CANADA's
Winter/Spring 2017 Issue 13
HOPE GOD’S MISSION. OUR ADVENTURE.
90 Years! Thus far the Lord has helped us.
1 SA MUEL 7:12
A PUBLICATION OF
90 CE LE B R ATI N G
years
This past year in Canada, thanks to 4,010 staff and volunteers, 32,832 children and youth heard the Gospel.
YOU ARE INVITED TO OUR ALBERTA BANQUET!
SEE THE TAYLORS IN CONCERT!
Three Hills, AB | Thursday, April 6, 2017
April 2-9, 2017
Mount Olive Evangelical Free Church
Several concerts throughout Manitoba.
6:00 p.m. | Guest Speaker: Alan Powell
Visit www.onehopecanada.ca/events
Tickets: $20 by March 28, 2017
for their tour schedule.
Contact 1-888-960-2580 or visit www.onehopecanada.ca for more information about these events.
CANADA's
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Winter/Spring 2017 Issue Thirteen
Features
Regional Stories
4
Letters from the past and present
8
Atlantic Canada
6
One Hope Canada Timeline: 1927–Present
10
Quebec
14
Ontario
Atlantic Canada's Centennial of Confederation Project turns 50
16
Manitoba
21
Saskatchewan
18
Ministry Map
24
Alberta
20
2016 Annual Report
26
British Columbia
28
Bible League Canada
29
Our Supporters
HOPE Canada’s Hope is the biannual publication of One Hope Canada. Letters, articles, and photos are welcome. Many names have been changed in the articles. EDITOR Melanie Mushaluk CIRCULATION AND ADDRESS CORRECTION Melanie Mushaluk SPONSORSHIPS Bill McCaskell
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DESIGN Iced Tea Designs COPY EDITORS Gloria Pedersen David Nadeau
SPECIAL EDITORIAL
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 888-960-2580 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 Henry Schellenberg, a CSSM missionary, driving children to Gimli Bible Camp to enjoy a free week of camp as a reward for memorizing 500 verses.
BY ORVAL JANZ, CSSM NATIONAL DIRECTOR, 1985–2005
Increasing
Ministry
F
or both Canada and One Hope Canada, 2017 is a milestone year. The nation celebrates its 150th birthday, the Mission its 90th. I am among those who believe Canada ORVAL JANZ (LEFT) WITH PREVIOUS is the best place in the world to live. NATIONAL DIRECTORS Our beloved country has been, and D.R. AIKENHEAD (1937–1963) AND LAWRENCE MCALLISTER (1963–1985) still is, greatly blessed by God. It is not all it should be, and there is reason for concern about the direction we are headed. But there is no question Canada is more than it would have been without organizations like CSSM that brought and continue to bring the Gospel to those who have the least opportunity to hear it. A CSSM bulletin of many years ago posed the question: Who can assess the value to the nation of a child brought to the knowledge of Christ as Saviour? Thousands of communities have been influenced for good as hundreds of thousands (primarily children) have heard the Gospel through the witness of One Hope Canada (formerly CSSM). More importantly, tens of thousands came to a saving faith and became citizens of the kingdom of heaven. Praise be to God! Let us pray that the ministry may not only continue, but increase.
CANADA’S HOPE
3
LETTERS FROM THE PAST AND PRESENT SUBMIT YOURS TO INFO@ONEHOPECANADA.CA
It’s exciting that One Hope Canada turns ninety this year. Trust it will be a wonderful celebration in every province. We are praying for you. We have warm memories of Lawrence McAllister. He came to our home often when travelling and we loved his visits. He always did his walking on his hands act for our young boys when he was in his mid-sixties to seventies. He amazed us! FRANK AND LINDA, SASKATOON, SK
We really enjoy Canada’s Hope magazine. So much good information. We knew Donna Berk. God used her to lead my sister to the Lord in Eureka River. JOYCE, THREE HILLS, AB
Letters
from our
Readers
I began teaching VBS with CSSM in 1933 and 1934. I believe it was in the summer of ’34 that Olive Carmichael started and I was her senior partner. Though I am now 101, I remember many of our experiences. The Lord never fails and is faithful in answering my prayers. What a joy to worship and celebrate Him! BERTHA, CHILLIWACK, BC
We really like the magazine. It is excellent! We read it from cover to cover and pass it on to others. We used to be CSSM church planters north of Vermillion, AB, and worked at two Bible camps, Whitney Lake and Ross Haven. We pray regularly for One Hope Canada. PETER AND ANNA, STONY PLAIN, AB
We want to share your story of the Mission with others. If you went to one of our camps as a child, or were part of a Sunday school or church that was started by Canadian Sunday School Mission missionaries, we would love to hear your story! Send it to info@onehopecanada.ca .
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WINTER/SPRING 2017
LETTERS FROM THE PAST AND PRESENT
67 CAMPERS ENJOYING A WEEK AT CAMP IN HEATH, ALBERTA
letters Campers from past
Dear Mr. Aikenhead,
I am very thankful for this wonderful Christian camp where we may come together in Christian fellowship. As we draw nigh to the end of camp I can truly say that it has meant much to me. I was saved on February 20, 1953, and that gave me a joy and peace that only Jesus can give. I am sorry to say that I have failed Him so many times but, thank God! He has never failed me. Please pray for me that I may live a better Christian life and be a living witness for Him. DORIS, MB, DATED JULY 31, 1954
Dear Mr. Aikenhead,
I am writing to you to tell you how much I enjoyed camp. To tell you the truth I cannot remember yet any eight days in my life that I have enjoyed more. I especially enjoyed the morning dip and the afternoon swims. I myself have never ate meals I liked as good as my mother’s, but at camp this year I ate meals that were just as good if not better. But I think what I really enjoyed most of all was the testimony meetings. I really like to hear boys and girls stand before an audience and witness for Christ as their personal Saviour. When it was time for me to leave camp I truly had a lump in my throat for I was leaving some of the best friends I’ve ever had and also the best time in Christ. I’m hoping to be back with you again next year. JIM, NEEPAWA, MB, DATED JULY 23, 1954
Dear Mr. Aikenhead,
I am thankful for this camp where sinners may be saved and Christians may be drawn closer to God. I have enjoyed this camp very much and am sorry it is over. I am sure every child has been blessed wonderfully. I am glad that Christ was willing to suffer at Calvary that such a sinner as I might have eternal life in heaven. I thank God for saving me. Each day He lives within my heart, giving me peace and happiness. Although I have failed Him many times He has never failed me. Please pray for me that I may be true to Him to the end as well as a faithful witness of His love. JOAN, MB, DATED JULY 31, 1954
Dear People,
I have lied in my Sunday school papers. So I am writing to you to forgive me. Please forgive me. I lied by saying I read my Bible every day but I wasn’t reading the Bible every day. It was not until I got my February papers I found out I was doing wrong. I hope you and the Lord will forgive me. I need some more Sunday school papers for a little girl age 6. Thanks to you I believe the Lord is real. Because He is making my life happier. DONNA, VIVIAN, MB, DATED JANUARY 31, 1957
CANADA’S HOPE
5
1927 1913 WINTER
Rev. J. Lloyd Hunter, after leading a man to Christ in Joliet, Illinois, develops a deep burden for children to know Christ so they can live their adult lives with the hope of knowing Him.
