mission, p546)

Chris Wright says, “when I speak of mission, I am thinking of all that God is doing in his great purpose for the whole of creation and all that he calls us to do in cooperation with that purpose.” (Mission and God’s People, p25)

Lately, I’ve been very challenged when I read a mission statement ascribed to Jesus, found in Isaiah 61. The beginning of the chapter reads:

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”

I’ve been thinking (and maybe you might too) that if this is Jesus’ mission statement, and if Christ is being formed in me, and I’m called to continue his mission, then this mission statement is my mission statement. I

find in Isaiah 61 a holistic picture of the impact of the Gospel, not just a message of salvation, but an aspirational picture of the transformation of the world, which will be fulfilled at Christ’s return. In the meantime, we have work to do. But, back to my concerns above.

Mission is the job of a missionary: Implications: If mission is the job of a missionary, then we devalue the calling for the priesthood of all believers to participate in Jesus’ mission.

Impact: In Evangelical churches in Canada there has been a dramatic decline from approximately 12 percent of the population in 1995 to approximately 4 percent today. We need everyone to own their “Go” (Matthew 28:1820).

Mission happens away from home: Implications: If mission happens away from home, then we often rely on specialized organizations to make mission happen. This isn’t exactly a bad thing. The problem is that the Canadian church needs the creative apostolic gifting of the people in these organizations here. The apostle Paul worked in a team, an apostolic band, that was highly mobile and agile – but no less Church than a local worshipping community. We need to reconsider our definition of Church and the variety of modes or vehicles it is manifested in. I don’t think Paul ranked high in pastoral gifting (the most professionalized gift of our Canadian church), yet his contribution to the advancement of the Gospel is undisputed. Impact: We keep sending away people who have a calling to break ground and reach people who don’t know Jesus, or we sideline their gifting in an effort to have them conform to the attractional model of local church that we’re comfortable with. The people of God (Church) need to “Go” into the world.

If I do share the Gospel locally, that is called evangelism: Implications: There are two big implications here. First, we limit the good news of the Kingdom to proclamation. Evangelism scares many Christians, and rather than experiment with many beautiful and simple ways to express the good news of the Kingdom, they just shutup and shut-off. Second, it might reduce the scope of the good news to personal salvation and conversion rather than taking into consideration the full scope of Jesus’ mission, which was to introduce the Kingdom of God in the world now through the Church.

Impact: By equating mission and evangelism we reduce the number of people who are participating in Jesus’ mission and we further constrain the transformative power of the Kingdom and its ability to impact all aspects of life.

In conclusion, definitions matter. Starting with the wrong definition leads to (often unexamined) implications and impacts. So, is the Church’s mission an extension of the mission of Jesus? If it is, then we need to wrestle with another challenging question David Bosch asked – “What structures, patterns, and forms of ministry are needed to enable the church to be faithful to its call to continue the mission of Christ?”

This question is what Novo Canada is exploring, and we’d love to have you join the dialogue, because doing the same-old-same-old just isn’t working. To find out more contact John at john.hall@novocanada.org.

John Hall is the president of Novo Canada. Before that he served for eight years as the Executive Director at Mission Central (formerly Missions Fest Vancouver).

A Spotlight on Christian mission and ministry

Healing Pioneers

John & Ethel Gayner Banks

By Rev. Dr. Ed & Janice Hird

In 1932, when the healing ministry was neglected in many churches, Rev. Dr. John & Ethel Gayner Banks birthed an interdenominational healing ministry at St Luke’s Church in San Diego called the Fellowship of St. Luke. From that fellowship was formed The International Order of St Luke the Physician (OSL), incorporated initially in the state of California in 1935, and later in North America in 1953. OSL helped ordinary people realize that the healing ministry is not just for snake-handlers and religious fanatics. John Banks commented: “People are very scared of the healing ministry. They’re scared that nothing might happen, and they’re scared that something might happen.”

In the 20th century, people became more aware of God’s healing power that is available to all people, not only through medicine but also through healing prayer. Earlier healing ministries in which John Banks had participated had been specifically Anglican/Episcopal. Dr. William De Orteaga commented that “Anglicans and Episcopalians have been among the most pioneering, persistent, and innovative leaders of the renewed Christian healing ministry of the last century and a half.”

Many Anglicans however were unaware that there are 22 pages in the Book of Common Prayer on the healing ministry. All the Anglican healing ministries emphasize the close relationship between medicine and healing prayer.

In 1914, the Society of the Nazarene was first sponsored by William Temple, who later became Archbishop of Canterbury. In 1926, the Society of the Nazarene was officially approved and endorsed by the Lambeth Conference of Anglican Bishops as the healing organization of the Anglican Communion.

In the USA in 1920, Rev. Henry Wilson and John Gayner Banks established an American Branch of the Society of the Nazarene. Banks had moved from England as a layman to obtain a doctorate in therapeutic psychology at the University of Missouri. Wilson encouraged Banks to be ordained. However, after the death of Wilson in 1929, the Society of the Nazarene withered away. Wilson’s family did not even allow the Banks to continue to use the Nazarene name.

While conducting a healing mission in California, John Gayner Banks met Ethel Tulloch, a top postal union leader. The economic panic of 1907 caused banks to collapse, resulting in great unemployment. Tulloch couldn’t find work, until she taught herself to type and do stenography, making herself invaluable for the post office. In 1908, the San Diego Post Office had no eight-hour day, pension plan, overtime, or sick leave. She recalled, “These were the jungle days of the post office.” In January 1919, she was appointed fifth vice president of the National Federation of Post Office Clerks, the first woman to hold the office. The Labor Leader (Sept. 1919) called Tulloch a “live wire” and “one of the strongest

Christian Friends of Israel

Two thousand years ago, Mary was expecting a baby, the Saviour of the world. “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.” Matt.1:18.

