VANCOUVER, BC / JANUARY 27 – 29, 2017
VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE / GENERAL ADMISSION FREE MISSIONSFESTVANCOUVER.CA Proclaiming Jesus Christ as Life!
• Bible School • Conferences • Outdoor Education • Private Retreats • Personal Getaways
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c a p e r n w r a y . c a TABLE OF Missions Fest Program Magazine is the official publication of Missions Festival CONTENTS (Missions Fest) Society. Missions Fest Program Magazine is published by Missions Fest Vancouver. PROGRAMMING Weekend at a Glance 4 Missions Fest & Design and Missions Theme: Justice and the Gospel 5 Fest are trademarks owned by the Missions Fest International Association Children’s Programs 13 and used under licence by Missions New this Year 14 Festival (Missions Fest) Society. Arts Café 14 Prayer 20 Managing Editor John Hall Saturday Night @ MFV; Youth Rally, Club 67 22 Assistant Editor Sandra Crawford Copy Editor Angela Lee Atesto 22 Agency Relations Emily Aspinall Mini Conference 26 Church Relations Claudia Rossetto General Sessions (Themes & Narrative) 28 Layout and Design Peter Pasivirta Fit Faith Challenge 28 Cover Colors and Shapes Worship Team: Worship Central & Performing Artists 29 Film Festival 30 Missions Fest gratefully accepts Seminar Series 33 donations online and through cash, Seminars (By Time - By Presenter - By Theme) 34 cheques or credit card.
EDITORIAL Missions Fest is a certifi ed member of the Canadian Welcome from the Director John Hall 9 Council of Christian Charities. Welcome from the Board Chair Calvin Weber 9 Plenary Speakers’ Biographies 15 Indigenous Theology Terry LeBlanc 16 MFV Creating Beauty from Ashes Lorraine Francis 18 A Kindness that Leads to Repentance Bob Ekblad 24 Right Living Among Muslims Evelyne Reisacher 40 Follow us on Facebook Acquainted with Grief Brian McConaghy 42 Caring for Creation as Christian Mission A Rocha 50 For more information contact: Missions Fest Vancouver MISSIONS AGENCIES 7200 Cariboo Road Agency Directory 44 Burnaby, BC, V3N 4A7 Floor Plan – Exhibition Hall B 47 Telephone: 604-524-9944 MANAGEMENT COMMITTEES Fax: 604-524-4690 Email: [email protected] Sponsoring Churches 10 Board of Directors 48 Web: missionsfestvancouver.ca Planning Teams 48 Tickets required for: Club 67, INFORMATION Youth Rally, Film Festival Finding Your Way Around: Maps and General Information 7 Mini Conference Recordings 12 www.missionsfestvancouver.ca/tickets Book of the Day 13 Missions Fest 2017 Special Project: Relief Kits 21 Meeting Room Map 39 Next Year at Missions Fest 2018 54
Missions Fest – 2017 3 – WEEKEND AT A GLANCE –
Friday, Jan. 27th Saturday, Jan. 28th Sunday, Jan. 29th 9:00 9:00 9:30 9:30 General Session p 28 School Field Trip 10:00 Hall A 10:00 General Session p 28 10:30 Hall A 10:30
11:00 Seminar Fit Faith Film 11:00 p 33-34 Challenge Fest 11:30 p 30 11:30 Brm A 12:00 12:00
12:30 Seminar 12:30 p 33-34 1:00 Film Fest Arts Cafe 1:00 Film Fest p 30 Hall A 1:30 p 30 Brm A 1:30 Atesto Brm A 2:00 Hall A 2:00
2:30 Mini 2:30 Conference Film Fest
3:00 Seminar p 27 p 30 Prayer Room and Exhibit Hall Open 3:00 p 33-34 Film Fest Brm A 3:30 Seminar p 30 3:30 p 33-34 Brm A 4:00 4:00 General Session p 28 4:30 Seminar Hall A 4:30 p 33-34 5:00 Seminar 5:00 p 33-34 Film Fest
5:30 p 30 Prayer Room and Exhibit Hall Open 5:30 Brm A
6:00 Prayer Room and Exhibit Hall Open 6:00 6:30 6:30
7:00 Club 7:00 Youth 67 Film 7:30 General Rally Mtg Rm. Fest 7:30 Session Hall A 1-3 p 30 8:00 p 28 Brm A 8:00 8:30 8:30
9:00 Film Fest Arts Cafe Arts Cafe 9:00 p 30 Mtg Rm. 1-3 Mtg Rm. 1-3 10:00 Brm A 10:00
PLEASE NOTE: Recording any part of Missions Fest in Audio, Video or Photography is not allowed except with written permission from the Director.
4 Missions Fest – 2017 THIS YEAR’S THEME – JUSTICE AND THE GOSPEL
Justice is a big, broad ranging topic, so we thought it would be helpful to define it. Justice is a right relation to God, actively overflowing to self, neighbour, and creation; a foretaste of the flourishing and peace of God’s Shalom. We have linked the word justice to the word Gospel in our theme because we believe that Gospel is more than evangelism. It’s the beautiful news that King Jesus rules and reigns, and is redeeming and reconciling all things to himself, including us. At Missions Fest 2017 we want to express the concept of Justice as something that begins to flow when God’s people have a right relationship with him; it then naturally extends to others and to all of creation. For that reason, we plan on exploring these three major movements independently in different sessions over the weekend. In addition, we will have three waypoints beginning with a call to salvation on Saturday night, a time to share communion on Sunday morning and a call to participate in Christ’s mission by making a particular commitment on Sunday afternoon. The anchor scripture for the weekend is the Lord’s Prayer from Matthew 6:9-13. Ways to Engage: Exhibits – Many of our exhibitors are engaged with justice ministry around the world. Chat with them to find out their connection to justice. See page 44. Film Fest – Most of the films in this year’s Film Fest are justice oriented thanks to the hard work of “Just Vancouver.” See page 30. Seminars – To become fully immersed in our theme, participate in the Justice Series of seminars. See page 33. Mini-Conference – Four of the five mini-conferences are tied to justice issues. See pages 26-27. Pray – Join us in Ballroom B to experience the new interactive prayer stations and pray for justice in the earth.
VANCOUVER, BC / JANUARY 27 – 29, 2017 VANCOUVER CONVENTION CENTRE / GENERAL ADMISSION FREE / MISSIONSFESTVANCOUVER.CA
Our Vision Reaching the world with the Good News of the Messiah, to “the Jew first” (Romans 1:16)
WATCH ‶ISN″ IT’S SUPERNATURAL NETWORK - 24/7 Canadian TV Program aired daily on: Vision TV YES TV Hope TV Miracle Network Daystar
VISIT OUR Booth (F1/F2) for your Watch our TV broadcast Download our APP “FREE GIFT” anytime at SidRoth.org or visit SidRoth.org/ISN Canada office: 1-705-300-8077 WWW.SIDROTH.ORG PO BOX 5100, Markham ON L3R 0S4 God is granting us outrageous growth and favour in this ministry because this is the set time to favour Zion! We are reaching Jewish people with the Gospel in historic numbers!
Missions Fest – 2017 5 SITES TO SERVE ALL YOUR CAMP & RETREAT NEEDS! 1
2FAMILY RETREAT CENTER in Bellingham, WA
3CHALET at the Mt. Baker Ski Area
CAMP FIRWOOD on Lake Whatcom, Bellingham Family Retreat Center: Year-round accommodations for up to 230 in deluxe cottages, lodge, or dorm. Recreation includes a lit sports court, game room, play eld and waterfront. Located 10 minutes from I-5 in Bellingham, WA. Chalet at Mt. Baker: A four-story, 95-bed, fully contained and sta ed retreat facility, adjacent to the Mt. Baker Ski Area. A popular destination for retreats year-round. Camp Firwood: Seasonal youth camp with rustic cabins, o ering fully-programmed, age-graded camp sessions in the summer and available for guest group rental in the fall and spring. 20 minutes from I-5 in Bellingham, WA.
Take a Google Virtual Tour BOOK NOW! of The Firs Retreat Center including the Space is currently inside of meeting rooms, dining room, available for your group! and a sampling of guest rooms. http://goo.gl/maps/sGz2C For more info: 1-800-765-3477 • 360-733-6840 • www.the rs.org FINDING YOUR WAY AROUND
CONVENTION LEVEL MAP
PROMENADE
TO/FROM CRUISE SHIP LEVEL Personal Backpack Prayer Check Ministry TO/FROM DELEGATES CONCOURSE MEETING LEVEL
UNDERGROUND CONNECTOR TO WEST BUILDING TO/FROM WEST BUILDING CONNECTOR
T OTE M P OL ES BALLROOM BALLROOM BALLROOM
MAIN ENTRANCE BALLRAOOM BALLROB OM BALLROC OM TO/FROM PARKING LEVEL A Intercessory EXHIBITION HALL EXHIBITION HALL UNDERGROUND TO/WelcomeFROM B C Film2 2 2 CONNECTOR FOOD COURT & HOTEL Coat 5,613 ft 5,800 ft 5,191f t EXHIBITION HAL EXHIBITIO NHALL EXHIBITIO NHALL TO FOOD COURT & HOTEL Desk TO/FROM MEETING 521 m2 Prayer539 m2 482 m2 LEVEL & HOTEL Festival PARKING Check A B C COLUMNS ELEVATORS A B HOTEL Room 22,684 ft2 38,684 ft2 29,837 ft2 LOBBY 2,107 m2 3,594 m2 2,772 m2
SERVICE ELEVATOR
SERVICE BACK OF HOUSE ELEVATORS OVERHEAD DOOR BOOKSTOREOVERHEAD DOOR OVERHEAD DOOR 19’ (5.79 m) h x 17’6” (5.33 m )w 13’7” 4(.14 m) hx 168’” (5.09 m)w ONSITE 13’7” 4(.14 m) hx 28’6“”8 (.69 m)w HALL C LOADING BAY HALL B HALL A SHOW SHOW OFFICE OFFICE OFFICE SHOW OFFICE RAMP DOWN TO PARKADE TRUCK ROUTE
RAMP TO/FROM
Missions Fest 2017 is held at the Vancouver Missions Fest Information Locations: Near the escala- Convention Centre. tors in the convention centre lobby on street level and Missions Fest on-site office located at the rear of Exhibition Hall B (the Agency Exhibits: Exhibition Hall B. missions agencies exhibit hall). Audio recordings Audio recordings of our main speakers Lost and Found Location: Convention Centre lobby at are available for purchase in the lobby of the Convention Centre Coat Check. or online at: missionsfestvancouver.ca. Parking: Public parking lots are located at the foot of Bookstore: The official Missions Fest bookseller, Pilgrim Seymour, West Cordova, Granville and Howe Streets as well as Book & Bible, is in Booth V13 in Exhibition Hall B. The books under the convention centre/Canada Place and the Waterfront of plenary speakers and mission agency representatives, along Centre. Parking is available in the Missions Fest holding lot on with other missions oriented books are available for purchase. Waterfront Road for $10 per day on a first-come first-served Preschool Program: The preschool program (ages 2.5 [if basis. Shuttle buses operate between this parking lot and the trained] to 5) is in Room 14. Parents should label all children’s front entrance of the convention centre at approximately 15 belongings. See page 13 for details. minute intervals throughout the conference open hours and for a short time afterwards in the evenings. This parking lot The Elementary School age (6-11) program is in room 15. is not accessible on foot. School buses may park for free on See page 13 for details. Waterfront Road in the spots designated Tour Bus. Club 67 (Grades 6, 7 & 8) Rally - Saturday only: Phone: For Jan 27th – 29th only, calls to Missions Fest will Location – Level 2, Room 3. Tickets $8.00 ($6 for Sponsoring be forwarded to our temporary office in Exhibition Hall B. Churches.) Tickets will be sold in the lobby until 6:45 p.m. Satur- 604.524.9944. day. All sales final. No refunds. missionsfestvancouver.ca/tickets Seminar Locations: All on the second floor meeting rooms Film Festival Ballroom A (See website for shows, times, level. pages 30-31). Tickets available in the lobby or online at: mis- sionsfestvancouver.ca/tickets. Tickets: All tickets are available online at: missionsfestvan- First Aid Location: Convention Centre lobby. couver.ca/tickets Food Locations: Convention centre concession stands with Youth Rally: Exhibition Hall A. Saturday, 7pm. Tickets re- seating are located at the rear of Exhibition Hall B. Waterfront quired. Available online at: missionsfestvancouver.ca/tickets Centre Food Court Location: Downstairs at the south end of the convention centre lobby: Pita Express, McDonalds, Star- $14 ($10 for Sponsoring Churches) All sales final. No refunds. bucks etc. Volunteers: Thanks to all the many volunteers that made this General Sessions Location: Friday, Saturday and Sunday weekend possible. If you would like to volunteer with us, there in Exhibition Hall A. are opportunities all year long. Check our website for details.
Missions Fest – 2017 7 KNOWLEDGEKNOWLEDGE PURPOSE
Live out your calling. Wherever you are. Live out your calling. Wherever you are. Representatives from our graduate and adult degree completion Representativesprograms are here from to ouranswer graduate any questions and adult you degree have aboutcompletion TWU. programsVisit us at are booths here V09to answer and V10. any questions you have about TWU. Visit us at booths V09 and V10. More at twu.ca More at twu.ca WELCOME FROM THE DIRECTOR
Welcome to Missions Fest 2017 - our 34th conference! We are excited to present this year’s theme: Justice and the Gospel. As we bring the topic of justice to Missions Fest, I am very aware that in many ways it is long overdue. Historically the church has been the leader in the ministry of justice in the world, but there has been an increasing hunger and passion for justice shown by people outside of the church which, in some ways, has us playing catch-up. Christians were leaders in the development of human rights codes, public education, hospitals, social services and more. I believe that we need to continue to lead society in the ministry of justice through the riches of Christ in us and through his Word. At the same time this subject brings with it a tension. The tension of the “already and not yet.” Many Canadians enjoy great wealth, peace and safety, due in part to the grace that comes with acknowledging Jesus as Lord. Conversely, I see crippling injustices in parts of the world including in our own nation, which is disheartening. As we talk about justice you will sense a call to action, so this is a pastoral note. There will be an inescapable temptation to become overwhelmed with the needs of the world. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit grips your heart with a specific subject and with a specific way to engage in the ministry of justice. We serve a just God who loves us and is gracious to us. We want conviction to turn into action, not guilt. So be filled with joy as you serve the King in bringing his justice to the earth. John Hall Executive Director
WELCOME FROM THE BOARD CHAIR
Welcome to Missions Fest 2017 Justice and the Gospel FREEMASONRY What’s the Gospel got to do with justice? Everything. It is good news to know ✤ Most Masons are civic-minded God’s justice is to set right what is wrong in the world, starting with the people with a desire to help redemption of our own sinful lives and reaching out in concentric circles to others. every sphere of activity and engagement in the world. As a young Christian, I ✤ Many are active in the church. learned that Jesus is Lord of all. The older I become, the more I realize God loves passionately everything and everyone He has created. No matter how lost or ✤ What are the secrets that broken or hostile the person or environment, the Lord wants to redeem all. Here Masons don’t know? is where you and I come in. We have been invited into His mission to spread ✤ Is the Great Architect Of The restoration—resisting injustice where we find it, resurrecting justice where it has Universe, the god of been lost and promoting it where it has yet to be planted. Freemasonry Lucifer? It is our hope that you come, absorb, contribute to, and take away what you need ✤ Is Freemasonry a barrier to to, to do God’s good will in His world. God in people’s lives and within the Church? A Word of Thanks ✤ Are generational curses Thanks to all the speakers, musicians, filmmakers and exhibitors for their involved? expertise and valuable input. Thanks, as well, to all the volunteers who have been ✤ God loves Masons but wants working with Missions Fest to make this weekend a reality, and to the office them to be ‘set free’. staff for their labours that have helped birth this event and provided a place for ✤ Our web site provides free staff, board and volunteers alike to connect throughout the year on all missional manuals and other resources. matters. In addition, thanks to the other 10 directors on the board with whom I serve, who gather frequently to oversee and support this ministry and its vision to help mission agencies, local churches and missionally minded persons like Choosing yourself participate in the mission of God. Have a great weekend. Truth Ministries In Christ’s name, www.ctmin.org Calvin Weber Booth F06 Missions Fest Vancouver Board Chair
Missions Fest – 2017 9 SPONSORING CHURCHES
Missions Fest Vancouver began through the collabo- Capilano Christian Community Evangelical Chinese Bible Church ration of churches who felt the need for a missions North Vancouver Burnaby conference. Providentially they worked together and established the model that is carried forward in Cariboo Hill Temple Every Nation Church Missions Fest Vancouver to this day—one of unity in Burnaby Vancouver the church for the sake of mission. We truly believe Cariboo Road Christian Fellowship Faith Community Christian Church that our mandate comes from the sponsoring churches of Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Our goal is Burnaby Vancouver to act as a bridge between the local church and mis- Cascade Gospel Chapel Faith Fellowship Baptist Church sion agencies so that Christians can be more deeply Vancouver Vancouver involved in Christ’s mission, locally and around the world. If your church is passionate about mission and Cedar Grove Baptist Church Fellowship Baptist Church unity, please consider partnering with us to make sure Surrey White Rock that Missions Fest Vancouver remains a lavish gift from Cedar Valley Mennonite Church Fellowship Deaconry Association-Canaan Church the church to the city and the nations. Mission Vancouver Anglican Network Church of the Good Shepherd Central Heights Church First Baptist Church Vancouver Abbotsford Nanaimo
Bakerview Church Christian Life Assembly First Baptist Church Abbotsford Langley Vancouver Basel Hakka Lutheran Church Church on the Way First Century Church Metrotown Vancouver Burnaby Burnaby Bethany Baptist Church City Life Church First Christian Reformed Church Richmond Chilliwack Vancouver Bethel International Church Clearbrook MB Church First Presbyterian Church Vancouver Abbotsford New Westminster Blue Mountain Baptist Church Cloverdale Baptist Church Franklin Chinese Gospel Chapel Coquitlam Surrey Vancouver Brighouse United Church Coastal Church Garden Village Apostolic Church Richmond Vancouver Burnaby Broadmoor Baptist Church Collingwood Baptist Church Glad Tidings Church Richmond Vancouver Victoria Broadway Church Compass Church God’s Light Christian Fellowship Vancouver Richmond Surrey Brookswood Baptist Church Connaught Heights Pentecostal Assembly Gordon Presbyterian Church Langley New Westminster Burnaby Burnaby Chinese EV Free Church Coquitlam Alliance Church Grace Community Church Burnaby Coquitlam Surrey Burnaby North Baptist Church Coquitlam Presbyterian Church Grace Evangelical Bible Church Burnaby Coquitlam Abbotsford Burnaby Pacific Grace Church Cornerstone Evangelical Baptist Church Grace International Baptist Church Burnaby Richmond Vancouver Calvary Baptist Church Courtenay Fellowship Baptist Church Gracepoint Community Church Coquitlam Courtenay Surrey Calvary Baptist Church of Gibsons Culloden MB Church Grandview Calvary Baptist Church Gibsons Vancouver Vancouver Calvary Christian Church Eagle Ridge Bible Fellowship Granville Chapel Surrey Coquitlam Vancouver Calvary Worship Centre Emmanuel Christian Community Greendale MB Church Surrey Richmond Chilliwack
Missions Fest has long been one of our most favorite mission events in our church—we haven’t missed one! We are so grateful, as not every city in the world is able to hold a Missions Fest conference. We are truly a blessed city to have you in our midst. Our church will continue to support Missions Fest—you are wonderful and amazing!