A new missionary organization is created, recognized officially as Canadian Sunday School Mission. Lloyd Hunter is appointed general superintendent.
1931
Bible Memory Contest begins with Muriel Taylor and her class of ladies from Winnipeg Bible Training School (renamed Winnipeg Bible Institute in 1929) sending information to 145,000 Manitoba school children.
Muriel Taylor creates a Bible correspondence course so boys and girls can earn a week at camp. Thousands participate in the courses.
1929 The Mission begins work in Ontario and informally in British Columbia.
1940 Public school Bible teachers travel by foot, horse, bicycle, and car to rural schools throughout Canada.
1927
1937
1926
1928
1930
1937
1941
FALL
3,378 boys and girls from 250 schools enroll in the Bible Memory Contest. In 18 months, approximately 10,000 students, from 700 school districts, memorize 226,000 Bible verses. After memorizing 500 Bible verses, 29 children attend the first camp at Loni Beach on Lake Winnipeg.
A legacy gift from Agnes Schultz, widow of former Manitoba Lieutenant-Governor, John Christian Schultz, and long-time friend of the Mission, helps purchase 17 acres near Gimli. It becomes home to the MIssion’s First camp—Gimli Bible Camp.
Rev. D. R. Aikenhead replaces Lloyd Hunter as General Superintendent of the Mission. Canadian
Sunday School Mission extends into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
Rev. Lloyd Hunter, serving with the American Sunday School Union, travels to Winnipeg to meet a group of Christian businessmen, where his prayer for $150 is answered.
The Mission expands to Saskatchewan.
Churches spring up across Canada as a direct result of missionary work.
Prairie Sunday School Mission (Alberta) joins Canadian Sunday School Mission.
L.E. Maxwell, founder and president of Prairie Bible Institute, chairs the first meeting of the Prairie Sunday School Mission in Three Hills, Alberta.
The Mission begins a weekly radio broadcast which continues until 1950.
One Hope Canada Timeline 1927-2017
1963 Lawrence McAllister replaces Rev. D. R. Aikenhead as National Director, and also serves as printer (left). A second-hand press is purchased for $1,000 to print Best Book Club lessons.
1983
1974
1968 6,683 children and youth attend summer camp.
9,808 children and youth attend 172 camp sessions at 38 camp ministry points.
1967
First national personnel conference in Edmonton. Theme: To the Praise of His Glory.
1977
1985 Orval Janz replaces Lawrence McAllister as national director.
1987
1962
1966
1970
1977
1984
1986
Best Book Club mails nearly 10,000 lessons each month to boys and girls who were reached through VBS and summer camps.
Children’s crusades begin with two full-time teams touring the country. In the first two years, 41,863 children attend.
Church planting in rural areas continues especially in Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia. Over 140 churches are planted by the Mission.
The Mission’s 50th anniversary is celebrated in Winnipeg during a multiday conference, with over 1,300 attending the banquet at the Winnipeg Convention Centre.
Cariboo School of the Bible, located east of Quesnel, British Columbia, opens, offering affordable, Bible-centered teaching. The school operates until 2005.
18,000 children and youth attend 289 sessions at 40 camp ministry points across Canada. Teaching Bible classes remains strong in Ontario with 15,000 pupils in 590 public classrooms.
1944
1946 Canadian Sunday School Mission begins work in Quebec.
The Mission begins to work on Prince Edward Island. British Columbia officially joins the Mission.
1950
Canadian Sunday School Mission is instrumental in the organizing of Northern Canada Evangelical Mission (NCEM), to focus on First Nations ministries.
Canadian Sunday School Mission is instrumental in establishing New Brunswick Bible Institute.
Newfoundland work begins, giving the Canadian Sunday School Mission a ministry presence in every province.
1955
1960
1958
Child for Christ Crusade merges with Canadian Sunday School Mission.
The Bible Memory Contest is discontinued.
1947
The first mobile camp is held on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia.
1957
1945
1948
1952
1957
1959
Bible Memory Contest encounters challenges as some schools make it difficult to advertise the contest. The number of verses to memorize for a free week of camp is reduced to 300 from 500.
The number of camps grows to 18.
The Mission celebrates 25 year anniversary.
Best Book Club launches to provide encouragement and support among children and youth who are new believers.
The first permanent camp on salt water is established at Port Hood, on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.
Summer Bible Schools were attended by almost 100,000 children in the first 25 years of CSSM’s history.
A passion for the Gospel. A burden for Canada. 2011 1992
2009
Explosion of the Ordinary, by Judy Funk, chronicling God’s work through the Mission, is published.
Don Collins appointed as national director.
2005 Orval Janz resigns as national director.
National board begins meeting outside Winnipeg once a year to tour local ministry points.
National board adopts new board structure to better equip the Mission for the challenges of ministry across the nation. Printing operations at national office are closed due to changes in technology, making the near obsolete printing equipment too expensive to run.
2014 CSSM Ministries changes its name to One Hope Canada to reflect the reason behind everything the Mission does— bringing the hope of Jesus Christ to the country of Canada.
2016 Over 33,000 Canadian children and youth hear the Gospel through One Hope Canada’s 60 plus ministry points.
1997-PRESENT 2000
2006
2010
2012
2015
Camp ministry continues strong across Canada as ministry points introduce speciality camps.
Over the next two years, Don Hickey, Rob Pollett, and Scott Kelusky serve successive brief terms as national director.
National board updates purpose statement and strengthens its commitment to ministry in the French language.
Bill and Bev McCaskell appointed as national director team.
The creation of the Ministry Resource Centre sees the national office and seven provincial offices combined to create a unified resource centre. This provides timely support to the frontline in light of increased government regulation and cultural changes. The change includes selling a number of administration offices in various provinces.
The national board asks Paul Magnus, former president of Briercrest Bible Institute, to give assistance in restructuring CSSM Ministries for the future.
Camp des Iles, near Lachute, Quebec, becomes most recent addition to the One Hope Canada family.
Ministry partnerships are forged with Bible League Canada and Associated Gospel Churches. First edition of Canada’s Hope is published. The 36 page, full color magazine is sent biannually to over 20,000 readers across Canada.
Atlantic Canada BLOMIDON BIBLE CAMP God has continued working through our efforts at rebuilding this camp. A team of gifted people on the camp’s new board of directors is eager to see people find Jesus. HAMPTON BIBLE CAMP We are excited to see much-needed renovations to our main building (hallways, stairwells, and cabins), and anticipate a spring completion, in time for the 2017 ladies retreat May 26–28! MIRAMICHI VALLEY BIBLE CAMP We saw the Lord work in many campers’ lives in 2016 and are excited about 2017 and how the Lord will provide the director of His choice. Our new outreach, Special Friends, meets monthly for those with special needs. SANDY COVE BIBLE CAMP Last summer’s camp team has committed to doing camper follow up. Please pray for follow through as each one has a busy schedule. ANDREW AND TANYA DOREY Plans are well underway for another busy summer. Our family will spend ten weeks on the road, living in a trailer, and leading community VBS sessions around Atlantic Canada. But first, we take a break from summer planning to host the ninth Annual Easter Egg Hunt at our home in Jeffries Corner, NB. We will again plan for over 200 from the surrounding area, a great opportunity to share the hope we have in Christ!