As Christmas approaches this year, we are aware more than ever of the world’s need for the Saviour. “Ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.” Matt. 24:6.

We must pray for wisdom, knowledge and understanding for the world’s leaders - PM Trudeau, Pres. Joe Biden, and Pres. Elect Donald Trump, PM Netanyahu, Iranian Khamenei, Hezbollah Qassem, Hamas Sinwar,

workers for the cause in the country.” As a gifted writer, Tulloch personally replied to complaints to the San Diego Postal Office: “She probably met more people…than any other person in the city. She was known for her courtesy in the treatment of the public.” Tulloch commented: “Seventy-five percent of the friction and trouble in the world occurs because of misunderstanding — and so I consider it a favour when anyone, instead of harbouring resentment or bitterness, asks for an explanation.”

Because of her standing up for workers’ rights, Tulloch was unfairly targeted by the Postmaster General Albert Burleson as a communist agitator. She almost lost her job and was put under severe scrutiny. The stress and exhaustion of this thankless 90-hours per week job left her ‘brain weary’. A specialist diagnosed her as having an incurable fatal illness. She suffered from incessant images of “pain... pain... pain. Pain and death.... Where could I hide from them?”

One sleepless night, Tulloch dreamed about the opening lyrics to Rock of Ages: ‘From Thy side, a healing flood.’ She saw the Rock of Ages with living water spilling like a healing flood through the Rock. She cried: “‘Lord help me’… from the bottom of my troubled heart.” Tulloch then had a vision of Jesus in white robes bidding her to receive Holy Communion. His eyes glowed with such “yearning and tenderness and compassion.” Two hands stretched toward her from the light “with a loving welcome – and there were nail prints.” Jesus invited her to the altar. “I knew he was pleading ‘come unto me.’” She realized: “Could not my sick body be made clean of disease by his body if he dwelt in me and I in him?” Her faithful obedience resulted in a miraculous healing of her body, mind, and emotions.

After reading Tulloch’s Come from Away pamphlet about her healing, John Banks appointed her as convenor for the Southern California Chapter of the Society of the Nazarene. Banks and Tulloch were married a year later in 1929 at Calvary Church, New York City, by Dr. Samuel Shoemaker, one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. Now John Banks was no longer a widower. While on their honeymoon, they visited all the healing homes in England and America, dreaming of drawing them all together into a world healing fellowship.

The Anglican Lambeth Conference of 1930 recommended the restoration of the Sacrament of Healing, or Holy Unction, after prayer and preparation, and where moral and intellectual difficulties exist, confession as well. Lambeth also suggested for complete restoration, that prayer for healing be followed by the Sacrament of Holy Communion, which is also a sacrament of healing.

Ethel Tulloch Banks’ original two-page newsletter grew in 1937 to become the OSL Sharing Magazine, the oldest continuously published Christian healing journal in North

America. She, as a gifted writer and theologian, did much of John Banks’ writing, so that some of what appeared under John Gayner Bank’s name was in fact her work. The Banks’ strong emphasis on Jesus and the sacraments gave an alternative to sick people who were otherwise tempted to get ‘healing’ through the very popular Christian Science and the New Age/Thought movements.

Ethel Banks conducted Monday prayer meetings for 40 years, beginning each session with the question: “Has anyone been a witness to faith?” The Banks were convinced that Christ’s power to heal to-day is just as great as it was when He walked on earth. One of John Banks’ sayings was, “A little faith brings little results; greater faith, greater results; and marvelous faith, marvelous results.”

OSL is committed to promoting the restoration of the Apostolic practice of healing as taught and demonstrated by Jesus Christ; promoting a sound pastoral and counseling ministry; promoting the practice of holding healing services in every church and developing local chapters to promote healing missions, workshops and prayer groups in their area.

OSL believes that God uses many agencies for healing: some are spiritual such as prayer, love, faith, anointing with oil, and the laying on of hands, some are medical such as medicine, surgery, and psychology. These agencies should be supportive of one another. God’s desire for us is wholeness and health. Christian healing is accomplished through faith in Christ and through subjecting one’s entire life to the scrutiny and counsel of God. Jesus Christ is alive today and still possesses all power on earth as in Heaven.

We pray that John & Ethel Banks and the OSL might inspire us all to recover the healing ministry of St. Luke the Physician: “Almighty God, who inspired your servant St. Luke the Physician to set out in the Gospel the love and healing power of Your son. Make obvious in Your Church the love and power for the healing of our bodies and souls, to the praise and glory of Your Name, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.”

Yemen Pres. Mubarak, Pres. Zelensky, Pres. Putin, PM Starmer, and a host of others.

While the world seems farther advanced with technology, there is talk of nuclear weapons. We have advanced so quickly, yet are we falling into the same path as the 1930’s?

“Therefore I exhort, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” 1 Tim. 2:1-2. In Revelation 22:1, there is peace “And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.” Come Jesus, Come!

Persecuted for their faith

India: Police watch as Christians Suffer mob attack

As police officers stood by and watched, hundreds of people attacked 14 Christians in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district on October 30. The violent incident occurred after the victimized followers of Jesus refused to abandon their Christian faith, despite orders from tribal leaders to do so.

Having been beaten with wooden rods by participating members of the volatile mob, the assaulted believers suffered various injuries in the aftermath of the attack, such as head trauma and broken bones. The perpetrators also demolished the Christians’ homes and destroyed their harvested crops.