Rev. Tom Cheung, Lead Pastor of Port Moody Pacific Grace MB Church
10 Missions Fest – 2017 SPONSORING CHURCHES
Heather Bible Chapel Marpole Baptist Church Praise International Church Vancouver Vancouver Vancouver Hillcrest Chapel Mount Calvary Lutheran Church Richmond Alliance Church Bellingham Mission Richmond Hillside Baptist Church Mountainview Alliance Church Richmond Baptist Church North Vancouver Langley Richmond Hillside Community Church Mountainview Christian Fellowship Richmond Bethel MB Church Coquitlam Vancouver Richmond Hindi Punjabi Fraserview Chapel Nelson Avenue Community Church Richmond Chinese Alliance Church Surrey Burnaby Richmond Holy Trinity Anglican Church New Hope Christian Church Richmond Chinese Baptist Church Vancouver Delta Richmond Hope Reformed Church New Life Community Church Rose of Sharon Baptist Church Vancouver Burnaby Langley Immanuel Baptist Church New Life Community Fellowship Ross Road Community Church Vancouver Victoria Abbotsford Immanuel Fellowship Baptist Church New West Community Church Sevenoaks Alliance Church Abbotsford New Westminster Abbotsford Jesus is Lord New Westminster Evangelical Free Church Shalom House Burnaby, Nanaimo, North Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, Burnaby Maple Ridge Vancouver, Victoria Nordel Multicultural Christian Church South Delta Baptist Church Jesus Rock of Ages Ministries Delta Delta Abbotsford, Burnaby, Kelowna, North Vancouver, Richmond, North Shore Alliance Church South Langley MB Church Surrey, Vancouver, Whistler North Vancouver Langley Johnston Heights Church North Shore Pacific Grace MB Church South Vancouver Pacific Grace MB Church Surrey North Vancouver Vancouver Joy Fellowship Northside Foursquare Church St. Andrew’s and St. Stephen’s Presbyterian Vancouver Coquitlam Church Kelly Creek Community Church Northwest Langley Baptist Church North Vancouver Powell River Langley St. Andrew’s Church Delta Killarney Park Mennonite Brethren Church Oakridge Adventist Church Delta Vancouver Vancouver St. John’s Richmond Church Kingsway Foursquare Church Oakridge Baptist Church Richmond Burnaby Vancouver St. John’s Vancouver Church Ladner Baptist Church Olivet Baptist Church Vancouver Delta New Westminster St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Ladner Christian Fellowship Pacific Grace Mennonite Brethren Church Vancouver Delta Vancouver St. Simon’s Church Living Waters Church Peace Portal Alliance Church North Vancouver Fort Langley Surrey Sutherland Church Lord’s Grace Church Peoples Church North Vancouver Vancouver Surrey Symphony Church Lord’s Peace Chapel Pilgrim Baptist Church Port Moody Vancouver Vancouver Tenth Church Maple Ridge Community Church Port Moody Pacific Grace MB Church Vancouver Maple Ridge Port Moody
Shared experience always seems to be God’s method for spreading the Gospel. Testimonies are a powerful tool, making Missions Fest such an important event. We learn from the practices of fruitful laborers dedicated to the Great Commission, discovering what has worked and what needs our attention. I am especially excited about this year’s theme, Justice and the Gospel. As I reflect upon on a Missions trip to Africa, I am reminded of how much we need one another; uniting in our God-given strengths to address important issues. Missions Fest is a great opportunity for us to participate in a forum whereby we can respond to the things God lays on our hearts. There is truly no greater taskforce than when God’s people come together in unity around a common theme or purpose. I am looking forward to this! Shannon Lachance, Associate Pastor, Northside Foursquare Church
Missions Fest – 2017 11 SPONSORING CHURCHES
The Bridge Community Church Valley Church West Coast Christian Fellowship North Vancouver North Vancouver Vancouver The Eternity Club Fellowship Vancouver Chinese Baptist Church West Point Grey Baptist Church Burnaby Vancouver Vancouver The King’s Way Church Vancouver Chinese Evangelical Free Church West Vancouver Baptist Church Vancouver Vancouver West Vancouver The Redeemed Christian Church of God BC - Grace Chapel Vancouver Chinese Lutheran Church Westminster Bible Chapel New Westminster, Prince George Burnaby Burnaby The Table Missionary Society Vancouver Chinese MB Church Westwood Alliance Church Victoria Vancouver Coquitlam The Tapestry Church Vancouver Eastside Vineyard Church Westwood Community Church Richmond Vancouver Coquitlam Trinity Baptist Church Vancouver Japanese Gospel Church White Rock Baptist Church Vancouver New Westminster Surrey University Chapel Victoria Alliance Church Willingdon Church Vancouver Victoria Burnaby Urban Village Church Ward Memorial Baptist Church Vancouver Vancouver
As an urban church that strongly believes in missions, both locally and abroad, The Table is delighted to support Missions Fest. We are looking forward to learning from missionaries and organizations around the world. Being a mission-minded church focusing on outreach, we are committed to loving God, loving others, and blessing our neighbours. Each individual and each church does this differently, so we are excited to learn and grow by attending and supporting Missions Fest Vancouver. We hope to inspire, equip, and empower our leaders and urban missionaries at the upcoming Missions Fest as well. See you all there! Anna King, Leadership Development at Table Church (Victoria, BC) Pita Express Once again proudly supports Missions Fest Vancouver!
Ask for the MISSIONS FEST SPECIAL January 27– 29, 2017
Find us in the Waterfront Centre Food Court below the Convention Centre. Open 6 AM to 9 PM Daily
Take Missions Fest 2017 Home! An audio compilation that contains all the main sessions can be purchased for $10. Media can be downloaded as an MP3 link after the conference, or a DVD containing the recordings can be mailed to you directly. PLEASE NOTE: the DVD only contains an audio file. CDs are not available as they cannot accommodate the file size needed for all the recordings. Please visit the order desk in the lobby of the East Convention Centre.
12 Missions Fest – 2017 PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAM Book of the Day Presented by Awana ~ Friday ~ A New Christian Manifesto: ROOM 14 Pledging Allegiance to the Kingdom of God by Bob Ekblad This program provides a variety of activities including a circle time with a story and music, a craft time and a playtime. Light snacks will be provided during each session.
PARENTS PLEASE NOTE: Registration of each child in each session is necessary. It is also important that the parents allow their children to participate to the completion of each registered session. Parents will be contacted to accompany their own children to the washroom if necessary. Cell phone required.
SPECIAL NOTE: Please be considerate of the presenters and other children by not interrupting a session to take your children out before the session ends. If you are more than 15 minutes late you may be asked to pay $5.00 for every 15 minutes per child.
REGISTRATION for each session starts 30 minutes prior to the program. SCHEDULE: Ages 2 1/2 (if trained) – 5 Friday Evening 6:45 - 9:00 p.m. ~ Saturday ~ Saturday Morning 9:15 - 11:00 a.m. Joyful Witness in the Muslim World: Sharing the Gospel in Everyday Encounters Saturday Afternoon 1:15 - 3:30 p.m. (Mission in Global Community) Saturday Evening 6:45 - 9:00 p.m. by Evelyne A. Reisacher and Scott Sunquist Sunday Afternoon 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. Please pick up your children promptly after each session.
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM Presented by Child Evangelism Fellowship
ROOM 15 This program will take children on a missions adventure around the globe to investigate what God is doing in the world. Kids will leave with a greater understanding of missions and of the people around them - neighbours, teammates, and classmates. They will be excited to learn how they can be mis- sionaries now and how God can use them in the years to come.
PARENTS PLEASE NOTE: Registration of each child in each session is necessary and begins 30 minutes ~ Sunday ~ before each session. It is also important that the parents allow their children to participate to the com- Wrongs to Rights: How Churches can pletion of each registered session. In cases of emergency, the parents will be contacted immediately. Engage the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ed. Steve Heinrichs SPECIAL NOTE: Please be considerate of the presenters and other children by not interrupting a session to take your children out before the session ends. If you are more than 15 minutes late you may be asked to pay $5.00 for every 15 minutes per child.
REGISTRATION for each session starts 30 minutes prior to the program. SCHEDULE: Friday Evening Grades 1-6 6:45 - 9:00 p.m. Saturday Morning Grades 1-6 9:15 - 11:00 a.m. Saturday Afternoon Grades 1-6 1:15 - 3:30 p.m. Saturday Evening Grades 1-5 6:45 - 9:00 p.m. See these books and more at the book Sunday Afternoon Grades 1-6 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. table located in Hall B. Please pick up your children promptly after each session (Presented by Pilgrim Book and Bible.)
Missions Fest – 2017 13 NEW THIS YEAR Prayer Room – Ballroom B is completely dedicated to prayer this Mini-Conferences – On Friday afternoon, mission agencies collab- year. Visit the Interactive Prayer Stations, listen to a Window on the orate together to bring you teaching and workshops that take you World or join the Intercessory Team as they lead out in prayer. deeper than a single seminar could. Tickets required. Prayer Ministry - Trained volunteers from the Healing Rooms Van- Film Festival – This year, we’ll be “under one roof” with the Film couver will be offering personal prayer ministry in the prayer room Fest located in Ballroom A. Tickets required. off the lobby. Drop-in! Missions Fest Vancouver serves the church all year long. Join our Youth Rally – Our youth rally and Club 67 have been moved to Sat- Facebook page to see upcoming seminars and events. urday night. Tickets required.
Friday | 9:15 pm | Meeting Room 1-3 DARLENE KETCHUM QUARTET Darlene integrates the vocal freedom of soul with rich chords and a funky laid-back groove. In addition to being an experienced singer, Darlene is a songwriter, arranger, choral & musical director, keyboard ac- companist and educator. She has performed at the Vancouver Jazz Festival, the Jazz Cellar, as well as the Chan Centre. The Darlene Ketchum Quartet has toured the Kootenays and the Okanagan for the past three summers, as well as performing at various events around the Vancouver area.
Saturday | 9:15 pm | Meeting Room 1-3 MORE THAN 12 A collective of vocalists, poets, musicians, DJs and rappers aiming to impact the world with their creative artistry. If musical genres were languages, their music allows people to experience God in their own musical native tongue. MT12 Artists Terrance Richmond, Karolyn Haze, B.O.Z, Trios, Joshua Spence and Robin Yeh represent a fusion of pop, soul, hip hop and electronic dance music. They have performed, spoken and led worship locally and internationally.
Sunday | 1:00 pm | Hall A VANCOUVER GROOVE ORCHESTRA The Vancouver Groove Orchestra is a well equipped show- band that brings great music, fun, and purpose. They reach out to many local charities in the Vancouver area in an effort to help make the community an even better place to live.
14 Missions Fest – 2017 PLENARY SPEAKERS PLENARY SPEAKERS
Bob Ekblad is co-founder (with his wife Gracie) and general director of Tierra Nueva in Burlington, Washington. Tierra Nueva serves immigrants from Mexico, inmates, ex-offenders, the homeless, and people struggling with addictions. Bob holds a Th.D. in Old Testament, offering a Certificate in Transformational Ministry to people in the margins and to leaders around the world called to work with the excluded and under-reached. Bob also serves as Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology and as a lecturer at Westminster Theological Centre in the UK. Bob’s passion is to see leaders from the margins and mainstream raised up and empowered by the Spirit to announce the liberating Gospel of Jesus’ Kingdom—on earth as in heaven in the places of greatest need. His books in- clude A New Christian Manifesto: Pledging Allegiance to the Kingdom of God (2008, WJK Press) and Reading the Bible with the Damned (2005, WJKP). Bob Ekblad Bob and Gracie live in the Skagit Valley in Washington state. They have three adult children and minister together at Tierra Nueva.
Ms. Francis comes from a non-Christian family, yet had a dramatic encounter with the Lord when the truth of John 14:6 overwhelmed her. She recalls, “The burdens of my heart were rolled away and I was free.” Since her conversion, the Lord has given her a compassion for women and children who have faced trauma, and now works as an ambassador of Christ to reach out to them. When introduced to the wonderful work started by Pandita Ramabai, she witnessed the powerful impact the ministry was having on society, and committed to be a voice to the voiceless. “It has been an exciting journey with Mukti Mission for the past 27 years; I can hear the words resonating from Isaiah 62.1 “For Zion’s (Mukti’s) sake I will not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness…”” Ms. Francis, along with her husband, studied at All Nations Christian College, Hertfordshire, England for two years, obtaining a Diploma in Biblical and Intercultural Studies, and today continue to serve at Mukti. In addition to their Lorraine Francis two daughters, they now and have hundreds of spiritual children from Mukti Mission. Her desire is to serve the Master with excellence and upright- ness of heart; making use of every opportunity to bring a spark into someone’s dark world.
William Franklin Graham IV (Will) is the third generation of Grahams to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ under the banner of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Will is the grandson of Billy Graham and the oldest son of Franklin Graham. The first of Will’s crusade-style events—called Celebrations—took place in 2006 in Leduc, Alberta, Canada. Since then, he has held evangelistic out- reaches on six continents around the world. “I’m not trying to be the next Billy Graham; I’m just Will Graham,” says the ordained minister. “I have a burden in my heart to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If that’s to an arena full of people or one person on the street, I will do whatever God is calling me to do.” Will also serves as VP of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and as executive director of the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove in Asheville, N.C. In 1997 he graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Religion and earned his Masters of Divinity in 2001 William Franklin from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Graham IV Will and his wife, Kendra, have two daughters, Christine Jane and Rachel Austin, and a son, William Franklin Graham V.
Terry, who is Mi’kmaq/Acadian, is the Executive Director of Indigenous Pathways, as well as the founding Chair and current Director of NAIITS, an Indig- enous learning community. He holds an interdisciplinary PhD from Asbury Theological Seminary, specializing in Theology and Anthropology, and in 2015 was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Acadia University. As part of his work with NAIITS’ Terry serves as adjunct professor at George Fox Evangelical Seminary in Oregon, Acadia University & Divinity Col- lege in Wolfville, Providence University College in Otterburne, and Tyndale University College & Seminary in Toronto, where he also serves as program elder for the University B.Ed. program. Terry has accrued over 38 years of community work in Native North American and global Indigenous contexts. In 2010, Terry became the 28th recipient of the Dr. E.H. Johnson Memorial Award for Innovation in Mission – an award he holds in common with Terry LeBlanc such distinguished recipients as Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Terry and his wife Bev are in their 44th year of marriage. They have three adult children each of whom is active in the Indigenous community through their vocations, sharing their parent’s commitment and dedication to see change for Indigenous people in this generation.
Brian McConaghy is the only member of the RCMP to have smuggled 9 tonnes of medical supplies across international borders to save lives. His life has been an unlikely journey from RCMP Forensic Specialist to acclaimed human trafficking expert, with a life-long commitment to see hope and justice for victims in Cambodia. As a young Forensic Specialist with the RCMP, he ended up in the middle of a war zone on the Thai-Cambodian border while on a vacation to South East Asia. Completely overwhelmed by the devastation of the Killing Fields, he returned to Canada determined to do something. Two suitcases of medical supplies turned into an entire shipping container, sparking the beginnings of Ratanak International more than 25 years ago. His RCMP work continued with the investigation of serial killer Willy Pickton and the dark world of prostitution. Brian’s expertise eventually placed Brian McConaghy him on cases unlike any other: crimes of a Canadian pedophile, introducing Brian into the shattering world of child sex slavery in Cambodia.
Evelyne Reisacher is currently associate professor of Islamic studies and intercultural relations at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, U.S. Before joining Fuller, Reisacher worked at an organization called L’Ami for 20 years in France, facilitating the relationship between churches and North Afri- can immigrants. Additionally, she developed courses, teaching tools, and seminars for effectively sharing the gospel cross-culturally. She is the author of Joyful Witness in the Muslim World: Sharing the Gospel in Everyday Encounters, with Baker Academics (2016) and is the general editor of Toward Respectful Understanding and Witness among Muslims: Festschrift in Honor of J. Dudley Woodberry (2012). Her articles include reflections on Muslim-Christian relations, gender in Islam, mission in Muslim contexts, and multicultural relations. Reisacher is also involved in several global mission networks. She travels regularly to Muslim majority countries to teach and encourage churches. Reisacher was a plenary Evelyne Reisacher speaker at the InterVarsity Urbana Conference in 2015.
