CANADA's
Winter/Spring 2016 Issue 11
HOPE GOD’S MISSION. OUR ADVENTURE.
Our Mission is Canada You are the light of the world - like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.
M AT T H E W 5:14 N LT
A PUBLICATION OF
Our mission has been Canada for 89 years
1927- 2016
CANADA's
HOPE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Winter/Spring 2016 Issue Eleven Canada’s Hope is the biannual publication of One Hope Canada. Letters, articles and photos are welcome. Names of many of the people mentioned in articles have been changed. EDITOR Melanie Mushaluk CIRCULATION & ADDRESS CORRECTION Melanie Mushaluk SPONSORSHIPS Bill McCaskell
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Who is One Hope Canada?
20 Annual Report 2015
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Inspirations from Bible Camp
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7
Atlantic Field
24 Servant for Life
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Quebec Field
26 Alberta Field
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Why is Canada a Mission Field?
27 Community Ministry Initiatives
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Ontario Field
28 British Columbia Field
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Manitoba Field
30 Our Supporters
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Ministry Map
Saskatchewan Field
DESIGN Iced Tea Designs COPY EDITOR David Nadeau Gloria Pederson PRINTING Derksen Printers Steinbach, MB Publications Agreement Number 40019747 Undelivered copies, change of address and new requests should be addressed to: ONE HOPE CANADA Ministry Resource Centre Unit 6 - 875 Gateway Road Winnipeg, MB R2K 3L1 Telephone: 888-960-2580 Email: info@onehopecanada.ca www.onehopecanada.ca Please note: To save printing and postage costs, one magazine is mailed per household. If you would like additional copies, please contact info@onehopecanada.ca
Cover image taken at Hampton Bible Camp in New Brunswick
MESSAGE FROM THE CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR BY BEV MCCASKELL
Why Is Canada Our Mission Field? FOR YEARS, CANADIAN SUNDAY SCHOOL MISSION (NOW ONE HOPE CANADA) HAS GONE INTO COMMUNITIES THAT HAD LITTLE OR NO GOSPEL WITNESS, TO BE LIGHT, LIFE, HANDS, AND FEET IN SHARING THE LOVE AND HOPE FOUND IN JESUS. With this rich history, we now lead a new generation of believers to do the same. Canada has always been a mission field but today other countries are sending their missionaries to us. Why? Because today’s Canada is a very different Canada. Hope is displaced. Families are busy. Immigration is at an all time high. Judeo Christian values are no longer present in our schools, our work, or our society. More than at any other time in Canada’s history, children, youth, and families have lost their sense of belonging, their sense of what it means to have hope. What are the chances of Canadians hearing about Christ outside a church today? From what we see, little to none. So our vision remains stronger than ever . . . Declaring a passion for the Gospel and a burden for Canada. Join us and a new generation of believers and let’s share Christ—the only true hope—with Canada.
Canada’s Hope
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Who is
ONE HOPE CANADA?
One cold, wintry evening in Illinois, two men knelt together
“Lord, if you really want me in children’s work in Manitoba, provide me with $150 as a sign to get the work started!”
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to pray at a local street mission. They were as different as night and day: one, a young pastor, heart burning for the lost; the other, a weathered homeless man, emerging from a life of alcoholism to find new hope in Christ. The young pastor, twenty three-year-old J. Lloyd Hunter, was overcome with a single thought after leading the older gentleman to Christ: “If only this thread of wasted existence had been won to Christ as a boy, not only his soul, but his LIFE would have been saved!” That thought, planted by the Holy Spirit, was a seed that germinated and grew in Lloyd’s heart. A few years later, in 1926, Lloyd eagerly met with a group of Christian businessmen in Winnipeg to discuss the need for rural parts of Manitoba, Canada to be reached with the Gospel, but he left discouraged because nothing was decided. Lloyd returned to his hotel room and dropped to his knees, “Lord, if you really want me in children’s work in Manitoba, provide me with $150.00 as a sign to get the work started!” A knock at the door disturbed his prayer. A man he had met earlier in the lobby shoved a slip of paper into his hands and hurried down the hall. Lloyd looked at it; he was holding a $50 cheque. Back inside his room, he breathed a prayer of thankfulness. Mid-prayer, yet another rap sounded on the door. The same man stood there, and handed Lloyd a second cheque. “I didn’t give you what the Lord told me to,” he quietly stated. “Here is the rest.” The second cheque was for $100.
By the raw faith of the Hunters and those who joined them, the newlyformed Canadian Sunday School Mission was launched into action. Lloyd wasted no time in living out his passion of reaching children. He focused on beginning and supervising Sunday schools, as well as encouraging children to memorize Scripture. The Hunters’ faith began to reap results almost immediately. After only two years of ministry, there were 3800 children enrolled in Bible memory contests, 346 converts recorded, and 19 Sunday schools started! As momentum increased, others committed themselves to the work, taking ministry to a new level across the country with multiplied enthusiasm and burning hearts. A free week of camp was offered in exchange for reciting 500 verses, and children across Canada rose to the challenge. A new realm of ministry was just around the corner—the Mission needed a camp! In 1930, Gimli Bible Camp, on the shores of Lake Winnipeg, was purchased as the Mission’s first A free week of camp was camp. Children memorized Bible verses in droves, and soon other provinces also acquired camp property. Almost accidentally, the Canadian Sunday offered in exchange for School Mission discovered camping ministry to be an effective way of reciting 500 verses, and grounding children in biblical truth and God’s love. By 1950, seven years after the passing of Lloyd Hunter, and twenty-three children across Canada after the Mission’s founding, the Canadian Sunday School Mission was rose to the challenge. sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ in every province of Canada through Sunday schools, Bible clubs, church plants, Bible correspondence lessons, traveling missionaries, and Bible camps (which became a main focus). In 2014, Canadian Sunday School Mission (CSSM Ministries) changed its name to One Hope Canada or in French (L’Espoir Du Canada) to better reflect the Mission’s passion of bringing the hope, found only in Jesus Christ, to the nation of Canada. Today One Hope Canada has over 200 year round missionaries spread across Canada from Vancouver Island to Newfoundland, serving at over sixty ministry points, and ministering to over 23,000 children and youth each year. Our missionaries, partners, prayer warriors, and summer mission teams continue to unite under the same purpose that brought Lloyd Hunter to Winnipeg in 1926: presenting the Gospel to those with the least opportunity to hear of Christ.