"He realized that although he knew Jesus in his head, he didn’t know Him in his heart." BY PETER STENSTROM, CAMP DIRECTOR
Taking steps
of faith
A
t Cape Breton Bible Camp, we love seeing young people’s lives change when confronted with the Gospel for the first time. This past summer, a camper came to know Christ, a camper who had heard the Gospel message probably dozens of times. Until about two years ago, Ethan* looked and acted like a normal Christian young person and everyone assumed he was saved. He is from a strong Christian family, his dad is a respected pastor, and he worked on camp staff for two summers. Unfortunately, the world started to draw him in; before long, Ethan was caught up in destructive things. He went through some hard months and eventually realized that although he knew Jesus in his head, he didn’t know Him in his heart. Although many prayed that Ethan would see the error of his ways, he seemed disinterested and became resistant to Christian influence. Fast forward to a few days before teen camp 2016. Although Ethan’s parents wanted him there, he objected. If he went, it would only be to see his friends. He was undecided until the start of camp, but decided to go. By God’s grace, the gifted camp speaker shared the Gospel message clearly; Ethan stopped resisting and accepted Jesus into his heart. Today, Ethan has a peace and understanding that Christ has paid for his sins, and although he still struggles, he has taken steps of faith to remove sin from his life. Please join us in rejoicing and praying for Ethan as he moves forward as a new follower of Christ. *Name changed.
CAPE BRETON BIBLE CAMP
www.capebretonbiblecamp.com • 902-674-2238
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New found
W
hat began with a prayer walk around a public school, asking God for an opportunity to minister to children in our community, became above and beyond all we could ask or think. Not long after that walk, I was volunteering in the Torbay Public School library when a teacher commented on the lack of resources for the Easter story, and we struck up a conversation. Minutes later, God put His plan in motion and the first door opened to present the Gospel story to a room filled with grade 4 students. BY LORI AND The following year, after a teacher's request, we had a meeting with the RUSSELL SMITH, CAMP DIRECTORS principal who agreed to present a letter on our behalf to the school board. As a result, I was allowed to not only teach the Easter story but also that of our Saviour's birth. Seventeen years have passed, and what began with one occasion, became fifty-seven opportunities this Christmas to share the story in ten schools! With the assistance of my ventriloquist lobster friend, Chef Chowder, a Bible, and a nativity set, 1,895 students and teachers listened attentively through the twenty-five minute presentations. December 2016 was another eye-opening Christmas season, especially at a school where it was my first invitation. Over 100 children had never before heard about a Bible and, as one teacher later remarked, “I don’t think any of these kids had heard the Christmas story before.” Our youngest generation is ignorant of God and His Word. A grade 1 student asked, “Why did God give Jesus a name like that? It’s a swear word.” A grade 4 boy stated, “I don’t get it. If Jesus is what Christmas is all about, why do we hear so much about Santa Claus?” After hearing of Jesus’ purpose in coming to earth, a grade 2 boy remarked, “That’s a fable, nobody can come back to life from the dead.” Praise the Lord for using One Hope Canada these past ninety years to reach the otherwise unreached. Thank the Lord for bringing CSSM missionaries to our island almost fifty years ago to teach Vacation Bible Schools and plant the seed for many of Newfoundland’s churches. We look forward to what the Lord will continue to accomplish until He returns. Ephesians 3:20-21: “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” To God be the glory!
Life
"Thank the Lord for bringing CSSM missionaries to our island almost fifty years ago."
NEW FOUND LIFE BIBLE CAMP www.onehopecanada.ca/newfoundlandlifebiblecamp • 709-682-4268
CANADA’S HOPE
9
Quebec
Stanstead Community Outreach
CAMP DES ILES (in the Laurentian region near Lachute, Quebec) We thank the Lord for a fruitful fall season with weekly followup and discipleship groups for teenage campers. CAMP LIVINGSTONE (Lake Lovering, Quebec) Camp Livingstone was blessed with the opportunity to share the Gospel at a community Christmas dinner, a teen retreat, and three kids rallies before summer began!
"They were asked to run a junior curling program, which has led to new ministry." BY WILMER AND MARILYN LOEWEN, MISSIONARIES
Community
DAY CAMP MINISTRY AND FEEDBACK
Outreach COMMUNITY HOME BIBLE STUDY
I Reactions to the Manga Messiah books (the story of Jesus in cartoon form, donated to One Hope Canada by Bible League Canada): “Really cool, I'm on chapter 2 already. I read every night. It's easier to learn. I haven't heard this before; it's like a storybook!” A 15 year old at a closing meeting with parents: “I was an atheist, but now I believe!”
An after-camp request to a mother: “I want to go to church!”
n the fall of 2015, it was impressed on us that in the small group we attend, there were new and older believers who had never been discipled. They needed to learn the basics of salvation, including who Jesus is. We also sensed one or two non-believers needed to hear the Gospel message more clearly. The result? A weekly Bible study that continues to this day. We call it a community study rather than a church study to attract those who are not ready to connect with a church. On January 11, 2017, twenty crowded into our little living room. It was truly a community group, part of the body of Christ that demonstrated much love, fellowship, and unity, in spite of coming from five denominational backgrounds. Jesus said He would build His Church and that the gates of hell would not prevail against it!
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Having retired from Camp Livingstone in Quebec, where most people came to us, we had left our comfort zone and were entering a new community. That led us to ask hard questions: “How do we enter into a new community? Who does God want us to minister to? How do we get to know and link with hurting people who are without the Gospel?” Joining the curling club seemed to be God's way of introducing us. It wasn’t long before the club asked us about running a junior curling program. A divine confirmation. This involvement connected us with many parents, children, and youth and opened the door for day camp ministry. STANSTEAD COMMUNITY OUTREACH
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WINTER/SPRING 2017
Millar
COLLEGE OF THE BIBLE
MILLARCOLLEGE.CA
DEVELOPING PASSIONATE, RELEVANT SERVANTS OF JESUS CHRIST
FOLLOW JESUS
Character Competence Commitment
TWO CAMPUSES
PAMBRUN, SK SUNNYBRAE, BC
Join our country wide
Prayer Team
PRAYER REQUESTS and PRAISE UPDATES are collected from our missionaries and ministry points across the country. Each month we send you the latest prayer and praise items and updates on last month's items so you can join us in prayer. VISIT OUR WEBSITE or CALL 1-888-960-2580 to join our Prayer Team.
Visit
www.onehopecanada.ca/pray
CANADA’S HOPE
11
Atlantic Canada’s
CENTENNIAL OF CONFEDERATION PROJECT turns 50 By Albert Dean
I View from the mountain
n the late 1950s, One Hope Canada (then CSSM) started a camp on Port Hood Island, just off the west coast of the much larger Cape Breton Island. There was no regular ferry service, so getting to and from the little island proved a major challenge. After the camp on Port Hood Island closed, another site was found in New Campbellton, not far from North Sydney, NS. I was a new missionary at the time and part of the team that opened Cape Breton Bible Camp, a camp promoted as Atlantic Canada’s Centennial of Confederation project. This camp, located on a hill overlooking Bras d’or Lake, is near the main channel to the Atlantic and from time to time you can see ocean-going ships heading toward the majestic Seal Island Bridge. Kelly’s Mountain, rising high above the lake, always brings daylight hours abruptly to a close as the sun slips behind it.
