Winter/Spring - Saskatchewan 2015

CANADA's

Winter/Spring 2015 Saskatchewan Edition Issue 3

HOPE GOD’S MISSION. OUR ADVENTURE.

Partners in the Good News Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now.

P H I L I P P I A N S 1 : 4 - 5 N LT

A PUBLICATION OF allas alley Ranch Camp

ENCOUN ER

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2015 2016

A coast to coast mobile discipleship school.

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CANADA's

HOPE Winter/Spring 2015 Saskatchewan Edition Issue Three

GOD’S MISSION. OUR ADVENTURE. Canada’s Hope is the biannual publication of One Hope Canada.

Letters, articles and photos are welcomed. Names of many of the children mentioned in articles have been changed.

EDITOR Melanie Mushaluk CIRCULATION & ADDRESS CORRECTION Melanie Mushaluk SPONSORSHIPS Bill McCaskell DESIGN Iced Tea Designs COPY EDITOR Gloria Pedersen Jacquie Bolen Menno Hamm PRINTING Derksen Printers Steinbach, MB Publications agreement number 40019747 Undelivered copies, change of address and new requests should be addressed to: ONE HOPE CANADA 200-189 Henderson Hwy Winnipeg, MB R2L 1L7 Telephone: 1-204-668-2776 Fax: 1-204-663-0246 Email: info@onehopecanada.ca www.onehopecanada.ca

Please note that in order to save printing and postage costs, one magazine will be mailed out per household.

If you would like to receive additional copies, please contact us at info@onehopecanada.ca.

Cover Image taken at Kenosee Lake Bible Camp

Inside this issue CANADA

SASKATCHEWAN

3

Executive Director’s Message

8

Band Bio: The Taylors

14

One Hope Canada Interview

18

Ministry Point Personnel

20

A Tribute to Shirley Stewart

24

Shout Out for Ministry Partners

28

Finding Hope through Pain

34

Cooking with Kathy

4 6 7 10 12 16 17 22 23 26 32 33

Field Director Editorial Cypress Hills Camp Estevan Bible Camp Great Servants Ranger Lake Bible Camp Dallas Valley Ranch Camp Stoney Lake Bible Camp Madge Lake Bible Camp Luseland Bible Camp Torch Trail Bible Camp Manitou Lake Bible Camp Kenosee Lake Bible Camp

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ MESSAGE

BY BILL & BEV MCCASKELL

Would you like some good news?

OUR COMMUNITIES, OUR COUNTRY, AND EVEN OUR FAMILIES LIKELY DO NOT NEED MORE NEWS. Blockbuster action movies, cute kitten youtube videos and social media have bombarded all of our lives whether intentionally or not – we are getting “news”.

Wouldn’t it be great to be receive good news? News that brings life, light and healing to our lives and to our hurting world.

This is the kind of news we discover when we realize what God has done for us through His Son. Jesus initiated the greatest rescue of all by breaking us free from our prison of selfishness, anger and pride. HE is the Good News story and He is the reason our nearly 200 year-round missionaries from across Canada, and thousands of summer workers and volunteers, are committed to sharing their lives at one of our ministry points. It is this news that puts the “hope” into One Hope Canada.

We have entitled this edition “Partners in the Good News”. Our prayer is that you too will see life, light and healing that has taken place at over 60 ministry points across Canada. God is alive and at work in His people.

Enjoy reading stories from people of all ages and all walks of life – proclaiming new life they have found in Christ. It is a most excellent reminder that there is only one thing better than hearing good news for yourself – it’s being part of a group of people who are committed to sharing this good news to all who have not yet heard of His Name.

Canada’s Hope

3

FIELD DIRECTOR EDITORIAL

BY TERRY KERR, SASKATCHEWAN FIELD DIRECTOR

Partners with us On behalf of the Saskatchewan Branch of One Hope Canada I would like to welcome you to our third edition of Canada’s Hope magazine.

It’s been just over a year now since Canadian Sunday School Mission changed its name to One Hope Canada. Even though the name has changed, the purpose of sharing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ remains the same.

The theme of this edition is Partners in the Gospel, taken from Philippians 1:4-5: “In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

Without partners, such as board members, donors, volunteers, and summer staff, we would not be able to do our ministry.

In the following pages you will be able to get to know our Saskatchewan camps a little better, by reading the various articles, meeting our staff, viewing photos, and observing the camp 2015 summer schedules for each one of our ministry points.

In addition you will also learn more about our Spring Concert tour happening in four different locations around the province featuring The Taylors.

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Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

Even though the name has changed, the purpose of sharing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ remains the same.

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.

154040 RD 58N, Box 2350, Virden, Manitoba R0M 2C0 •

Phone: (204) 748 -1400 •

Fax: (204) 748-2600

Promoting the Gospel

BY LEN & JAN BARKMAN, CAMP DIRECTORS

What would you say to a parent who was sending their child to camp for the first time?

If a camper is at our camp for the first time and a parent has concerns about leaving them, I work hard at informing them that their child is in a safe environment.

We introduce them to their cabin leaders and also make sure that they have seen the cabin that their child is staying in. First impressions are so huge for new parents and campers. A positive experience during the registration process also helps to settle them. The parent needs to know before they leave camp that they are leaving their camper in good hands. We work hard at training our staff to make sure that campers and parents are

made to feel very welcome when they come on site.

What do you enjoy most about being a camp director?

I especially like to be out and about on registration day, interacting with parents and campers. I will go through the line, introduce myself to the parents, and find out some things about them. If there are returning campers from the previous year, I want to make sure they know that we are so glad that they came back again. Parents like to know who is leading the camp, and often have concerns or questions about the camp.

Many times I am asked some very important questions by parents in the registration line.

Camp Schedule 2015 June 29 - July 4

LIT

Ages 15+

July 6-12

Senior Teen Camp

Ages 14-17

July 14-19

Junior 1 Camp

Ages 9-11

July 21-26

Junior Teen Camp

Ages 12-13

July 26-30

Paintball Camp

All Ages

July 28- August 2

Junior 2 Camp

Ages 9-11

August 3-5

Squirt Camp

Ages 6-8

August 6-9

Family Camp

All Ages

“

The parent needs to know that they

are leaving their camper in good hands .”