Canada’s Hope
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MENNONITE FOUNDATION ARTICLE BY HAROLD PENNER
Inspirations from Bible Camp
T
his past summer I enjoyed a number of Bible camp experiences. Our wide-ranging experiences included doing odd jobs to assist camp workers, enjoying our first time as camp parents, and participating at two different Seniors’ Camps. Each experience provided opportunity to enjoy getting away from the routine of life, to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, to reflect and experience God’s creation, and to take in sound biblical teaching from the camp speakers. It can be a foundational experience, especially for younger, first-time campers, and also for veteran campers. For me, any time spent at Bible camp is special. Each visit to a camp fuels my passion for encouraging individuals to connect with and support the ministry of their local Bible camp. That support can be through prayer, volunteering, or financial support. For many, the natural setting of a Bible camp provides a personal connection that is unlike any other. Mennonite Foundation of Canada is uniquely focussed on helping individuals support their favorite charities financially. In particular, we assist with making gifts in a will and donations of appreciated securities. Contact our offices if you would like to learn more.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Harold and the other Mennonite Foundation of Canada consultants enjoy talking with
OUR
MISSION
generous people and helping them achieve their charitable passions, from lifetime gifting to charitable bequests. You can find them at www.MennoFoundation.ca.
developing passionate followers of Jesus Christ with a heart to serve
LEARNING • DISCOVERY • COMMUNITY • IMPACT Do you want to grow in your relationship with Jesus? Do you desire to know God and His Word better? Do you want to make a difference in this world for Christ? Find out how Nipawin Bible College can help you achieve these worthwhile, challenging and God honoring goals for your life.
www.nipawin.org
ATLANTIC CANADA ALBERT DEAN, ATLANTIC FIELD DIRECTOR
Is Canada a Mission Field? OFTEN, CHRISTIANS HAVE PRE-CONCEIVED IDEAS OF WHAT CONSTITUTES A MISSION FIELD.
T
hose ideas can vary depending on our age and life experience. A couple from my home church worked among First Nations people in Northern Canada, in the Great Slave Lake region. They had all the hallmarks of true missionaries. They worked cross-culturally, in a language other than English, and in a very remote area distinctly different from the small community in Southern Maine where they came from. To me, as a teenager, they were indeed missionaries. A few years later, I went to New Brunswick Bible Institute, where I learned a lot more about missionaries and mission fields, and my horizons broadened because of it. Not only that, but I was challenged about the need for missionaries to serve with Canadian Sunday School Mission (now One Hope Canada), particularly in the province of Newfoundland. With the prompting of the Holy Spirit guiding me, I became a missionary with CSSM in the spring of 1966. I wasn’t sent to Newfoundland, but to Nova Scotia. I worked in the city of Dartmouth, reaching hundreds of boys and girls with the Gospel. Our method of outreach was to find homes open to having us come once a week to teach the Bible to children in their neighbourhood. Many responded to the message of salvation and have gone on to serve the Lord. In the intervening years, 1968 - JEROME VAUGHAN WAS A it has been my privilege to CO-WORKER WITH ALBERT THAT YEAR. sow the seeds of God’s Word in the hearts of Canadian youth. I didn’t have to learn a new language, or experience much cultural change. But I’ve had the distinct privilege of working in God’s harvest in Canada.
ALBERT is from Maine and has served with CSSM/One Hope Canada for almost fifty years. He is married to Maureen and has one son, two daughters, and five grandchildren. His favourite soft drink is Moxie, because it tastes like root beer with a hint of Buckley's Mixture (so some say)! ALBERT DEAN, Atlantic Field Director, adean@onehopecanada.ca
ATLANTIC CAPE BRETON BIBLE CAMP will be installing a zip line this spring; the first phase of a new high ropes course initiative. THE HAMPTON BIBLE CAMP board of directors and staff are very excited to see the completion of our new cabin project, Lord willing, in early spring 2016. This much-needed 3600 square foot facility will provide an additional forty beds, two large washrooms, and an accessibility washroom, as well as a maintenance centre and a 1000 square foot apartment for future, long-term staff. MIRAMICHI VALLEY BIBLE CAMP heads into 2016 with our first REFRESH Couples’ Conference in March, and a completely revised summer schedule for reaching the hundreds of campers who will come through our camp. For more info visit miramichivalleybiblecamp.com NEW FOUND LIFE BIBLE CAMP will be running an Easter Camp Rally Day prior to Easter break and booking Easter story presentations in the public schools. SANDY COVE BIBLE CAMP is busy with plans to add a remote control car track and an air rifle range to their 2016 program list. They are also adding a five-day camp called Active Agers (for those 60+) and opportunities for families to enjoy a Cove vacation in August. THE DOREY FAMILY is excited to be hosting their 8th annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 26th, 2016 at 10:00 am. The event is held at their home near Sussex, NB, where this year they are planning for 300+ people and will have more than 10,000 Easter eggs. The event has grown each year as more and more people show up to join in the fun, which includes: eggs to collect, special prizes, lots of food, friendship, and most importantly, the opportunity to share Jesus with our friends and neighbours!
Canada’s Hope
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BY BEN LAWSON, CAMP DIRECTOR
Growing
Strong
“Why is your camp growing when other camps are struggling?” This question has surfaced many times in the four years I have directed Hampton Bible Camp. It is a question I have considered often in the ongoing ministry of HBC. Is the answer better promotion through social media? Is it an ever-expanding program, whose goal is to keep camp ‘fresh’ and give campers a reason to return year after year? Is it the quality staff and volunteers who produce a well-oiled ministry machine? Or is it the visionary board of directors with their plan for the future, or the gifts of many donors that provide the means to carry out the vision? To be honest, from a purely pragmatic standpoint, all of these things can contribute to the success of a ministry. We strive to promote, to build our program, to provide an amazing camping experience, to have the best workers, and to have a vision for the facility God has entrusted to us. But is there more?
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Hampton Bible Camp has grown by nearly 65% in the past four years. On top of this, we have begun a day camp program which runs concurrent with our overnight camping. God is growing this ministry. But the question remains, “Why?” It is my conviction that the ongoing growth is because of our faithfulness to God’s Word. Hence, our mission statement: “We present the Gospel, particularly to those having the least opportunity to hear of Christ, especially to children and youth, and we disciple believers for living and serving through His Church.” If HBC ever becomes solely about the people, program, plans, or financial bottom line, we have lost our way. As a ministry of One Hope Canada and an extension of
the local church in southern New Brunswick, may our emphasis always be on lifting high God’s Word. The Word changes people. It is the only means through which children and youth will ever have a true knowledge of God. We teach this Word at every opportunity, in word and deed, through memorization and Scripture distribution. And as the Word of God brings the knowledge of God to our godless society, will God be honoured and continue to bless this work? With all my heart, I believe He will. “So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11) HAMPTON BIBLE CAMP
www.hamptonbiblecamp.com 506-832-4669
A Haven of Truth,
a Haven of Hope
BY RYAN SKALING, CAMP DIRECTOR
Nova Scotia has 7500 kms of coastline. Some of it is absolutely treacherous. If you have visited you may have seen posters of the hundreds of ships this shoreline has claimed. However, nestled along the
seashore there are many peaceful harbours. The contrast between the unrestrained ocean on an open beach and the still waters in a haven is striking. Often, these coves have become quiet shelters where fishermen safely anchor their boats.
Truth for Youth, Blomidon Bible Camp is in one such haven. The cliffs of Blomidon stretch out into the Bay of Fundy sheltering the Minas Basin waters at their base. The shelter of that property has had far greater effects than calming waves. The campus has been a haven of Truth for hundreds of youth over the decades. The dedicated labourers who started Truth for Youth over half a century ago could hardly have dreamt of the impact the camp has had. At camp, these youth learned the truth of Jesus and discovered the hope found in knowing Him. Changed by Jesus’ truth and hope, many of those young people are now faithfully serving God at home, work or in a variety of ministries. This camp is about to step into a new era when it reopens this summer. New young lives will arrive on the property and step into a haven. Protected there away from a harsh world they too will meet Jesus. In His truth and hope, they will find a shelter for the rest of their lives. BLOMIDON BIBLE CAMP
www.blomidon.camp 902-582-3367
Canada’s Hope
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QUEBEC KENT OSBORNE, QUEBEC FIELD DIRECTOR
Is Canada a Mission Field?