The Deans at Cape Spear, NL
Cape Breton Bible Camp Teen Camp 1967
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WINTER/SPRING 2017
Cape Breton Bible Camp Family Camp 1997
Although the camp’s location is beautiful, its old mine owner’s home (the only building then on the property), had become badly run down. It overlooked the lake and was shadowed by Kelly’s Mountain, but its faded red shingles and ornate woodwork spoke of a time when a profitable coal mine provided the means to build such a dwelling. Its condition, along with what was once a lawn, now nearly overgrown with poplars, was why the approximately ten acres were available at a price CSSM could afford. Mission minutes of December 8, 1966, state the purchase price was a mere $4,000. We arrived at the site a few days before camp to make preparations and do basic repairs. The main floor had a kitchen, dining room, living room, and a parlour, which we used as a chapel. There were six bedrooms on the second floor for campers and staff. Cooking was done on a wood stove, and the only water source was a hand pump at the kitchen sink, which drew water from a well in the cellar. The two outhouses were the extent of the amenities. Although there weren’t many campers, there was a good spirit in the camp and God was at work. How camping was conducted in those days would never fly today, but we enjoyed simpler times with fewer constraints, and somehow we all survived! “So we built the wall . . . for the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6 NKJV). Like Nehemiah’s wall, Cape Breton Bible Camp has a history of those willing to sacrifice time, talent, and money so it could be a beacon where there is a great need for the Gospel. A celebration is planned for July 15, 2017, marking fifty years of ministry to the youth of Cape Breton. It will take place by the same waters and in the shadow of the same mountain, but surrounded by lovely log-clad buildings that have room for up to one hundred campers and staff per week. To God be the glory! Albert’s first involvement with the Mission was in 1964, and he has been serving in a variety of roles, most recently as Atlantic field director, ever since.
Cape Breton Bible Camp Junior Camp 1967
Camp Breton Bible Camp has a history of those willing to sacrifice time, talent, and money so it could be a beacon where there is a great need for the Gospel.
CANADA’S HOPE
13
Ontario DORION BIBLE CAMP As we enter seventy-one years of ministry, expansion is our goal. Hope is growing in our community as plans develop for a new dining hall/kitchen and twelve new rooms with bathrooms. KNIGHT MINISTRIES With school closures, we wondered how long our school ministry would last, but a parent group made it clear they want the Bible club ministry to continue. So, between our one Bible club, AWANA at Thessalon Bible Chapel, and camp ministry, the Gospel continues to touch numerous children. We thank God for these opportunities to minister in the north. MONARCH BIBLE CAMP Our staff live in a culture where they are bombarded by values and life practices contrary to the Bible and the Christian life they share with campers. A highlight this summer was having an open discussion with staff about sexuality and the many choices they face. It was a great opportunity to connect and help our staff think critically, taking their foundational ideas from the Bible. I appreciated the respect of the staff for varying opinions, being openminded, and accepting people at different stages of understanding. Campers felt comfortable expressing their thoughts without fearing judgment. RAINY RIVER DISTRICT MINISTRIES Rachel, one of our year-round missionaries, received a note from a girl she has been mentoring. "You are so sweet and kind. You made my world change throughout the years and changed my world forever. Thank you so much." SONSHINE BIBLE CLUBS We are thankful for the Lord’s continued blessing on this ministry. Four clubs are operating in Sault Ste. Marie. Thank you to our volunteers who faithfully minister in this vital way and to many financial and prayer supporters, both individuals and churches. Pray that school doors remain open so this ministry can continue reaching children. WILLOW SPRINGS CAMP We are hiring staff and look forward to how God will provide. Our camper applications are out and some campers have already responded. A team of eleven staff is preparing for our fourth missions trip to Jamaica in February.
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WINTER/SPRING 2017
BY JIM SNELL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Witnessing
New Life O
ut of ashes come life and beauty, a truth being lived out with HOPEyouth. God is at work. About twenty-five years ago, One Hope Canada missionaries initiated ministry to First Nations children on Manitoulin Island reserves and the surrounding area bordered by Lake Huron. The ministry focused on summer day camps and provided a centre where youth and adults received ministry through social gatherings, food and clothing banks, and a church. After about twenty years, the leadership decided to take a different direction, apart from One Hope Canada. It was a difficult transition, but the missionaries who remained with One Hope Canada continued ministry on the reserves where they had served. Seven years ago our missionaries, Pete and April VanVolkingburgh, returned to the island to renew relationships with the youth. Today, along with additional staff, and after many hours spent with youth at drop-ins, sports events, retreats, Bible studies, and crisis intervention, God has blessed. Young people are making salvation decisions and following the Lord in baptism. The ministry is seeking how to spiritually impact the youths’ families and eventually, the reserve. We have truly witnessed new life and beauty from ashes, and look forward to what God will do in the future. HOPE YOUTH www.hopeyouth.ca • 705-859-2829
“Young people are making salvation decisions and following the Lord in baptism.”
“Everyone should go camping to enjoy God’s creation up close.”
A Personal Passion,
A Public Ministry BY BILL KAY, DIRECTOR
I
t is amazing how God uses my passion to glorify Himself. I love how He gives each of us different interests and abilities and, through them, we can see Him working in many types of ministry. I love backpacking; it’s no secret to those who know me. I love the adventure, sights, smells, challenges, and the simple life. All you have is what you can carry and there is little to distract you from your surroundings. At Galilean Bible Camp, located about eight kilometers from Blind River, Ontario, we have a week-long backpacking camp called Backcountry. We take teens into the bush to experience God’s creation without distractions; they can be real with each other and not worry about looking good or smelling nice. I love watching them look at a sunset over the lake, hearing them say how amazing it is, or that they’ve never been anywhere so pretty. It reminds us our God is awesome. We often miss His blessings because we are too busy and too absorbed in ourselves. Everyone should go camping to enjoy God’s creation up close and personally. Jesus often went into the wilderness to meet with God and so should we. “But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer” Luke 5:16, NLT.
GALILEAN BIBLE CAMP www.galileanbiblecamp.ca • 705-356-7961
CANADA’S HOPE
15
Manitoba
“God will lead us forward as each mission point advances the Gospel.”
DAUPHIN BIBLE CAMP Camp is peaceful at this time of year as we eagerly await the upcoming rush of campers and visitors. In addition to having much work to do, we seek a new executive director. Please pray about the right person for this position. GIMLI BIBLE CAMP Our discipleship retreats for campers are great! They provide campers who have made a commitment to Christ with follow up until they are cared for by Bible-believing churches. With our low camper-leader ratio, we can give specific attention to the children and they respond by opening their hearts to God's love. This year we have three of these weekend retreats. TURTLE MOUNTAIN BIBLE CAMP When God’s strength works through our weakness, it is obvious that only He could have achieved the result! Former campers and staff are invited to join us at TMBC on Saturday, June 3, (10 a.m.–7 p.m.) as we celebrate 70 years of God’s faithfulness. See the new facility God is providing. “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine... to Him be glory” (Ephesians 3:20). VALLEY VIEW BIBLE CAMP We are thankful for many ministry opportunities outside the summer season. Highlights include our January Snow Camp and the 24-7 Men's Discipleship Weekend in February. We are also thankful for the provision of a new yard tractor.