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Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

Why do you think camp ministry is such a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel?

First of all they are away from all their gadgets and phones, which can be very distracting. We do not allow campers to have any electronic gadgets during their time at camp. We want their undivided attention. Their focus is to be on camp and all of its activities, and even in our variety of activities we get many opportunities to share the Gospel message with them.

I believe the camping ministry today is such a great opportunity for evangelism because campers are in an environment where the focus of the entire camp program is the promotion of the Gospel. As Paul said in Ephesians 5:15,16, “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the more most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”

CYPRESS HILLS CAMP

www.cypresshillscamp.ca 306-662-3956

Young lives

BY LADAN MACKENZIE, CAMP DIRECTOR

touched What would you say to a parent who was sending their child to camp for the first time?

I would say that our staff will be investing in their child to make sure they have a great time at camp while learning about our awesome God. What do you enjoy most about being a camp director?

The one thing I enjoy most about being a camp director is seeing young lives touched by the gospel.

As textbook as that answer may seem, it is the reason my wife and I are engaged in camp ministry.

Why do you think camp ministry is such a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel?

Camp ministry is a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel because they not only get to have it presented to them in a fun-filled and personal way, but they also get to see it demonstrated by the staff of the camp.

ESTEVAN BIBLE CAMP

www.estevan.cssm.ca 306-634-TENT (8368)

Camp Schedule 2015 July 7-10

Squirt Camp

Ages 7-9

July 10-12 Family Camp

All Ages

July 12-17 Junior Camp

Ages 10-12

July 18-24 Teen Camp

Ages 13-16

www.millarcollege.ca

> Developing passionate, relevant servants of Jesus Christ

BRITISH COL

SUNNYBRAE UMBIA

AN SASKATCHEW

PAMBRUN

TWO CAMPUSES

CHA R ACTER • CO M PETENCE • CO M MITM ENT

In Partnership with Okanagan Bible College

Canada’s Hope

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The Taylors The Taylors

are a brother-sister quartet from the heart of North Carolina. Jonathan, Suzanne, Christopher, and Leslie are dedicated to stirring up the faith of the Christian community, as well as reaching others with the good news of Jesus Christ through Gospel music. The Taylors are currently performing around 200 dates a year across the United States, including several mission-oriented trips abroad. Since their formation in 2006, God has allowed them to see over 5,000 decisions for Christ.

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Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

The Taylor siblings grew up as members of Fellowship Baptist Church, a small country church, where their father has been a Southern Baptist minister for over 27 years and their mother the minister of music. With their mother’s guidance, it was around the church piano that The Taylors learned their fourpart family harmony.

Growing up in a Christian home has reinforced their faith and values and has created in each of them a strong desire to proclaim their salvation through the ministry of music.

God is at the center of The Taylors’ ministry and at the center of their hearts. To Him be all the glory!

CANADIAN MENNONITE UNIVERSITY

cmu.ca

Arts • Science • Business • Music

The Taylors will be our Concert Tour Group, touring throughout Manitoba and Saskatchewan this Spring (April 7 - 19).

Please check out the back cover and visit www.onehopecanada.ca/ events for details about the tour.

Exemplary Academics Faith-filled Community

Discover the Alternative

Canada’s Hope

9

Great Servants by terry kerr, saskatchewan field director

Throughout the years that

“That summer before Bill attended, many people were at work so that Bill and other campers could have the best week of their summer.�

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we have been involved in camp ministry either as volunteers or missionaries with One Hope Canada, we have had the privilege of hearing many great stories and testimonies of how the camping ministry has impacted and changed the lives of individuals.

If you have ever met our National Director Bill McCaskell, he will quite likely have shared his Cabin B experience as a young camper at Kenosee Lake Bible Camp. In his testimony Bill will talk about his time at KLBC, and more importantly, how one day God grabbed him and totally changed his life as he was coming out of the cabin and down the steps of Cabin B. That summer before Bill attended, many people were at work so that Bill and other campers could have the best week of their summer.

Who were the men and women who served the local camp board that winter making plans for the upcoming summer months? All our Camp Board members are volunteers who donate their time and travel to serve the Lord. Often they work all day, and then jump in a vehicle and

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

travel up to two-and-half hours to attend a board meeting, while missing a meal.

They then drive home quite late after the meeting, sometimes under adverse road and weather conditions, only to be back at work early the next day for their regular job.

Who were the men that constructed the walls of Cabin B and put a roof overhead that didn’t leak? Who built the steps of Cabin B where Bill once stood? Who were the ladies that made sure comfortable mattresses were placed on each bunk in each cabin? Who were the people up early and to bed late preparing the meals in the dining hall that summer? What about the handyman and cleaning lady who made sure the bathroom sinks, toilets, and showers were all clean? What about the army of supporters who were raised up to financially support the camp?

When we hear the testimonies and exciting stories of how the camp ministry has impacted the lives of many campers, and the work which God has undertaken in the life of a camper, I always stop to think how many great servants it took, working behind the scenes throughout the year to make these stories a reality.

204-

Peace River Bible Institute Training believers to become disciple-makers who impact their world for Christ.

Enter coupon code Apply250 at www.prbi.edu to receive a $250 bursary if you apply by July 31, 2015.

Peace River Bible Institute PO Box 99 Sexsmith, AB T0H 3C0 Phone: 780-568-3962 Fax: 780-568-4431 prbi@prbi.edu www.prbi.edu

Canada’s Hope

11

The result of

God’s Grace

BY GREG BENSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

My mouth was dry, my heart in my throat, my adrenaline pumping, and my grip firm enough on the dash to leave permanent fingerprints. My high school friend, Brent, drove much too fast for the slippery, winter conditions and was crazy about using the emergency brake to turn corners while in traffic! In such situations it’s hard

to believe that things will work out in the end, especially when I’m the one in the passenger seat.