Missions Fest – 2017 15 Indigenous Theology: Changing the Ministry Landscape The way forward is behind us… Terry LeBlanc, PhD
When I was a young boy, my grandfather, father, and I travelled some Creator through Jesus required rejection of their own culture, and the distance from our home community to go fishing at a spot known only adoption of another—European in origin. In consequence, conven- to my grandfather. Having driven as far as roads would take us, we got tional approaches to mission with Indigenous peoples in North Amer- out of my grandfather’s old beater and, gathering our gear, set out on ica and around the world have produced relatively dismal outcomes. the trail toward this favourite fishing spot. We soon found ourselves The net result has been to subject Indigenous people to deep-rooted in the middle of a deep, dark woods making our way along a narrow self-doubt at best, self-hatred at worst. As Isabelle Knockwood, a survi- trail where, with each passing step, the way ahead and behind became vor of a Church-run Residential School observed, less and less perceptible. On more than a few occasions I expressed my I thought about how many of my former schoolmates, concern to my grandfather; each time he sought to reassure me. like Leona, Hilda and Maimie, had died premature deaths. Finally, unable to hold in my anxiety, fearful about what lay ahead of I wondered how many were still alive and how they were us, even more anxious that the way back would never again be found, doing, how well they were coping, and if they were still car- I tugged frantically on my grandfather’s arm. “Grandfather, Grand- rying the burden of the past on their shoulders like I was.1 father,” I cried out, “We’ll be lost!” Sensing the rising fear in me, my grandfather knelt down and, after reassuring me more fully, taught me Countless efforts, over the past four centuries or more, have been a lesson—one that has guided my thinking and actions from that day targeted not so much to spiritual transformation as they have been to this. In the mixture of languages that was his habit of speech, he told to social and cultural annihilation (many of these spawned in the 20th me that each new trail we take could seem like it leads along an uncer- century alone). The relatively unambiguous mandate of many mission tain path; the way back can seem unclear, obscured by the landscape. conferences in the 20th century was, ostensibly, to continue civilizing “But,” he said, “When you set out on a new trail, if you spend twice as and Christianizing—a task begun as far back as the earliest mission of much of your time looking over your shoulder at where you have come the Jesuits at the beginning of the 17th century. Their collective failure from as you do where you are going; if you fix the landmarks behind to produce the outcomes intended might cause us to conclude that In- you in your mind the way they will appear to you when you turn to take digenous people possess a unique spiritual intransigence to the Gospel. the trail back, you will never become lost—you will always be able to But that would not tell the whole story. find your way home.” The real tale is best told through a more careful examination of the That day, my grandfather gave me the ability to find my way to and numbers of Indigenous people who, despite the tragic engagement of from all of the various destinations in life that would lie before me; all Christian mission in their lives and communities over the centuries, still of which, as I set out on each new trail, were initially unknown. Con- claim affinity to one tradition or another of the Christian church—and temporary societies—not just North American—are no longer used of these there are many. Here we discover people from the Arctic to to looking at where they have come from. They are far more fixated Mexico, Oceania to Australia, stumbling heavenward within the King- on an as yet unknown and unknowable future—on what comes next. dom of God despite the bleakness of their current social realities— Rather than use the past to help determine where they are on the trail much of which is clearly and unequivocally connected to the wrong- of life in relation to where they started, they plunge ahead, frequently headedness of mission to their people.2 blindly, expecting that the future will correct any mistakes they make Christianity, as presented to us over the centuries, offered soul salva- in navigation. tion, a ticket home to eternity, but had been essentially unconcerned with the rest of our lives—lives that history makes clear, were none- Mission’s Indigenous impact theless fully exploited by those bringing the salvation offer. It was in For generations, Native North Americans and other Indigenous peo- 1999, with this and more in mind, that the renewed controversy over ples have lived the false belief that a fulfilled relationship with their Indigenous cultural and theological contextualization of the gospel
16 Missions Fest – 2017 compelled our small group of Indigenous Je- Another shift lies in our biblical starting Though there are other shifts we have sus followers to respond. Since that time, our point. Western theology, in the firm grip of made, one other that is significant lies in our unwavering commitment has been to facili- Augustine’s articulation of sin and sin’s na- understanding of story. To us, communal nar- tate transformation and growth through the ture, has inevitably commenced its theologi- rative serves a hugely compelling and signifi- power of the gospel as over against the propo- cal undertakings with the Genesis experience cant function. It can be both objective and sitional, controlling, westernized, religious ex- of chapter three, “the fall.” It is precisely this factual, containing clear teachings for life, pression of that gospel often presented to us. practice that made it theologically possible which, if ignored, put one in dire peril, while At times this has been a daunting task, since for missionaries and monarchs, Popes and simultaneously mythic and broadly flourished the juggernaut of Western mission, theology, priests, vicars and viceroys, to proclaim our for narrative effect—all in an integral collec- and theological method has tended to decry lack of humanity and soullessness—to pro- tion where one form is not valued above the as heterodox, anything of a contrary nature.3 nounce, as did missionaries of the 17th century, other. Each form or genre of story, each teller Central to accomplishing our purpose “These heathen must first be civilized so that of a story within the grander narrative of the is the challenge of a deep-seated Western they might then become fit receptacles of the community, is fitted within the wider collec- ethnocentrism in theology and mission—at Gospel of Jesus Christ.”5 Curious that a people tion; a compendium the community stewards least as experienced among our own people. who believed in the omnipresence of God through the generations to teach about the It is our view that the essentially mono-cul- could announce his absence from what they world and the way of life within it. Removing tural, mono-philosophical foundations of deemed to be a godless, heathen land and one, subjecting one to dissection, or truncat- Christian faith in North America have stulti- people! ing its meaning by casting doubt on its au- fied theological and therefore missiological Compounded dualisms together with this thenticity, when the ancestors have clearly development for many decades, relegating Genesis 3 start, created the European frames included it, destroys the whole. the practice of faith to variant but nonethe- of reference whereby Indigenous peoples As one member of our community has said, less unhealthy patterns of self-absorbed indi- could be relegated to a state less than human “Changing the story of the Three Little Pigs and therefore subjected to a capricious death vidualism. to remove the house of sticks and go directly at the hands of European colonials as per Aqui- Our response to all of this is visible in several to the house of bricks is to lose the story. My nas’ own thought centuries before… shifts. grandchildren would respond and say, ‘Noo- “Unbelievers deserve not only to kum, that’s not the way the story goes!’” This Old foundations, new footings be separated from the Church, but means, to most of us who are Christian, that First, we have shifted away from the dualisti- also... to be exterminated from the the Scriptures must not be dissected by liter- cally framed philosophies within which Europe- World by death.”- Thomas Aquinas, ary method—or even contemporary narrative Summa Theologica, 1271. an and Euro-North American theologies have theological technique—so as to arrive at the been classically undertaken, to a more holistic This and other sentiments exactly like it are “essence of the story” and its teachings or the philosophical frame of reference. Active en- what grew (and continue to grow today) from central story-teller’s words; nor can we assign gagement with traditional Indigenous thinking the interlacing of a Genesis 3 starting point any new meaning we like according to our and a more biblically faithful position toward with theologies rooted in binary thinking. own experience; doing so truncates the story, the gospel has been the result of this shift. To Our history as Indigenous people, and our rendering it impotent. Indigenous people, life is not easily captured in general disposition toward life, suggests that Our hope in making these shifts is to bring the simple binaries and either/or realities still so all of creation is of a spiritual nature—not just change for our people, and others who may comfortably situated within Western thought. human beings. We see this clearly expressed in wish to come along on the journey—all rooted The Hebraic “both/and” is much more akin to Scripture (e.g. Genesis 1:28-30; Job 12:1ff; Ro- in the story of the person, work, life, teaching, our philosophy than the Greek “either/or.” mans 8:22ff). This has implications for how we death, and resurrection of Jesus. Consider, for example, the continuing West- view the work of Jesus and the cross—not sim- ern struggle to understand that the whole of ply as providing for soul salvation, but rather (Endnotes) creation is the focus of God’s redemptive ac- ensuring the restoration of all things to the 1 Knockwood, Isabelle. Out of the Depths: The tivity in Christ. The Christian Scripture is abun- plan and intent of God. Experience with both Experiences of Mi’kmaw Children at the Indian dantly clear that redemption through Jesus’ the biblical text and life itself tells us that all Residential School at Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia. 1992. P. 134. work on the cross has implications far beyond of creation is possessed of a spiritual nature— 2 Native North Americans “lead” in all the our generally limited focus on the restoration and all is the focus of God’s redemptive activ- negative social statistics in Canada and the of human beings alienated from their Creator. ity in Jesus. United States as well as in Mexico: poor health, If the covenant of Genesis 9 were insufficient Christian theology has struggled to com- addictions, family violence, unemployment, to make the case, Paul is crystal clear that “ prehend this, assigning the labels pantheism homelessness, lack of education etc.; with the extremely high representation among First whole creation has been groaning as in the or panentheism to a more inclusive under- nations, Inuit, Métis and Native American pains of childbirth right up to the present time” standing of the nature of the spiritual, which communities. (Rom. 8:22). The context is clear, it awaits its includes the rest of creation as a concomitant 3 It needs to be said at this point that neither own redemption—a status that has been put focus for Jesus’ work on the cross. To be sure, conservative nor classic liberal Christians— particularly in the USA—are significantly on hold, he further notes, as it “waits in eager human spirituality is augmented, and there- different in this expectation. Both, with their expectation for the sons [and daughters] of God fore differentiated from the rest of creation by respective points of dogma, expect their to be revealed” (Rom. 8:19). the gift and impartation of God’s image and particular tracks to be followed. Seldom in evangelical writing does the likeness—now marred by the collapse of cre- 4 I note the very recent work by Howard Snyder idea that Jesus came to give his life so that the ation’s harmony. But this does not diminish the and Joel Scandrett, Salvation Means Creation Healed, as a recent change in thinking. rest of creation might also be redeemed find spiritual nature of the rest of creation, render- 5 Chrestien LeClercq, 1620 New Relations of 4 a voice. ing it “inanimate stuff.” the Gaspesians.
Missions Fest – 2017 17 Creating Beauty from
AshesIsaiah 61:3 Lorraine Francis MUKTI MISSION—HOW IT BEGAN
Born in 1858, Pandita Ramabai, the founder Left to herself, Ramabai was married to were forcibly placed onto the funeral flames of Mukti Mission, was a gifted woman from a Bengali lawyer when she was 22. After of their dead husbands to fulfil their duty as a Brahmin family. Contrary to all Indian cus- 19 months, he died of cholera, leaving her wives. Those who escaped became prosti- toms at the time, Ramabai’s father taught alone with a young daughter. In her desire tutes for they thought it was better to have his wife to read the sacred language of to find peace for her soul, Ramabai under- such a life than be tortured by their husbands’ Sanskrit while Ramabai was in her mother’s went long and arduous pilgrimages and it families as a widow. womb. After Ramabai was born, the child was through the Wantage Sisters within the On her return to India from England, Rama- quickly picked up all the sacred scriptures Church of England that she was converted bai was conferred by the Government the title (slokas) as she was highly intelligent. At and received baptism in 1883 while on a ‘Pandita’ which is the highest title possible for just eight years old, she could recite 18,000 trip to England. Ramabai was so amazed an Indian woman. slokas. However, a tragedy struck the fam- to experience the care, dignity and accep- The renowned Pandita Ramabai Mukti Mis- ily, and Ramabai lost both parents and an tance given to women overseas that her sion, having its headquarters at Kedgaon, was older sister to starvation during the fam- heart was filled with compassion for her founded by Pandita Ramabai in 1889 and is ine of 1876-1877. She was left in care of her Indian sisters. still serving India’s women and children today, older brother, Srinivas. The two siblings in In those days, throughout India, widow- standing as a Lighthouse in India. The main their desperate condition continued their hood was regarded as a punishment for sins mandate of Ramabai’s work was to rebuild, search for spiritual enlightenment and eter- committed by women in their past life on restore and renew lives and places that have nal peace. Ramabai would lose her one and earth. Hence, countless young widows (even been devastated for generations and it still only brother in 1880. child widows as young as nine years old) continues to do so.
18 Missions Fest – 2017 (Is. 61:4). This Mission has been instrumen- mission field, and we wanted to immediately Mukta suffered from a severely dislocated jaw tal in saving hundreds of women, girls, and start a new revolution at Mukti, turning it up- which impacted her looks. She could not go child widows from what many have found to side down. However, God raised mentors for to school like other children in the neighbour- be a life worse than death. us who tenderly counselled us and led us into hood. One day, a Good Samaritan who hap- Lovingly called ‘Mukti’, we have 18 branch- what we call “contextualization.” While at Muk- pened to know about the great work Mukti is es spread over 8 states of India, mainly in trib- ti, we were soon blessed with another daugh- undertaking for children and women, came al places where people are living in wretched ter, Amanda. After completion of our 14 years over to Mukta’s house and introduced Mukti conditions. Money lenders swindle them of service at Mukti, we were given a sabbati- to the Mukta’s father—and that’s how Mukta completely of their dignity and take their cal of 2 years to study at All Nations Christian came to Mukti with her father. minority-aged children as bonded slaves. In College, England, where we successfully com- No sooner had Mukta become a member such situations, Mukti has been reaching out pleted the Diploma in Biblical and Inter-cultural of the Mukti family, she was blessed with an to the needy, under-privileged children and Studies and came back to join the Mukti family artificial leg which fit her very well and looked their families by educating and empowering who were anxiously waiting for our return. almost like her natural leg. She could go to them to go out and be salt and light in the Our two years spent in England was re- school, play in the garden and run and jump, community. freshing and rejuvenating but we were long- just like any other child her age. One day ing to come back to our own people and serve during VBS, Mukta surrendered her heart to MY PERSONAL STORY them with greater enthusiasm and zeal. What Jesus and received Him as her personal Sav- Coming from a non-Christian background, as a welcome we received after our two years’ iour and Lord. She excelled in her studies and a young woman, I was running from pillar to stay overseas. By this time, I had grown in my soon reached high school and went on to uni- post for peace and tranquillity. One evening, Christian experience and my heart yearned versity. Mukta always believed that the Lord in the quietness of my room, I sensed an in- more and more to counsel the girls and give Jesus whom she had placed her trust would vitation from the Lord Jesus welcoming me them a hope and a future. Anil’s background never leave nor forsake her. Mukti was able to into His arms. A small Gospel tract spelling being finance and administration was a great arrange a couple of facial reconstructive sur- out John 14:6—”I am the Way, the Truth and support. His fatherly persona and dry sense of geries for Mukta who is now both a beautiful the Life...“ was given to me by a colleague at humour meant volumes for the children and and confident young woman. Mukta has now work. When my family heard about my new teenagers. In April 2010, I was given the role completed her Masters in Social Work and is conversion, they were not happy about it. of being the Director and Anil, my husband, serving on staff at Mukti. Grateful for what My older sibling arranged with my parents Chief of Operations. We continue to carry Mukti has done in her life, she readily shares to harass me to the extent of putting me these roles today and it is our constant prayer the wonderful story of how Mukti helps re- out of home. However, the God of Justice that the Lord must give us hearts that are will- build, restore and renew lives, creating beauty who brought light into my dark world says ing to serve Him in any capacity—whether from ashes! in Is. 49:15—“I will never leave you nor forsake it is to clean the tables, feed the children or you!” A caring family from church welcomed wash one another’s feet. MUKTI’S VISION: Christ centred homes where me into their home and to cut the long story To end my article, my heart resonates with destitute women and children irrespective short, in a year’s time, I was engaged and mar- Mukta, a poor shepherd’s daughter who was of their background are accepted, cared for, ried to the young man who had given me the brought like a little lamb by her father on his transformed, and empowered to be Salt and Gospel and led me to the saving knowledge shoulder. When Mukta was five years old, her Light in the Society. of Jesus Christ. Since then, my journey of faith left leg had to be amputated because it had began and the Lord wanted to use me as an turned into gangrene after a sharp bone got MISSION STATEMENT: We seek in the Spirit of instrument to bring justice to the abandoned into the sole of her foot and had become se- Christ, to sow seeds of change in the lives of ev- and those who were stigmatized for no fault verely sore. Due to lack of medical facilities, ery individual under the care of Mukti Mission, of their own. this injury was ignored until one day the doc- skilfully counselling them to deal with issues In 1988, when our first daughter, Abigail, was tor told her father her leg needed to be ampu- of life, initiating varied opportunities of heal- 16 months old, Anil and I joined Mukti Mission tated if her life was to be saved. As if this wasn’t ing and shaping them prayerfully as models of as missionaries. We were young, fresh to the enough, due to an incorrect tetanus injection, God’s Kingdom for Society at large.
Missions Fest – 2017 19 Prayer at MFV
Interactive Prayer Stations (Ballroom B) Friday Pray for mission by engaging with our new interactive 3pm Land and Human Rights in Cambodia - prayer stations. Stations include: Manna4Life • Justice, Healing and Reconciliation by North th American Indigenous Ministries (NAIM) 5pm Canada’s 150 Birthday - Voices Together
• Environmental Stewardship and our role in the Saturday world by A Rocha 1pm Salvation in Vancouver - Festival of Hope • Canada by Outreach Canada 3pm Peace in Colombia - Colombia Para Cristo • Justice Issues by International Justice Mission (IJM) Society • Bibleless People Groups by Wycliffe 5pm Reaching the Muslim World - Sat7 • "Go"ing by Gateway Training for Cross-Cultural Sunday Service (WEC) 1pm Prayer for the Jewish people and the nation of Israel – Sid Roth’s Its Supernatural! Intercession (Ballroom B) Also located in Ballroom B, are teams of Intercessors 3pm Making the Church a Place of Healing for who will be praying for the conference. Volunteers can Aboriginal People - Healing at the Wounding Place sign up for shifts throughout the weekend. For more information: missionsfestvancouver.ca. Personal Prayer Ministry (Lobby- Room Next to Backpack Check) Window on the World (Ballroom B) Is God speaking to you about participating more Ballroom B is a busy place with its focus on Prayer! intentionally in his mission, but you don’t know where Throughout the weekend, agencies will give concise, to start? Do you need healing or want to know God’s eight-minute presentations on issues from around the comfort? We have trained prayer teams from the world. Those in attendance in the ballroom at that time Healing Rooms Vancouver who would love to pray with will be invited to join in a moment of prayer for each of you. Feel free to drop-in. the topics highlighted.
How will you live justly in 2017? Tweet at #MFV2017
20 Missions Fest – 2017 REACHING CANADA FOR CHRIST The 700 Club Canada is an inspirational mix of dynamic Christian testimonies, Join hundreds of families life-transforming Bible and churches across Canada teachings, and insightful and become Superbook DVD Club members commentary. Join our Superbook ® is an amazing co-hosts Brian Warren and collection of animated Bible Laura-Lynn Tyler Thompson adventures that kids and parents every weekday and be love. Join the Superbook DVD Club encouraged by what God today at 700Club.ca is doing here in Canada.
Check your local listings for Superbook Superbook viewing in your area or visit Kids Bible App Radio App 700Club.ca. Download these apps at CBN.com/SuperbookApps COME BY AND SEE US AT OUR BOOTH #V06
MISSIONS FEST SPECIAL PROJECT 2017
Build a relief kit to provide practical help to those affected by crisis. When people are uprooted by war or disaster, these kits RELIEF help them remember that they are not forgotten in the KITS midst of turmoil.