BY LYNDOL FAST, SERVANT LEADERSHIP TRAINING AND OUTREACH DIRECTOR
Short as it was,
long as it felt
T
he sun set over the river, its rays reflecting red, orange, and purple off the blue water. For nearly the first time in eight weeks, I could hear birds singing, crickets chirping, and the fire crackling. The chance for some quiet reflection with the summer staff finally surfaced at the completion of our summer’s work. To a person, we were exhausted, yet satisfied and filled with joy at the work we had done in serving Christ at Roseau River Bible Camp. Nine weeks can feel like an eternity, especially in the heat of summer surrounded by screaming children. Few of us survived unscathed, but where our weakness ended, God’s strength began. It was Christ who had sustained Nikolas* through his illness. It was the Shepherd’s love that finally convinced Jenny* to listen to the Gospel. It was God who kept us safe during the storm that knocked down large trees and flooded the lowlands. Nine weeks, short as it was, long as it felt, were not possible without our complete reliance on Him. As the sun fell behind the horizon, and smoke trailed toward the innumerable stars, each named by our heavenly Father, our summer team shared their plans for the coming months. They spoke excitedly about Bible school and job opportunities. One shared about plans to do missions in Thailand. This excitement, even after so long (yet so short) a time of exhaustive, all-consuming camp service, filled me with joy and hope. God is, was, and always will be faithful to those who serve Him, and I knew that no matter what the coming year would bring, He would be greater. Just as our nine weeks were filled with highs and lows, so in ninety years has One Hope Canada come through hard times and joyful times. God was the sustaining force. And just as our summer staff looked forward to their next opportunities, God will lead us forward as each mission point advances the Gospel! *Name changed
ROSEAU RIVER BIBLE CAMP www.roseauriver.ca • 204-427-2445
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WINTER/SPRING 2017
“I know the story of God’s faithfulness and perfect timing will continue to be told through the ministry of Adventure Day Camp this summer.”
BY SYDNEY HILDEBRAND, DIRECTOR
God's Perfect Timing
I
vividly remember explaining my idea of a dream job to my husband two months ago. It would entail, I said, planning and running children’s programming for families that could not afford summer camp. Since high school, I have always been involved with kids clubs, Sunday school, and summer camp, feeling God had called me to work with children and youth. I am three-quarters through a Bachelor of Social Work degree, and have been heavily exposed to the significant needs many experience on a daily basis. This growing insight, combined with my passion for children, fueled my imagination to create a dream job I hoped to find when I was more experienced. Just a couple of weeks after I shared this dream, this aspiration, with my husband, I heard a radio ad for One Hope Canada’s Adventure Day Camp director position. I inquired immediately and realized this was the dream job I had described to my husband! Today, I am knee deep in preparations for this summer. I am already inspired by the love, support, and encouragement the One Hope Canada team has shown. I know the story of God’s faithfulness and perfect timing will continue to be told through the ministry of Adventure Day Camp this summer.
ADVENTURE DAY CAMP www.adventuredaycampmb.org • 204-668-2776
CANADA’S HOPE
17
MINISTRY MAP 1
2 3 4
1
6
2
5 7
BRITISH COLUMBIA
8 1
3 12 4
2
6
9 10 11
14 15
16
1 2 3
4
5 6
5
1
7
13
4 8
3
3
9 2 4
5
maplesprings biblecamp
6
In addition, 14,680 heard the Gospel throughout the year.
ALBERTA
SASKATCHEWAN
1
9
1
2
10
2
3
11
3
4
12
4
5
13
14
6
5
6
7
15 7 8
16
8
18
WINTER/SPRING 2017
9
5 6
This past summer, thanks to
8
4,010 staff and volunteers, 18,152 children and youth 7
heard the Gospel.
6
5
1
2 3
4
2 1
1 3 4
3 2
5
ATLANTIC
6 7
1
8
2
The Doreys
3
4
MANITOBA
ONTARIO 5
1
2
6
1
Kensington Community Church
7 2 8
3
4
3
4
5
Knight Ministries BIBLE CLUBS
QUEBEC
5 6
1
7
2
6
8
3
Visit www.onehopecanada.ca to contact any of our ministry points CANADA’S HOPE
19
Annual Report 2016 Our Purpose
Looking Forward with Purpose
We present the Gospel,
Back in 1927, as Canada was celebrating its 60th year of confederation, the Canadian Sunday School Mission was founded to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to children, youth, and their families who had little opportunity to hear it. Since 1927, we’ve seen significant changes as a country and as a mission. While Canada’s population expanded from over nine million to thirty-six million, one man’s long-ago prayers continued to blossom. In this past year alone, over 42,000 have heard the Gospel through One Hope Canada’s ministries.
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 $8,761,197 $5,343,442 $247,724 $34,181 $455,232 $14,841,776
Gifts Camper fees, rentals Government Grants Interest Other Income TOTAL INCOME
Yet, with each passing year, challenges to our mandate grow, with new regulations and requirements for safety training and emergency response, and an increasingly secular culture. The burden God has placed on our hearts also continues to grow. Humbled by this burden, we seek to focus clearly and commit to carefully stewarding each dollar you entrust to us. As we enter our 90th year of ministry, we thank you for supporting One Hope Canada. Together we boldly proclaim the Gospel to a new generation of children and youth.
42,130
Salaries and Benefits Occupancy Costs Office Expenses Travel Supplies Promotion Training Other Expenses TOTAL EXPENSES
From unchurched homes
1,828
EXPENSES $7,270,239 $2,914,652 $348,340 $338,354 $326,595 $256,791 $110,790 $2,417,703 $13,983,464
14,612
Heard the Gospel
33,389
Conversations about Recommitment
1,800
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271
Ministry Board Members
First Time Professions of Faith
1,414
Children and youth reached
2,500+
Children and Youth in yearround discipleship programs
*These numbers reflect the financial activity of the entire Mission for the 2015 fiscal year. A detailed financial report of any ministry point for any year (including 2016) is available upon request.
3,780 Summer Missionaries and Volunteers
14
Churches
Bibles handed out
38
Camps
11 144
Year-Round Missionaries
Other Ministry Points
Saskatchewan DALLAS VALLEY RANCH CAMP This summer we had a record number of campers at main camp. How exciting to see so many coming to hear about Jesus, sometimes for the first time! It is so encouraging to see God at work in staff and campers’ lives, as they build relationships with one another and encourage each other to seek Jesus. KENOSEE LAKE BIBLE CAMP We anticipate the completion of our new chapel. Last summer the sanctuary was dedicated and we eagerly await seeing lives changed by the Gospel in this building for years to come.