What’s required for camp to operate can be just as staggering – over eighty seasonal staff and volunteers needed to operate our summer program, hundreds of thousands of dollars needed in donations, and important decisions to be made by

Camp Schedule 2015 July 2-5

Family Camp

All Ages

July 5-10

Junior Camp 1

Ages 8-11

July 5-10

Amateur DIRT Camp 1

Ages 12-14

July 5-17

Work Crew 1

Ages 14-18

July 12-17

Wild Camp 1

Ages 11-13

July 12-17

Junior Teen Camp 1 (*Fanatic Option)

Ages 12-14

July 19-24

Intermediate Camp (*Fanatic Option)

Ages 11-13

July 19-24

Amateur DIRT Camp 2

Ages 12-14

July 19-31

Work Crew 2

Ages 14-18

July 26-31

Pro DIRT Camp

Ages 15-18

July 26-31

Junior Teen Camp 2 (*Fanatic Option) Ages 12-14

August 2-7

Junior Camp 2

Ages 8-11

RANGER LAKE BIBLE CAMP

August 2-7

Amateur DIRT Camp 3

Ages 12-14

August 2-14

Work Crew 3

Ages 14-18

www.rlbc.ca 888-406-1733

August 9-14

Wild Camp 2

Ages 11-13

August 9-14

Teen Camp (*Fanatic Option)

Ages 14-18

August 16-21

Junior Camp 3

Ages 8-11

August 16-21

Amateur DIRT Camp 4

Ages 12-14

August 16-25

Work Crew Pro

Ages 14-18

August 23-25

Squirt Camp

Ages 7-9

Sept 9-13

Fall Frolic Camp

Ages 55+

“

God continues to surprise us through

his providence, and we are so thankful for the partners we get to work with.”

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a small group of volunteer board members. Truly, summer camp is less the result of our full-time staff team’s efforts and more the result of God’s grace, imparted through a community of passionate, servanthearted supporters who pitch in wherever needed.

So when spring rolls around and people ask, “Hey, are you ready for summer?” I hold my breath. Quite honestly, knowing all that has to come together for summer camp to operate, I often have that same hold-on-to-the-dash feeling, right up until campers arrive. Jesus, it seems, pushes me to the very limits of my faith. Yes, we camp directors live on the edge!

And that’s why, each winter as we prepare for a new camp season, our full-time staff team prays and expectantly thanks God for how He will provide for us, knowing that He always provides in His way and in His time. God continues to surprise us through His providence, and we are so thankful for the partners we get to work with. Now excuse me, I have to get back into the passenger’s seat.

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

Bible Camp

Prayer Warriors

Financial Support

Day Camps

Help Wanted Do you see yourself in this photo?

To make an eternal impact this summer, contact One Hope Canada.

AN

INTERVIEW

WITH

One Hope Canada’s Executive Directors BEV: We found it really helped to explain to folks the reason behind the new name. For people to catch the vision, that this new name could describe the “why” behind what we do, was really helpful and is something we can all unite around. There really is only One hope for our country and it is found in the good news of Jesus Christ.

What were the other highlights for One Hope Canada in 2014?

C

ANADA’S HOPE SAT DOWN WITH ONE HOPE CANADA’S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TEAM, BILL AND BEV MCCASKELL, TO ASK THEM ABOUT THE HIGHLIGHTS OF LAST YEAR’S MINISTRY AND WHAT THEIR HOPES ARE FOR 2015.

After being known as the Canadian Sunday School Mission since 1927, this past year marked the introduction of the mission’s new name – One Hope Canada. What has the reaction been like?

BILL: I think everyone from the National Board to the leadership team were a little nervous to see how those who have be part of the mission for years would react.

We all know the rich history CSSM has and we want to build on that richness. It was very encouraging to hear people’s positive response to the new name and at the same time letting us know that they still sometimes “slip” and call it CSSM. When you have been doing something for 86 years, it takes a while to change. :)

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Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

BILL: This past year, over 28,000 children and youth from across Canada heard the gospel and saw it lived out at one of our ministry points. This is amazing, especially when you realize that close to 16,000 of them come from homes where there is no or very little Christian influence. And then combine that with fact that over 3,300 life-changing one-on-one conversations took place – and that is just the ones we are aware of – it begins to paint an amazing picture of what God is doing.

BEV: Another highlight for the mission is what God is doing behind the scenes. This past year marked the coming together of eight separate offices (seven provincial offices and one national office) into a unified Ministry Resource Centre. The MRC is a “virtual office” comprised of people across the country and has the single purpose of directing, encouraging and equipping our ministry points to fulfill the purpose of One Hope Canada. What that means for our mission is that we can be more efficient in the handling of finances and administration and have freed up people and resources to assist our frontline missionaries.

Can you give an example?

BILL: Sure. One example would be that before the change, it took over six full-time people to handle the finance and administration of the provincial and national offices; today the Ministry Resource Centre has two and half full-time people working on finance and administration.

BILL: It is great to have a leadership team from across the country that is committed to the purpose of the Mission. We lead together as a team, knowing that discerning the will of God in a community that is focused on Him is the best way to keep in step with the Spirit.

What would be your prayer as you lead One Hope Canada in 2015?

One Hope Canada has nearly 200 missionaries serving across Canada. What is your hope for them in this coming year?

BEV: We continually ask God for wisdom to lead with open hands. We make our plans, but we trust the LORD to establish our steps. This would be our continued prayer for 2015. We are asking God to use One Hope Canada to reach children and youth for His Name sake. We may have lots of ideas on how we can do this, but what really matters is that we walk in step with the One whose plans are always best.

BEV: First off I’d just like to say how incredibly blessed Bill and I are to serve alongside such amazing men and women! My hope for each of them would be to experience Christ in new ways this coming year… that they would hunger for His Word and that they would see Him at work in all that they do – and that God would receive all of the glory for great things He is doing!

BILL & BEV MCCASKELL live in Winnipeg, MB and have served as the Executive Director team of One Hope Canada since 2012. They continue to marvel at God’s leading them to serve together in this way – and they continue to marvel that it can also be “fun!” :)

Kensington Community Church

A passion for the Gospel. A burden for Canada.