4 large bars bath soap 4 adult-size toothbrushes 1 fingernail clipper (good quality) 1 package sanitary pads (18-24 count thin maxi) 1 box adhesive bandages (min. 40 count, assorted) 1 plastic shampoo bottle (380-710 ml; place in Ziploc bag)
Bring your completed kit in a box or bag to the Missions Fest conference, January 27-29, 2017; and drop it off in the designated bins in the lobby or at the MCC booth (J8&9). *All items must be new and in their original packaging*
Missions Fest – 2017 21 Saturday Night @ MFV Youth Rally with Jon Neufeld SPEAKERS: BRIAN MCCONAGHY AND WILL GRAHAM WORSHIP: JON NEUFELD Jon is one of the founding members of Starfield. After 15 years, and with the winds of change blowing, Jon felt the call to get planted in a local congregation. There he started to write amazing worship songs which many of us enjoy. In addition to his passion for music he’s a strong advocate for Food for the Hungry and whenever possible looks for ways to combine wor- ship and justice. with Tickets on Eventbrite Details: Saturday/ 7pm/ Hall A/ $14 Jon Neufeld November 1st
Middle School Rally SPEAKER: MIKE BROWNLEE WORSHIP: THE REGEN BAND Regen Band Regen is a collective that was initiated to reach students through engaging and dynamic worship. The band is comprised of young adults from Coastal Church. They are passionate about reaching the next generation with the Gospel and leading them to experience transformative encounters in His presence. Details: Saturday/ 7pm/ Meeting Room 1,2,3/ $8
Atesto Atesto Vancouver is a movement with a desire to utilize the power of creative storytelling to bring people together and make Jesus known. Atesto Vancouver exists to encourage those who are part of the local church, to recognize Jesus’ presence in their stories, along with the significance of sharing these stories and exercising God-given gifts. For more information, visit http://www.atestovan.com
Details: Saturday/ 1:30pm/ Hall A/ Free
22 Missions Fest – 2017 Missions Fest – 2017 23 Advocacy alongside ex-offenders as a kindness leading to repentance
Bob Ekblad
Twenty-two years ago, my wife Gracie and I founded Tierra Nueva in Bur- sentment towards the State for requiring supervision, which is tech- lington, Washington among migrant farm workers from Mexico. It was nically part of their prison sentence. People too often miss these ap- then that I was simultaneously recruited to serve as chaplain to Spanish- pointments, triggering threats of further imprisonment. Increasingly, speaking inmates in Skagit County Jail. Since our earlier work with Tierra ex-prisoners are being charged by the DOC with “escape,” and pursued Nueva in Honduras involved leading Bible studies with peasant groups by heavily-armed authorities who function as bounty hunters. that often included local outlaws, I felt comfortable accepting this posi- I have accompanied a man I’ll call Mike (not his real name), on his tion. After three months serving exclusively Mexican inmates, I was asked journey since I met him in our local jail in 1994 when he was charged for to take on chaplaincy to the entire jail population. This was my induction participating in a drive-by shooting. He went off to prison at that time into a whole new world that has broken my heart and become the heart- for several years and has since done other prison sentences. Mike is a beat of what we now do inside and outside the jail and prison system. Caucasian man who grew up on the streets of Skagit County, adopted Tierra Nueva now includes a team of 18 or so ministry workers who as a young teenager into the homes of Mexican immigrant youth. Mike lead regular gatherings with women, men and juvenile jail inmates and became involved in gangs along the way and began dealing drugs. with Spanish-speaking prisoners in a nearby state prison. Our entire This landed him in the juvenile detention system and eventually in the ministry now revolves around inmates, ex-prisoners and immigrant Washington State prison system. I have pursued him consistently over workers. Included in Tierra Nueva’s outreach is a Family Support Cen- more than twenty years, reading the Bible and praying with him when ter, gang outreach, migrant farm worker chaplaincy, our leadership he’s been in jail, keeping tabs on him and responding to his occasional training center (The People’s Seminary) and a growing Sunday wor- pursuits of me during times of crisis. I have often felt like a kind of King- shipping community. dom of God bounty hunter, and Mike says he has greatly appreciated Advocacy before the local authorities is a regular activity of our staff it. “You are like a dad to me, Bob,” he told me recently through the glass that comes naturally as we walk with people pastorally. The following in the jail visiting booth. story comes from Tierra Nueva’s growing focus on serving people re- Mike was most recently released over two years ago, using Tierra cently released from prison. Nueva’s address as his release address, as he had planned to go Washington State’s Department of Corrections (DOC) typically through our recovery program that was at that time based in the build- keeps people released from prison sentences under probation for pe- ing. Financial and family pressures soon got the best of him and he de- riods of time ranging from two months to several years—depending cided to return to a business he knew well that had recently become on their crimes. It is difficult for people who have experienced their legal—growing marijuana. At the same time, he missed his meetings sentences under DOC custody to see probation officers as on their side with the DOC, ignoring the threats of sanctions. Heavily-armed DOC or in favor of their success. Men and women coming out of prison have agents surrounded our building looking for him, and he managed to a myriad of pressures upon release, including finding housing and em- elude law enforcement for over two years. The DOC charged him with ployment with the label “felon” or “ex-con,” paying off fines that have “escape” and began pursuing him in earnest. Mike owned a number gone into collection, getting drivers licenses re-issued that have been of cars that he made sure were registered in the names of friends who suspended due to driving infractions or not paying child support and didn’t have active arrest warrants. He maintained his grow operations re-connecting with estranged family members and children. and kept in close contact with his daughter, keeping out of more dan- Probation officers require regular check-ins during business hours, gerous pursuits of the past. I learned the places he frequented and we which interrupts work and requires travel. There is often a level of re- found ways to meet up to talk and pray together.
24 Missions Fest – 2017 Mike’s girlfriend, who had relapsed into her heroin addiction, gave birth to their baby in the local hospital, who alerted Child Protective Services. They put a hold on the newborn, who needed special medical attention as he was born with heroin in his system. Mike reached out to me saying he wanted to turn himself in to the DOC and comply so he could get custody of his son. He was afraid that the escape charge might carry a serious sentence. I offered to make contact with the DOC to find out about this charge and facilitate his turning himself in. I talked with a clerk at the front desk of the DOC, and learned that the local director had been increasingly filing escape charges on people like Mike with the county Prosecutor. I was informed that I would have to talk personally with the director about his case. A female law-enforcement officer in a green uniform with a bullet proof vest and big badge came out the door just then and I asked her the name and phone number of her chief. “Good luck,” she told me. “But I wouldn’t get my hopes up.” I called the head official and made an appointment to see her the next week. The day came and I met up with the chief in the DOC’s wait- ing room. She was formal and tough, politely shaking my hand before ushering me through the security door and into her office. She herself was dressed in the same green military-like uniform as the officer I’d met the week before. I explained my long history of accompanying I called Mike as I drove away and reported my conversation to him, Mike as his pastor, of his growing openness, changes I had witnessed telling him I hoped I didn’t make things worse for him. I warned him to and of the recent birth of his son and his desire to turn himself in and be sure and keep his hands in the air if they eventually catch him. be in full compliance. I asked the woman if she had filed an escape “Don’t give them any excuse to pull the trigger,” I warned. charge and if so how long the standard sentences were and whether “Wow, Bob, thanks so much for all you do for me. That’s amazing! I there was a possibility of her withdrawing the charge. don’t think it will get me into any more trouble than I’m already in. And She wouldn’t confirm that she’d filed an escape charge, but since I’d I’ll be careful for sure,” he said. gotten confirmation elsewhere I told her that I knew she had filed the Mike continued to elude the DOC for the next six months. He was fi- charge and asked if she would consider withdrawing it if Mike turned nally caught and sent back to prison for a month-long penalty. He told himself in that same day. me that he found himself suddenly surrounded by officers from the “If you are trying to negotiate something for Mike I can assure you FBI, the DOC and local law-enforcement, all with guns aimed at him. that there will be no negotiating,” the woman told me sternly. “Tell “I remembered your words which I always take as coming from God, your friend that his only option is to turn himself in.” Bob. I grabbed my dog with both arms so they could see I couldn’t reach I told her that I was in full favor of Mike’s compliance with DOC and for anything else. To tell you the truth Bob, I am relieved to finally have only wanted to make it easier for him and them to turn himself in. She been caught,” he told me through the glass in Skagit County Jail’s visit- looked at me suspiciously and asked if I was aware of any criminal ac- ing booth. Now he’s in solitary confinement back in our local jail, facing tivity he was engaged in currently. I told her that I knew about his past drug charges that he’s sure he can beat. In my last meeting he told me activities but didn’t think he was involved in any criminal activity but that he was given a thick file to look over to prepare his own defense. couldn’t guarantee it. She asked me if I knew where he was and I told “In that file I found a verbatim report from the DOC official that doc- her that I saw him from time to time but didn’t know where he was umented your meeting with her,” he told me with a smile. living. At this point she looked at me straight in the eyes and spoke “Thanks so much for that, Bob,” he said. “It means a lot!” sternly and threateningly. Today there’s an urgent need for Christians to join the ranks of Jesus’ “Listen, Mr. Ekblad, if you know of Mr.______’s whereabouts, we bounty-hunter followers. Like Jesus, we seek after lost sheep until we find could have you arrested for aiding and abetting a fugitive.” them. Unlike probation officers and other law-enforcement agents who I looked her in the eyes and surprised myself with both my boldness carry them back to jail or prison, our focus is to bring them into sheep- and the anger that was rising up inside. pen churches where we celebrate their return. Rather than emphasizing “Don’t threaten me,” I told her. “I have been pastoring people like compliance with the threat of fines and other sanctions, our focus is on Mike for 22 years. I know the laws, my rights and my responsibilities. So comforting, encouraging and defending (1 Cor. 14:3). We engage in the do not try to intimidate me. ” ministry of the Holy Spirit, who is called the Defender, Advocate or Helper She stood up and pointed to the door and said in a commanding in John’s Gospel (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). The Greek word underlying voice: “This meeting is over. It’s time for you to leave my office now.” this is paraklete—meaning the one who calls out from alongside. Rather “Gladly,” I said, and stood up calmly and went out the door and than siding with the system focusing on requiring compliance with laws, began walking down the hall past other offices, the official following Jesus-followers must be first and foremost friends of sinners, embody- closely behind. Right before leaving through the security door I turned ing Christ’s unconditional love. This friendship certainly includes helping and said some final words: “I am sorry that you won’t show mercy, that people do what’s necessary to stay free and rebuild their lives. However, your heart has become so hard.” let us be sure that our actions on behalf of people are in alignment with Once out in the waiting room my heart was beating in my chest. I the God who consistently stood with the accused over and against the could feel the rage and powerlessness that ex-prisoners must feel as accuser, offering salvation by grace to the undeserving. Embodying the they deal with State officials. Just then a young man covered in tattoos kindness of God as Jesus did is more effective than the strictness of our who I knew from the jail came in for his appointment. He smiled, glad current legal systems. Jesus-like kindness will lead to repentance and res- to see me and my heart was warmed. toration, and the Kingdom of God will come close.
Missions Fest – 2017 25 2017 Mini-Conferences
Mini Conferences are new to Missions Fest Vancouver for 2017. They are opportunities for you to learn from experts who are collaborating together to help you go deeper into a subject than can be done in a seminar, and to develop a practical response that can be tied back to your community. Tickets are $10 and include a coffee break. Pre-register at missionsfestvancouver.ca or purchase tickets on-site in the VCC lobby. RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS: RESPONDING TO OUR SHARED HISTORY Description: Residential Schools are impacting people today and the solutions are not quick fixes. It may take generations to change, but it starts today. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada states that rec- onciliation is “about establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country.” In the Calls to Action developed by the TRC, the church needs to learn about its role in colonization; the history of residential schools; and why apologies to the victims and families were necessary. In 2 Corinthians 5:19 “He has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” What will the ministry of reconciliation look like in your life?
Co-presented by: TEMERA MILLAR, NORTH AMERICA INDIGENOUS MINISTRIES | TERRY LEBLANC, INDIGENOUS PATHWAYS RANDY BARNETSON, STREET CHURCH AND FIRST NATIONS BIBLE COLLEGE | BYRON GRANT, NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH
EARTH-KEEPING AS MISSION: CARING FOR PEOPLE AND CREATION THROUGH SMALL SCALE SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE, LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY Description: Caring for creation is a Gospel issue and it is also a matter of justice. Being in right relationship with God leads us to a right relationship with self, others and creation. This mini-conference explores what “shalom” looks like on the ground for people and places. We will also take the mandate of caring for creation right into your church and discover very practically what you can do through community gardens locally, as well as supporting small-scale farmers in the Global South.
Sessions: 1. An introduction to Creation Care. 2. Caring for Creation is a Justice Issue. 3. How Can Your Church Care for Creation? 4. Community Gardens and Food Security. 5. Unbend the Trend: Supporting Small Scale Farmers in the Global South.
Co-presented by: MARKKU KOSTAMO, A ROCHA CANADA | GORD KING, CANADIAN BAPTIST MINISTRIES | PAUL HAGERMAN, CANADIAN FOODGRAINS BANK | JASMINE KWON, OMF
ENDING POVERTY TOGETHER BOOT CAMP: RETHINKING CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS Description: Come and experience an interactive workshop from a biblical worldview designed to help redefine your understanding of poverty – both causes and solutions – in Canada and abroad. Connect with like-minded individuals while gaining a healthy, hope-filled approach to engaging in poverty alleviation.
Sessions: 1. Impoverished Thinking: A need to redefine poverty. 2. We’re All in this Together: Our work is relational. 3. Holos: Our understanding of poverty is holistic. 4. Beyond the Band-Aid: Changes that Last. Co-presented by: WENDY TOEWS & ROBYN MCALISTER, FOOD FOR THE HUNGRY
26 Missions Fest – 2017 FRUITFUL FRIENDSHIPS WITH MUSLIMS Description: In 2015, 25,000 Syrian refugees arrived in Canada. They joined with many others who are arriving as refugees or immigrants from coun- tries where they have never had a chance to understand the good news of redemption found through Jesus Christ. As Canada becomes more ethnically diverse, each of us who loves Jesus will need to grow in our understanding of the worldview of others; to build relationships that allow conversation to grow from pleasantries to the core questions that our new neighbors are wrestling with. Come learn tips that will help you build friendships, develop confidence to engage in meaningful conversations, and understand the issues that need to be addressed in order for Muslims to discover who Jesus is.
Sessions: 1. Understanding the Muslim presence in Canada (religious, worldview and cultural make-up). 2. Discover who is ministering to Muslims in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. 3. Exploring bridges in faith. 4. Roundtable discussion on ways to build friendship and open dialogue with Muslims. Co-presented by: ART KLASSEN, PIONEERS | LORNA JOHNSTON, OUTREACH CANADA | ROLAND MULLER, WEC INTERNATIONAL AND GUESTS FROM CNMM, JOURNEY HOME, MIDDLE EASTERN FRIENDSHIP CENTRE, WYCLIFFE AND GENERAL CONFERENCE BAPTIST
NO LONE RANGERS: A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH TO MISSIONARY CARE Description: Missionary Care seminars have been a feature at Missions Fest over the past 3 years, however common feedback has been the desire to go deeper into the “how to’s” of providing care to missionaries. This mini-conference will provide you with that opportunity. Featuring live testimo- nies and case studies on the partnership between Church, Agency and Missionary, you will walk away with a foundational plan for your community to support missionaries well.
Sessions: 1. Why care for missionaries is needed. 2. Bridging gaps in care through collaboration and partnership between a sending church, agency and missionary. 3. Live testimonials and perspectives on real issues missionaries face. 4. Small group breakout discussion over case studies. 5. Practical advice on coordinating, co-developing and co-operating in care. Co-presented by: JOHN BEST, WILLINGDON CHURCH | LORI NICKEL, MB MISSION | GILBERT & LYDIA NIGH, SIM
Missions Fest – 2017 27 General Sessions We’re so excited to worship together in our General Sessions through music, the arts and the word, that we’re making a big deal about them this year. You won’t want to miss any of the sessions! Our guiding scripture in each session is The Lord’s Prayer and we’re using the following definition of justice. Justice is a right relation to God, actively overflowing to self, neighbour, and creation; a foretaste of the flourishing and peace of God’s Shalom.
To help in our journey of discovering God’s heart for justice, we have allotted a specific portion of the story to be the focus in each of the General Sessions.
FRIDAY NIGHT: Knowing God as a just God becomes a compelling invitation to participate in the ministry of justice. TERRY LEBLANC | BOB EKBLAD |CINEMATIC POETRY BY MORE THAN 12 | WORSHIP CENTRAL
SATURDAY MORNING: Beautiful, right relationships between people are a manifestation of justice. EVELYNE REISACHER | BRIAN MCCONAGHY | AMELIA LEE | WORSHIP CENTRAL
SATURDAY EVENING: Sharing Jesus is an act of justice. WILL GRAHAM | BRIAN MCCONAGHY | JON NEUFELD
SUNDAY MORNING: As God’s stewards, justice should flow from mankind to all of creation. BOB EKBLAD | LORRAINE FRANCIS | WORSHIP CENTRAL | COMMUNION SERVICE
SUNDAY AFTERNOON: How to weave justice into the fabric of our lives and build Christ’s Kingdom. TERRY LEBLANC | EVELYNE REISACHER | CINEMATIC POETRY BY MORE THAN 12 | WORSHIP CENTRAL Fit Faith Challenge–Street Ministry Join us on Saturday, January 28th as we put the love of Christ into action on the streets of Vancouver. 11am-12pm Gather in Meeting Room 4 for instructions on the basics of prayer ministry and sharing Jesus on the streets, followed by a brief time of prayer. 12:pm – 12:30pm Lunch break. 1:00pm – 2:30pm Street Ministry Outreach. 2:30pm – 3:00pm Re-group for de-briefing (top of escalators by seminar desk-Level 2.) All ages welcome.
28 Missions Fest – 2017 WORSHIP TEAMS
Worship Central
PEDRO AND MARELLY MOTA GREG JUNG Pedro and Marelly are seasoned worship leaders, Ca- Greg is a local worship leader at Co- nadian artists and producers based in B.C., Canada. quitlam Alliance Church, Worship Central They individually pursued their musical and artistic and the Chapel Movement. Growing up dreams and met at Restoration Church in 2010 where in Coquitlam, Greg is passionate about together they expanded their creativity as music di- seeing both young and old people con- rectors and worship leaders. nect with God through worship. More- Pedro Mota In July 2012, they married and as they continued to over, he loves serving alongside his Greg Jung be involved in music and ministry, life took them on a brothers and sisters in Christ to help sudden turn of events that led them to take time to rest unify the local Church in the Lower Main- and rediscover Jesus. They were determined to pur- land. When not playing music, Greg likes sue God’s heart for family and for the world. They then to play basketball and soccer. re-branded Pedro’s creative services to ‘Aplauso Stu- dios’ where they merge visual arts, music and audio to ROSALIND ONONEZE multimedia content. Their musical work includes co- A beautiful Ghanaian by descent, who producing ‘Created to Worship’ by Theo Bessem and was raised in Canada by her two incred- Marelly Mota Walter Josue Band’s, ‘Sentirte, Amarte’, which counts ible parents, Rosalind was keenly in- with the participation of influential Latin-American volved in music from a young age. She worship leaders: Marcos Brunet, Lucas Conslie, and began piano lessons at the age of five David Triviño. In 2016, they founded ‘Faro’, a band that and has been playing on stages ever focuses on musically conveying their love story. They since. Her passion for music landed her Rosalind Ononeze are currently involved with Worship Central and are in in a career of teaching and educating transition as their former church evolves and as they children in music. She is married to her both continue to follow God’s calling on their life. amazing husband and musician Kenneth Ononeze and resides in Vancouver. Rosa- HENDRIK BISSCHOFF lind serves with Worship Central and at Hendrik is the Worship Director of Worship Central her local church Calvary Worship Cen- Canada, and Associate Pastor at a local church in tre—the second largest multi-cultural, Ladner BC. He moved to Vancouver from South non-denominational church in North Africa in 2014 as he felt that God has called him to America, where she enjoys worshiping come serve and love the people in Vancouver. He with her church family. She is one of has an immense passion for music and loves seeing several worship leaders at Calvary and Church unified through worship and relationship. serves as part of the leadership team in Hendrik Bisschoff Hendrik loves playing the guitar, driving his beloved her church. 2002 gold Buick, and growing his beard.
Performing Artists
Amelia Lee An Alberta native, Amelia has been training as a dancer and ac- tress from an early age. It all began with ballet, jazz, tap, vocals and stage, and she later continued to study contemporary, hip-hop, musical theatre, and modern. She spent several years as a member of the professional hip-hop dance crew, Details, where she opened for such artists as the Jabbawock- Cinematic Poetry by More Than 12 Artists eez, George Nozuka, and Politic Spoken word poet Joshua Spence and musician Robin Yeh perform Live. She is also a teacher and prophetic poems about biblical justice, over electronic cinematic chorographer. Amelia has worked music using DJ controllers as instruments. Each piece was produced with various studios across Al- to introduce and elaborate on the themes of for each of the plenary berta and BC to develop award- sessions at Missions Fest 2017. This dynamic duo uses music, rhythm, winning work and is the Creative rhymes and wordplay to creatively voice the heart of God. Director with Atesto.
Missions Fest – 2017 29 FILM FESTIVAL FILM FESTIVAL Ballroom A 1:00 pm FRIDAY UNSHACKLED (20 minutes) Post Film Talk Back 9:00 pm Dalit Freedom Network (Note: no shuttle bus after film.) Canada: www.dalitfreedom.ca SHE HAS A NAME (108 minutes) Post Film Talk Back Unshackled presents the story of India’s Produced by Unveil Studios 250 million untouch- www.shehasanamefilm.com able Dalits who live in Jason, a lawyer, poses as a “john” to build a physical, emotional, legal case against the ruthless pimp traffick- and spiritual bondage. ing girls into Thailand. He meets NUMBER 18, The caste system keeps a girl forced to work as a prostitute in a busy them shackled in a Bangkok bar, only to discover her testimony is vicious cycle of exploitation and abuse, generation after generation. key to proving his case. Can he convince her Due to the widespread belief that they are worthless and polluted, to risk her life to testify for the sake of justice? Dalits are often illiterate and unskilled. This leaves them highly vulner- able to human trafficking and other forms of slavery.