Pakistan: Vigilante groups orchestrate online blasphemy cases

While accusations of blasphemy in Pakistan are common and can be motivated by interpersonal conflicts or business disputes, there has been an increase in allegations based on social media posts. According to the research findings of the AFP news agency, many such cases are taking place as a result of organized “vigilante groups” led by lawyers and the support of volunteers scouring the Internet for offenders. In some cases, unsuspecting social media participants are duped by strangers into sharing content that could be deemed blasphemous, resulting in police reports being filed against them.

Sudan: Displaced Christians driven from their homes

Residents of the Al-Makniya area of Sudan’s River Nile state drove 34 displaced Christians from their homes on October 19. Those responsible for the displacement explained that they did not want any Christians nor black people in the area.

The recently expelled Christians had previously

To promote and provide for the spiritual, moral, physical and mental wellbeing of all seafarers and their families.

Ph: 604-253-4421

Email: m2svancouver@gmail.com

Facebook: @mission2seafarers

Twitter:@MtSVancouver 401 East Waterfront Rd Vancouver BC V6A 4G9 www.flyingangel.ca

fled conflict in Omdurman, a city located near the capital of Khartoum, before seeking shelter in the Al-Makniya area. According to one of the affected believers, some of the local residents falsely accused the Christian refugees of stealing livestock and “violating public morals.” However, police later confirmed that the hostility towards the believers was religiously motivated and had nothing to do with those accusations.

Initially, about 30 people from the neighbourhood approached the Christians, asking them to leave. When that did not work, the opposing villagers returned with more supporters. Some days later, when the Christian refugees were approached for a third time, the majority of originating Al-Makniya community members rallied together against them. Given only three days to vacate the area, the refugees were forced to leave without any help or protection from the authorities.

China: Coordinated raids on Beijing church meetings

On the morning of October 20, multiple branches of the Beijing Zion Church had gathered for their usual worship services when police and religious affairs officials simultaneously forced their way into the meetings. The identities of everyone present were recorded and 12 people, including pastors and church members, were taken into custody.

By eight o’clock that evening, most of the detained Christians had been released. However, Elder Qin Guoliang from the church’s Guomao branch was kept in custody and given a 14-day administrative detention for “organizing illegal gatherings.”

These raids are a continuation of the authorities’ harassment towards the Beijing Zion Church and other unregistered places of worship in China.

China: Preacher of Early Rain Church faces harassment

Since December 2018, the Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu, China, has been subjected to repeated raids and ongoing oppression from Communist Party authorities who seek to shut down the influential unregistered church. Though the church’s pastor, Wang Yi, is serving a nine-year prison sentence, members of the church continue to boldly reach out with the Gospel message.

One church member, Preacher Wu Wuqing, has experienced persecution several times. In June 2021, he and his family were locked in their home and prevented from leaving or having any visitors. Since confining the church leader to his home had failed to dissuade him from continuing his Christian activities, the authorities blocked the family – along with numerous other church members – from entering their apartment complex in 2023. Additionally, following numerous raids on his church gatherings, Preacher Wu has been repeatedly detained. After a 14-day detention in February 2024, his wife simply stated: “14 days is nothing. We are so happy to gather today, and when [my husband] returns in 14 days, we will gather again.”

Voice of the Martyrs Canada - vomcanada.com

Iron Sharpens Iron Men’s Conference

Men are competitors, so when we hear that we are “broken”, it’s our natural inclination to feel that we can fix it… we CAN be better. But we are always reaching yet never attaining the perfection that we’re promised.

The Iron Sharpens Iron International Men’s Conference returns to the Lower Mainland on February 22nd, 2025. This conference is designed for all men – the man of the church (or of the world); the husband, father, single guy; the layman, employee, ministry worker, the business-

Mission to Seafarers

One of the most well-known traditional Christmas Carols is ‘Away in a Manger’ and a section reads ‘The cattle are lowing, the Baby awakes, but little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes’. An idyllic scene intended to bring comfort and joy. Perhaps the writer was also mindful that the reality is very different for many, for babies are crying, people are unsure where to turn, joy has been overshadowed, there is nowhere comfortable to be found.

man, the pastor, church staff and volunteer; the man who just wants to be worthy before God. The ISI conference provides opportunities for men to be “equipped” as Men of God.

Join us on February 22, 2025. Save the date in your calendar. We are just getting this conference off the ground. Pray for us. Pray for the men. Pray for the churches. See www.csbbc.org/isi-vancouver-2025 for the details.

For Seafarers onboard at Christmas they feel the absence from family more acutely. May our gift to the Christ child be that by our words and actions we are bearers of comfort and joy to those who need it most and that we are encouraged in doing so by Jesus who out of love for each of us was prepared to be as vulnerable as a baby lying in a manger. ‘I love you Lord Jesus...close by me forever’

Chaplain Peter Smyth. Mission to Seafarers, Vancouver

Lighthouse Harbour Ministries

Finding Peace

In response to a Lighthouse chaplain’s comments regarding mankind’s depravity, Jag spoke up to express a contrary opinion. This younger Indian chief cook told the chaplain aboard his ship that he believed that there were “good” and “bad” people.

Jag confided in the chaplain that, although he is Hindu by faith, he respected Christian things because of his exposure to a well-known Christian charity in his city. In particular, the seafarer described the peace that he had

experienced while attending the charity’s Church services. Jag also communicated some strong opinions about matters of faith. In response, the chaplain tried to point Jag to Scripture and, wonderfully, the seafarer seemed willing to consider God’s Truth revealed therein. The chaplain was very encouraged by this.