Canada’s Hope

15

allas alley Ranch Camp

Growing in the Lord

BY CHRIS THIESSEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Camp Schedule 2015 M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9 M0 C1 C2 C3 C4 F4 C5 C6 C7 F7 C8 C9 C0 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9 A0

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June 24-28 June 29 - July 5 July 6-12 July 13-19 July 20-26 July 27 - August 2 August 3-9 August 10-16 August 17-23 August 24-30 June 24-28 June 29 - July 5 July 6-12 July 13-19 July 13-19 July 20-26 July 27 - August 2 August 3-9 August 3-9 August 10-16 August 17-23 August 24-30 June 29 - July 5 July 6-12 July 13-19 July 20-26 July 27 - August 2 August 3-9 August 10-16 August 17-23 August 24-30

What would you say to a parent who was sending their child to camp for the first time?

Thank you for choosing to send your most prized possession to spend the week with us at Dallas Valley. We appreciate that you trust us with your child and will treat them as if they are our own. This week will likely be the highlight of their summer, as we have a wide variety of fun activities to keep them busy. Also, your child won’t go hungry with three home cooked meals a day and a snack!

Intermediate Camp Intermediate Camp Intermediate Camp Junior Camp Intermediate Camp Intermediate Camp Junior Camp Intermediate Camp Intermediate Camp Junior Camp Junior Teen Camp Junior Teen Camp Teen Camp Western Riding Camp Firearms Safety Camp Junior Teen Camp Junior Teen Camp Western Riding Camp Firearms Safety 2 Camp Teen Camp Junior Teen Camp Junior Teen Camp Barrel Racing (Girls) Camp Xtreme (Boys) Camp Xtreme (Boys) Camp Xtreme (Boys) Camp Xtreme (Boys) Camp Golf (Boys) Camp Xtreme (Boys) Camp Xtreme (Boys) Camp Xtreme (Boys) Camp

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

Ages 10-13 Ages 11-13 Ages 11-13 Ages 9-10 Ages 11-13 Ages 11-13 Ages 9-10 Ages 11-13 Ages 11-13 Ages 9-10 Ages 14-17 Ages 13-15 Ages 15-17 Ages 13-17 Ages 12-16 Ages 13-15 Ages 13-15 Ages 13-17 Ages 13-17 Ages 15-17 Ages 13-15 Ages 11-14 Ages 13-17 Ages 13-14 Ages 14-17 Ages 13-15 Ages 14-17 Ages 13-17 Ages 13-14 Ages 13-15 Ages 13-15

What do you enjoy most about being a camp director?

The thing I enjoy most about being a camp director is seeing kids learn and hear about Christ, and make decisions to follow Him. Then, seeing kids grow in the Lord at camp and start serving Him here, as part of our staff. As a camp director, there is nothing that tops these things. We give them an awesome week at camp, but the most important thing is their relationship with their Saviour.

Why do you think camp ministry is such a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel?

Camp is an excellent way to share the gospel because it is such a fun atmosphere. Kids can come and see that having a relationship with God doesn’t have to be boring, like most kids envision church. The kids see the staff and realize Christ is for everyone, for the old and young, jocks and booksmart people, cleaners and program directors – God relates to all. The kids look up to the staff, wanting to be like them, and that makes the relationship (with God) more appealing.

DALLAS VALLEY RANCH CAMP

www.dallasvalley.com 306-731-3348

“

Kids can see that

having a relationship with God doesn’t

have to be boring.”

God’s Creation

BY DOUG ARBOGAST, CAMP DIRECTOR

What would you say to a parent who was sending their child to camp for the first time?

To a first time parent it is critical to respond to any of their concerns about their camper. We aim to have new camper parents at ease when they leave their kids with us. I like to talk with the parents and let them know that we really do care for and want what is best for their camper.

What do you enjoy most about being a camp director?

I enjoy most the six hours days that we all work!  I do love to see the look of satisfaction on the face of a camper that has just accomplished something that they thought was

impossible. It is that silly grin of satisfaction. I love to see kids having the best time of their life and just being a kid in God’s great creation.

Why do you think camp ministry is such a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel?

Camp ministry is a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel because they not only get to have it presented to them in a fun-filled and personal way, but they also get to see it demonstrated by the staff of the camp.

STONEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP

www.stoneycamp.ca 306-873-5537

Camp Schedule 2015 July 3-5

Family Camp All ages

July 5-10

Junior 1

Ages 8-11

July 12-17

Junior Hi 1

Ages 12-14

July 19-24

Junior 2

Ages 8-11

July 26-31

Teen 1

Ages 13-15

Aug 4-7

Squirt

Ages 7-9

Aug 9-14

Junior 3

Ages 8-11

Aug 16-21

Teen 2

Ages 15-17

Aug 23-27 Junior Hi 2

Ages 12-14

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR needed for STONEY LAKE BIBLE CAMP

Full-time

Year round

Experience in camping ministry will be a great asset as well as some experience in the operation of a business.

Contact Doug Arbogast for more information: Email: slbc@sasktel.net Phone: 306-873-5537

www.norstarindustries.ca www.norstarmfg.com

PROUD TO SUPPORT ONE HOPE CANADA

Stoney Lake Bible Camp Box 3717, Melfort, SK. S0E 1A0

Canada’s Hope

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One Hope Canada

Ministry Point Personnel in Saskatchewan

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Christopher & Janet Thiessen

Kevin Friesen

Cypress Hills Camp

Dallas Valley Ranch Camp

Dallas Valley Ranch Camp

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Tanya Klippenstine

Jessica Poorman

Dallas Valley Ranch Camp

Dallas Valley Ranch Camp

Dallas Valley Ranch Camp

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Keon & Cristal Reimer

Amy Waldal

Ladan & Natisse MacKenzie

Dallas Valley Ranch Camp

Dallas Valley Ranch Camp

Estevan Bible Camp

Brad & Allison Weber

Marilyn Kirk

Ryan & Andrew Wiesner

Kenosee Lake Bible Camp

Luseland Bible Camp

Madge Lake Bible Camp

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

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Tanis Klippenstine

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Len & Jan Barkman

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Naomi Tensen

Seth & Lesley Briggs

Derek & Harriet Holmedal

Madge Lake Bible Camp

Manitou Lake Bible Camp

Manitou Lake Bible Camp

Greg Benson

Doug Barr

Bob Wiebe

Ranger Lake Bible Camp

Ranger Lake Bible Camp

Ranger Lake Bible Camp

Baya Zacharias

Doug & Rosiland Arbogast

Ranger Lake Bible Camp

Stoney Lake Bible Camp

Darvin & Lorenda Friesen

Devin & Jessica Dyck

Torch Trail Bible Camp

Torch Trail Bible Camp

The faces behind our camps!