TRAPPED IN TRANSITION (18 MINUTES) SATURDAY Post Film Talk Back 11:00 am Director: Robert Mentov HEALING RIVER (18 minutes) Produced by Partners International Canada Executive Producer: Chui Mai Kan Millions of men, women and Producer/Script Writer: Sylvia Yu Friedman children in the Middle East are trapped in a state of chaos, Director: Key Frame Productions struggling to survive in foreign Tokyo-based Tomoko Hasegawa led countries having been forced reconciliation teams to China to apolo- from theirs. Their futures have gise to the comfort women survivors in been taken from them. They Qinxian and Wuxiang in Shanxi province have lost hope. from 2008 to 2012. These elderly women survivors were almost forgotten by the The stories of these refugees as rest of the world. This Japanese reconcili- told through the eyes of the na- ation team felt a deep moral obligation tional workers serving them is the to apologise to the survivors of Imperial focus of the short film, “Trapped Japanese military sex slavery since their in Transition.” own government had failed to sincerely apologise for the human rights violations of the past. 3:30 pm RSVP: HUNGER (18 MINUTES) FORBIDDEN PEACE: Producer: Uplift Media THE STORY BEHIND THE HEADLINES (47 minutes) Post Film Talk Back Director: RSVP Ministries Produced by: Purple Pomegranate Productions www.rsvpministries.com Beyond the violent images of the Middle East Jada invites us to faith as that permeate the media, these Israelis and she shares her experi- Palestinians share true stories about friend- ences walking through ships once thought impossible bullying, drug addiction and eating disorders to discover that her journey had led her to a place where love, joy and fulfill- ment could be hers in Jesus Christ.
30 Missions Fest – 2017 FILM FESTIVAL FILM FESTIVAL
I AM SECOND: CHAD ROBICHAUX (15 MINUTES) Produced by: e3Partners SUNDAY As a Force Recon Marine serving as part of a Joint Special Opera- 12:30 pm tions Command Task Force, Chad HARVESTING HOPE (8 MINUTES) witnessed unspeakable evil. Eight tours later those memories of Produced by: A Rocha Afghanistan still haunted him. Post Film Talk back with A Rocha His marriage and his family began Talara, Peru is home to one of the most falling apart. “I was out of control,” he says. When PTSD took over, he threatened ecosystems of the world, turned to Mixed Martial Arts to cope. With his marriage “dead” and the coastal dry forest. It is also the suicidal thoughts filling his head, Chad started searching for answers. home of Absalón, president of one of His wife began searching too, and the discovery of those answers led 8 neighbourhood councils collaborat- Chad to a crucial crossroad of decision in his life. ing to restore their land and promote development in their community. Join I AM SECOND: CHRISTINE PETRIC (8 MINUTES) A Rocha Peru and ContourGlobal in a story of hope and justice for the envi- Produced by: e3Partners ronment and people. Born in South Korea, adopted at a young age, and growing up in a predominately white suburban RESERVE 107 (33 MINUTES) environment, Christine Petric was Produced by: Rebel Sky Media constantly reminded that she was different. The one place where Director: Brad Leitch these differences did not seem Indigenous rights to matter was when she excelled and title to the land on the soccer field. At those moments she was the “successful soccer remains a taboo chick” and could forget any awkward discrimination. topic for many across An injury early in her freshman soccer season derailed big athletic Canada, but in the plans, and her extra time ushered in a quickly developing dating small town of Laird, relationship. It took a devastating revelation from her boyfriend that Saskatchewan, an old further rocked her self-esteem before she was ready to see that her injustice is providing new opportunities for dialogue, friendship and a true identity was found in Christ’s love for her. fierce determination to right the wrongs of the past. Post Film Prayer 2:00 pm 7:00 pm SHE HAS A NAME (108 MINUTES) OVER 18 (MATURE CONTENT 16+) Post film Talk Back Produced by Unveil Studios Produced by: Hope for the Sold www.shehasanamefilm.com Over 18 is a clear-eyed exami- nation of modern pornogra- Jason, a lawyer, poses as a “john” to build phy and its effects on kids, a legal case against the ruthless pimp traf- teens, parents, and porn stars. ficking girls into Thailand. He meets NUM- The goal of the project is to BER 18, a girl forced to work as a prostitute educate youth on the realities in a busy Bangkok bar, only to discover her of pornography, help their testimony is key to proving his case. Can he parents understand the grow- convince her to risk her life to testify for the ing epidemic of hard-core sake of justice? porn usage, and propose solutions for preventing expo- sure and addiction in the first place. Find out more at over18doc.com. Some quick stats: Over 90% of boys and 60% of girls have seen porn before the age of 18. 71% of teens hide their online behaviour from their parents. 8th Annual On average, boys see porn for the first time by age 12. 2017
Missions Fest – 2017 31 32 Missions Fest – 2017 SEMINAR SERIES All seminar descriptions on pages 34-35
SATURDAY • BUSINESS AS MISSION SATURDAY • JUSTICE 11:00AM Mission Impossible: Reconnecting Faith 11:00AM Environmental Justice: Promoting the Integrity of Creation with the Marketplace. and the Human Community Room 17 Matthias Hoehne and Paul Stevens Room 13 Matthew Humphrey Regent College A Rocha Canada 12:30 PM A Channel of Hope for HIV & AIDS 12:30 PM How to be in Full-Time Ministry Without Quitting Room 13 Rosemary Hack Your Job Operation Mobilization Room 17 Paul Stevens and Matthias Hoehne Regent College 2:00 PM Injustice, Oppression, Exploitation:The Shocking Realities Room 13 Larissa Wiens 3:30 PM Job Maker, not Job Faker Operation Mobilization Room 17 Ben Tan 3:30 PM OMF International The High Cost of Seeking Justice Room 13 Mark Wollenberg International Justice Mission Canada 5:00 PM Social Enterprise: Mission & Business as Partners 5:00 PM Seeking Justice in an Unjust World Room 17 Andrew Thrift Room 13 Philip Reilly JustWork Economic Initiative International Justice Mission Canada
SATURDAY • MISSIONARY CARE SATURDAY • MUSLIM MINISTRY 11:00 AM Pursuing justice for others: Member Care – Missionary 11:00 AM Using Hospitality in Evangelism Advocacy Room 11 Dina Sabiri Room 07 David Collins Baptist General Conference, Global Missions Canadian MK Network 12:30 PM Major Barriers for Muslims to Embrace the Gospel Room 11 Warren Larson 12:30 PM Living out the Gospel Through Missionary Care Columbia International University Room 07 Dave Penner Canadian MK Network 2:00 PM Ask an Ex-Muslim–A panel discussion Room 17 Steven Masoud 2:00 PM Great Missionary Care Through the Eyes of a Missionary Kid Outreach Canada Ministries (Perspectives Kairos) Room 07 Craig Kraft Canadian MK Network 2:00 PM Ask an Ex-Muslim, a panel discussion (Women Only) Room 11 Lorna Winston 3:30 PM Mentoring Missionary Kids Outreach Canada Ministries (Perspectives Kairos) Room 07 Marilyn Ibsen and Leanne Jeffery Canadian MK Network 3:30 PM Sharing your Faith with a Muslim Millennial in the 21st Century Room 11 John Smith Sprint Pioneers Ministries Inc. 5:00 PM Addictive Behavior in Missions: when your addictions come with you 5:00 PM Moving Beyond Islamophobia Room 07 Anne Shannon Room 11 Mark Robert Anderson Canadian MK Network Immanuel Anglican Church
Key-Note Speakers’ Seminars
FRIDAY SATURDAY
3:00 PM Brian McConaghy 11:00 AM Terry LeBlanc 4:30 PM Evelyne Reisacher 12:30 PM Bob Ekblad 3:30 PM Will Graham 5:00 PM Lorraine Francis
Visit our website often to keep up to date and informed about missions. Go to: missionsfestvancouver.ca
Missions Fest – 2017 33 SEMINARS BY TIME
SATURDAY 11:00 AM Environmental Justice: Promoting the Ukraine’s Injustice vs. God’s Gospel Integrity of Creation and of Humanity Room 06 Mark Huffman International Messengers Fit Faith Challenge Room 13 Matthew Humphrey A Rocha Canada As the war in Ukraine continues into its third year, mil- Room 04 Nelson Huang lions are still displaced, caught and trapped by great Missions Fest Vancouver Thru the Biblical lens of caring for creation & the injustices. However, the Gospel is changing and heal- How do you show your faith? We will go through some poor We’ll explore the issue of Justice. Contemporary ing hearts in Ukraine. Come and hear how the church do’s and don’ts of street evangelism and prayer and environmental challenges will be discussed & drawing in Ukraine is using the Gospel and the war to change from Biblical truths, We’ll understand how Christ is Ukraine’s oppressive injustices. then hit the streets in small teams. We believe that calling His Church to embrace the work of promoting God will move powerfully. & maintaining Creation’s integrity. Living out the Gospel Through Missionary Care Bringing the Disabled to The King’s Table. Just Sex Room 07 Dave Penner Room 05 Ruth Kebede Room 16 Page Letendre and Sarah Lewis Canadian MK Network The Holy Spirit Ministry Pregnancy Options Centres All of us who serve in full-time ministry believe that it Join us as we explore what the bible says about God’s What does justice have to do with sex? Plenty. We’ll is only by grace that anyone can experience the trans- sense of love and justice towards disabled people and compare society’s view of justice to the Biblical view forming power of the Gospel. The Gospel we profess the implications for us today. specifically as it relates to sex & sexuality. Thoughtful must be demonstrated as we care for our own. examination of Jesus’ life & ministry will reveal how Restorative Justice-50-years story of M2/W2 we’re to uphold the Biblical definition of justice in our To act justly and to love mercy in Indigenous own life & our world. territories Room 06 Raymond Robyn Room 09 Bill Chu M2/W2 Association - Restorative Christian Ministries Mission Impossible? Reconnecting Faith Canadians For Reconciliation Society M2W2 responds to the Christian call to remember with the Marketplace. A post-colonial look at past and present realities those in prison (Heb 13:3). For over 50 years, volun- Room 17 Matthias Hoehne and Paul Stevens of Christianity on Canada’s native lands and how teers have been relating to inmates, offering them Regent College proclaiming, without embodying the Gospel, in all friendship, hope and support during incarceration and its dimensions has and will fall short of Micah 6:8. This introductory seminar explores God’s perspective mentor them as they are released and transition back Lausanne Movement, with local applications, will offer on the marketplace. We will address common miscon- hope to redeem both communities. into society. ceptions and challenges about being a Christian on this unique mission field and practical ways to engage Pursuing justice for others - Missionary Advocacy in building bridges of faith in the marketplace. Mental Health, Faith and Community Room 07 David Collins Room 10 Sarah Kift Sanctuary Mental Health Ministires Canadian MK Network God’s Heart for Social Justice Does your church talk about mental health? Is your Unless you are familiar with cross-cultural living, it Room 18 Mark Maxwell faith-based organization able to support clergy, staff, is very difficult to understand the needs missionaries Prairie College congregants, neighbours who are experiencing, living experience both on and off their place of assignment. We will explore the Biblical foundation of the call to with or concerned about mental health? Join us to talk This seminar explores several necessary points of Christians to engage in the ministry of social justice about practical ways to offer faith-based responses to consideration when caring for the needs of missionary at home and abroad. Understand some of the specific MH recovery. personnel. issues we face in our generation, and how we can engage in offering help to those who seek justice. Major Barriers for Muslims to Embrace the Gospel Incarnational Ministry: Can I Possibly do this Room 11 Warren Larson Youth in a Troubled World: Engaging Global Long Term? Columbia International University Youth Ministry Muslims are currently coming to Christ in unprec- Room 09 Silas Krabbe Room 19 Gord Nickerson Jacob’s Well edented numbers but often face huge barriers (histori- Josiah Venture Canada cal, political, cultural and theological) to understand- We’ll reflect on strategies for staying well and sustain- Worldwide, the scope of youth ministry is changing as ing the Gospel. This seminar will equip us to help. ing long-term relational ministry in the face of burnout, issues of justice become more prevalent. We’ll discuss cynicism, compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma. challenges faced by those entering this mission field Refugees and the new Europe as well as competencies and characteristics required Room 12 Howard Moore How to assess and treat children of trauma for fruitfulness. Learn keys ways to engage in global Greater Europe Mission Room 10 Steve Anderson youth ministry. The huge numbers of migrants crossing the The Wanted Children Foundation Mediterranean is a key issue in Europe. Tensions con- The Wanted Children Foundation uses the latest child tinue to mount over the implications of their presence. SATURDAY 12:30 PM But this is also a tremendous opportunity for believers trauma treatment strategies to help Nigeria’s orphans to demonstrate in actions and words the importance and vulnerable children in their attempts to reclaim of the Gospel of Prince of Peace. some level of normal childhood. Learn how to engage A Just Pathway – the process half a world away and make a difference. Responding to Relationship Abuse A Channel of Hope for HIV & AIDS Room 04 Lorrie Wasyliw Room 13 Rosemary Hack Using Hospitality in Evangelism W.I.N.G.S. Fellowship Ministries (Women in Need Gaining Strength ) Operation Mobilization Room 11 Dina Sabiri This informative discussion on “HIV, AIDS and Me: Baptist General Conference, Global Missions We have seen the devastating impact of abuse that permeates many relationships, within and outside the Why should I care?” answers basic questions and Prayer, friendship building, and hospitality are ways to local church. Explore a just gospel-centered response more, venturing into the current challenges that exist reach out to the Muslims. What can you do to reach to the issue and the people trapped within, including around the world, and explores how we can respond out to a Muslim? practical ideas for both individuals and churches to act practically to these needs. in justice and love mercy. Responding Holistically to Human Trafficking Responding to the refugee crisis, Room 16 Stephen Philps one person at a time. Using Business for Advocacy Partners International Canada Room 12 Loren Balisky Room 05 Christina Granholm You&Her Vancouver Human trafficking is a 152 billion dollar business, Kinbrace Community Society exploiting vulnerable individuals for sex, labour & Join me as I share my experience of starting a justice Numbed by numbers (65 million forcibly displaced, more. How can the Church respond? Moldova and oriented social enterprise and business venture - Kolkata, India will be discussed as we examine this over 23 million refugees) its tempting to avoid the You&Her. It takes guts to raise your hand and be an most significant refugee crisis our world has seen in issue at length & present lessons on how we can make answer to injustice - with some tools and guidance I a difference in Canada & in the nations. 70 years. Welcoming refugees one at a time changes hope to help with the initial step! everything.
34 Missions Fest – 2017 SEMINARS BY TIME
How to be in Full-Time Ministry Without Child Soldiers - Terrible Tragedy, SATURDAY 3:30 PM Quitting Your Job Terrific Triumph Room 17 Paul Stevens and Matthias Hoehne Room 10 Scott Gillespie Seeing, Thinking and Acting like Jesus Regent College Action International Ministries for the Sake of the Oppressed Have a heart to share the Gospel in your workplace, The horror of child soldiers used around the world Room 04 Chris Insaidoo but feel constrained by corporate policy or unspoken has been largely overlooked by the church and soci- Operation Mobilization Ghana boundaries? We’ll explore the biblical definition of ety. This seminar seeks to educate and activate the Christians are called to be salt and light, to shine in ministry, offering practical examples on ministering a dark world. Darkness is absence of light. There to personal, spiritual, social and organizational needs Church to help eradicate the use of child soldiers and reach out to those affected by it. should be no darkness wherever we find ourselves. in the marketplace. This seminar is on how to engage the church and society to see, think and act like Christ in seeking How Culture Shapes Justice Ask an Ex-Muslim, a panel discussion justice for the oppressed. Room 18 Mark Naylor (Women Only) Northwest Baptist Seminary Room 11 Lorna Winston Evangelising Amidst the Injustices of Concepts of justice are shaped by culture. Without Outreach Canada Ministries (Perspectives Kairos) Superstitions & Racism cultural sensitivity, efforts to enforce justice cross This Seminar will be open to open women only. A Room 05 Paul and Sharyn Branson culturally are colonizing impositions. Recognizing our moderated panel discussion in which the panelists House Upon the Rock filters is the first step in re-framing our worldview Pulling from 20 yrs of stories and experience, we within the proper context, equipping us to make will be briefly introduced prior to fielding audience questions. will be teaching and sharing on how to evangelize appropriate and sustainable change. in a culture that is strong in superstitions, voodoo and racism. How do you evangelize when the culture Where Justice Does Not Prevail What we Learned from Living with Refugees believes, “Nothing is a sin unless you’ve been caught, Room 19 Paul Estabrooks and Jim Cunningham in Canada therefore, why do we need Christ?” Open Doors Canada Room 12 Randy Wollf The World Watch List records and ranks the worst ACTS Seminaries of Trinity Western University Fighting Poverty with Literacy countries for Christian persecution. We will discuss With firsthand experience of living with refugees in Room 06 Jessie Dias the top ten, exploring the plight of these nations as a small apartment in the Lower Mainland, Randy Canada Institute of Linguistics / Wycliffe Bible Translators well as the response and hope of Christians in these shares practical guidelines in preparation for your According to UNESCO, the global literacy rate in areas where there is no justice. own unique mission experience. Randy will present 2015 was 86.3% and much of the 13% remaining many valuable lessons he and his family learned are in some of the world’s poorest areas. Come find out how literacy and economic development are con- about serving newcomers to Canada. nected, and how, through literacy, the Church can SATURDAY 2:00 PM bring Christ to the poor and lead them out of poverty. Injustice, Oppression, Exploitation: Loving through fostering and adoption The Shocking Realities Room 04 Kristjen Hull Mentoring Missionary Kids Abba Canada Foundation Room 13 Larissa Wiens Room 07 Marilyn Ibsen and Leanne Jeffery Canadian MK Network There are millions of children around the world and Operation Mobilization right here in Canada, that don’t have a family. James We all must stand up against injustice, oppression Mentoring can significantly benefit any MK who is 1:27 says that God wants us to get involved by caring & human exploitation! Having worked as a Freedom transitioning from their host country to their passport for the waiting children here in Canada and around Challenge leader in Africa, Larissa will be sharing country. What approaches are disempowering, and the world. Learn how you can share your love through first-hand experiences of encountering & combating what are beneficial for the MK who needs both help - fostering and adoption. ful information and the confidence to successfully injustice. Hearts will be moved into action, taking up integrate into their passport culture? Drivers and Barriers to Mission Engagement; the call to defend the weak & powerless. EFC Report Sharing the Good News with Muslim Room 05 John Denbok Reversing Colonialization in Missions Friends & Neighbours Serving In Mission (SIM) Room 16 Barry Buzza Room 09 Fadi Sharaiha Report on the Canadian Evangelical Missions Northside Foursquare Church - Coquitlam SAT-7 Canada Engagement Study; a national study researching the Evaluating the philosophy of missions, We’ll discuss Living as a minority evangelical in the Muslim country drivers and barriers to missions engagement as well the issues of colonialism & its effects in relation of Jordan, Fadi Sharaiha ED of SAT7 knows a thing as trends that influence engagement. to church planting abroad. We’ll explore the better or 2 about effective strategies for sharing the gospel approach to cross-cultural ministry which focuses with those entrenched in Islam. Come see how those Isaiah 1:17 Doing Justice as my Vocation on developing indigenous people, empowering them lessons can be applied to our mission field here. Room 06 Lowana Lee (Isaiah 1: 17 ) W hat does i t mean t o do justice i n through training to reach their own people. Understanding People, Mental Illness and Trauma my world? Room 10 Lyn Westman MSI Canada Ask an Ex-Muslim–A panel discussion Mercy Ships (USA) The seminar will briefly explore the concept of Room 17 Steven Masoud Provides basic models to assess vulnerable popula- Justice in the Old Testaments, the Gospels and Acts Outreach Canada Ministries (Perspectives Kairos) tions, such as children, women, homeless, and older and how it could be applied in today’s corporate world at home and cross culturally overseas. A moderated panel discussion in which the panelists adults. Basic counseling skills, referral and network- will be briefly introduced prior to fielding audience ing are emphasized. Great Missionary Care Through the Eyes of a questions. (This panel discussion is open to all.) Missionary Kid Sharing your Faith with a Muslim Millennial Room 07 Craig Kraft Developing Immigrant Pathways to Jesus in the 21st Century Canadian MK Network Room 18 Rick Love Room 11 John Smith Sprint Pioneers Ministries Inc. Taking the “Family Feud” game show approach, we Love New Canadians will draw out of Missionary Kids what great member The gospel story is still good news today. However, Our neighborhoods continue to develop a multi- Arab millennials don’t turn to radio or reading books care looks like in their opinion. As host, I will use cultural mosaic. We’ll discuss effective inter- cultural key questions with two teams of MKs ‘battling’ for when they have spiritual questions. They check out the win. These questions will be raised and briefly bridges to Jesus that’ll move us from assisting with social media from the privacy of their mobile devices. debated amongst the MK team members. settlement programming in our neighborhoods to How can the timeless story be shared effectively with engaging in spiritual conversations. them in the digital age? Generous Spaciousness: navigating LGBTQ+ matters with grace BC, Climate Change, & the Gospel Lessons from Colombia on the Politics of Room 09 Wendy VanderWal Gritter Room 19 Gary Hewitt Social Justice New Direction Ministries Earthkeepers Room 12 Russell Stendal Colombia Para Cristo Society Generous Spaciousness is a posture that invites Climate change is considered one of the single big- followers of Jesus to pursue mature discipleship in gest threats facing humanity. Join us as we examine There are many lessons to be gleaned from thirty community where there is significant diversity and years of ministry to the fighting factions of Colombia’s difference. The particular case study to be consid- this crisis through a scriptural lens and explore prac- Civil War. Many top leaders came to Christ, leading to ered in this workshop is how to journey together tical ways in which Christians can respond. four years of successful peace negotiations. What is when we disagree about same-sex marriage. God’s perspective and directive on social justice now that the shooting war is over?