Please pray that Jag will read the copy of John’s Gospel that he accepted and that the source of true peace (John 14:27) would meet him this Christmas. www.sealight.org

Christmas at House of James

A Merry and Bright

Adventure

by Katie J Trent

With all of the exciting sights, sounds, and smells of Christmastime, it can be hard to get children to focus on the real reason for the season: the birth of Jesus. But let’s face it: all of us can get caught up in the hustle-bustle of planning for family gatherings, decorating, and shopping for gifts. Author Katie J. Trent offers a solution to the mad rush of Advent with A Merry and Bright Adventure: A Christmas Devotional for Family, Faith, Food, and Fun

This unique family devotional will help you discover new ways to enjoy the season with Jesus at the center of it all. You’ll grow in your relationship with Jesus – and each other – as you learn the history behind holiday traditions and discover Jesus in everyday moments.

Advent for Exiles

by Caroline Cobb

Do you long for a more honest, imaginative, and Scripture-rich companion for the Advent season? A devotional willing to acknowledge the darkness of exile and the brokenness you see around and within, so you might rejoice more fully in the arrival of Jesus, the Light of the World?

In Advent for Exiles songwriter and storyteller Caroline Cobb weaves together scripture readings, song lyrics, poetic prose, biblical imagery, and responsive exercises

Little Christmas Carol

Joe Sutphin

Enjoy Charles Dickens’ beloved masterpiece, freshly imagined within an enchanting woodland realm.

In 1843, Charles Dickens penned a story – a classic Christmas tale full of ghosts and the endearing humbug Ebenezer Scrooge. That story – which has captivated readers for over 150 years – is now accompanied by the delightful illustrations of Joe Sutphin. With charming woodland characters and settings that families will adore, readers will be transformed by Little Christmas Carol. A tale of greed, regret, loneliness, reflection, compassion, hope, and a joyfully changed life, this beautifully illustrated edition will enliven the timeless classic for readers young and old.

When Santa Learned the Gospel

by Simon Camilleri

An original Christmas fable about when Santa first learns

about Jesus’ message of grace. Unexpectedly, Santa finds himself on his own spiritual and philosophical journey full of humour, self-reflection, wonder and redemption. Complemented by the beautiful and engaging illustrations of Matt Boutros, this book hopes to inspire many a conversation about faith, philosophy and the messages of Christmas, between adults and children alike.

One Year Book of Hymns

by Robert Brown

“Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth! Worship the Lord with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy.” Psalm 100:1-2 NLT. For centuries in the Christian church, hymn singing has been an integral way of expressing our deepest praise to our Creator. Hymns allow us to pour out the grateful feelings of the heart in worship – feelings awakened by the experience of forgiveness and the gracious work of the Holy Spirit. In this beautiful deluxe edition of The One Year Book of Hymns, join the chorus of believers throughout church history and throughout the earth to worship Christ. With each day, this one year devotional will invigorate and encourage your faith with classic hymn texts and the stories of faith behind them, including favorites like: ”I Need Thee Every Hour”, ”Abide with Me”, ”Take My Life and Let it Be”, ”It is Well with My Soul”, ”O Love that Will Not Let Me Go”, ”The Old Rugged Cross”. The enduring legacy of God’s work in the lives of these faithful writers leads us to worship our Saviour anew for the glorious mercies within our own.

Present in Prayer

by Jennifer Tucker

Do you notice that even when your body is not moving, your mind is racing? Anxiety, to-do lists, and the spiral of negative thought patterns often keep us from the stillness we long for. In Present in Prayer, award-winning author Jennifer Tucker invites you to allow the Holy Spirit to speak through God’s Word and renew your mind through the practice of Christian meditation.

As in her first book, Breath as Prayer, Tucker shares a powerful prayer practice in this beautifully illustrated book that is deep yet accessible with 30 meditations

Everyday Gospel

by Paul Tripp

365 daily devotions by bestselling author, Paul David Tripp, follow a Bi ble-in-a-Year reading plan. Christians know that daily Scripture reading is an essential spiritual discipline. But sometimes opening the Bible day in and day out can feel like a burden rather than the joy and gift that it

is. Spending a few minutes reflecting on the truths found within God’s word can strengthen your faith, help you resist sin, and inspire you to live for the eternal, unshakeable kingdom of God. In the Everyday Gospel devotional, Paul David Tripp provides a roadmap for readers who want to spend a full year in God’s word.

Becoming New by Warren W Wiersbe

With theme-based daily readings focused on spiritual transformation, this all-new devotional curated by Warren Wiersbe’s grandson offers a 100-day journey through Scripture, helping readers not only understand God’s Word but live it out in the power of the Holy Spirit.

A transformative journey through the arc of Scripture, Becoming New invites us to experience a deepened connection to God’s Word, a greater sense of purpose, and a stronger relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Gospel Mom

by Emily A. Jensen & Laura Wifler

If there’s one thing moms love, it’s a formula. Give us the three-step process, the instruction manual, the straightforward solution for how to mother with excellence and we’ll give it our best shot.

But we all know motherhood isn’t that simple. Each decision seems to present a thousand overwhelming options, or our circumstances suddenly change and we can’t keep up with “the plan,” or we see another mom making different choices and begin to doubt our own.

All of this leaves us questioning our decision-making in motherhood.

So how can we find a secure identity in motherhood and know we’re “good” before the throne of God? By understanding the gospel story and how all of scripture applies to our lives. We need more than just to know what to do.

We need to know who to be. Join Emily and Laura as together you explore what it truly means to be a gospel mom, a woman who is renewed by Christ’s righteousness, knows her mission and purpose, and lives free from guilt and unhealthy comparison.

As friends, fellow moms, and expert guides, Emily and Laura walk you step-by-step through the practices and thinking of how to rest in the grace of Christ, gaining peace and assurance in your motherhood.