I WILL BRING HONOUR TO YOUR NAME IN EVERY GENERATION. (PSALM 45:17A)
QUEBEC In 2015, CAMP LIVINGSTONE completed and operated 2 weeks on a brand new second site dedicated to Adventure programming which offers some unique opportunities to share the Gospel while experiencing life in community and adventure. This past summer, BEEBE DAY CAMP hosted a full week for 50 children, almost exclusively from homes where there is no link to a local Church. Thinking of this need for the whole family, a major highlight then was to see a good turnout to our final evening outreach with many Parents present. The Gospel was presented in a very clear way through artwork and a black light! We praise God for a new ADULT BIBLE STUDY that has began in the community of Stanstead.
I
n July 2002 I had just stepped down from being pastor of a church. I received a call from one of the board members of Camp Livingstone in Quebec, asking if I would be able to come and help at camp for a week. Little did we realize that that one week would stretch out to a new opportunity, to serve with One Hope Canada (formerly CSSM) for thirteen years and counting. For me, the highlight of these years with One Hope Canada has been the Mission’s openness to the great opportunity of extending the Gospel to the French children and youth of Canada. I vividly remember my first banquet meeting with the Mission board and field directors in Winnipeg, Manitoba. At that meeting, Carole Murphy and I spoke of the field of Quebec and the great need to focus attention on French children. We were encouraged by the enthusiastic response of those present in those days. Since then, One Hope Canada in Quebec has come a long way. God has raised up workers, moved believers to give, and enlarged the camp work in Quebec. In all, the Lord gradually worked to make the changes necessary for effectively expanding the Gospel ministry in French. As 2016 begins, we continue to pray for a fully bilingual person to expand the French ministry of One Hope Canada/l’Espoir du Canada in Quebec. We covet your prayer for this person.
KENT attended Bible College, then served with the Shantymen Mission for 5 years. Following that, he was the pastor of an AGC Church in Quebec for 22 years, and then joined One Hope Canada in 2002. KENT OSBORNE, Quebec Field Director, kentosborne@onehopecanada.ca
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Unless the Lord
Builds a House Unless the Lord builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted (Psalm 127:1). From a purely geographical perspective, the phrase “Our Mission is Canada” could be discouraging. After all, Canada is the second largest country in the world, and Quebec, where I serve with just a handful of other One Hope Canada missionaries, is the largest province in the nation. Such a large mission field. Might all our efforts be wasted? I am full of hope, though, because we aren’t going this alone. This is the Lord’s house and our Saviour’s Mission. He is the one at work. At Camp des Iles, we witnessed His power in a camper who went home one week resisting God’s calling and came back the next week fully surrendered, full of joy and sharing his faith with his fellow campers. We witnessed His power in a teenage
fellow who came back for a follow-up activity and told me that he finally understood what Jesus’ death meant. We witnessed His power in a nonChristian building supply owner, who donated enough insulation to completely insulate our main building this winter. If I wanted to take credit for any of these things, I couldn’t. God alone is able to accomplish infinitely more than even a camp director could ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). As I labour in his mission, I know that it isn’t really me working, but His grace that is with me (I Corinthians 15: 10). God has His name written everywhere, and He is being glorified.
“
BY TIMOTHY JONES, CAMP DIRECTOR
God is working, our efforts won’t be wasted, and I can confidently state: “Our Mission is Canada” CAMP DES ILES
www.campdesiles.org 450-562-3355
I am full of hope, though, because
we aren’t going this alone. This is the
Lord’s house and our Saviour’s Mission." Canada’s Hope
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why is
canada a mission field? BY MARTIN & SHANNAN LORD, CAMP DIRECTORS OF DORION BIBLE CAMP IN ONTARIO
I
N APRIL 2015, WE LEFT SOUTH AFRICA, A VERY LARGE MISSION FIELD FILLED WITH SUCH GREAT NEEDS, TOO MANY TO MENTION. WE SERVED IN GAUTENG, WITH ITS POPULATION OF OVER 12 MILLION PEOPLE, THE LAST TWELVE YEARS WITH YOUTH FOR CHRIST ON THE DOORSTEP OF THIS LARGE CITY.
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Over the years, we were privileged to spend time with Christian leaders from all over the world and found much spiritual wisdom and dedication in reaching today’s youth. When you work with great need, it’s hard to believe any other calling would be right, but we felt God’s leading to Canada, a shift that started in our hearts in 2009. It was confusing, as we believed Canada was a reached mission field and the needs of Africa seemed so great. A visiting pastor from Zimbabwe, a neighbouring country, was sharing the severe struggles he faced in his country’s difficult political climate. As we gathered around to pray for him, he requested that we rather pray for the west and that missionaries be sent there. He felt the struggles he was enduring were necessary, because desperate people know they need God and then seek Him, but he believed the west was shutting God out of schools, events, celebrations, and their lives and did not think it had a need for God. So yes, Africa has many needs and for many years people have been sent there, but as we explored Canada, we realized it was time for Canada to receive missionaries, maybe even from countries they had been sending to for years.
“
as we explored Canada, we realized it was time for Canada to receive missionaries... In the last two decades the Muslim faith has spread and grown worldwide, fivefold in Canada. Although this is largely attributed to immigration, there are many converts. Catholic youth have dropped in Canada by one-third and Protestant youth by almost two-thirds. Muslim people have a faith that is a lifestyle, but many Christian parents have left the imparting of information to schools and churches. We are told in the Scriptures to, “Train a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6), but children have limited access to the Gospel and to God. Technology has captured the hearts and minds of our youth. Sadly, we are seeing a decline in ethics and behaviour and our youth seem to be looking for something they cannot find. The rate of bullying, substance dependency, abortion, sexual confusion, depression, and suicide has increased beyond levels we have seen before. This seems like a huge and insurmountable problem, but maybe these trials will lead people to realize they don’t have it all; they need GOD.
Canadians who do not believe in God
Canadians who attend any type of religious service at least once a month
6% 13%
43% 27%
1974
2014
1980
canada's religious composition protestant catholic 41%
39% 27%
24%
2015
“
Canada is a mission field and God is raising up people who will be ready to serve this generation of children and youth. What an exciting time to be called to the mission field of Canada!
other unaffiliated
47%
4% 1971 2011
1971 2011
11%
1971 2011
4% 1971 2011
Canadians who identify themselves as evangelical
12% 12% 1993
2015
young people, who attended church as children, and still do so today
1 in 3 of the young adults who have left the church
50% A CAMP WE RAN IN AFRICA CALLED: YOUTH WEEK - SINCE 1963
Africa still needs missionaries. Travelling to a country to serve people in poverty is life-changing for the missionary, sometimes more than for those being served. It’s incredible to see a child who has nothing, but is filled with joy. It makes us realize that all we have leaves us empty. Canada is a mission field and God is raising up people who will be ready to serve this generation of children and youth. What an exciting time to be called to the mission field of Canada! What an incredible privilege to have GOD task us to serve! We have only One Hope. Luke 10:2 says, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” A song we sing in Africa says, “Oh, Africa, hear the Word of God and repent.” Most continents can replace Africa with their continent’s name. Rise up. Let’s serve Canada and see God move.
no longer identify with the christian tradition.
among young adults still engaged with faith,
56% report a summer camp experience.