BY LORENDA FRIESEN, CAMP DIRECTOR’S WIFE
Off season at
Torch Trail O
ur mission remains the same all year . . . share the Gospel and disciple believers. I am excited about teaching a ladies Bible study, to understand the book God wrote. From creation to Christ, we examine the thread that pulls the scriptures together. What does Genesis have to do with John? How does Exodus pertain to our lives? We want to understand the Bible as a whole and its relevance to our lives. As we continue to study the history of God interacting with mankind, we are continually reminded of His grace and mercy. People have always wandered from God, but He has been relentless in His pursuit of people. He desires to reconcile every generation and every heart. It is our desire that each person who comes to the camp is drawn closer to the One who loves them supremely, allowing God’s grace and mercy to permeate their souls. Thus says the Lord: “Let not a wise man boast in his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things” (Jeremiah 9:23-24).
LUSELAND BIBLE CAMP We anticipate the 2017 camp season and all it brings: campers learning skills and faith lessons, staff growing in faith and in service, our new pool fundraising project continuing (now at 61%). MADGE LAKE BIBLE CAMP What a truly blessed summer! Praise God for His financial provision. We received many generous donations to sponsor campers and fund ongoing projects. The day camps we started were a big hit! MANITOU LAKE BIBLE CAMP A big highlight in 2016 was welcoming Dan and Wanda Screpnek to the team to bring new energy and focus to our follow up efforts. Can’t wait to see what God does in 2017! RANGER LAKE BIBLE CAMP Our 2016 summer camps were filled with many joyous moments! Praise God for 906 campers, 297 of whom had no ongoing exposure to the Gospel and 100 who asked for help in connecting with a church. God is truly working!
TORCH TRAIL BIBLE CAMP www.torchtrail.ca • 306-428-2989
CANADA’S HOPE
21
One of our campers was quickly scaling the climbing wall while a friend on the ground shouted, “Wow man! You got the rhythm!”
BY MICHAELYA AUDETTE, YEAR ROUND WORKER
Leaving a Legacy
I
’m new to camp ministry. I never went camping as a kid and I’m barely three years into my staff position here. But I’m hooked. I grew up hearing camp stories from my grandpa and dad who worked here; now I get to make and tell my own stories. My grandpa served on the board for years, Grandma nursed, and my dad and aunties went all the way from squirt camp to senior counselling. For years, camp was a regular part of their summer and helped establish their faith. Stoney Lake Bible Camp was home for them. When my age, Mom was involved in a BC camp in the same position I hold—mentoring and leading junior leaders. Camp has left a legacy in my family and it excites me to continue this and pass it to my children one day. Even though I missed the camper experience, my faith has grown and been stretched in ways I couldn’t have imagined through being in a staff position. I want camp to impact my children’s faith as it has my own, my parents’, and my grandparents’. I know there are many more stories just like mine where camp has been an incredible growing experience for generations in a family. So many things have changed since my dad was a six-year-old squirt camper, but the privilege of experiencing Jesus in a real way at camp has not changed. It’s my prayer that as we celebrate ninety years of ministry with One Hope Canada, this truth will remain just as real and beautiful for the next ninety years.
STONEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP
www.stoneycamp.ca • 306-873-5537
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WINTER/SPRING 2017
“Our young camper had opportunity to see God through the staff and fellow campers and we trust Him for many more life-changing experiences.”
Seeing God
at camp BY NATISSE MACKENZIE, WIFE OF CAMP DIRECTOR
G
od has blessed Estevan Bible Camp over its many decades. Our recovery from the 2011 flood was no exception. That was a great story of God putting people and finances in place to rebuild so we could continue our small, three week camp. Our current challenge, due to the severe downturn in Estevan’s economy, concerns the many families in financial need. But we have seen God moving in hearts to sponsor children who cannot afford camp. One child came unwillingly. He certainly did not want to participate in activities, complained about everything, and was bad-tempered. Camp, he decided, was not his scene. But we could see the Holy Spirit working in his heart through one-on-one time with a number of leaders. During archery, a leader gave him special attention, and with that, his countenance changed. He did not have a Bible and, when a staff member gave him one, he refused to pick it up or acknowledge it. One of his friends happened by at that moment and said, “Hey, is that your Bible? It’s really cool!” The boy replied, “Yeah!”, picked it up, and started showing the friend his new Bible. After that, he diligently took the Bible to every chapel session and enjoyed the remainder of camp. First John 4:12 says, “No one has seen God at any time; if we love one another, God abides in us, and His love is perfected in us.” Our young camper had opportunity to see God through the staff and fellow campers and we trust Him for many more lifechanging experiences. ESTEVAN BIBLE CAMP
www.estevan.cssm.ca • 306-634-8368
CANADA’S HOPE
23
Alberta BONANZA GOSPEL CHAPEL With this being a year of new beginnings, there is anticipation in the congregation to see God do great things. Although numbers remain mostly the same, encouragement is building in each heart. We look forward to God doing a work in this community, through His people, by His Holy Spirit. "Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build it" (Psalm 127:1). CAMP SILVERSIDES God worked in miraculous ways again this summer. One exciting highlight: 123 campers accepted Jesus as Savior! Another joy was receiving an incredible donation from a couple who had just sent their children to camp—a brand new Malibu Wakesetter boat, made for wakesurfing and wakeboarding! We are excited to see how God will use this gift to bring more youth to camp this summer to hear about His saving grace! Praise God for all He has done. FAITH BIBLE CAMP We had two great weeks of camp, and our staff was amazing and hard working. Numbers were a little low but several made first time decisions to follow Christ. God is good. MANNVILLE COMMUNITY CHURCH The ministry is divided into one-third pastoral in the church and two-thirds in the community—seeking and making opportunities to present the Gospel as clearly as possible. ROSS HAVEN BIBLE CAMP In the off season, we are opening our Cedar Lodge as a free retreat for those in full time ministry. We hope to bless many through this outreach. SILVER VALLEY GOSPEL CHAPEL Our new youth group is starting to attract young people. It is wonderful to see God at work in the lives of Christian and non-Christian youth! WHITNEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP We had an excellent 2016 season and are pleased to welcome Autumn Fritzler as our new director. Send camp applications early for this season!