Events@lightmagazine.ca

Post your event free of charge in print and on our website. Email us at events@lightmagazine.ca. Include the following information: Event name and type (concert, special event, conference, etc) • Date(s) • Time(s) • Location • Contact info (phone, website, email) • Info/Speakers/Performers

Conferences

Feb 22, 2025: Iron Sharpens Iron – Men’s Conference in Langley, BC. Info: www.csbbc. org/mens-network Exhibits

On until Feb 21, 2025: Metzger Collection - 1525, Reform and Revolution –This exhibit puts a single year, 1525, in focus. 500 years ago, this momentous year marked the birth of the Anabaptist movement as a key part of a larger escalation in the revolutionary fervour of the 16th-century Reformation. At Columbia Bible College, Abbotsford. http:// metzgercollection.org.

Music

Thursdays, 7:30 pm: Bez Open Mic night with Russ Rosen – Come as a performer or as an audience member. Sign up is at 7:15 pm and performances start at 7:30 pm at Bez Arts Hub, Langley. https://bezartshub.com.

Dec 1, 7:30 pm: VOS 2024 Christmas Concert - Gloria – This concert featuring Antonio Vivaldi’s “Gloria”, and other favourite Christmas choral selections sung in English and Chinese at Evangelical Chinese Bible Church, Burnaby. www.vancouveroratorio.org

Dec 6, 7 pm , Dec 7, 2 & 7 pm: Celebrate Christmas – The annual Songs, Strings & Steps Christmas concert at Central Heights Church, Abbotsford. Directed by violinist Calvin Dyck, with Ken Lavigne, Festive Brass Ensemble and the Abbotsford Youth Orchestra. Tickets & Info http://calvindyck.com/concerts

Dec 9, 7 pm: Paul Baloche Christmas Worship Tour – Featuring Brooke Nicholls with special guest Joel Auge, at Christian Life Assembly, Langley. https://uniteproductions.com

Dec 13, 8 pm: Dustin Bentall & The Blue Wranglers at Bez Arts Hub – Dustin Bentall is what you’d call a rustic troubadour, a counter-culture cowboy, and a purveyor in the finest of cosmic Canadiana. at Bez Arts Hub, Langley. http://bezartshub.com.

Dec 14, 1 - 4pm: Christmas Open House at Bez Arts Hub – Bez performance dance groups and music by the Bez Gospel Choir at Bez Arts Hub, Langley. http://bezartshub.com.

Dec 14, 7 pm: Home For Christmas 2024 with Brian Doerksen & Friends – With special guest, Marika Stewart. At New Life Community Church, Burnaby. http://eventbrite.ca

Jan 11, 8 pm: Blues Hoodoo – Local favourites return with a high energy evening of funk fusion and blues. at Bez Arts Hub, Langley. http://bezartshub.com.

Jan 18, 8 pm: Jim Byrnes Trio – With Simon Kendall & Eric Reed. Jim Byrnes lives and breathes music. For nearly fifty years he’s crooned, drawled, belted, hollered and sweet talked more songs into a microphone than most people ever get to hear in a single lifetime. at Bez Arts Hub, Langley. http://bezartshub.com.

Jan 24, 8 pm: Matlen Starsley Band – Matlen Starsley Band is a musical project featuring former and current members of the Bryan Adams Band, The Ray Roper Project, Touchdown, Straight Shooter and Fandango. These veteran rockers released their first Album Rollin Again July 12, 2019. Their music is an eclectic mix of country, blues, guitar heavy southern rock and roots music. at Bez Arts Hub, Langley. http://bezartshub.com.

Prayer, Worship & Retreats

Mondays, 8 - 9 pm: Vancouver House of Prayer – Live prayer together online via Zoom. Zoom Links are sent upon request on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/vhopca.

Wednesdays, 7:30 pm: Worship Wednesdays – Join us for a time of worship every Wednesday, where we lift up the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and experience His sweet presence in a beautiful personal way. Garden Park Tower Azalea Room, Abbotsford. Info: 604-832-2154; aandbministries@gmail.com; http://aboveandbeyondministries.ca.

2nd Saturday of the month, 7 pm: Contemplative Liturgies – with Taize-styled worship and meditations on prayer. At Fairview Baptist Church, Vancouver. Info: imago@shaw.ca, www.imagodeicommunity.ca.

Seniors

Mondays, 10 to noon: Life’s stories – at Newton Senior’s Recreation Center 13775 -70 Avenue, phone: 778 998 5225 for info, everyone welcome for fellowship.

Thursdays, 10 am - 1 pm: GenMin seniors group drop-in – Cedar Grove Church, Surrey. https://the-grove.net.

Theatre

Dec 13 - 21: Parfumerie – It’s Christmas, 1937 in Budapest, Hungary. For the employees of the Parfumerie, only the truth can lead to a happy resolution in this old-fashioned, romantic Christmas tale that inspired the movie You’ve Got Mail and the Broadway musical, She Loves Me! Presented by Gallery 7 Theatre at the Abbotsford Arts Centre. http://gallery7theatre.com.

Jan 24 - Feb 1: Irena’s Vow – At the height of the German occupation of Poland, Irena Gut is promoted to housekeeper of a high-ranking Nazi officer. A powerful story of compassion, grace and tenacity, this unrelenting story of hope in the midst of the atrocities of war will inspire! Presented by Gallery 7 Theatre at the Abbotsford Arts Centre. http://gallery7theatre. com.

Very, Very Improv at Bez Arts Hub – Every month, the talented cast of loveable improvisers from across the Lower Mainland takes to the stage at The Bez Arts Hub in Langley for a very fun evening full of comedy improv games, scenes, and surprises. http://bezartshub.com.

Other Events

Tuesdays, 6:45 - 8:30 pm: Messengers of Hope Motorcycle Riders – Weekly coffee meeting Tim Horton’s, 2255 Sumas Way, Abbotsford. Contact Ed at 604-525-8041 Come for coffee, find out what we are all about.