Canada’s Hope

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“She often said the Lord called her from teaching reading, writing and ‘rithmetic to teaching stories about Jesus.”

A tribute to

SHIRLEY STEWART

A

young person who came into my siblings’ lives and mine when we were growing up was Shirley Stewart.

HOWARD McLEOD She lived a life of service to her Lord. She had no children of her own, but countless people continue “to rise up and call her blessed.” Shirley was grounded in a solid Bible teaching background from being raised in a godly home. As a teenager, she dedicated her life to serving the Lord and never turned back.

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Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

After a three year career as an elementary school teacher, Shirley joined the Canadian Sunday School Mission to serve as an itinerant missionary in her home area. Teaching almost forty half-hour Bible lessons per week in public schools was a full-time job, especially considering the miles of travel between rural schools. Her ministry, located mainly in the Algoma District of Northern Ontario, east of Sault Ste Marie, once reached 1800 students in her bi-weekly rotation. She often said the Lord called her from teaching reading, writing and ‘rithmetic to teaching stories about Jesus. With boundless energy, she added a number of other

ministries to her school ministry, reaching out to children, youth, and adults. One of her key roles was directing CSSM’s Galilean Bible Camp, where many were influenced for the Lord. During her leadership at Galilean, enrolment went from less than one hundred summer campers to over seven hundred. In various stages of her ministry, she also held ladies’ home Bible studies, helped create a vibrant youth group on Saturday evenings, and on Sundays in her early career held two Sunday schools in neighbouring communities. Summer Bible schools, annual youth rallies, and home visitation also fitted into her already full schedule.

“Aunt Shirley”, as she was affectionately called by many campers at Galilean Bible Camp, had a deep interest in the lives of those she met.

Many look back and value the heart-to-heart conversations with Aunt Shirley. Her ministry of letter writing and telephone contacts is treasured by many.

When her ministry of teaching Bible lessons as part of the day schedule in local schools changed to after-school Bible clubs, Shirley entered that ministry with enthusiasm. In her later years, when the Lord supplied other staff to relieve her of a very full schedule, she became spare teacher for Bible clubs and teacher for a seniors’ Bible study group. She focused a great deal of her energy on ladies’ and seniors’ retreats at Galilean Bible Camp.

Shirley was known as a godly lady with tremendous energy, a pioneer in the CSSM work in our district, a loyal staff person, a loving servant to many, an encourager, and someone deeply concerned for the spiritual well-being of people.

I am one who will be in heaven because of Shirley’s dedication to spreading the gospel by many means, so souls might be brought into the kingdom.

“Shirley was known as a godly lady with tremendous energy, a pioneer in the CSSM work in our district, a loyal staff person, a loving servant to many, an encourager, and someone deeply concerned for the spiritual well-being of people.”

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It is with sadness but with peace that we announce the passing of Shirley Stewart on January 24, 2015.

Canada’s Hope

21

Family

Affair

BY RYAN WEISNER, CAMP DIRECTOR

We can’t do our ministry at Madge Lake Bible Camp without our amazing partners: board members, donors, and volunteers, to name a few. We are so blessed to have incredible men and women of God who come to help with the ministry. One valued family is the

Moores. It is so exciting to see how God has used this family. Recently, we heard the story of the Moores’ move to our area. Linda and Terry (the parents) were praying that they would find “God’s destiny camp” for their family. God answered their prayers and the camp’s, too!

Camp Schedule 2015 July 5-12

Teen Camp 1

Ages 14-18

July 13-18

Quest Camp

Ages 10-13

July 20-25

Adventure Camp

Ages 9-11

July 27-30

Explorer Camp

Ages 7-10

August 3-9

Teen Camp 2

Ages 13-16

August 10-15

Impact Camp

Ages 15-18

July 13-18

Junior Ranch Camp 1

Ages 10-13

July 20-26

Intermediate Ranch Camp 1

Ages 12-15

July 26-31

Wilderness Camp

Ages 14-16

August 3-9

Intermediate Ranch Camp 2

Ages 12-15

August 10-15

Junior Ranch Camp 2

Ages 10-13

Hardcore Ranch Camp

Ages 14-18

“

August 16-23

MLBC has blessed our family.

Being able to be a part of it has been a privilege we are grateful for.”

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Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

Their two youngest boys, Matthew and Luke, started attending the camp over ten years ago, then worked several years as LITs, CITs, wranglers, and cabin leaders. They eventually met their spouses, Kelsey and Jennifer, at the camp. Both couples were married by our very own camp director, Ryan Wiesner!

Their daughter, Terra, has also served at the camp and has since become Executive Director of an orphanage, Our Village Uganda. The camp has partnered with Our Village by providing funding for beds, etc. The Moores’ oldest son, Ramsay, has also helped at camp for three years and blessed us with his musical ministry and amazing heart for campers.

So over the years, the entire Moore family has ended up graciously serving at the camp. Camp has become a family affair. They are a truly ministry-minded family and the camp is blessed to know them. The entire family has even volunteered during the same week of camp! The Moore family has always been there to lend a hand and serve in whatever way they can, with great attitudes... from providing horses and hay, making and serving desserts for our annual Christmas play, helping set up and tear down at the camp or a fundraiser, helping in the kitchen, to lending us their boat for the past several summers! This is one of many families that makes Madge Lake Bible Camp what it is. Madge has become so much deeper than camp; it’s family, and it’s a beautiful thing to be a part of.