Missions Fest – 2017 35 SEMINARS BY TIME
The High Cost of Seeking Justice Effective Support Raising Seeking Justice in an Unjust World Room 13 Mark Wollenberg Room 05 Evelyn Tan Room 13 Philip Reilly International Justice Mission Canada Power to Change Ministries International Justice Mission Canada Justice is a word that evokes many actions & emo- Is support raising one of the major concerns for you Throughout scripture, pursuing justice on behalf of the tions; for some, the interest is short-lived. The real- when considering full time ministry? Or are you a mis- poor & vulnerable was a gateway for the Kingdom of ity is, that the pursuit of justice is not a quick or sionary who could benefit from some encouragement God to be ushered in. Join with us as we explore what glamourous endeavor. Perseverance, dedication & and tips on raising support effectively? Come and it means to be bearers of God’s truth, bringing hope, self-sacrifice lead to a relentless passion to stand firm hear stories and new ways to engage with supporters love & salvation to our broken world. & fight for justice for the oppressed. and churches. Justice in a Pornified World Youth & Child Exploitation in BC and your Buddhism and Justice: Karma's Inescapable Room 16 Joshua Gilman Neighbourhood Retribution Strength to Fight Room 16 Cathy Peters Room 06 Alex Smith Child-slavery, poverty, human-trafficking, domestic Generations Church OMF International violence, abortion & spiritual apathy. All of these Human trafficking, sexual exploitation, youth & child Karma is justice for one billion self-reliant Buddhists. societal ills can trace their cause back to the plague of exploitation is the fastest growing crime in the world, It is impossible to escape. Hell and heaven are tempo- pornography in society. We’ll discuss practical ways to Canada & locally. As Christians, we have a respon- rary; merit and good works are ineffective. A just God fight back, and how a porn-free society would change sibility to be the voice for the voiceless & advocates doesn’t exist to them! This harsh justice without mercy the whole world. for those who feel forgotten. Learn practical ways to or grace needs Christ’s Gospel. engage in making a difference. Mission & Business as Partners in Social Addictive Behavior in Missions: When your Enterprise Job Maker, not Job Faker Addictions Come with You Room 17 Andrew Thrift Room 17 Ben Tan Room 07 Anne Shannon JustWork Economic Initiative OMF International Canadian MK Network The work we do every day matters to God. Discover A unique niche has been carved out for profes- A general overview of addictive patterns that present how social enterprise and the Christian narrative come sionals entering the mission field thru foreign in many forms on the mission field. What factors can together to address economic injustice by providing business opportunities. As a job maker (creating be identified in screening for the field and what are work for the common good. jobs) or job taker (filling a posting), many have the varying levels of care that can be provided once earned the confidence of host nations, creating on the field? Rethinking What You Think You’re Thinking a platform for Christ to be known thru integrity Room 18 Thomas Atema & actions. The Ten Commandments and Communities Heart for Lebanon Foundation of Justice What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘refu- Justice and the Gospel on an Indigenous Room 09 Joy Banks and Mark Glanville gee’? Our worldview cannot help but be influenced Reserve Grandview Calvary Baptist Church by the media, particularly with recent coverage of the The Ten Commandments shape the church to live as Syrian refugees fleeing their country. Raw emotion Room 18 Don Klaassen coupled with tangible fear leads to a polarized view on Outreach Canada Ministries (CNMM, CMKN) a contrast community, a place where the most vulner- able among us are brought to the centre. Join us to an important issue of justice. Reconciliation is the open door to loving relationships explore practical ways in which churches can work for with our Indigenous neighbors. Drawing from Sardis a society in which everyone is dignified. I Am Filmmaker: Tell a Better Story Community Church’s experience, we will discuss Room 19 Tim Hall practical steps from preparation to partnering with an Incarnational Ministry among the I am Filmmaker Indigenous reserve. Unreached, Urban Poor Raise awareness & inspire change by telling a story Room 10 Aaron Ng and Jen Schneider well. Join industry professionals for an interactive When Not Helping Hurts More MoveIn workshop in story structure, sequence and techniques Room 19 David Blundell “The Word became flesh and moved into the neigh- for capturing the best shot. Participants will finish with Hungry For Life bourhood.” (John 1:14 The Message). Hear how God is a filmmaking project. Note: Video editing will not be In our desire to not hurt while we are helping, we can using teams of regular Christians to be the presence part of this workshop. easily become paralyzed by the fear of doing it wrong of Jesus in places that are often overlooked - some and do nothing. Of course we must implement best are here in our city. practice in short-term missions and develop sustain- SATURDAY 6:00 PM ability, but we also must respond to the call to simply Moving Beyond Islamophobia give and go. Room 11 Mark Robert Anderson The Master Storyteller’s Guild Immanuel Anglican Church Room 19 Tim Hall (2 hours) We need to move beyond distortions of Islam, which I am Filmmaker SATURDAY 5:00 PM appeal to our natural fears. We must see Muslims as What if I told you that every Hollywood blockbuster, people with the same hopes and fears we have and superhero comic & mythological fable flows from the more importantly, the same hunger for God. We must Pray, Plan, Prepare, Proceed - the Gospel on pen of a single author? What if this Master Storyteller share Christ with them joyfully as the one whose per- chose you as an apprentice? Join “I Am Filmmaker” the Coast fect justice they deeply long for. facilitators to open up the pages of story, scripture and Room 04 Sarah C Buschhaus your own life-journey. Coastal Missions Love your “International Neighbour” Much goes on behind the scenes before coastal Room 12 Stephen Scott International Student Ministries Canada missionaries can “go ye.” What does it take to bring the Gospel to remote and often inhospitable You may have noticed that the DNA of your neigh- parts of the Pacific Northwest coastline? Gain bourhood looks different than it did ten years ago. Cross-cultural missions have now become more insight into a world where skiffs replace cars prevalent with the world at our doorstep. This and missionaries live and work together on a seminar will look at how we can love our international mission boat. student neighbour.
36 Missions Fest – 2017 SEMINAR PRESENTERS
Anderson, Mark Robert Huffman, Mark Reilly, Philip Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 11 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 06 Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 13
Anderson, Steve Hull, Kristjen Robyn, Raymond Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 10 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 04 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 06 Atema, Thomas Humphrey, Matthew Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 18 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 13 Sabiri, Dina Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 11 Balisky, Loren Ibsen, Marilyn and Leanne Jeffery Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 12 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 07 Scott, Stephen Banks, Joy and Mark Glanville Insaidoo, Chris Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 12 Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 09 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 04 Shannon, Anne Blundell, David Kebede, Ruth Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 07 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 19 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 05 Sharaiha, Fadi Branson, Paul and Sharyn Kift, Sarah Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 09 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 05 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 10 Buschhaus, Sarah C Klaassen, Don Smith, Alex Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 04 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 18 Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 06
Buzza, Barry Krabbe, Silas Smith, John Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 16 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 09 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 11 Chu, Bill Kraft, Craig Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 09 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 07 Stendal, Russell Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 12 Collins, David Larson, Warren Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 07 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 11 Stevens, Paul and Matthias Hoehne Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 17 Denbok, John Lee, Lowana Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 05 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 06 Tan, Ben Dias, Jessie Letendre,Page and Sarah Lewis Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 17 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 06 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 16 Tan, Evelyn Estabrooks, Paul and Jim Cunningham Love, Rick Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 05 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 19 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 18 Gillespie, Scott Masoud, Steven Thrift, Andrew Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 10 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 17 Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 17 Gilman, Joshua Maxwell, Mark VanderWal Gritter, Wendy Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 16 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 18 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 09
Granholm, Christina Moore, Howard Wasyliw, Lorrie Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 05 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 12 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 04 Hack, Rosemary Naylor, Mark Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 13 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 18 Westman, Lyn Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 10 Hall, Tim Ng, Aaron and Jen Schneider Saturday 6:00 PM•Room 19 Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 10 Wiens, Larissa Hall, Tim Nickerson, Gord Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 13 Saturday 5:00 PM•Room 19 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 19 Winston, Lorna Hewitt, Gary Penner, Dave Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 11 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 19 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 07 Wollenberg, Mark Hoehne, Matthias and Paul Stevens Peters, Cathy Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 13 Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 17 Saturday 3:30 PM•Room 16 Huang, Nelson Philps, Stephen Wollf, Randy Saturday 11:00 AM•Room 04 Saturday 12:30 PM•Room 16 Saturday 2:00 PM•Room 12
Missions Fest – 2017 37 SEMINARS BY CONCENTRATION All seminar descriptions on pages 33-35
SATURDAY • BUSINESS 5:00 PM Love your “International 12:30 PM A Channel of Hope for HIV & AIDS AND TECHNOLOGY Neighbour” Room 13 Rosemary Hack Room 12 Stephen Scott Operation Mobilization International Student Ministries Canada 11:00 AM Mission Impossible? Connecting 12:30 PM Mental Health, Faith and Faith with the Marketplace. 5:00 PM Buddhism and Justice: Karma's Community Room 17 Matthias Hoehne and Paul Stevens Inescapable Retribution Regent College Room 06 Alex Smith Room 10 Sarah Kift OMF International Sanctuary Mental Health Ministires 12:30 PM Using Business for Advocacy Where Justice Does Not Prevail Room 05 Christina Granholm 12:30 PM You&Her Vancouver SATURDAY Room 19 Paul Estabrooks and Jim Cunningham GOSPEL PROCLAMATION Open Doors Canada 12:30 PM How to be in Full-Time Ministry Without Quitting Your Job 12:30 PM To act justly and to love mercy in 11:00 AM Bringing the Disabled to The Indigenous territories Room 17 Paul Stevens and Matthias Hoehne King’s Table. Regent College Room 09 Bill Chu Room 05 Ruth Kebede Canadians For Reconciliation Society The Holy Spirit Ministry 3:30 PM Job Maker, not Job Faker Room 17 Ben Tan 11:00 AM Fit Faith Challenge 12:30 PM How Culture Shapes Justice OMF International Room 04 Nelson Huang Room 18 Mark Naylor Missions Fest Vancouver Northwest Baptist Seminary 3:30 PM Sharing your Faith with a Muslim Millennial in the 21st Century 11:00 AM Using Hospitality in Evangelism 12:30 PM Update from Ukraine: Ukraine’s Room 11 John Smith Room 11 Dina Sabiri Injustice vs. God’s Gospel Sprint Pioneers Ministries Inc. Baptist General Conference, Global Missions Room 06 Mark Huffman International Messengers 5:00 PM Social Enterprise: Mission & 12:30 PM Major Barriers for Muslims to Business as Partners Embrace the Gospel 12:30 PM Refugees and the new Europe Room 17 Andrew Thrift Room 11 Warren Larson Room 12 Howard Moore JustWork Economic Initiative Columbia International University Greater Europe Mission 3:30 PM Lessons from Colombia on the 2:00 PM Injustice, Oppression, SATURDAY • GOING GLOBAL– Politics of Social Justice Exploitation:The Shocking CROSS CULTURAL MISSION Room 12 Russell Stendal Realities Colombia Para Cristo Society Room 13 Larissa Wiens Operation Mobilization 11:00 AM Youth In A Troubled World: 5:00 PM Moving Beyond Islamophobia Engaging In Global Youth Ministry Room 11 Mark Robert Anderson 2:00 PM Isaiah 1:17 Doing Justice as my Room 19 Gord Nickerson Immanuel Anglican Church Vocation Josiah Venture Canada Room 06 Lowana Lee 5:00 PM Pray, Plan, Prepare, Proceed – MSI Canada 11:00 AM Pursuing justice for others: the Gospel on the Coast Member Care – Missionary Room 04 Sarah C Buschhaus 2:00 PM Caring for the Orphan through Advocacy Coastal Missions Fostering and Adoption Room 07 David Collins Room 04 Kristjen Hull Canadian MK Network Abba Canada Foundation SATURDAY • JUSTICE 12:30 PM Responding Holistically to (SOCIAL & ENVIRONMENTAL) 2:00 PM BC, Climate Change, & the Gospel Human Trafficking Room 19 Gary Hewitt Room 16 Stephen Philps Earthkeepers Partners International Canada 11:00 AM Environmental Justice: Promoting the Integrity of Creation and the Human 2:00 PM Generous Spaciousness: navigat- 2:00 PM Reversing Colonialization in ing LGBTQ+ matters with grace Missions Community Room 13 Matthew Humphrey Room 09 Wendy VanderWal Gritter Room 16 Barry Buzza New Direction Ministries Northside Foursquare Church - Coquitlam A Rocha Canada 11:00 AM God’s Heart for Social Justice 3:30 PM Youth & Child Exploitation in BC 2:00 PM Drivers and Barriers to Mission and your Neighbourhood Engagement - EFC Report Room 18 Mark Maxwell Prairie College Room 16 Cathy Peters Room 05 John Denbok Generations Church Serving In Mission (SIM) 11:00 AM Just Sex The High Cost of Seeking Justice Evangelising Amidst the Injustices 3:30 PM 3:30 PM Room 16 Page Letendre and Sarah Lewis Room 13 Mark Wollenberg of Superstitions & Racism Pregnancy Options Centres International Justice Mission Canada Room 05 Paul and Sharyn Branson House Upon the Rock 11:00 AM Responding the world’s refugee 3:30 PM Justice and the Gospel on an crisis, one person at a time. 3:30 PM Sharing the Good News with Indigenous Reserve Room 12 Loren Balisky Room 18 Don Klaassen Muslim Friends & Neighbours Kinbrace Community Society Outreach Canada Ministries (CNMM, CMKN) Room 09 Fadi Sharaiha SAT-7 Canada 12:30 PM A Just Pathway - Responding to 3:30 PM Seeing, Thinking and Acting Relationship Abuse 3:30 PM Fighting Poverty with Literacy like Jesus for the Sake of the Room 06 Jessie Dias Room 04 Lorrie Wasyliw Oppressed Canada Institute of Linguistics (CanIL) / Wycliffe Bible W.I.N.G.S. Fellowship Ministries (Women in Need Room 04 Chris Insaidoo Translators Gaining Strength ) Operation Mobilization Ghana
38 Missions Fest – 2017 SEMINARS BY CONCENTRATION
3:30 PM Understanding People, Mental 5:00 PM Incarnational Ministry among the 2:00 PM Child Soldiers – Terrible Tragedy, Illness and Trauma Unreached, Urban Poor. Terrific Triumph Room 10 Lyn Westman Room 10 Aaron Ng and Jen Schneider Room 10 Scott Gillespie Mercy Ships (USA) MoveIn Action International Ministries 5:00 PM Seeking Justice in an Unjust World 2:00 PM Great Missionary Care Through Room 13 Philip Reilly SATURDAY • MISSIONS The Eyes of a Missionary Kid International Justice Mission Canada Room 07 Craig Kraft AND THE ARTS Canadian MK Network 5:00 PM Justice in a Pornified World Room 16 Joshua Gilman 5:00 PM I Am Filmmaker: 3:30 PM Mentoring Missionary Kids Strength to Fight Tell a Better Story Room 07 Marilyn Ibsen and Leanne Jeffery Canadian MK Network 5:00 PM The Ten Commandments and Room 19 Tim Hall I am Filmmaker Communities of Justice 5:00 PM Effective Support Raising Room 09 Joy Banks and Mark Glanville Room 05 Evelyn Tan Grandview Calvary Baptist Church 6:00 PM The Master Storyteller’s Guild Power to Change Ministries Room 19 Tim Hall (2 hours) I am Filmmaker 5:00 PM Addictive Behavior in Missions: SATURDAY • LOCAL MISSION when your addictions come with you & CHURCH PLANTING Room 07 Anne Shannon SATURDAY • PREPARING FOR AND Canadian MK Network 11:00 AM Incarnational Ministry: Can I SUPPORTING MISSION possibly do this long-term? Room 09 Silas Krabbe SATURDAY • RELIEF Jacob’s Well 11:00 AM Restorative Justice-50-years story of M2/W2 AND DEVELOPMENT 2:00 PM Ask an Ex-Muslim–A panel dis- Room 06 Raymond Robyn 11:00 AM How to assess and treat cussion M2/W2 Association - Restorative Christian Ministries children of trauma Room 17 Steven Masoud Room 10 Steve Anderson Outreach Canada Ministries (Perspectives Kairos) 12:30 PM Living out the Gospel Through The Wanted Children Foundation Missionary Care 2:00 PM Ask an Ex-Muslim, a panel dis- 3:30 PM “But I don’t know how to help!” cussion (Women Only) Room 07 Dave Penner Overcoming mission fears. Room 11 Lorna Winston Canadian MK Network Room 19 David Blundell Outreach Canada Ministries (Perspectives Kairos) Hungry For Life 2:00 PM What we Learned from Living with 2:00 PM Developing Immigrant Refugees in Canada 5:00 PM Rethinking What you Think Pathways to Jesus Room 12 Randy Wollf You're Thinking Room 18 Rick Love Room 18 Thomas Atema Love New Canadians ACTS Seminaries of Trinity Western University Heart for Lebanon Foundation
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16 15 12 ATRIUM FOYER
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Missions Fest – 2017 39 Right Living Among Muslims
Evelyne A. Reisacher
A few years ago a precious Lebanese friend gave me a little wood carv- and a “day-to-day living in which a person conducts all relationships ing of a cedar tree of Lebanon that I placed on my office desk at Fuller in family and society with fairness, generosity and equity.”4 Another Theological Seminary, where I teach. It is engraved with the following theologian, Walter Brueggemann says that, “the ‘righteous person’ is words from Psalm 92 verse 12, “the righteous shall grow like a cedar in characteristically one who invests in the community, showing special Lebanon.” When, at my desk, I take my eyes away from my computer attentiveness to the poor and the needy.”5 As theologian John Gold- screen, they often land on that inspiring verse, a reminder of what God ingay rightly observed, the term “righteousness” has “relationship promises to his followers. connotations.”6 He defines righteousness as, “Acting in the right way That little ornament also reminds me of numerous visits to the beau- in relation to people with whom one is in a relationship.”7 All those tiful country of Lebanon, and occasional walks through its northern definitions emphasize the importance for believers to be sensitive to forest of cedar trees. Although throughout the centuries lots of trees the needs of others in their community and society, while they nurture have been cut down and used as timber for building projects, people a right relationship with God. They cannot live as if they were discon- who like me have walked among the remaining trees understand why nected from their neighbors from far and near. They cannot bury their the righteous are compared to them. Cedar trees are majestic. They are head in the sand and ignore the problems of those who are neglected, tall, wide, and have an attractive fragrance. The quality of their timber ill treated or exploited. Righteous people are deeply concerned about is such that they were used to build the Solomon temple in Jerusalem.1 people around them. Old Testament professor James Bruckner asserts They symbolize vitality, robustness, and longevity since they can live that, “the actions of a tsadiq clearly contribute to the long-term health thousands of years. By comparing the righteous to a cedar tree, the and well-being of the community.”8 psalmist clearly shows that righteousness is a prized virtue and a sig- Unfortunately, I keep meeting people in Christian circles who do nificant asset for society. not believe that righteousness is key to mission. Perhaps they are But what exactly does the word “righteous” mean in this Bible afraid to be so consumed with ethical matters that they give up evan- verse? Since this term is not in common use today, many people may have forgotten its meaning. The Hebrew word used in the original 4 Ibid. biblical text is “tsadiq.” His meaning could be summarized as living 5 Walter Brueggemann, Reverberations of Faith: A Theological Handbook of Old rightly or justly with God and with people.2 Pastor and theologian Testament Themes (Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2002), p. 177. Timothy J. Keller shows that it refers to “a life of right relationships”3 6 John Goldingay, Psalms: Volume 1: Psalms 1-41 (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2006), p. 593. 1 1 Kings 5:1-12. 7 Ibid. 2 Kent Brower writes that, “the basic biblical meaning of the term righteousness… 8 James K. Bruckner, Healthy Human Life: A Biblical Witness (Eugene, OR: is multivalent, describing appropriate actions and attitude in the context of Cascade Books, 2012), p. 98. Bruckner explains further, “In the Wisdom relationships” (“Righteousness,” in Dictionary of Scripture and Ethics, ed. Joel Literature (esp. Job and Proverbs) a tsadiq has specific characteristics. This Green, Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2011, p. 685). person cares for the poor, the fatherless, and widows, defends their causes in 3 Tim Keller, Generous Justice: How God’s Grace Makes Us Just court, is a good steward of land and the non-human creation, lives at peace (London, UK: Penguin Books, 2012), p. 10. with neighbors, and is a joy to the family” (Ibid.).