Tuesdays, 7 pm: Build your speaking and leadership skills – Golden Ears Christian Toastmasters meets Tuesdays at 7 pm at Haney Presbyterian Church, Maple Ridge. In person or on zoom. Info Susan Gredley 604-764-2126 or sgredley@icloud.com.

Dec 4 - 7: The Journey of Peace – Sponsored by the Peace & Reconciliation Network. Explore the current experiences of Middle East Christians, ongoing Jewish-Palestinian reconciliation work and the mission of PRN, with Dr. Salim Munayer, PRN Middle East, North Africa. Dec 4, Killarney Park MB Church, Vancouver; Dec 6, New Life Christian Reformed Church, Abbotsford; Dec 7, Gracepoint Community Church, Surrey.

Tuesdays from Jan 21 to Apr 22 2025: Perspectives Course – At Johnston Heights Church, Surrey. The Perspectives Course takes us on an epic journey with God over 15 dynamic lessons which, give us a big picture view of God on mission to make Himself known and glorified in all the nations of the world. Info: www.perspectivescanada.org, swalraven@outreach.ca

December Music Reviews 2024 by Kevin Pollard

Phil Wickam: Hallelujah! It’s Christmas, Fare Trade Records, 2024

Worship leader and gifted songwriter Phil Wickham offers up his third fulllength seasonal offering Hallelujah! It’s Christmas. This is my favourite new release this season. Although you will find stunning former singles like 2022’s beautiful “Behold (feat. Anne Wilson)” and 2023’s worshipful “Manger Throne,” the remainder of the 15-track collection showcases stunning new recordings of both beloved carols and brand-new compositions. Highlights for me include the high energy lead single “Angels (Glory to God),” the poignant ballad “Shepherd Boy”, a stripped down arrangement of “Holy Forever” the 2024 Dove Award-winning Song of the Year along with the moving “Silent Night, Holy Night” that showcases a lower range in Phil’s voice we have never heard.

CeCe Winans: Joyful, Joyful: A Christmas Album, Fare Trade, 2024

Gospel music icon CeCe Winans has released her third holiday album Joyful, Joyful: A Christmas Album that is a reimagined and expanded version of her 2018 holiday release, Something’s Happening!. Her timeless voice and soulful warmth make this collection of classic holiday favourites and original songs a treasure this season. Produced by Winans’ talented son, Alvin Love III, his symphonic arrangements create timeless recordings of seven classics and five original songs. Standouts found here are infectious opening “Joy to the World”, the gospel choir backed “Angels We Have Heard on High”, the pop infused original “It’s Christmas” and “The Grace of the Father” that sounds like it is straight out of a Broadway musical.

Cochren & Co: The Company Christmas Album, Gotee Records, 2024

Cochren and Co. have just released their first full holiday album, The Company Christmas Album. This new artist is

known for hits like “Church (Take Me Back)”, “One Day” and “Running Home”. His powerhouse vocals along with his country pop/southern rock influences provide the perfect backdrop for one of the best new Christmas albums of the year as heard on originals “Ribbons and Bows”, “Christmas (What the World Needs)” and “(Hope is) Here to Stay”. But my favourite tracks found here are his original piano backed love song with his wife “Christmas With You”, the soulful “That Spirit of Christmas” and the rollicking “(There’s No Place Like) Home for the Holidays”.

Gabby Barrett: Carols and Candlelight, Warner Music, 2024

Warner Music Nashville’s Gabby Barrett releases her firstever Christmas album, Carols and Candlelight. This 11-song collection includes cherished Christmas carols, time-honoured Advent hymns, and joyous songs of celebration. The Continued on page 13

Everyday Life: Finances

Generosity: Part 3 - Generosity leads to Joy

by Arnold Machel, CFP ®

“...the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” - Acts 20: 30 (NIV)

Rick Warren, in his book The Purpose Driven Life said, “it’s not about you” and while I agree that it’s not about us, I also believe that almost all of the time, when God wants us to do something, it benefits us. We may not be able to see it, but it’s usually there. I won’t rule out that the odd time He might ask us to do something solely for the benefit of someone else, or society in general, but even there, I think we often do get something out of it.

So, let’s look at generosity in that context. When we give of our time or money, by definition we are depriving ourselves of what we’ve just given away. We are giving it away so that it’s not available to us. How can that be for our benefit? Off the top of my head a couple of ways that we benefit when we give are:

• Choosing gives us control. Choosing to deprive ourselves of something makes a definitive statement to ourselves that we have a choice. That we are in control. It’s us saying to ourselves, “I can choose to buy this and I can choose to not buy it. It’s my choice. I am the one in control, not my desires.” We may not see it immediately, but in the same way that we know that not letting emotions control us, there is great value in knowing that we have control over our money or over those items that we may or may not choose to spend money on.

• We experience heightened levels of joy. When we sacrifice for others, especially when we see their joy, we of-

Music Reviews continued from page 12

ten experience a natural heightening in our levels of dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and endorphins (the happy chemicals that reside naturally in our bodies).