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WINTER/SPRING 2017
God at work in
Red Earth Creek BY CLIFF PEDERSEN, FIELD DIRECTOR FOR CHURCHES, ALBERTA
W
e need a Vacation Bible School this summer!” Those words weren’t from a churchgoer, but a frustrated mother whose children were bored with not being in school. She vaguely remembered enjoying a childhood VBS and now, she thought, a VBS in her northern Alberta oil town of Red Earth Creek could help her offspring. When she made her suggestion in the hearing of a Christian lady—who offered to teach the lessons if others would organize the rest—that mother had no way of knowing how God would use her words. VBS was just the beginning. A Sunday school grew out of that endeavour. Then a small group of believers began meeting for worship as work schedules allowed. In April 2008, One Hope Canada was invited to take over the work and help find a pastor. The Municipal District (MD) of Opportunity, which governs the hamlet of Red Earth Creek, was pleased to see a church starting because three people had committed suicide that year with no one in town to bury them. The MD gave a one-third price reduction for two acres and the Lions Club donated a double-wide mobile home (formerly a play school) for services. One Hope Canada purchased another mobile home for the pastor’s residence. Hundreds of truckloads of earth were donated to level the site, and volunteers donated heavy equipment to set up the facilities. On dedication Sunday, in November 2011, a local Buddhist businessman gave $100,000 to the church’s start-up. God provided a bi-vocational pastor couple (Abe and Martha Wiebe) to feed the flock and keep things together during this initial stage, but since their move in the fall of 2014, the church has been without a resident pastor. Situated five hours north of Edmonton, Red Earth Creek is an isolated community with limited amenities. Oilmen sleep in company open camps and residents live in mobile homes far from their families. Today’s congregation has Newfoundlanders, Filipinos, Jamaicans, and local First Nations. A pastor couple is needed immediately to influence the community for good and for God, to tell them of the One who can meet their spiritual needs. Please pray with us for this to happen soon! RED EARTH CREEK COMMUNITY CHURCH 780-649-2011
BY KARLE WEIDERICK, CO-DIRECTOR
Changing
Lives
M
"What a joy to watch our campers grow in Christ"
y heart smiles when I think of One Hope Canada’s legacy across Canada, in my life, and in my family. From ages 5-18, I attended Kenosee Lake Bible Camp in Saskatchewan and well remember my excitement as we drove into camp. I was challenged by the speakers, known as a camp brat (head cook’s kid), and loved by the staff as a camper. My life and faith were impacted more than I will ever know. Jump forward with me twenty-two years and see how God has brought me full circle. I co-direct David Thompson Bible Camp in northern Alberta with my husband, Mark. For fifty-six years DTBC has shared God’s love with children, youth, and families. What an amazing foundation to build on! This summer, we had 415 campers. Lives were changed, and we had an amazing staff we were privileged to disciple over the summer and year. What a blessing to see my own children catching the vision of One Hope Canada! Last summer I spoke at our first ever girls' camp. Nervous? That’s an understatement, but it was one of my favorite weeks of ministry. That week, ten young ladies surrendered to Christ, and eight others committed to getting serious about their faith! One girl’s mom told me two months later they had reconnected, and her daughter was sharing with friends the truths learned at camp. Throughout the summer, twenty-two other campers accepted or recommitted to Christ. I remember an eleven year old wanting to know which verses to share with her parents, so she could lead them to Christ. What a joy to watch our campers grow in Christ. DAVID THOMPSON BIBLE CAMP www.dtbc.ca • 780-494-2103
CANADA’S HOPE
25
British Columbia ECHO LAKE BIBLE CAMP I have never been involved in a ministry that offers so many opportunities to pour love and acceptance into others’ lives. I was continually challenged and motivated to love those around me, which required a move from self-centeredness toward a deepening focus on Jesus. I saw God at work in the lives of campers throughout the summer, exceeding our expectations. (quote from a summer worker) HOPE BAY BIBLE CAMP For us, 2016 was a year of change and renewal. We were excited to see God work in young leaders, in inner city families, and in the many new faces from here on Pender Island. Spiritually, we saw growth in campers’ lives; physically, we saw canoes refurbished, the craft cabin renovated, and our much-needed wash house project begun. We are so grateful. God continually reminds us His grace is sufficient. LAKE OF THE TREES BIBLE CAMP We thank God for a record number of campers and their strong response to the Gospel. The two new cabins, grass playfield, beach volleyball, and playground wood chips are also wonderful! NESS LAKE BIBLE CAMP We had a huge learning curve at Ness Lake Bible Camp and I'm thankful for such a great staff! Thirty inner city kids were sponsored and we had a record polar bear dip.
26
WINTER/SPRING 2017
"Praise God that in 2017 we will hold a third week of camp." BY JACQUIE BOLEN, DIRECTOR
Christ's
Ambassadors
T
he first year I directed Camp Amasa (2008), it had not operated for a few years for want of a director. I stepped in, so very green, not knowing what to expect. My provincial director told me he would be happy if we had twenty campers that year (in our one week of camp using Maple Springs Bible Camp). From old mailing lists and word of mouth advertising, thirty-four special needs adults attended! Attendance grew by twenty per cent annually until it became obvious in 2011 we needed two weeks of camp. Last year, 2016, was a hard year because we had seventeen campers on the waiting list. Praise God that in 2017 we will hold a third week of camp, welcoming a three-week total of 144 residential and twelve day-camper, special needs adults. Twelve campers will receive their ten-year attendance ribbons this year! With an abundance of campers, we know we not only present the Gospel to them, but to aides, caregivers, and families. Paul told the church in Corinth, and us, that we are Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. Not a simple task, but one that is certainly a blessing.
CAMP AMASA www.amasa.ca • 250-832-6907
"God was at work with His plan, and our ministry grew."
BY ROB HASENBANK, CAMP DIRECTOR
Waiting
on Him
O
ne Hope Canada has a long history of putting children first and Maple Springs Bible Camp has followed that tradition over its colourful past. The camp began in the 1950s as a church camp in the Okanagan, in the town of Peachland. In the early seventies, the church asked CSSM (now One Hope Canada) for guidance. Soon after, CSSM started leasing the camp and has operated it ever since. Over the past ten years, Maple Springs experienced immense growth and amazing community support. Ironically, this started when the long term lease was about to expire. After three years of negotiations, an agreement was struck which gave Maple Springs five years to raise a $750,000 purchase price. This was less than half the assessed value of the land. Although it was an exceptional offer, it was also a massive figure for a small camp to raise. However, I had a blinding sense of optimism and a still, small feeling our financial situation would work out. I tried hard to run a textbook capital campaign, following all the do’s and don’ts of those who had gone before me. Four years went by and a little over $150,000 had come in. I was stressed this fall as we looked toward the closing date. We prayed a lot; I think that is the only important thing we did. But God was at work with His plan, and our ministry grew. We grew as individuals. We waited on Him. Just two weeks before the closing date, God revealed His plan and all was well. He had spoken to us and to those who needed to give. Character was built. Praise be to our God and Father, for He can do all things. Maple Springs Bible Camp remains open! MAPLE SPRINGS BIBLE CAMP www.maplesprings.ca • 250-767-2354
CANADA’S HOPE
27
Placing Bibles in Canada's Hands
O By Cheryl Walsh International Missions Director, Bible League Canada
“The Gospel must be spread throughout Canada. We must place the Bible in the hands of every man, woman, and child."