For more details about Our Village Uganda, visit ourvillageuganda.org.

For more information on Ramsay’s music go to www.theqarah.com MADGE LAKE BIBLE CAMP

www.madgelakebiblecamp.ca 204-937-3646

BY MARILYN KIRK , CAMP DIRECTOR

Living out

our faith What would you say to a parent who was sending their child to camp for the first time?

I’d share a story that took place at Luseland Bible Camp a few years ago. One mom, when picking up her happy camper, said: “When I dropped her off, I didn’t think she would want to stay. What do I do now, she doesn’t want to go home?”

What do you enjoy most about being a camp director?

I enjoy most the relationships that continue throughout the year with campers, families, and staff.

Why do you think camp ministry is such a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel?

Youth are looking for heroes: people to respect, look up to, and model their lives after. Summer camp staff have opportunities daily to demonstrate how to live out their faith in real and practical ways. It’s a great mix. As Bible truths are shared, there is opportunity to ask questions and discover together how to apply these truths to our lives and how to be a disciple of Jesus in 2015.

LUSELAND BIBLE CAMP

www.luselandbiblecamp.ca 306-372-4544 / 306-372-4595

Camp Schedule 2015 July 4

Family Fun Day All ages

July 5-10

Junior 1

Ages 9-11

July 12-17

Junior Teen

Ages 12-15

July 12-17

Hip Hop Dance Ages 12-18

July 12-16

Paintball 1

Ages 13-18

July 20-24

Kidz Camp

Ages 6-8

July 20

Kidz Camp Day Ages 5-7

July 26-31

Junior 2

Ages 9-11

August 2-7

Junior 3

Ages 9-11

August 9-14

Junior Teen

Ages 12-15

August 9-14

Senior Teen

Ages 15-18

August 9-13

Paintball 2

Ages 13-18

Sept 18-20

Teen Retreat

Ages 12-18

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Canada’s Hope

23

A Shout Out for

Camp Ministry Partners

BY HAROLD PENNER

H

“If any partner of the ministry is unable to do their part the load can become overwhelming or impossible for the remaining partners.”

24

ave you ever been at an event where the host invites the audience to recognize the volunteers who have made the event a success with the invitation “how about a shout out for (fill in the volunteer name here) for (volunteer position here)”?

Some volunteers have been quite public in their organizational role while others have worked behind the scenes ensuring everything ran smoothly.

If I picture summer camp ministry as an event there are many different partners who make each season a success. The camp director may be the official face of the camp, but cabin leaders, staff, cooks and maintenance personnel each do their part to make camp a success. If any

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

partner of the ministry is unable to do their part the load can become overwhelming or impossible for the remaining partners.

The reality is that each year there is change in many ministry positions as some staff graduate and begin year-round employment, some move to others part of the country and others marry or have growing family commitments that reduce their ability to be involved.

Stepping back from direct involvement in summer camp ministry doesn’t mean you need to end your participation as a camp ministry partner. There is still plenty of room to serve as a camp board member, prayer warrior or a financial supporter. There is always an opening for these very critical roles in summer camp ministry.

“Talk to your camp director about project options and to a Mennonite Foundation consultant about the most effective method of supporting the project.”

If you are transitioning out of active summer staff ministry consider maintaining the partnership by becoming a prayer and financial partner. Even if you can only afford a few dollars a month right now, you can continue to share in the joy of being a partner in spreading the Good News about Christ.

If you have been a regular financial partner for many years, you may now be in a position to

provide more significant support, either toward the annual operation of your favorite camp or a building project or a long-term fund to benefit the camp ministry for years to come. Talk to your camp director about project options and to a Mennonite Foundation consultant about the most effective method of supporting the project. Your generosity will result in joyful shouts for years to come.

Harold and the other Mennonite Foundation of Canada consultants enjoy talking with generous people and helping them achieve their charitable passions, from lifetime gifting to charitable bequests.

You can find us at www.MennoFoundation.ca

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Canada’s Hope

25

With the help of

many people

“

BY LORENDA FRIESEN, CAMP STAFF

God continues to surprise us through

his providence, and we are so thankful for the partners we get to work with.”

We recently read Nehemiah.

What a great story of how God worked through his people to bring life out of the ashes of a destroyed city. Nehemiah was single focused, not allowing distractions around him to keep him from the work that God had called him to do. With the help of many people, he rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem and made it a place of worship and life again.

You must read it for yourself! It is such a great account.

I can’t help but think of my favorite verse in Scripture,

Camp Schedule 2015

26

June 15-18

Golden Camp

Ages 55+

July 5-10

Junior Camp 1

Ages 8-12

July 12-17

Junior Camp 2

Ages 10-12

July 19-24

Junior Teen Camp

Ages 12-14

July 19-24

Leadership Training

Ages 14+

July 26-28

Squirt Camp

Ages 6-8

August 2-7

Leadership Training

Ages 14+

August 2-7

Teen Camp

Ages 14-18

August 9-14

Junior Camp 3

Ages 7-10

August 17-21

Out Trip Riding Camp

Ages 13+

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

“No soldier in active service entangles himself in the affairs of everyday life, so that he may please the one who enlisted him as a soldier” (2 Timothy 2:4).

When his enemies came along to distract Nehemiah, he simply would not be diverted from his God-given task and with the help of many people, the mission was accomplished. “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down” (Nehemiah 6:3).

That single phrase has been such an encouragement as we set about here at Torch Trail to do the task God has called us to. Yes, the work is great! But with the help of many people, conducted by the hand of God himself, camp can be a place of new life in Christ for many.

Pray for the work of the camps.

Pray that camps will be a place where people begin to rebuild the walls of their individual lives and re-establish the protection and strength that God provides. Pray that God in His grace will reach down and take hold of people in captivity and release them from bondage to sin, discouragement, failure and destruction.

Pray for campers, staff, board members and leaders “that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:2-3).