I’ll admit that sometimes I can be kind of shallow. I like it when people give me stuff. I like getting gifts. I go to these conventions sometimes and I love collecting the freebies that they hand out. I really enjoy it when I’m on the receiving end of generosity. I’m betting that sometimes you do too. But when I’m the one giving the gifts, and when I have a good attitude about it (which I almost always do), I get a much bigger jolt of joy than when I’m on the receiving end. I’d love to hear from you to hear your stories whether they back me up or not. But again, I’m betting they will. So, let’s jump back to where we started 2 or 3 months ago:

1. God deeply desires that we “Love love”

2. Love leads generosity

3. Generosity leads to joy.

So, it’s worthwhile to ask ourselves, “Do I have joy?” If the answer to that is “no”, then maybe it’s worthwhile questioning where we are at with the actions that lead to joy. Questions like “am I generous?”, or “am I loving?” might provide us with a clue as to why we’re not joyful, because loving, generous people tend to be joyful. My pastor loves to say that “emotions are great indicators, but terrible masters.” That sentiment fits perfectly here. Joy should not be our master. Joy is not the end all and the be all. Like Rick Warren said: “it’s not about you.” But joy (or the lack of it) can be a great indicator. The lack of joy may indicate that there are some other deeper areas

of our life we should be working on.

I started this series trying to avoid “should’s” when discussing the topic of generosity, so let me put it this way: If love leads to generosity and generosity leads to joy and we don’t have joy, then it might be worthwhile to consciously work on our love and our generosity. By strengthening those muscles, it’s likely that joy will follow.

Arnold Machel lives, works, and worships in the White Rock/South Surrey area. He holds the Certified Financial Planner® designation, is the Founder of Visionvest Financial Planning & Services, and sits on the board of Abundance Canada. Visionvest (his firm) has been voted Best Investment/Financial Advisor by Peace Arch News readers for the past three years in a row.

Questions and comments can be directed to him at dr.rrsp@visionvest.ca. Please note that all comments are of a general nature and should not be relied upon as individual advice. While every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, facts and figures are not guaranteed.

album opens with the poignant rendition of the Mark Lowry penned “Mary, Did You Know?” before moving into classics like “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”, “The First Noel” and “O Holy Night”. But the standouts for me were “Go Tell It On The Mountain” with for KING & COUNTRY – an exultant Gospel number nominated for Christmas Recorded Song of the Year at the 55th Annual GMA Dove Awards and Barrett joins forces with her husband Cade Foehner on “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” while The Piano Guys join with Gabby on the majestic rendition of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”.

www.jackataylor.com

Anthony Evans: The Greatest Gift, Sherman James Productions, 2024 Renowned Gospel Worship artist and producer Anthony Evans has released his second Christmas album “The Greatest Gift” a nine-track album featuring new arrangements of holiday classics and original songs he wrote and produced.

Produced by Evans, Darrel Walls and Max Stark, The Greatest Gift showcases Evan’s incredible vocals on songs like “Joy To The World” and “Mary Did You Know” as well as his original works “My Holiday” and “He is” as a powerful choir backs him.

The Sacrifice

by Jack A. Taylor

The Temple of Jerusalem was recognized as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, but how did it rise out of the rubble of social chaos, international intrigue, family mutiny, and a passionate quest for the Messiah?

How did two simple servants of Yahweh linger through bloodshed and traumatic leadership changes to remain standing when the day of the Messiah’s arrival finally came?

In a place dedicated to sacrifice, there was one sacrifice no one expected. This is the untold story of the years before the event that forever changed the course of world history.

Available through Local Christian Bookstores, and amazon.ca

This Ordinary, Extraordinary Life

by April Yamasaki

Practical sermons for everyday faith, rooted in the ordinary, extraordinary life of Jesus. For sermon preparation or personal and group study, order from CSS Publishing (https://store. csspub.com) or your favourite local or online bookstore.

A free study guide is available at aprilyamasaki.com.

Miracle in Crescent Beach

All Saints Community Church has seen many miracles in Crescent Beach. Our journey to Crescent Beach can only be described as miraculous. Many people have supported us, prayed for us, visited with us, and told others of our story. Thank you.

Our bishop and senior Pastor, Peter Klenner, has again and again called the All Saints congregation to focus on the priorities of community and prayer. In an age of great polarization and division, extended nightly prayer vigils are vital in building that sense of family connection. In this highly digitalized age, many people have become very isolated from each other. During our current prayer vigil, we are focusing on the minor prophets, particularly the book of Malachi which challenges us to give God our best, rather than our second-best.

During the middle of a global pandemic, while everything was pretty-well shut down, God provided a way for us to purchase the Roman Catholic church building in Crescent Beach known as Holy Cross Church.

On April 1, 2021 we took possession of the building. Holy Cross Church became All Saints Community Church! Christians have been praying and worshiping in this building since 1946.

So many visitors to Crescent Beach drop by our seaside church, giving us an opportunity to share the love of Jesus with them. Many are new immigrants who have never been in a church building.

God loves doing miracles. Several people who were expected to die were miraculously healed. Many people who had given up on life were healed from addictions and family

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wounds. All Saints has been used over and over in blessing people in need, and even helping change legislation for refugees and temporary workers. Whenever things have been tight financially, God has come through with unexpected gifts.

When we needed to pay back our building loans, God gave us 2 Chronicles 20:17 “You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.” This gave us the courage to keep on praying and trusting God for the miraculous breakthrough. The Lord kept saying: “Give me your best and trust me for the rest.” We are so grateful that God found a benevolent foundation

in 2024 who bought the building, enabling All Saints Community Church to continue meeting here until Jesus returns.

After a three-year wait, the City of Surrey finally approved our plans for renovation of the building, while maintaining its historical integrity. We will be adding two new washrooms, repairing the floor and floor foundations, upgrading the heating and plumbing, repairing the chimney and rebuilding the front porch. It is essential to replace the sinking floor and maintain the structural integrity of the building so it can remain a place of worship for another 100 years.