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n July 1, 1867, the Dominion of Canada was formed, founded on biblical principles, by men who revered and honored the God of the Bible. The motto, From Sea to Sea, chosen by the Fathers of Confederation, was inspired by Psalm 72:8, “He shall have dominion also, from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.” Yet Canada, in the twenty-first century, is fast-paced and diversified, with the Good News of Jesus Christ unheard by many in its borders. Bible reading and engagement with God’s Word is declining at an alarming rate. In 2014 a Canadian Bible Forum study revealed that only 14% of Canadian Christians read their Bibles at least once weekly. We see more immigrants, more non-Christian religions, and more first generation Canadian children with no knowledge of Jesus Christ. Many churches find it difficult to keep up with Canada’s changing culture, and overlook the opportunity to incorporate newcomers to Canada through programming and language used in Sunday services. This leaves a large segment of Canada’s population behind, leading to more unchurched and biblically illiterate Canadians. Many millennials, aged 20-37, are turning from God, even though they grew up in Christian homes. They are leaving the church in favor of other forms of spirituality, or no spirituality at all. The Gospel must be spread throughout Canada. We must place the Bible in the hands of every man, woman, and child. Bible League Canada is striving to do that. Through partnerships with organizations like One Hope Canada, we support likeminded champions countrywide. Canadian Christian organizations are discovering the value of working together. By joining in a shared passion and vision for Canada, we accomplish more for God’s kingdom than on our own. We align strategies, and share vision, resources, and prayer to accomplish similar goals. We share funding of specific projects, so each organization can train more leaders, place more Bibles and Bible resources, and grow His Church. We see God at work in incredible new ways by simply joining together. Our partnership with One Hope Canada, which began in 2015, is not short term. We anticipate many years of working together so all people, everywhere, are transformed by the living Word of God.
Roseau River Bible Camp 2015 April 24-26
Man Camp
May 1-3
Ladies Retreat
OUR SUPPORTERS
If you would like to start collecting Air Miles for us, Mayyou 22-24know 25th Anniversary Weekend Did that last Alumni just let us know and we will send you a One Hope June 7 Open House & Annual Meeting year One Hope Canada Canada Air Miles card. June 13 Ride-a-thon supporters donated
July 12-30
You can generously help cover the travel costs of Grades 1-3 our mission team by also donating your Air Miles to Teen 1 Camp Grades 7-9 One Hope Canada. Email or call us and we’ll tell you Servant Leadership Training WC/WIT1 Ages 14-16 more about this great opportunity to partner with us Preteen 1 Camp Grades in sharing the Gospel with5-7 thousands of children and Servant Leadership Training CLP1 Ages 15-18 youth from across Canada each year.
July 19-25
Teen 2 Camp
July 19-30
Servant Leadership Training WC/WIT2
Ages 14-16
July 26-30
Junior 1 Camp
Grades 2-4
August 2-7
Horsemanship Fanatic Camp Last
33,836 July 2-4
Pee Wee Camp
July 5-11
July 5-17
Air Miles?
July 12-17
Grades 6-8
Thank you so much for making a difference in this way!
August 2-7
Ages 7-12 year donated Air Miles saved Paintball Fanatic Camp us over $4,400 Agesin 8-12 travel expenses!
August 2-7
BMX Fanatic Camp
Ages 6-12
August 2-7
Kayak Fanatic Camp
Ages 6-12
August 2-7
Wilderness Fanatic Camp
Ages 8-12
August 2-14
Servant Leadership Training WC/WIT3
Ages 14-16
August 2-20
Servant Leadership Training CLP2
Ages 15-18
August 9-14
Preteen 2 Camp
Grades 4-6
August 16-20
Junior 2 Camp
Grades 3-5
August 16-29
Servant Leadership Training WC/WIT4
Ages 14-16
Toll Free 1-888-960-2580 info@onehopecanada.ca
THEAugust FOLLOWING CONTAIN ADVERTISEMENTS FROM ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESSES 20-29 PAGES Senior Teen Camp Grades 9-12 WHO GENEROUSLY SUPPORT ONE HOPE CANADA to help cover the costs of sending these great stories of September 1-3 Family Camp God’s work. We25 are grateful them! Please consider thanking them for their support! October Fall for Supper ROSEAU RIVER If interested in partnering with One Hope Canada and reaching over 20,000 readers with the business that God roseauriver.ca November 20-22 Teen Retreat Grades 7-12 has called you to, please email melanie@onehopecanada.ca 204-427-2445
Visit us online:
www.onehopecanada.ca Canada’s Hope CANADA’S HOPE
25 29
Partnering with One Hope Canada to build into the lives of Canadian children, youth and their families. As a family business well into its third generation the Penner family has more than 50 years of experience in the construction industry.
www.tlpenner.ca (204) 748 -1400
SAND ď ľ GRAVEL SNOW REMOVAL CONTRACTING DEMOLITION EXCAVATING TRENCHING LOADING TRUCKING (204) 326-3456
www.diamondconstruction.ca 30
WINTER/SPRING 2017
We do the job right!
We are here to understand our clients’ insurance
needs while providing the utmost professional and personal service.
Our Light is Always On Visit one of our locations near you or find us online. Manitoba Locations Winnipeg P: (204) 453-0106 F: (204) 453-0197 info@lakeviewwinnipeg.com
Grunthal P: (204) 371-8409 F: (204) 453-0197 info@lakeviewgrunthal.com
Steinbach P: (204) 326-1738 F: (204) 453-0197 rtoews@lakeviewinsurance.com
Manitou P: (204) 362-0282 F: (204) 242-2128 rselby@lakeviewinsurance.com
Saskatchewan Locations Martensville P: (306) 931-2888 F: (306) 931-2889 info@lakeviewmartensville.com
Saskatoon P: (306) 955-4038 F: (306) 955-4039 gpoier@lakeviewinsurance.com
Blaine Lake P: (306) 497-2695 F: (306) 497-2402 info@lakeviewblainelake.com
Alberta Locations Sylvan Lake *operated under Lakestone Insurance P: (403) 887-1080 info@lakestoneinsurance.com
Lakeview Insurance and Robertson Hall Insurance are honored to be the insurance providers for One Hope Canada camps and affiliations.
www.lakeviewinsurance.com
www.robertsonhall.com
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.
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Serving the Red River Valley for over 60 years. Located at 44 Highway 205 in Rosenort, MB. Specializing in Pre-Owned GM Vehicles and Short-Line Farm Equipment. Long-term commitment to serving our customers with genuine enthusiasm, honesty, integrity, competence, value and trust. On a mission to deliver a totally satisfying experience for all our clients after visiting our establishment.
Agriculture
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Parts
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Toll free: 1-866-746-8441
Phone: 204-746-8441
www.rosenortmotors.com
32
WINTER/SPRING 2017
Fax: 204-746 - 8746
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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
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Clutches, air conditioning, transmissions and engines
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Critical Illness Insurance,
GIC’s, RRSP’s,
Estate Planning,
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RESP’s, RRIF’s,
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PRIF’s, TFSA’s,
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Kent Little
Kris Little
Fern Nagel
Box 639, 816-100th Street, Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0 306-873-3299 / Toll-Free 1-800-661-5368
nfs@sasktel.net
Manufacturer of quality gravel trailers
End Dump, Belly Dump & Side Dump Trailers
Midland Manufacturing supports One Hope Canada’s work from coast to coast.
One Hope Canada is pleased to recommend Abundance Canada for timely and informed charitable gift planning assistance for our donors. Please contact us at 1-888-960-2580 for more information or connect directly with Abundance Canada by calling the number below.
Abundance Canada makes giving to the charities you love simple and strategic. We offer complimentary tools that facilitate your Generosity Plan. Contact us today for a personal and confidential consultation.
Because generosity changes everything
1.800.772.3257 | abundance.ca Publications Mail Agreement # 40019747 Canada’s Hope One Hope Canada Ministry Resource Centre Unit 6 - 875 Gateway Road Winnipeg, MB, R2K 3L1