Sources: Angus Reid survey,March 4-11 2015; Hemorrhaging Faith Study 2012; Pew Research Centre June, 2013.
Canada’s Hope
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ONTARIO STEPHEN JOHNSON, ONTARIO FIELD DIRECTOR
ONTARIO
Is Canada a Mission Field? AS A CHILD, THE MISSION FIELD WAS OVERSEAS IN DISTANT LANDS.
A
s adults, we know that the mission field is all around us. We have a mission field in Canada, now more than ever. Those from distant lands now live here. Missons isn’t so much geographical, as informational. When I was growing up, most Canadians could tell you the basics of Christianity. Times have changed. We have a decline in biblical literacy, knowledge, and understanding, not only in our society, but also within our churches. Along with this comes the deterioration of truth, with deception running rampant—from gender identity to doctor assisted suicide. With more people, less understanding, and greater darkness, there is a growing, not a declining mission field in Canada. One day I observed two men standing over a little boy playing in the sand. The father asked his son what he was making in the sand. The boy responded, “Jesus.” The father, not sure he had heard correctly, asked his son again what he was making. “Jesus,” the boy replied again. The father looked confused. As the father walked away he asked his friend, “What is a Jesus?” to which his friend replied, “I do not know what a Jesus is.” I can’t tell you that that little boy heard about Jesus at summer camp. I am just glad someone told him about Jesus. And I hope he told his dad later that night, not ‘what’ a Jesus is, but ‘who’ He is, and what He had done for them.
STEPHEN JOHNSON, married to Beverly for thirty-five years this summer. Father to four adult children (two married) and two seemingly on their way. Grandfather to two beautiful girls. Loving the Lord, his life, his wife, the Mission, and the ministry God has called him to. STEPHEN JOHNSON, Ontario Field Director, sjohnson@onehopecanada.ca
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What do Sunflowers, Safe House, Apple Blossoms, and Northern Lights have in common? They are all discipleship ministries for children and teens in the RAINY RIVER DISTRICT OF ONTARIO! DORION BIBLE CAMP is rejoicing as they look to the past and the future. Dorion's 70th year in ministry will be celebrated April 9-10. Dorion is also celebrating with their new camp directors, as they casts visions and make plans for the Dorion property and what God has in store for our future ministry. KATHY BRONSON and her team continue to teach children the Word of God in their Bible clubs in Sault Ste. Marie, while BOB AND JANET KNIGHT teach Bible stories to children in Echo Bay. How good the Lord is to allow us to impact children's lives throughout the school year, as well as when they are at summer camps. The GALILEAN BIBLE CAMP AND CONFERENCE CENTRE team are excited for the ice to freeze on the lake, which is the final destination of their incredibly sculpted and contoured tube hill. After a long, fast ride down the fully lit tube run, the truck is there to take you back to the top of the hill for another run down, or a hot chocolate by the outdoor fire pit. The HOPE YOUTH team is engaged in reaching out to youth on the Wikwemikong Reserve on Manitoulin Island. They are encouraged that relationships are being developed and are hoping to see many attend the "Discover 2016" youth retreat planned for April. Another even larger retreat is being planned for June, and will include First Nations youth living on the eastern and northern shores of Lake Huron. This will be a cooperative effort with other First Nations ministries. A lot of resources are invested to carry out these kinds of events, but they have proven to produce life-changing decisions for many youth who attend. WILLOW SPRINGS BIBLE CAMP property is quiet and snow-covered at this time of year, but One Hope Canada missionaries, Tom Koert and Dan Lowrie, have been keeping busy with missions trips far away from the snow. How good it is to serve the Lord, to lead children to Christ, and to disciple young people to be servant leaders in the church of tomorrow. MONARCH BIBLE CAMP is sad to see Melody Lippert leave her position as Director of Discipleship, but happy that she has found a new place to serve the Lord within her field of study. Finding our new Director of Discipleship is something Teresa will be doing, alongside her ministry with several groups (including Girls On The Rock), summer preparation, and promotion.
“
Like in so many
small communities of Canada, there was a desperate
need for a faithful
witness of Jesus. . ."
BY MARK MAST, DIRECTOR
Our Mission:
Canada
Since the first time I visited Canada in 1982 as a summer missionary with Canadian Sunday School Mission (now One Hope Canada) in Bear Lake, Ontario, the Lord has impressed on me the phrase, My Mission: Canada. During the summers of 1983 and 1984, that impression intensified as the Lord continued to reveal how desperately the people I served in eastern Ontario needed a consistent Gospel witness. Bible knowledge was severely lacking in many of the rural communities I ministered in, and evangelistic programs for children and teens were virtually
River and minister to the precious people of the Rainy River District. Like in so many small communities of Canada, there was a desperate need for a faithful witness of Jesus, to simply be an extension of His love and grace to those without salvation and lost in sin. The many First Nation communities dotting the landscape of northwestern Ontario also hold particular opportunities for mission endeavours. We have been blessed to see the Lord accomplish great things for His glory since we moved to Rainy River twenty-nine years ago. I am frequently asked if the Lord is calling us to serve elsewhere, to which I quickly say, "Our Mission Is Canada." Until the Lord releases us from this call, we are content to serve Him in this unique portion of His harvest field. "But may it never be that I should boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Galatians 6:14). RAINY RIVER DISTRICT
www.onehoperainyriver.ca 807-852-3202
non-existent. I began to realize that the Lord was calling me . . . ME . . . to bring the Good News of Jesus to the otherwise unreached of Canada! I never dreamed, in those formative years, that this would eventually become Our Mission: Canada, as I married Tina in 1985 and we were divinely called by God to serve in the little town of Rainy
Canada’s Hope
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MANITOBA WAYNE EISBRENNER, MB FIELD DIRECTOR
MANITOBA WAYNE is husband to Judy, father to three married sons, and grandfather to five granddaughters. He is in love with Jesus, loves children, and is a rabid Saskatchewan Roughrider fan. WAYNE EISBRENNER, Manitoba Field Director, wayne@onehopecanada.ca
ADVENTURE DAY CAMP was able to reach 250 children with the Gospel of Jesus Christ through a children’s program, as they partnered with nine community churches in various areas of Manitoba. New cooperative challenge stations are being constructed this spring at GIMLI BIBLE CAMP. TURTLE MOUNTAIN BIBLE CAMP is encouraged by the financial support they have received, enabling them to begin construction on a new dining hall/kitchen this year. DAUPHIN BIBLE CAMP is eagerly anticipating the opening of their brand new kitchen/dining hall in time for their 2016 summer camping season. VALLEY VIEW BIBLE CAMP is anticipating opening a new and approved zip line for the 2016 summer camping season! "What an exciting time to be working at ROSEAU RIVER BIBLE CAMP, with God moving through the full time staff to really accomplish His mission here by changing SO many lives in such radical ways!"