If you would like to partner with us in the renovations, don’t hesitate to contact us: allsaintswhiterock@gmail.com. www.allsaintswhiterock.com/giving/)

Rev. Dr. Ed & Janice Hird

MedWatch

by Lilianne Fuller

Rona hadn’t been feeling herself all day. She was usually quite active but today something was off. “All day long, I had ‘heavy arms’,” she says. A retired nurse, she knew that women experienced different symptoms but having a heart attack was the furthest thing from her mind. However, at midnight when she started to have chest pain and shortness of breath, her husband, Ray, called 911. When the paramedics arrived, they went to work. As they checked her over, they asked about her medical history. Immediately, Ray pulled a green folder off the fridge and handed it to the firefighter. The folder that Ray gave to the paramedics is called a Greensleeve and is part of Langley’s MedWatch911 Program. Inside that folder was everything the first responders needed to act right away.

The MedWatch911 program was developed by the Langley Division of Family Practice (LDFP) and launched in 2016 by a Township of Langley firefighter, Captain Jason Hodge. As an emergency responder he saw the need to have access to a patient’s medical history. He also wanted something that could be used to honour the patient’s wishes regarding their medical treatment during a crisis. He had seen a similar program in the interior called the Vial of Life and he saw how the implementation of this program would benefit both patients, first responders and hospital staff.

When discharged from hospital, Fraser Health staff provide greensleeve folders to patients. But something that is unique to Langley are the two green stickers included in the folder. Township of Langley Firefighters and the Langley City Fire and Rescue Services staff have been trained to watch for the green stickers indicating that a greensleeve is located in the home.

Inside a greensleeve is a completed MedWatch document and other forms that can speak for a patient who cannot speak for themself. The information includes the patient’s name and care card number, the family doctor’s name and phone number, and emergency contacts. On

the back of the form is space to record the patient’s current medications, dosage and prescription date. There is also a section to indicate if they are a caregiver to someone in the home. “For example, the person could be caring for a grandchild so it’s important information in case that person needs to go to the hospital,” explained Captain Hodge.

At the minimum, a greensleeve must contain the completed MedWatch form explained Captain Hodge. However, it can include other documents pertaining to a patient’s wishes. These are MOST (Medical Orders Scope of Treatment), a Temporary Substitute decision Maker form, a Representation Agreement, and a No Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation( NO CPR) form.

Captain Hodge saw the benefit of this program, but a motivating factor to bring it to fruition was his aging parents. While he was working with LDFP to develop the program, Captain Hodge’s father became very ill. “My father hadn’t recorded his wishes for his end-of-life care, so our family had to make the difficult decisions about what to do next,” he said. It was a situation he didn’t want other families to experience and explained. “A situation like this can be emotionally charged and extremely difficult for both health care professionals and the patient’s family,” he said. Unfortunately, his father passed away prior to the program’s launch.

While Fraser Health staff will provide the patient with a Greensleeve to take home, sometimes the patient isn’t instructed on the best way to utilize this very important tool. This is one of the reasons why the LDFP offer regular workshops on MedWatch911. Captain Hodge works closely with the organization to provide community presentations. While doing these presentations aren’t part of his job, he feels so strongly about the effectiveness of the program that he volunteers his time.

During these presentations, participants are taught about the importance of having the forms filled in cor-

rectly. Especially important are the MOST or No DNR forms. They must be current and be signed by a physician. Georgina Steeves related the story of her 90-year-old neighbour ‘Lyle’. He had a greensleeve which indicated that he did not want to be resuscitated. Unfortunately, the form was not signed so the paramedics had to do everything they could to resuscitate Lyle. “They worked on that old man for almost 45 minutes, it was heartbreaking,” said Steeves. “Without the correct documentation, the emergency responders had to exactly what the patient didn’t want,” explained Captain Hodge.

If you wish to learn more about MedWatch911, visit the website at www.medwatch911.ca. If you want to book a community presentation, call 604-510-5081 or email langleymedwatch@gmail.com. If a MedWatch911 program isn’t available in your community, contact the LDFP to find out how one could be initiated.

Rona was transported to Royal Columbian Hospital where she received a stent. Today she is fully recovered and enjoying an active lifestyle. She attributes the positive outcome to having a Greensleeve and she encourages friends and neighbours to take the time to complete their own. “I believe that the MedWatch document made my communications with the ambulance personnel very simple and accurate. This document, completed at your leisure and signed by your physician ensures that no missed or inaccurate information is passed on in a time of crisis,” said Rona. “Both my husband and I were relieved that we had taken the time to do this simple and necessary task,” she said. “Do it today,” she added with a smile.

Capernwray Harbour Bible School & Conference Centre

Nestled among the Gulf Islands of British Columbia’s West Coast, Capernwray Harbour Bible Centre on Thetis Island offers students and guests a unique learning experience!

From September to April, Capernwray Harbour runs a One Year Bible School programme where sound, practical Bible teaching focusing on both the Old and New Testament scriptures in which God reveals the indwelling, resurrected Christ as the Christian Life is given. Students gain an experiential knowledge of Christ and how His presence practically applies to daily living.

Through classroom studies, tutorial, dialogue based small group studies, and summary journals, students have opportunity to share from the written Word what God is teaching them & how He is working in their lives. Many outreach opportunities located in surrounding communities and cities are available for students to participate.

Capernwray Harbour welcomes people of all denominational backgrounds and nationalities. The student body of approximately 100 students joins the full-time staff to create a community intent on knowing Jesus Christ as LIFE. The desire of every staff member at

Capernwray Harbour is to prepare each student for “full time Christian service, regardless of occupation”.

During the spring & summer months, Capernwray Harbour is a full-service venue to hold conferences and retreats. The property is available for a variety of personal getaways, private retreats, and outdoor education groups in addition to Ministry Leaders Conferences, Ladies & Men’s Conference Weekends, Family Holiday Bible Weeks where men, women, youth & children can be encouraged in their walk with the Lord Jesus amidst an island, holiday setting.

For more information visit capernwray.ca

Rona