40 Missions Fest – 2017 gelism. Others may feel intimidated by the word itself, not knowing giving to relatives and forbids immorality and bad conduct and exactly what it means to be a righteous person. It took me some time oppression,”12 and, “O you who have believed, be persistently stand- to realize how important righteousness is for Christian mission. In ing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of 1979, I joined a Christian fellowship of Muslim background believers in a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righ- France, my home country. Together we experienced much joy but also teousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you witnessed much suffering. Many believers from Muslim backgrounds do.”13 These verses, and many others in the Qur’an, suggest that one felt ostracized by their Muslim friends and family when they made of the goals of Islam is to create a just society, where people honor the decision to follow Christ. Others faced discrimination from French God and care for others. This explains why Muslim leaders can rally people upset by the high number of migrants in their country. A sig- enormous support from their followers when they ask them to fight nificant number could not find a job or an apartment because of eth- injustices within families, neighborhoods, countries or even the nic discrimination. Some even faced suspicion and unjust treatment world. Righteousness is a central virtue of Islam. in their church. One North African believer, for example, told me that Does this mean that Muslims have the same understanding of in his church all staff members were given a set of church keys except righteousness as Christians? Not exactly! There are distinctions him because leaders were suspicious of Arabs. This is when I became in the way Muslims and Christians portray the righteous person. aware that right living was key to ministry among Muslim background Muslims follow divine standards of conduct as expressed in the believers. I could not live my life as if Muslims around me did not ex- Qur’an, whereas Christians adopt those expressed in the Bible.14 ist and that their problems did not matter. They were indeed part of Muslims also do not ascribe the same role to Jesus, who is only my community, society and country. Our lives were interconnected, a prophet to them. They do not believe that the righteousness whether we wanted it or not. I therefore decided to embrace the char- of God “is being worked out in the life, death, resurrection and acteristics of righteousness, underlined by theologians above, in my ascension of Christ.”15 But despite those differences, if we want interactions with Muslims. to witness to Muslims living next to us, we must gain a reputa- I learned during those decades spent with Muslims and Mus- tion of being righteous. Oftentimes I have noticed that speaking lim background believers that they pay attention to the way about good conduct does not impress Muslims very much. They Christians behave and whether they are fair, equitable and are more attentive to our witness, when we live a righteous life. generous. Several years ago, I gave a talk on Christians and This fact is confirmed by a study conducted at Fuller Theologi- politics in Beirut, Lebanon. During the time of questions and cal Seminary by J. Dudley Woodberry, Senior Professor of Islamic answers, one Muslim student from the audience asked me: how Studies who interviewed about 750 Muslim background believ- can some Christians claim they worship a just God, while com- ers. He found out that “respondents ranked the lifestyle of Chris- mitting blatant acts of injustice in dealing with people from tians as the most important influence in their decision to follow other cultures, ethnicities and religions? This question made Christ.”16 Consequently, I suggest today to those who want to wit- me aware that we don’t always listen when others feel unjustly ness among Muslims: Don’t limit your witness to words, but live treated especially those who are portrayed as enemies or re- a righteous life among Muslims. How? You can start with follow- jected by our society. God is a just God. The Bible portrays him ing the teachings of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount!17 Follow those as a tsadiq.9 He is indeed a righteous God who defends the teachings in your interactions with Muslim neighbors. And never rights of the fatherless, the oppressed, the poor, the widow, be afraid to add captions to your good deeds. Tell Muslims why the orphan, and the stranger. He is God who formed a cove- you act justly toward them and explain that your life is committed nant with human beings and wants them to be reconciled to to God and that Jesus is your Savior. Him. But the Lebanese student, at the end of my talk, was also Choosing the path of righteousness in mission is choosing concerned about the righteousness of Christians. Today, many to thrive like the cedar tree. It grows best when planted in the Muslims, I know, feel that the rest of the world does not like house of the Lord.18 In other words, mission cannot take place them.10 They are often considered enemies instead of friends. without being deeply rooted in God. I have mentioned earlier Christians are wrestling with how to love them in a world that centuries of deforestation in Lebanon have drastically re- threatened by violence and terrorism.11 I offer Christians one duced the number of cedar trees. Thankfully today, there are solution to the current relational impasse: practice righteous- new initiatives of reforestation in Lebanon,19 which evoke an- ness in your interactions with Muslims. other metaphor of mission. In effect, could we envision refor- After over 20 years in ministry with North Africans, I now teach esting those devastated spaces of Muslim-Christian interactions Islamic Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary. Academic research with lots of cedar trees represented by righteous Christians, who offers me a whole new perspective on the place of justice and righ- respectfully witness to Muslims in words and deeds. Perhaps teousness in Islam. The following passages of the Qur’an, the most those places are near you, even next door. authoritative text in Islam, are an illustration of its multiple refer- ences to those virtues: “Allah orders justice and good conduct and 12 Qur’an 16:90 (Sahih International translation). 13 Qur’an 5:8, (Sahih International translation). 9 Deuteronomy 32:3-4 (NIV) states, “I will proclaim the name of the LORD. Oh, 14 Brower, “Righteousness,” p. 686. praise the greatness of our God! He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his 15 Ibid. ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.” See also, 16 J. Dudley Woodberry, Russell G. Shubin, and G. Marks, Isaiah 45:21 and 2 Chronicles 19:7. “Why Muslims Follow Jesus: The Results of a Recent Survey of 10 See my recent article entitled “A Moratorium on Hospitality?” Fuller Studio, Converts from Islam,” Christianity Today, October 24, 2007 at Spring 2016, at https://fullerstudio.fuller.edu/a-moratorium-on-hospitality/. http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2007/october/42.80.html. 11 Watch my talk at the InversVarsity Urbana Conference in St Louis, MI, on 17 Matthew 5-7. December 29, 2015 entitled Welcome, Wisdom and Wonder, 18 Psalm 92:13. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNd0auxPdis). 19 See for example http://www.reforest-lebanon.org/lebanon-reforestation.html
Missions Fest – 2017 41 Acquainted
Brian McConaghy With Grief RATANAK INTERNATIONAL
I am a weapons specialist by trade and a Returning home, I happened to see a docu- dia and her people only grew. Ratanak Inter- highly trained forensic expert with 22 years’ mentary that featured a little Cambodian girl national, a registered charity, was born and experience in the RCMP. I am skilled in work- named Ratanak. Internationally sanctioned I would devote myself to this calling (while ing with the dead. You might say that my skill embargos prevented necessary medicine from working full time in the RCMP to pay the bills). set is not ideal for evangelism! getting into the country, so she was dying due During the civil war, we would build clinics But what if God can use even me? to a lack of basic medication. The injustice ap- only to have them blown up. Undaunted, we So often God uses our weaknesses and in- palled me. I had to do something so I decided would rebuild and carry on. Clinics grew into abilities to accomplish more than we could to smuggle medication into Cambodia! hospitals, ambulance programs, agricultural ask for or imagine. My plan was to bring two suitcases of care- development, schools, orphanages and emer- In 1989, I took a trip to Asia—the begin- fully chosen medication into the country. gency food distribution. ning of a journey that would completely However, God’s plan (with no consultation As our projects continued to expand, I was change my life. I found myself on the Thai- with me) was to provide nine tons of medica- aware that huge problems had developed in Cambodian border in the middle of a war tion. The political correctness of a member the area of child sex slavery and human traf- zone. Based on my childhood in Belfast and of the RCMP smuggling nine tons of supplies ficking, but I was not involved. my career in forensics, I was at home with through an international UN-supported em- The abuse of children was driven by the loud bangs and stuck around to help a Chris- bargo was doubtful, but I couldn’t get little fact that, in the mid 1990s, international pedo- tian team provide medical services to refu- Ratanak’s face out of my mind. I would pro- philes had discovered that Cambodia’s post- gees through the shelling. There, the recent ceed with what God had put on my heart, ir- genocide society was in tatters. The educated history and current state of Cambodia con- respective of the impact on my career. had been executed, the pillars of society had fronted me for the first time. I was appalled To make a very long story short, the medi- collapsed and the value of human life had and determined to do something more sub- cation got through and was appropriately been destroyed by the world’s most radical stantial to help. distributed. From there, my love for Cambo- communist revolution. It was in this poverty
42 Missions Fest – 2017 stricken moral vacuum that organized crime, this issue as He saw it in all its personal intensity The truck pulled up to the rehabilitation hopelessly corrupt police and legions of des- and torment. He also obliterated any reserva- center and we ran inside to escape the rain. perately impoverished families welcomed tion I had regarding my own abilities to cope From the group of girls that appeared to greet sexual predators armed with cash. If there with such an overwhelming tragedy. While I us, I could instantly pick out the five faces so was ever a perfect storm for the destruction of had no way to find these kids, let alone impact familiar to me. Older now. No longer pained young women and girls, this was it. Unlike sex the child slave industry, I didn’t care. I had to but beautiful, bright and animated. I was industries elsewhere in the world that start do something. In crossing that line, God finally stunned, studying every detail of their smiles the girls around twelve years of age, Cambo- had me where he wanted me—motivated, and drinking in the laughter and joy they ex- dia stooped to a new low, starting both girls passionate and utterly dependent on him. pressed. and boys in the brothels as young as five or six I was now engaged, but felt I had nothing While the fight against child sex exploita- years of age. The implications for these little to bring to the table. Would God show up? tion remains profoundly disturbing, it is evi- lives are absolutely devastating. That very night I went home and was dent through interactions like these that deep Meanwhile, I was content to work on devel- watching “NBC Dateline.” The show was about joy can be found in the darkest stories as God opment programs. I felt totally ill-equipped to (guess what?) child sex slavery in Cambodia. restores and heals lives. deal with such overwhelming evil. Engaging I watched the hidden camera footage of un- Amidst unfathomable brokenness and in child rescue and rehabilitation carries many dercover investigators finding and rescuing pain, what a beautiful gift for these kids to inherent risks. For this is a criminal industry, little children sold into brothels and realized encounter a God who loves them. A God who and the rescue of its young victims is no dif- that the furniture, numbers on the doors, the was born into poverty, who became a refu- ferent than separating a drug dealer from pictures on the walls, even the kids were fa- gee, who had no place to lay his head, who his cocaine. These vulnerable and exploited miliar to me—I had seen them only hours be- would eventually be chased, hounded, cap- young Cambodians are considered a product fore in the evidence tapes! In a frenzy, I got in tured, tortured, shamed and killed... a God and they belong to criminals. This is not a pro- touch with the Vancouver investigation team. these kids can relate to! In meeting this God cess to engage in lightly. Thousands were en- In a matter of hours God had given me both they discover, despite their circumstances, slaved, but I chose not to get involved: it was the GPS locations of the crime scenes and, in a they have a passport and citizenship in anoth- just too overwhelming. few days, the probable identity of the children. er kingdom, a home prepared for them and a That all changed on January 23, 2004. I was God had also accomplished one more “Dad” better than they could ever imagine. working on the investigation on Willy Pick- thing: it was evident that my investigational Such children are a challenge to my anemic ton’s “pig farm” (the serial killer’s home just skills were just a footnote to the story He was faith. Despite the fact that they are considered outside Vancouver) to process the body parts writing. I could stop worrying about my skills a product to be used and abused and that their of so many murdered young women. Through and abilities, or lack thereof, and simply follow suffering is very real, they frequently express a conversation with an RCMP member there, I Him in His work. He makes everything work measure of joy in life. For they have met Christ was alerted to another investigation in Van- together in ways I could never dream of, and and discovered their profound value. They are couver. A man had been arrested for tortur- His hand is especially evident in my weakness. “to die for” no matter how used and battered ing a local victim of prostitution, and upon That file ultimately ended my RCMP career. they come, and that changes everything. his arrest videotapes had been seized that de- It was clear that I needed to devote my life to So often in church we express our desire to picted his abuse of numerous victims. Among serve those exploited in Cambodia. All those be Christ-like, but we often domesticate our the victims were little Asian children, and the years in the RCMP now appeared to be train- faith into something comfortable, something Vancouver Police wanted my assistance to ing and preparation to cope with the emotion- strangely palatable—while the example of identify which country the child victims were al trauma I would confront in this new area of Christ himself presents something much located. I agreed to watch the tapes. ministry. I did not feel ready, but God was. more challenging. He was very clearly “a man Nothing in all my years of forensic work That first investigation led to the develop- of sorrows and acquainted with grief.” Being prepared me for those tapes. They were ment and funding of a high-security reha- Christ-like must then involve, at least in some heart-breaking on a level that I simply cannot bilitation center for children rescued from part, our willingness to acquaint ourselves express. In those videos I was introduced to the brothel. Later came a transitional home, with grief. Not so that we can wallow in suffer- seven Cambodian children—seven little girls vocational skills training, social reintegration ing but rather that we, as His hands and feet, between the ages of seven and nine, seven programs, and repatriation services to sup- can share in the joy of bringing hope where little girls that would change my life. Watch- port these young women as they began new there is none. ing their abuse from a computer monitor as jobs and lives. The injustice of human trafficking is of- they helplessly stared at me obliterated any Five of the original seven girls in those ter- fensive. It is something we would all sooner reluctance to engage in this issue. I immedi- rible videos were rescued. I did not meet them turn away from. Such circumstances present a ately felt driven to seek, find and help these then; they were traumatized and had “met” world that is unimaginable to most of us. But little ones. way too many white males—but knowing what should the Christ-like response be? But the chances of finding them were zero. they were safe was a thrill to me. I continued In acquainting ourselves with such grief, They were trafficked slaves with no birth cer- to pray for them. such suffering, we are not called to be merely tificates, passports or identity. Four years later, I discovered that these offended but called to action! Circumstances They could be in any number of millions of original five recovering girls had been that are overwhelming, offensive and unjust locations. transferred into a foster care program fund- often present the greatest opportunity for However, in my viewing of those tapes, God ed by Ratanak International. You can just us to be Christ-like. For in such situations we had accomplished several things. He had made imagine what a thrill it was for me to be in- don’t have the luxury of relying on our own the issue personal. It was no longer about vited to visit with them during my next trip strength or skills, but rather, we are forced to thousands of faceless victims. I was now seeing to Cambodia! depend on His power.