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BY DON ROE, CAMP DIRECTOR
The
Least of These When I started with One Hope Canada ten years ago, I had discovered, from many years of experience in other camps, that I felt most fulfilled when I could help hurting children and those who had never heard of Jesus. The goal of One Hope Canada—to present the Gospel, particularly to those having the least opportunity to hear of Christ— meshed with the desires God had placed in my heart. There are groups of children in our country who are less likely to have a Christian upbringing: urban First Nations children (who represent a large segment of the population in our area); new immigrants; children from difficult pasts (some whose parents are in prison); campers with ADHD, FAS, or autism (who can have trouble fitting in); single moms and their kids (who need support); and foster children (who always need extra love and understanding). Our mission is to create an environment where every camper can have a successful week, experience positive relationships with leaders and other campers, and meet God. To visitors, our camp would look like any other—happy children enjoying the activities and new experiences. But some campers have very challenging behaviours. Those who are the most emotionally taxing are the ones you remember best, because you witness the wonder of God extending His unconditional love into their lives. Our staff are continually blessed as they share in the campers’ growth. As Jesus once said, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). GIMLI BIBLE CAMP
www.gimlibiblecamp.com 204-642-5707
BY KATHY WEIR, CAMP DIRECTOR
Hunger for God For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost (Luke 19:10). Each summer across Canada, campers passionately proclaim God’s truths in song, share testimonies around campfires, and find a safe place to ask tough questions, while experiencing God in a powerful way. It isn’t uncommon to have several languages and cultures represented in a given session and to see a hunger for God’s Word and truth, no matter what the background. Camp is a place of mentorship. Adults express that serving at camp
is a highlight and time of personal spiritual renewal, as they watch youth serve the Lord so faithfully. The encouraging notes we receive share many memories; campers tell that the saddest part was leaving all the amazing staff. And there is an ongoing ripple effect as ministeredto campers return as staff to impact others lives. God works in unprecedented ways, speaking through His creation, worship, and Bible lessons, supernaturally transforming lives. Staff are amazing listeners who live out their faith, and are eager to share their personal God stories and God’s truths. They help girls
who daily struggle with self-image, worth, bullying, and relationships. Guys are challenged with what a real man of God looks like, and how that affects their relationships with God and others. More priceless and memorable than any Kodak moments is the sight of 100% participation, as youth campers quietly enjoy spending time at different stations for 2+ hours in God’s presence on their Journey with God. We experience the heartbreak of campers. Some have lost loved ones. Experienced family divorce. Struggled with addictions or self harm. Felt suicidal. But what makes people so lost, also makes them so ready for Jesus—who alone offers the hope, fulfillment, and contentment they seek! TURTLE MOUNTAIN BIBLE CAMP
www.tmbc.ca 204-534-6844
Canada’s Hope
17
MINISTRY MAP
1
BRITISH COLUMBIA
2
3 4
1
5
1
7
2
2
6 8
9
3
3 13 4
4
7
6
10 11 12
15 16 18 17
1 2 3
5 6
5
1
7
14
5
4
4 8
6
3
9 2 7
ALBERTA
SASKATCHEWAN
1
10
2
11
3
12
4
13
5
14
6
15
1
2
3
4
5
6
16 7
7
17 8
9
18
8
9
5 6
Over 55 ministry points presenting the Gospel to over 30,000 each year
9
8 6
1
2 4 3
7
QUEBEC
5
1
2 1
1 3 4
2
3 2
5
3
6 7
MANITOBA 1
2
8
ONTARIO
ATLANTIC
1
1
2
2
The Doreys
3 3 3
4 4
Cycle for Campers
Knight Ministries BIBLE CLUBS
5
4 5
6
5 6
7 6
7
8
Kensington Community Church
8 9
Visit www.onehopecanada.ca to contact any of our Ministry Points Canada’s Hope
19
ANNUAL REPORT
Annual Report 2015 Our Purpose We present the Gospel, particularly to those having the least opportunity to hear of Christ and especially to children and youth, and we disciple believers for living and serving through His Church.
2015 Financial Report INCOME
7,535,960 4,268,913 387,946 36,020 1,454,326 $ 13,683,165
Gifts Camper Fees, Rentals Government Grants Interest Other Income
TOTAL INCOME
Being good stewards of what God entrusts to us‌ Each gift to One Hope Canada is a trust from God. We have been working hard to make your gifts go farther in helping us to clearly proclaim the Gospel to young Canadians. To that end we have combined our national office and seven separate provincial offices into a unified Ministry Resource Centre with a single purpose to direct, encourage and equip our ministry points to fulfill the purpose of One Hope Canada. By more efficient handling of finances and administration we have been able to free up people and resources to assist our frontline missionaries. This has included selling a number of our administration offices in various provinces in order to redeploy the monies back into the front line through the resources that we now provide. Thus more can be accomplished in our evangelistic and discipling ministries.
Ministry Board Members:
287
Summer Missionaries & Volunteers:
3442 Camps:
38
Other Ministry Points:
4
Churches:
14
Year Round Frontline Missionaries:
138 GODblesses blesses your gifts prayers... God your gifts andand prayers...
5,779,713 2,622,238 1,566,310 510,192 319,528 231,475 94,029 2,308,636 $ 13,432,121
Salaries & Benefits Occupancy Costs Supplies Travel Office Expenses Promotion Training Other Expenses TOTAL EXPENSES
A detailed financial report of any ministry point for any year is available upon request
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Winter/Spring 2016 | www.onehopecanada.ca
2015...by the numbers
EXPENSES
30,178 23,477
1,923
12,166
heard the Gospel
children from and unchurched youth homes
Conversations of Recommitment
1,700 First Time Profession of Faith
SASKATCHEWAN TERRY KERR, SK FIELD DIRECTOR
SASKATCHEWAN BY NYLA DITSON, SENIOR GIRLS’ CABIN LEADER
God's Mission
Our Adventure For we all have mission fields: our homes, workplaces, and even the grocery stores where we shop. Every day we meet people similar to us, people whose hearts have holes in them—Jesus-shaped holes. We can try to cram other things inside, but it’s fruitless. Only Jesus fits. One of my mission fields is Luseland Bible Camp. We take the Great Commission and add a fun factor to it. With rock climbing, Zumba, paintball, swimming, archery, worship music, friendly staff, nightly campfires (where staff share personal testimonies), phenomenal speakers, and food, LBC has it all. August 2015, I returned home to LBC and was placed as senior girls’ cabin leader for eight teens. During that week, the teens decided to embrace the following equation: One summer Bible camp + eight teen campers = prime time to play cupid on their cabin leader! I ended up writing our adventures in a book called “A Match Maybe Made in Heaven.” I included the silly moments when my girls tried setting me up with the guest speaker, but also recorded all the lessons we learned together that week about faith, relationships, body image, and waiting. With their permission, I used a cabin group shot on the cover. I printed a copy of the book for each girl to receive at LBC’s fall teen retreat. Moral of this story? Have fun with the Great Commission, wherever your mission fields may be! LUSELAND BIBLE CAMP
www.luseland.cssm.ca 306-372-4595
TERRY has been field director for four-and-a-half years and enjoys serving together with his wife, Bonnie. They have three grown children: Brittany, Tyler, and Kelsey. Tyler will be the first to get married this summer to another Kelsey. We will soon have two Kelsey Kerr's sitting at the dinner table. TERRY KERR, terryk@onehopecanada.ca
ESTEVAN BIBLE CAMP continues to grow in size and numbers, expanding their ministry, board, programs, and camper numbers after being completely wiped out by a flood in 2011. KENOSEE LAKE BIBLE CAMP is looking at completing their chapel project before the start of this year's summer ministry. As the ministry continues to expand, the camp is in the process of hiring another year-round full time staff position. MANITOU LAKE BIBLE CAMP continues to upgrade and expand their infrastructure to keep up with their growing needs. They are anticipating the construction and completion of a new climbing wall this summer. RANGER LAKE BIBLE CAMP is very encouraged by the Lord’s blessing of both their financial and volunteer support over the past year. Plans are in place to hire a fourth year-round full time staff member before the start of the 2016 summer program. STONEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP recently completed a new, fully modern camper and staff washroom facility. As the ministry continues to expand, several of the cabins have also been upgraded to include decks and overhanging verandas. TORCH TRAIL BIBLE CAMP: After a year of many forest fires in Northern Saskatchewan in 2015, the camp looks forward to returning campers this summer who were unable to attend last summer, due to the fires. They are thankful for the continued support of their constituency, which helps to see lives changed for Christ.