TORCH TRAIL BIBLE CAMP

www.torchtrail.ca 306-428-2989

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Canada’s Hope

27

Finding hope through pain T H I S I S T H E S T O R Y O F O U R J O U R N E Y I N F U L L -T I M E M I N I S T R Y

O

By Randy and Janice McDonald, Capital Projects Ministry Team

28

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

ur story begins in 2001, when friends invited us to Ness Lake Bible Camp (NLBC) to help run the water ski program at the camp’s Specialty Teen Week. We continued to do this for the next five or six years.

Our sons, Karl and Kris, joined us that first summer and were a part of the program and got to know camp a little bit. During the summers of 2002 and 2003, Kris, our youngest son, joined the camp’s summer team as a volunteer. After graduating from high school, Kris

spent various amounts of time working at NLBC in-between other jobs or during his time off.

We owned and operated our own business, but found it difficult to take the time that we wanted to volunteer at camp. So in 2007, we sold the business.

By 2008, both our sons were back living closer to us and, in fact, Kris was working with his dad in construction. We started the process of building our own Timber Frame on five acres of property in Enderby, with Randy and Kris doing most of the work on it themselves.

“God knew that He had to move the boys away from home so that I would have the freedom to be able to move away – even if it wasn’t for the long-term.”

By 2010, the house was complete and Kris had moved back up north to operate heavy equipment which was his first passion and at which he was very gifted (even as a young boy). Much of the work that he did at NLBC involved him coming in to operate the equipment to excavate or rework the land. Our older son, Karl, had moved to Saskatchewan to work on a dairy farm and was telling us that it was a permanent move. So by that summer, Randy and I were really wondering why we were spending all of our time and resources on this big home and yard for just the two of us?

We committed to take a week in August to go camping and really seek the Lord about what He wanted of us at this point in time.

We came home from this week with both of us being completely convinced that He wanted us to get rid of the house – but not knowing what the next step would be or when it would come about. In obedience, we put the house up for sale.

Not knowing how quickly it might sell or what we would be doing next, I started looking online at trailers that we would be able to live in, if needed. Kris came into my office while I was looking and after asking about what I was doing, announced that he felt that we shouldn’t be buying a trailer but rather going to camp as he thought that there was a maintenance position open at NLBC as a missionary. So we made the very large leap of faith from always being self-employed to becoming a

move the boys away from home so that I would have the freedom to be able to move away – even if it wasn’t for the long-term.

missionary. Ironically, Karl would move back to the Okanagan shortly after we had committed ourselves to NLBC. God knew that He had to

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Canada’s Hope

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So on November 1, 2010, we moved to Ness Lake Bible Camp for Randy to take on the position of Facilities Manager. During our four years at NLBC, we learned a lot about many different aspects of camp ministry. Randy oversaw many different building projects as well as the regular maintenance needs of camp. A new gym was built to replace the one lost to a fire, a new water reservoir / treatment system was put in, and a new timber frame residence was constructed. I helped out around camp in many different areas as the need arose. We also came to know and love the larger mission family of CSSM (now One Hope Canada) and learned how large and how blessed with resources NLBC really is in comparison to many other camps.

In September of 2013, construction of the new Gate House (which was to be our new home) had just really gotten underway when tragedy struck our family. While Randy was down in Enderby working on the timber frame for the house, I got word that Kris had passed away.

Then five weeks after that, my father also passed away. The house project that Kris was supposed to come and help his dad raise became our therapy to work through our loss and grief. Through many long hours and the donations of time and materials from many people, we were able to move into the house on Dec 23, 2013 and continue to finish it while we lived in it.

We had a dream that as we were ready to retire from a full-time vocation (maybe in 7 – 10 years), we would like to have an RV and be able to go from camp to camp and volunteer. God started to work

30

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

“He helped us to come to a real understanding of our son and what was important to him and worked out all the details that would move us forward in our new calling.” in our hearts and also within the mission to move us forward in this direction sooner rather than later; even though we were still too young and not financially able to retire. We saw God provide so much and in so many ways through this really difficult time.

He helped us to come to a real understanding of our son and what was important to him and worked out all the details that would move us forward in our new calling. It was decided that we would resign from NLBC, but remain missionaries with One Hope Canada. A new ministry would be created to allow us to keep raising support in order to be able to move from one camp to the next to provide help or oversight, primarily for their building projects.

In order to be able to do this, it would mean that we would need to be able to purchase a 5th wheel that was large enough and well equipped enough for us to live in year-round and to purchase a truck that would be able to tow it.

As it turned out, Kris had left a life insurance policy through his employer that would be used to purchase the 5th wheel. We feel incredibly blessed and honoured to be able to continue his legacy of supporting the camping ministry and serving those we can, to increase their ministry potential with our skills and abilities.

So at the beginning of November 2014, we rolled out in our truck and 5th wheel to start in on our new role as a Capital Projects Ministry Team serving with One Hope Canada. Ministry points can make application to have us come and work on their projects. Our first place of deployment is at Lake Of The Trees Bible Camp where we are working to complete a 1400 sq. ft. addition to the home of the director and his family.

It continues to amaze us how faithful our God is and how He can use the most awful things in life and bring about good out of them and how He walks through the whole process with us.

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Ordinary

People

BY SETH BRIGGS, CAMP DIRECTOR

It had already been a long July and I’d let our exhausted staff go for the weekend, knowing they needed rest before the next group of campers arrived on Sunday.

I wanted to quickly address the water issue that had been plaguing us for the last half of the week, as it was probably a simple fix. One of our younger volunteers was there to help and I was grateful for the extra set of hands and expertise.

As we eliminated one possibility after another I was getting frustrated and exhausted, because we

“

couldn’t seem to get water pressure up the hill.

It was five o’clock Saturday and getting close to decision time about the next week. I decided to call a friend who was an apprentice electrician to test our water pump.

Being the son of a local farmer he said, “I’m not sure I can help you figure it out but my dad and I will be there in twenty minutes to see what we can do.”