Canada’s Hope
21
BY CHRIS THIESSEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Five Million There are over five million kids in Canada who could attend summer camp. That is a lot of kids needing to hear, learn, and grow their spiritual walk. Every summer we have the privilege of hosting around 2000 kids at Dallas Valley Ranch Camp. It seems like a lot of kids but, when you look at it in the big picture of Canada, we are coming up short of being able to share the Gospel with all these kids. In Canada we have about 36 million people. It would be awesome if all 36 million showed up for church on Sunday, but the likelihood of that happening is very low. So are we, the church, falling short because we don’t have 100% attendance? By no means. God has called each of us to a specific ministry and it is what we do with our calling that is important. Dallas Valley will never be able to have 5 million kids walk through the gate in the summer. But we are not alone. One Hope Canada has over
22
Winter/Spring 2016 | www.onehopecanada.ca
40 other camps, spread across the country, who are doing the same thing. We can’t force kids to come to camp, like you can’t force them into a relationship with Jesus Christ. But we can make the deepest possible impact on the kids we are given each week.
“
One Hope
Canada impacts
thousands of kids
each summer, but
countless times we
hear that the impact goes far beyond. . ."
The stories of what camps are doing throughout our country are incredible. Camp kids, learning of their need for Jesus to be in control of their lives, go home and start attending church. Then their moms come to church. Before you know it, those campers have helped impact their parents’ spiritual lives, all because parents decided to send their children to camp. One Hope Canada impacts thousands of kids each summer, but countless times we hear that the impact goes far beyond the camper. One of our staff came as a camper, heard the Gospel, and his heart was changed. He convinced his sister to come to camp. She started a relationship with Jesus. Now both of them have served at camp and he is in full time ministry. The ripple effect of what we are doing keeps going. We have staff who started or grew their relationship with Jesus and are spread, not only across this beautiful country, but around the whole world. What is your calling? God is actively using camp to make a deep impact on our youth today. What other place do you see where this many kids have their eternity changed? Go to www.onehopecanada.ca, find a camp to minister with, and watch lives change. DALLAS VALLEY RANCH CAMP
www.dallasvalley.com 306-731-3348
BY RYAN & ANDREA WIESNER (with their new blessing, Halle), CAMP DIRECTORS
Our Mission
beyond the Summer
Camp is so much more than just the ministry that happens in the summer. We have made it a priority at Madge Lake Bible Camp to focus on our campers and staff throughout the year. Our desire is to see them go deeper with God, stay connected to those who can help them grow in Christ, and develop into leaders as they serve and grow in their relationship with God. To help us achieve this goal, we have hired a follow-up/discipleship coordinator, Naomi Tensen, to plan events that connect with the youth in our area. This includes a youth conference called EPIK, which MLBC has run for the past five years, targeting junior high
youth. We bring in a band and speaker, and plan some awesome activities. We also have Parkland Party, a regional youth worship event held in different communities in the area on a monthly basis. Horse Play has also been added to our list of camp ministries, a great tool for connecting with youth, and mixing practical horse skills and a devotional time. We know it's paramount that we serve the churches in our area, to be in contact with the youth leaders, and include them in all of our events. We are currently planning on taking a bus load of youth, from all over the Parkland to YC Alberta, and look forward to bonding with a great group of teens.
“
We want
campers to know
that we are excited about the plans
and purposes God has for them."
Whether it's a simple phone call, email, or even a Facebook message, we want campers to know that we care about them, and are excited about the plans and purposes God has for them. MADGE LAKE BIBLE CAMP
www.madgelakebiblecamp.ca 204-937-3646
Canada’s Hope
23
Agnes Friesen, Servant for Life A
By Ferdi van Dongen, Former Chairman of the National Board
"That they had only $200 in support pledges and no proper housing arrangements did not phase them. God would provide and He did! "
24
gnes grew up on a mixed farm at McTavish, Manitoba. As the youngest of a family of twelve, Agnes was special to her parents, and when she felt called to devote her life to mission work, it was not easy to leave home and trusted surroundings behind. It was a new chapter in the life of a young, determined woman and one that carries on for a lifetime. God directed Agnes to Canadian Sunday School Mission in the early 1970’s after she attended Bible School and worked in CSSM summer camps as a cabin leader. Agnes and her co-worker, Freida Johnson, were sent to Amaranth, MB, and Silver Ridge, MB, where they assisted a CSSM church plant in community outreach. That they had only $200 in support pledges and no proper housing arrangements did not phase them. God would provide and He did! The following year they were sent to Swan Lake, Manitoba, also to do community outreach, which eventually resulted in a church plant. Their ministry
Winter/Spring 2016 | www.onehopecanada.ca
especially reached children and young people from local, mainstream churches, which offered no activities for this young generation. Sunday school, kids clubs, young people’s get-togethers, and ladies’ Bible studies were commonplace. After 6½ years, Agnes and Freida were transferred to Strathclair, MB, where they once again reached out to community needs, including ladies’ Bible studies and ministry to widows. After two years in Strathclair, they were called to work from the CSSM Manitoba office in Winnipeg, focusing on young people who had moved to Winnipeg from the country, but also working at day camps in St. Adolphe and as cabin leaders at Dauphin Bible Camp. Subsequently, Agnes was asked to join staff at the CSSM Manitoba office in administration, which came with a host of other responsibilities and a variety of tasks—preparing mailings and printed materials, doing Vacation Bible Schools, and speaking
at camps. During all her years as a missionary, Agnes worked under the leadership of no less than seven provincial directors! After retirement, Agnes has not retired but remains active in serving God and ministering to the needs of those crossing her path (spiritual and otherwise) in various ways. For years, Agnes has been assisting Glen Eden Funeral Home and continues to do so diligently. I have appreciated Agnes, especially during her tenure in serving on the National Board of CSSM and now One Hope Canada. An interesting note is that Agnes was invited and nominated as a board member by one of her former
campers, Jan Dewar. Agnes served on the board during the past ten years through some turbulent times, but also during recent years of building and strengthening and seeing God using One Hope Canada for His purpose across this vast nation. Agnes sums up her life’s experiences with one simple line: “We serve an amazing God!”
"After retirement, Agnes has not retired but remains active in serving God and ministering to the needs of those crossing her path (spiritual and otherwise) in various ways."
CHARACTER • COMPETENCE • COMMITMENT
www.millarcollege.ca Developing passionate, relevant servants of Jesus Christ
Two campuses in Western Canada > PAMBRUN SASKATCHEWAN
>
SUNNYBRAE
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Canada’s Hope
25
ALBERTA JIM STENSTROM AND CLIFF PEDERSON
ALBERTA JIM is husband to Joanne, father of three married children, and grandfather of nine. He was a missionary with Africa Inland Mission for over twenty-five years, and has enjoyed a lifetime of ministry with children and teens. JIM STENSTROM, Alberta Field Director (Camps), jstenstrom@onehopecanada.ca CLIFF is married to Gloria, is father to two married daughters, and has four grandchildren (the joy of our lives). Both daughters and their families live in BC. Cliff pastored for twenty-nine years in the three western provinces (including three years as a CSSM pastor), followed by almost fifteen years as field director with CSSM/One Hope Canada, focusing mainly on church ministries. CLIFF PEDERSON, AB Field Director (Churches) cliffp@onehopecanada.ca
CAMP SILVERSIDES is delighted to have Jacquie Hnidey become their new director. You should see the new dining hall makeover. DAVID THOMPSON BIBLE CAMP has welcomed new directors, Mark and Karle Wiederick. They have moved into a residence right at the camp to live year around. They have 3 wonderful boys. FAITH BIBLE CAMP has a strong board in place and is continuing its vision renewal process. The camp still operates at Covenant Bay on Pigeon Lake. ROSS HAVEN BIBLE CAMP had a God blessed summer and enjoys the benefits of having a director couple for over 20 years. Sign up early for the new camp season! WHITNEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP had an amazing summer. The board is searching for a new director. The plans are to have a great camp in 2016 so make your plans too. JOY CAMP ministers to campers who have handicaps. Two weeks are offered at Bear Lake Bible Camp and one at David Thompson Bible Camp.
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Winter/Spring 2016 | www.onehopecanada.ca
Our Mission BY JACQUIE HNIDEY, CAMP DIRECTOR
is
Canada
There is much need in the world, but also much need in our own backyard—in Canada. Growing up in a family where camp ministry was a huge part of our life, I was able to see, at a young age, how many people desperately needed the Lord and how camp was an invaluable way to reach them. When I think of the number of Canadians who have been impacted by camp, it’s God inspiring. Camp Silversides is located right in the center of Alberta, which gives us the unique opportunity of drawing campers and staff from all parts of the province. I think about a staff member from north central Alberta, who has worked with me for the past five years. When Ty first came to camp as a camper, he was very quiet and introverted. He was not from a Christian family and had never heard about the Gospel message, but during his first summer as a camper he accepted Christ as his Saviour. That summer Ty was eight years old, and he has never missed a summer of camp since. Ty invited his sister to camp one year, and she became a Christian as well. When Ty was sixteen, he started working at camp as a junior cabin leader and now, for the past two summers, has been a senior cabin leader. He even decided that God was calling him to work in ministry and now, at the age of twenty, he is just finishing his second year of Bible school. How humbling to think that this once shy, little boy, who had never heard about Jesus, is now planning to one day work in ministry! I truly love what God does at camp. Where else could many of these Canadian youth go to hear about the saving grace of Jesus Christ and experience the beauty of His creation? God changes lives for eternity at camp, and we have the awesome privilege of being a part of it! Thank you for your prayers and support of this great mission field. With God’s help, we can continue to bring the hope of Jesus to the real True North Strong and Free. SILVERSIDES BIBLE CAMP www.silversides.ca, 403-748-2689
Never too young to be
Community Ministry Initiatives
a missionary BY DAVE TRENHOLM
They call me the missionary, but over and over again I’m convinced that my kids hold that title. Since moving to Penhold four months ago, I’ve found it to be a challenge to connect with people in the community and start building relationships outside the church. Three of our kids, however, spend 35 hours every week getting to know their classmates in their elementary school of 250. What a mission field! Moving to a new community can be tough for kids and, as Dave & his wife parents, you hope your kids can find some Christian friends. Heather are church planters in Penhold, Although our kids haven’t found those Christian friends, they are working at making them! I love hearing their AB. They have two boys and two girls stories: how my daughter befriended the girl being left out; ages 2, 7, 8 & 10. how my son told his buddy what it means to be a Christian. It’s so encouraging to know that, each week, our kids head to their elementary mission field, not finding, but making disciples! Already we’ve met some of these kids’ parents, and we trust that God will continue to bring us opportunities to boldly share the Good News of Jesus Christ in Penhold.
Bringing the Gospel to Canadian Communities BY BILL MCCASKELL, CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
One Hope Canada may best be known for our camping ministry, but that wasn’t always the case. Over the past 89 years, most of which were spent as the Canadian Sunday School Mission, the Mission launched thousands of Sunday schools, Bible clubs, and community outreaches in areas of Canada that had no Gospel witness. In the process, over 140 churches were planted. Today the Mission still has a number of community ministries and even a few churches, mostly located in Alberta. The vision for the future, however, is that through the Mission’s new partnership with the Associated Gospel Churches, there will be a renewal in reaching out to the hundreds of communities across Canada where there is no Gospel witness. These current and future initiatives are known as Community Ministry Initiatives and One Hope Canada looks forward to seeing God reach children, youth, and their families with His love.
Community Ministry Initiatives
Both provide support to a ministry that has developed into a formalized "church"
One Hope Canada & AGC working together for God’s Kingdom
Church Planting and Care
Late last year One Hope Canada formed a strategic, long-term partnership with the Associated Gospel Churches of Canada. This partnership empowers One Hope Canada to launch Community Ministry Initiatives in communities who have no Gospel witness.
Updates from our Church Ministry Points TWO HILLS FELLOWSHIP CHAPEL, Two Hills, AB A special service was held on February 7th recognizing Pastor Warren Charlton’s credentialing with the Associated Gospel Churches and the church became affiliated with the AGC. Russ Wilson, Canada West Superintendent of AGC, Bill McCaskell, Co-Executive Director of One Hope Canada, and others from the Mission joined the congregation in celebrating God’s leading and guiding. FAITH GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP, Fort Vermillion, AB On December 1st, the church voted unanimously to affiliate with the AGC, and was accepted by the AGC on February 9th. A special service celebrating the affiliation is being planned for April 3rd. Please pray as they continue to look for a pastor. BETHEL GOSPEL CHAPEL, Wanham, AB Pastor Mike Hicks reports that, at its annual business meeting in December, the church voted to apply for affiliation with the AGC, and that Pastor Mike is in the process of preparing his application for credentialing. FAIRVIEW GOSPEL CHAPEL, Fairview, AB Russ Wilson, Canada West Superintendent of the AGC, was back in the Peace River country in early February for a meeting with the congregation of Fairview Gospel Chapel as they further consider affiliation with the Associated Gospel Churches.