An hour later we had discovered an underground water line break that we could temporarily patch

I came out of that weekend

exhilarated by the sheer willingness and b generosity of partners in the kingdom.”

Camp Schedule 2015

32

June 15-18

75th Anniversary

All Ages

June 19-21

Family Camp

All Ages

June 29 - July 4

Junior Camp 1

Ages 9-11

July 5-11

Preteen Camp 1

Ages 12-14

July 13-18

Junior Camp 2

Ages 9-11

July 19-25

Extreme Drama

Ages 14-18

July 19-25

Extreme Horsemanship

Ages 14-18

July 19-25

Extreme Marksmanship

Ages 14-18

July 19-25

Extreme Survival

Ages 14-18

July 28-31

Squirt Camp

Ages 7-8

August 2-8

Preteen Camp 2

Ages 12-14

August 10-15

Junior Camp 3

Ages 9-11

August 16-22

Teen Camp

Ages 15-18

September 4-7

College and Career

Ages 18+

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

together in time for registration the next day! We would also need water for the beginning of camp, so I put in a call to a local water hauling company and they agreed to bring us two loads of water the next morning. When the water arrived the next day, the truck driver pulled me aside to explain that the bill for that day would be $0 because the camp was making a difference for kids.

I came out of that weekend exhilarated and refreshed by the sheer willingness and generosity of partners in the kingdom. I’ve heard people admit that they feel like they are just ordinary people with ordinary jobs, unsure they could make an impact, but by simply being available and willing to employ skills that Saturday and Sunday in July, they allowed over 100 kids to experience the love of Christ, experience true community, and make memories that last a lifetime. Some of those are now a part of God’s kingdom!

We are so thankful for every partner on our team at Manitou: those who pray, those who give, those who serve, and those who fix water systems!

MANITOU LAKE BIBLE CAMP

www.manitoulakebiblecamp.ca 306-826-5440

Seeing Joy

BY BRAD WEBER, CAMP DIRECTOR

What would you say to a parent who was sending their child to camp for the first time?

While camp is not for every child, it has the potential to be the highlight of their child’s summer and for summers to come. At camp, their child will meet great friends, be genuinely cared for by our staff and will be exposed to new activities and challenges they typically won’t experience anywhere else.

What do you enjoy most about being a camp director?

I love watching campers accomplish something for the first time, whether that’s getting up on water skis, or hitting the target in archery. It is great seeing the joy of accomplishment on their face.

Why do you think camp ministry is such a great way for children and youth to hear the Gospel?

Camp is a safe place for children and youth to explore the gospel.

Often times, they are in cabins with kids their own age and so they are more likely to ask the questions they are wondering about, or hear another camper ask the question they too have.

Along with that, at camp we have staff that are there with the mindset of wanting to share the gospel and that focus seems to open doors to more intentional conversations.

KENOSEE LAKE BIBLE CAMP

www.kenoseelakebiblecamp.ca 306-577-4623

Camp Schedule 2015 July 5-11

Teen

Ages 14-17

July 12-18

Junior 1

Ages 8-11

July 19-25

Junior 2

Ages 8-11

July 12-25

Bold 1

Ages 13-15

July 27

Day

Ages 5-7

July 28-29

Overnight

Ages 6-8

July 31-Aug 3 Family

All Ages

August 4-8

Squirt

Ages 7-9

August 9-15

Pre-Teen

Ages 12-14

August 16-22 Junior 3

Ages 8-11

August 9-22

Ages 13-15

Bold 2

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Canada’s Hope

33

COOKING WITH KATHY

BY KATHY WEIR

Expiry Date WHEN CLEANING OUT CUPBOARDS AFTER MY MOM DIED, WE DISCOVERED PUDDING BOXES FROM THE LATE 70S THAT COULD HAVE BEEN SOLD AS “ANTIQUES” ON EBAY!

MOM WOULD BE DEVASTATED AT THE STUFF WE THREW AWAY. When my bag at the airport was three pounds overweight, the fellow saw the choice of foods I got from mom’s pantry (kidney beans, spam, old spices, etc). I suggested to him I must have been the favoured child and offered him his pick of items!

Yes, I am my mother’s daughter. At times I’ve been criticized for not liking to “waste” food. I sometimes had irrational thoughts like, “If you keep something in the refrigerator long enough, the expiration date will eventually fade and you won’t have to worry about it going bad,” or “If food is ‘frozen,’ how can it possibly spoil?” I tended to ignore expiry dates and saw them merely as “suggestions.”

I admit I was perhaps unfair and judgmental of those who seemed paranoid and thought anything a day past the expiry date must be discarded!

Sorry, but I grew up in a large family where nothing was wasted and nobody adhered much to expiry

34

Winter/Spring 2015 | www.onehopecanada.ca

dates...and we all survived! Besides, one never knows when you may need a great science experiment in the fridge.

However, I had a change in my “theology” recently when preparing a quick lunch of Kraft Dinner and discovered there is obvious discernment in knowing when it is time for items to meet their demise. Things were going well until I opened and poured in the contents of the cheese packet. The macaroni turned a disgusting brown colour, followed by an odor a skunk couldn’t outdo!

Whoa! Checking the date on the box, I was stunned to see 1998! I carefully checked the second packet of cheese from the other box and the color and smell seemed fine. Unfortunately, I discovered small dried “worms” as I stirred the contents! Ugh! Let me assure you we don’t serve “expired” food to guests and I have recently done a complete “cleansing” of pantry, freezer and medicine cabinet. However, time

does have a way of passing quickly, and perhaps it would do us well to check expiry dates. At funerals we are reminded that we all have an “expiry date” and appointment with God. “It is appointed unto man once to die, and after this the judgement” (Hebrews 9:27).

As we recognize the brevity of life, we need to take inventory to be sure we are investing in eternity while we have the opportunity.

Trust me, being unprepared for that appointment will have far greater implications that a 16-year-old box of macaroni!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Howard and Kathy Weir have been serving as Camp Directors at Turtle Mountain Bible Camp (Manitoba) since 2002, but previously served at Galilean Bible Camp (Ontario) for many years before that.

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