Canada’s Hope
27
BRITISH COLUMBIA JERRY & RENEE RITSKES, BC FIELD DIRECTOR TEAM
BRITISH COLUMBIA JERRY AND RENEE recently left Calgary to join the BC team as the field directors. They are still looking for the ideal spot to settle. They are enjoying this season of life with four adult children and seven grandchildren. This summer they will celebrate their 35th anniversary. When they first met, Jerry had been a cabin leader at Lake of the Trees, Hope Bay, and Maple Springs. JERRY AND RENEE RITSKES, BC Field Directors, jritskes@onehopecanada.ca
HOPE BAY BIBLE CAMP - Bobby and Lyn Cooper arrived to Direct the camp and are already busy with connecting with constituents and making plans for the summer. MAPLE SPRINGS BIBLE CAMP - 4 interns have joined the program this winter and are adding a great element to the camp. Plans are underway to hold a new winter weekend camp for unchurched youth. CAMP AMASA - Kim Bojey has joined as program director and will be a great asset to Jacquie. LAKE OF THE TREES BIBLE CAMP A few building projects were finished this winter and they are putting a lot of work into promotion for the summer. NESS LAKE BIBLE CAMP is beginning the search for a new Director. Check out the One Hope Canada website. ECHO LAKE BIBLE CAMP is researching a new dining hall for their camp. If you've ever seen what they have been using you will know why this is a priority. ADVENTURE DAY CAMPS - Roland is making plans for another summer of touring small towns who have no church or little Christian witness.
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Winter/Spring 2016 | www.onehopecanada.ca
What
It Takes
BY TOM MCINTOSH, CAMP DIRECTOR
In reflecting on a wild and wonderful summer, I’m thankful for the greatest volunteer staff team . . . all 121 of them. I scratch my head because the youth and young adults (especially cabin leaders) put in three times more hours than at a regular job, have more responsibility than their peers, do it all as volunteers, and come back for more. They simply love the Lord and their campers. And the cooks, nurses, speakers, and work crew bosses are among the most servant-hearted, again, volunteers! Anyone would die for these employees. Most are local, but some come from Vancouver, Alberta, San Diego, or even Ireland. I see staff grow so much through their service. Here’s one staff’s testimony: My time at camp was a real learning experience. I had never done anything like that for so long. Learning to work with people who are different than I am was a big part of camp. Learning to work with the different personalities and needs of the campers was also a learning experience. When one of our boys during Pre-teen 2 asked me, "What's a Bible?" I thought, "Boy, these kids really need help this week!" It was great to teach the young folks about God and the Bible. That boy's question made me realize just how much those kids needed to be at camp. When I was able to watch the boys learn during the week and then ask Jesus into their lives, it was the best thrill a person can get! Man, that was camping! Just think, more souls for the Kingdom. LAKE OF THE TREES BIBLE CAMP
www.lakeofthetrees.com 250-791-5502
BY DAVE HORTON, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Changing the Heart of Canada Ness Lake Bible Camp has a strange monopoly that most other camps in BC do not have. Within a two-hour radius of Prince George (and its 80,000 citizens) there are only four camps. Two of these are denominational camps that mostly get campers from their church bodies, and the other is our sister camp, Echo Lake Bible Camp. This means that when kids from northern BC wants to go to summer camp, many come through our gate. When we go to malls and home shows to promote camp, I am always surprised at the questions parents have about camp.
“
I have had more than a few conversations where parents start by saying, “Our family doesn't believe in God, but I want my kids to go to camp. What are you going to tell them?” It's a real joy to look them in the eyes and talk about Jesus being the Son of God and Saviour, and state that we don't force kids to believe what we do, but we do ask them to respond (even it that means telling us boldly that they don't believe). We want to have the conversation with these
We have had countless families who
are opposed to our teaching, yet they
send their kids for the camp experience."
kids, hear how they respond to the Good News, and have a discussion. The parents’ response is usually something along the lines of, “That sounds good. I am OK with them hearing some religious teaching as a foundation.” The large majority of our campers are from non-churched homes. We have had Jewish families, Sikh families, and countless families who are opposed to our teaching, yet they send their kids for the camp experience. Going to camp is part of the Canadian childhood experience. This is the story for so many other One Hope Canada camps, who start camps in areas where there was no camping option for families to choose from. When you hear how many kids have come through camps this past summer and in summers to come, keep these families in mind. The impact of thousands of kids hearing the truth of God's Word, and being invited to respond, has changed and will continue to change the heart of Canada. NESS LAKE BIBLE CAMP
www.nlbc.bc.ca 250-967-4248
Canada’s Hope
29
Roseau River Bible Camp 2015 SUPPORTERS
April 24-26
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Winter/Spring 2016 | www.onehopecanada.ca
Canada’s Hope
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www.diamondconstruction.ca
We do the job right!
Collect Air Miles for ONE HOPE CANADA If you would like to start collecting Air Miles for us, just let us know and we will send you a One Hope Canada Air Miles card. You can generously help cover the travel costs of our mission team by also donating your Air Miles to One Hope Canada. Email or call us and we’ll tell you more about this great opportunity to partner with us in sharing the Gospel to thousands of children and youth from across Canada each year. Thank you so much for making a difference in this way!
Toll Free 1- 888 - 960 -2580 info@onehopecanada.ca
Canada’s Hope
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www.riverbendorchards.ca Phone: (204) 870-1140
Email:riverbend@mts.net www.valleyviewbiblecamp.com 204-685-2999 100 Old Bridge Road,
Portage la Prairie, Manitoba Phone: (204) 870-1140 Email:riverbend@mts.net
THE COUNTRY SHOP with COUNTRY VALUE
Call for your freight quote today!
Sunnyside Services
Now hiring Class 1 Owner/Operators and Drivers! Deck transportation to a wide range of industries and companies in the USA and canada
Auto and Ag Repairs Welding and Fabricating Autowrecking Conklin Product Franchise
Based in Winkler, Manitoba
Toll Free: 1-877- 400 - 0262 • www.sunsetexpress.ca
Box 213 Dauphin, MB R7N 2V1
Ph. 638-5436 or 648-4712 Peter and Linda Schulz
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Summer/Fall 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca
Box 669 - 405 Stampede Drive, Morris, Manitoba, R0G 1K0 • Toll Free Number: 1-800-746-4449 • Email: dispatch@bartelfreight.ca
Services Transportation Services We cover all of Canada, and the United States. Terminal Services Heated Warehouse with two loading docks.
www.bartelfreight.ca
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Winter/Spring 2016 | www.onehopecanada.ca
FIN
QUAL
204-
Canada’s Hope
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HOURS: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 5:00pm
Located at the west end of Portage la Prairie
204 - 857- 4286 (ext. 221) Fax: 204 - 857- 4282
TRANSPORT SERVICES Service to western Canada and the USA Full load and less than full load service of dry, non hazardous freight Cross docking ability Personal touch for all customer related questions
TRUCK & TRAILER REPAIR
204-856-5531 or repair @paraclete.com Manitoba inspection station for trucks and trailers Providing service including oil changes, inspections and all types of repairs. Equipment for diagnostics: including computer ECM codes Large parts inventory on hand for quick repairs
FULL SERVICE SHOP
Clutches, air conditioning, transmissions and engines
Manufacturer of quality gravel trailers
Ask your dealer about the ‘new SLX’ end dump
Midland Manufacturing congratulates One Hope Canada on this edition of Canada’s Hope
change.
2016|2017 GROW IN YOUR FAITH. SHARE IT WITH THE WORLD!
Apply today:
encounterschool.ca Publications Mail Agreement #: 40019747 Canada’s Hope One Hope Canada Ministry Resource Centre Unit 6 - 875 Gateway Road Winnipeg, MB R2K 3L1
grow. lead.