Missions Fest – 2017 43 EXHIBITORS
Church Theology Evangelism Professional Local Hands On Overseas Family Youth Short Term Long Term
V06 700 Club Canada A06 Canadian Baptists of Western CAN 700club.ca cbwc.ca CC1 A Rocha Canada A01 Canadian Bible Society arocha.ca biblesociety.ca E08 Abba Canada Foundation R08 Canadian Bridges for Peace abbacanada.comdefault.aspx bridgesforpeace.com R05 Acadia Divinity College O03 Canadian Lifelight Ministries acadiadiv.ca thelifelight.com N07 Action Int’l Ministries E10 Canadian Lutheran Bible Institute actionInt’l.org clbi.edu U08 ACTS Seminaries U03 Canadian Mission to Unreached Peoples U09 actsseminaries.com bit.ly2c9vsYh B09 Adopt a Nation R07 Capernwray Harbour Bible Centre adoptanation.org S07 capernwray.ca P04 Adventive Cross Cultural Initiatives Q06 Capernwray Quebec Bible Centre adventive.ca capernwrayquebec.ca S02 Africa Inland Mission Int’l C08 Cedar Springs Christian Retreat Center S03 aimint.org cedarspringscrc.org C12 African Enterprise N11 Celtic Place Retreat & Counselling Centre africanenterprise.ca celticplace.ca H08 Alliance Global Serve Canada C05 Chain of Love Brazil alliancegs.org chainoflove.org T09 Ambrose University College I12 Charis Camp & Conference Centre ambrose.edu chariscamp.com A07 Anchor Academy T11 Child Evangelism Fellowship of BC ark.net cefbc.com L04 Apologetics Canada F06 Choosing Truth Ministries apologeticscanada.com ctmin.org H09 Assoc. of Christian Ministers Vancouver L03 Chosen People Ministries churchforvancouver.catagvoices-together chosenpeople.ca O01 Avant Ministries S05 Christ For The City Canada avantministries.org cfcicanada.org D06 Awana Int’l Canada G02 Christian Friends of Israel Assoc. awanacanada.ca cfijerusalem.org O09 Banner of Truth Radio Broadcast C11 Christian Service Brigade frcna.orgbanner-of-truth christianservicebrigade.ca J04 Baptist Housing T05 Christian Toastmasters baptisthousing.org toastmasters.org Q07 Barnabas Family Ministries L09 Christianity Explored North America barnabasfm.org christianityexplored.ca C01 BC Campus Ministries C03 CLA School of Ministry bccampusministries.com clachurch.com/som L01 Billy Graham U06 Coastal Church L02 billygraham.ca coastalchurch.org R11 Bridges to New Life C07 Coastal Missions bridgestnl.org coastalmissions.ca K05 Briercrest College and Seminary K06 Colombia Para Cristo Society briercrest.ca Q05 Camino Global Q03 Columbia Bible College camcanada.org columbiabc.edu H07 Camp Homewood S08 Commission to Every Nation Canada camphomewood.com cten.org M01 Camp Imadene A11 Compassion Canada M02 imadene.com compassion.ca R12 Camp Luther I09 Compassionate Resource Warehouse campluther.ca crwarehouse.ca I05 Camp Qwanoes L05 Creation Science Assoc. of BC I06 qwanoes.ca L06 creationbc.org AA3 Camp Squeah K04 Dalit Freedom squeah.com dalitfreedom.ca F08 Camp Tulahead Society N01 Daybreak Point Bible Camp camptulahead.com anvilisland.ca A14 CAMPS BC S06 Discipleship Int’l campsbc.com discipleshipint.org AA1 Canada Institute of Linguistics G10 Doing Family Right canil.ca doingfamilyright.com
44 Missions Fest – 2017 EXHIBITORS
Church Theology Evangelism Professional Local Hands On Overseas Family Youth Short Term Long Term
B08 Dusty Sandals Q11 Hope Haven Canada dustysandals.com hopehaveninternational.org B02 Emmanuel Christian Fellowship Centre E06 House Upon the Rock hopeindiamission.org houseupontherock.webs.com B06 Empower Ministries S10 I Am Second empowerministries.ca iamsecond.com H06 Engineering Ministries Int’l Canada S12 Impact Ministries Canada emicanada.org impactministries.ca K10 English Language Institute China V12 In Touch Ministries of Canada elic.org intouch.org T07 Equip G04 Inner Hope Youth T08 equipinternational.org innerhope.ca O11 ERRC Educational Society V03 Intercede Int’l errccanada.org * intercedenow.ca N05 Faith Academy D11 Interserve Canada faithacademy.ca interservecanada.org R02 Fellowship Int’l Mission of Canada G07 Int’l Christian Embassy Jerusalem fellowship.ca int.icej.org G08 Fellowship of Christian Camps - BC A05 Int’l Christian Mission Services christiancamps.ca icmsgo.com Q10 Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers M09 Int’l Justice Mission fcpocanada.com ijm.ca I02 Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches - BC & Yukon E07 Int’l Messengers febpacific.ca Int’lmessengers.org D10 Food for the Hungry B07 Int’l Student Ministries Canada fhcanada.org ismc.ca T03 Foundations for Living F11 Jews for Jesus Canada foundationsforliving.ca jewsforjesus.ca S11 Fraser Valley Gleaners C02 Joint Aid Management fvgleaners.org jam-international.org D02 Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry R06 Journey Home Community foi.org journeyhomecommunity.ca D07 Frontiers C06 Joy Fellowship frontiers.ca joyfellowship.bc.ca G09 Fuller Theological Seminary O07 Kawkawa Camp Society fuller.edu kawkawa.com B05 Galcom International Inc. V01 Keats Camps galcom.org keatscamps.com G01 Gateway Training for Cross-Cultural Service U04 Lifeline Outreach Society gatewaytraining.org lifelineoutreach.org K07 Global Aid Network Inc. U07 Lighthouse Harbour Ministries K08 globalaid.net sealight.org H11 Global Recordings Network Canada P10 Love Corps Mission Society globalrecordings.net P11 O08 Goads & Well-driven Nails D12 Love New Canadians goadsandwelldrivennails.org lovenewcanadians.ca U11 Great Commission Network Worldwide R10 M2W2 Assoc. - Restorative greatcommissionnetwork.com m2w2.com S04 Greater Europe Mission M05 Malachi Man gemission.org malachiman.com L07 Green Bay Bible Camp N10 Manna4Life greenbay.bc.ca manna4lifecambodia.org M03 Group Int’l Missions N09 MARK Centre groupmissiontrips.com markcentre.org E11 Hayate Abadi U10 MB Mission hayateabadi.org mbmission.org M08 Heart for Lebanon Foundation K03 Men For Missions heartforlebanon.org menformissions.org A08 Heritage Christian Online School J08 Mennonite Central Committee BC onlineschool.ca J09 mcc.org Q09 Hindi Punjabi Fraserview Chapel A02 Mennonite Foundation of Canada [email protected] mennofoundation.ca E09 Home for Every Child Adoption E12 Millar College of the Bible ahomeforeverychildbc.ca millarcollege.ca B10, Honeymoon Bay Lodge E01 Mission Aviation Fellowship of Canada B11 honeymoonbayretreat.com D01 mafc.org
Missions Fest – 2017 45 EXHIBITORS
Church Theology Evangelism Professional Local Hands On Overseas Family Youth Short Term Long Term
O05 Mission Eurasia Canada I01 Perspectives Kairos missioneurasia.org perspectivescanada.org O04 Missionary Ventures V13 Pilgrim Book & Bible missionaryventures.ca pilgrimbookandbible.com CC4 Missions Network Int’l M04 Pioneer Pacific Camp CC5 missions-network.org pioneerpacific.ca D08 Moms in Prayer Int’l F07 Place of Rescue Foundation momsinprayer.org placeofrescuefoundation.ca I11 Morning Star Bible Camp K09 Power to Change Ministries morningstarbiblecamp.com p2c.com R01 MoveIn N06 Prairie College movein.to . O06 prairie.edu H12 MSI Canada J10 Praise 106.5FM msicanada.org praise1065.com C09 Multi Nation Mission Foundation Q04 Prayer Current multinationmissions.org prayercurrent.com N02 Multi-Cultural Ministries H04 Pregnancy Options Centres templetour.weebly.com H05 optionscentre.ca F10 Multnomah University M10 Providence University College multnomah.edu providenceuc.ca J01 NCOL Ministries H02 Raptim Humanitarian Travel ncolministries.ca raptim.org M06 Network of Int’l Christian Schools P09 Ratanak Int’l nics.org ratanak.org F03 New Beginnings Arch Ministries N12 Ravi Zacharias Int'l (RZIM) newbeginningsbaptistchurch.ca O12 rzim.ca H03 New Beginnings Women’s Assoc. CC6 Reach Beyond Canada newbeginningsbaja.org reachbeyond.org I04 New Hope Community Services P06 ReachAcross newhopecs.org reachacross.net G06 New Manna Ministries G05 Reachout to Africa newmanna.org reachout2africa.org C10 New Tribes Mission of Canada T01 Reasons To Believe canada.ntm.org reasons.org T10 NightShift Ministries Q08 Rockridge Canyon Young Life nightshiftministries.org younglife.ca V11 North America Indigenous Ministries S01 Rocky Mountain College naim.ca rockymountaincollege.ca U01 Northern Canada Evangelical Mission A13 RSVP Ministries ncem.ca rsvpministries.com L08 Northside Foursquare Church G03 Samaritan’s Purse northsidechurch.ca samaritanspurse.ca J02 Northwest Baptist Seminary M07 Season of Christ Ministries nbseminary.ca SeasonOfChrist.org P01 Nurses Christian Fellowship Canada P12 SEND Int’l of Canada ncfcanada.ca Q12 send.org F12 Overseas Mission Fellowship (OMF) G11 Servant Partners G12 omf.org servantpartners.org R09 One Hope Canada K01 Serving In Mission onehopecanada.ca sim.ca K02 One Mission Society J07 Share Word Global omscanada.org sendme.ca V02 Open Doors Canada F01 Sid Roth - It’s Supernatural! opendoorsca.org F02 sidroth.org L10 Operation Christmas Child CC3 Sprint Pioneers Ministries Inc. samaritanspurse.ca pioneers.ca F09 Operation Exodus Canada P02 Strength to Fight operationexodus.ca P03 strengthtofight.ca L11,L12 Operation Mobilization Q01 Summit Pacific College M11,M12 om.org summitpacific.ca H01 Outreach Canada Ministries J05 Sunday Line Communications Society outreach.ca sundayline.com U02 Partners Relief and Development O02 TeachBeyond partners.ngoca teachbeyond.org P05 People Int’l Canada R03 Teen Missions in Canada gopeople.ca teenmissions.ca
46 Missions Fest – 2017 EXHIBITORS
Church Theology Evangelism Professional Local Hands On Overseas Family Youth Short Term Long Term
E02 The Evangelical Alliance Mission T04 Villages of Hope Africa team.org vohafrica.com P07 The Firs Camps & Retreats A03 Water Ambassadors Canada P08 thefirs.org waterambassadorscanada.org J06 The Gideons Int’l In Canada T06 WeNeedaLAW gideons.ca weneedalaw.ca H10 The Holy Spirit Ministries Q02 West Coast Christian Fellowship wccf.bc.ca R04 The Light Magazine J03 Women in Need Gaining Strength lightmagazine.ca wingscounselling.org B12 The Navigators of Canada O10 World Team Canada navigators.ca worldteam.org I07 Timberline Ranch B01 WorldServe Ministries timberlineranch.com worldserve.ca N08 Transport for Christ AA1 Wycliffe Bible Translators transportforchrist.org wycliffe.ca V09 Trinity Western University B10 Youth for Christ V10 twu.ca B11 yfccanada.org U05 Tyndale University College & Seminary D05 Youth Missions Int’l tyndale.ca missiondifferently.com V04 Union Gospel Mission N04 YUGO Canada Ministries Society V05 ugm.ca yugo.org T02 Vancouver Airport Chaplaincy CC2 YWAM Ships yvrchaplain.com ywamships.net I03 Vancouver Urban Ministries V07 Zoomer Media Television Division myvum.ca V08 zoomermedia.ca I08 Village Missions villagemissions.ca
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E HI E HI 5 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
PLAN IT I IT IO N
EXHIBITION 7 ON HAL L 7 HALL RO W M Q O N G D H U R C B P S E T F L I
8 B HAL L C 8 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 6 6
AND 9 A 9 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
10 7 7 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 10
11 8 8 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
LOCATIONS 11 12 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 9 9 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 13 10 10 – HALL B BOOKSTORE 13 14
AA1 FOOD OUTLETS AA3 AA2 On-site Office Mission Opportunities
Missions Fest – 2017 47 Special Thanks & Acknowledgements
Special Thanks & Acknowledgements General Sessions Missions Fest operates on a modest budget. Audited accounts are Several hundred people from local churches volunteer each year to Worship/Music Worship Central available on request. Although 3-5 staff people work all year to prepare plan and facilitate Missions Fest. We are all grateful for their vision Stage Manager Heidi Quicke for the conference, many volunteers, including professionals, put in and willingness to work so that a needy world will be reached in Ushering John Suan hundreds of hours to plan and facilitate it each year. this generation. Among the many who help, the following is an Hospitality You are invited to share in the financial support of Missions Fest incomplete list of those with specific responsibilities: Billets Pat Roman by making a donation to “Missions Fest” (Canadian Funds) or Information John Thomson “Hillcrest”(U.S.Funds). (American friends, please include the name THE PLANNING TEAM Receptions Les & Kay Parker “Hillcrest” on your cheque if you wish to receive a receipt.) Kindly use Audio Visual Production Coat Check Alan & Brigitte Tin the offering envelopes available at the information centres or during A/V Coordinator Glen Fluevog, Jeff Burnett Backpacks Helen Buikema the plenary sessions. If we have your name and address, we will provide A/V Production Kent Morgan Office Helpers Joy Fellowship Volunteers receipts for donations of $10 and above. A/V Sales Margaret & Gilbert Gerbrandt Prayer Social Media Coordinator Shannon Stange COMMERCIAL PARTICIPATION Co-ordinator Carol Griffiths, Aaron White AV Equipment: Showmax Events 604.639.4629 Children Personal Prayer Ministry Tiny Marais Piano & Backline: Tom Lee Music Co-ordinators Awana, Child Evangelism Fellowship Photography Marcos Badra Displays for Exhibitors: Showtime Event & Display 1.800.721.0029 School Field Trip Elizabeth Doerksen, Amanda Doerksen, Seminars Layout for Brochure & Magazine: Peter Pasivirta: 604.346.6260 Barb Hunter, Sharon Pasivirta Co-ordinator Claudia Rossetto Int’l Web exPress Inc.: 604.526.8557, 1.888.315.8188 and Capernwray Students. Committee Addison Lacasse, Jonathan Lee, Bruce Mills, Promo DVD: Colors and Shapes Club 67 Joanna Roberts, Tony Schmidt, Jasmine Wong Showmax Events: 604.639.4629 showmaxevents.com Co-ordinator Genis Misola and Michel Saldeba-Alexander Seminar Hosting Capernwray Harbour Torchbearers Sound & Lighting: Long & McQuade: 604.464.1011 Operations Tickets: Cheryl Huber MISSIONS FEST HOTELS Co-ordinators Bruce Waine, Nikki Burnett, Caleb Tin AND ALSO… Pan Pacific Hotel Parking Les Huber Capernwray Harbour Torchbearers for helping in so many ways #300 - 999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC V6C 3B5 604.662.8111 Move-In/Out Students from Capernwray including set-up, ushering, hosting, worship, etc. Toll-free reservations: Within Canada: 1.800.663.1515 Shuttle Tom Koe Cariboo Road Christian Fellowship for sharing office and [email protected] To book a room online or for Communications Tim Cunningham storage space during the year and for providing rooms for more info go to: www.missionsfestvancouver.ca/venue-and-hotel Film Festival monthly planning meetings and other special events. Committee Brent White,Patrick Elaschuk, Hillcrest Chapel in Bellingham for assisting in all the receipting of BOARD OF DIRECTORS Debra Sears, Christine Wong US donations. The Directors are nominated for a two-year term. They are selected Finance Team Nelson Huang, Tony Sanz, Al Vetter Pacific Life Bible College for ushering help. from sponsoring churches on the basis of one per church. Roy’s Copiers for use of Calvin Weber, Chair photocopier: 604.437.6485 Antonio Sanz, Vice Chair Seminar Presenters: Courtesy Nelson Huang, Treasurer of various Mission Agencies. Daniel Louie, Secretary Summit Pacific for help with Michael Deepwell tickets, Film fest and Parade of Victor Folorunso Nations Yvonne Jones Tom Lee Music for providing Anna King the piano, keyboard and drum kit Bruce Mills 604.685.8471. Brent White Vancouver Convention STAFF Centre Event Manager and John Hall, Executive Director staff for excellent and courteous Emily Aspinall, Agency Relations Coordinator service. Claudia Rossetto, Church Relations Coordinator, IT Coordinator Legacy Bookkeeping: Sandra Crawford, Office Administrator legacybookkeeping.ca Missions Fest Vancouver is a member of Missions Fest International FINANCIAL INFORMATION Missions Fest is a non-profit society registered in the Province of B. C. and a charity registered with CCRA, Charity (No. 12927 7083 RR0002). Missions Fest is a certified member of the Canadian Council of Christian Charities. In order to make this conference available to everyone, admission is free. It is financed through donations from sponsoring churches, a fee for display space from mission agencies, tickets and offerings given during the conference.
48 Missions Fest – 2017 Bringing the classroom closer to you.
That’s right! We offer a variety of courses online through virtual weekly seats, connected classrooms and our new ADC Go format.
For more information on how we can make ADC work for you, please contact Samantha West at 1.866.875.8975 or visit acadiadiv.ca Caring for Creation as Christian Mission
Early on, A Rocha adopted Psalm 24:1 as its inspiration: “The earth is good gardener for God. Shamar is sometimes translated tend, guard, the Lord’s and everything in it.” Though seemingly benign and simple, take care of, and look after. Dewitt contends that shamar implies a “lov- the proposition that the earth actually belongs to God and not to us is ing, caring, sustaining type of keeping.” The word is the same used in radical indeed. True, humans are special amongst God’s creatures, but the Aaronic blessing: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make the specialness bestowed on our species, Genesis says, has to do with his face shine upon you and give you peace.” (Num 6:24-25) our being “created in the image of God.” We reflect God’s character All this points to our special role in creation, which is one of caretak- uniquely which, rather than giving us divine-size egos, should humble ing or stewarding. In fact, it is our unique position as image-bearers us to no end and clue us in to the fact that we might have a special role that qualifies us to steward God’s creation. to play in the grand drama of creation. At A Rocha’s Brooksdale Environmental Centre this response to The notion that we are image-bearers coupled with the idea that the stewardship is played out with joy and hope. Whether we’re studying a earth belongs to God has major implications for how we live and how we respond to God’s charge to Adam to “serve the garden and keep it” (Genesis 2:15). Cal Dewitt, professor of environmental studies at the We join with the Gardener University of Wisconsin-Madison, helpfully unpacks the Hebrew words for serve (‘abad’) and keep (‘shamar’). The first, abad, is sometimes who walks now through our translated till, dress, or work—all good gardening words—but it is the broken world and who, through second word, shamar, that puts a new spin on what it means to be a our hands, feet, and trowels, http://www. lightmagazine.ca the Metro Vancouver edition light October 2014 works to make all things new. m a g a z i n e g a z i n inspiring faith for everyday life e pg 4 Bibles for all
www.lightmagazine.ca the Fraser Valley edition threatened species, restoring a degraded habitat, inspiring children on November 2014 field trips or growing vegetables organically for those living on the mar- pg 6 light pg 16 Thanks Givenm a g a z i n e g a z i n e inspiring faith for everyday life time to gins, we act with hope because we are participating in God’s redemp- pack
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Good food choices neighbours by tangibly caring for our neighbour’s environment. Publications Mail Agreement #42167018 • If undeliverable return to Box 26103 Langley BC V3A 8J2 V3A BC Langley 26103 Box to return undeliverable If • #42167018 Agreement Mail Publications pg 16 So: Can helping a river flourish or can planting potatoes really spotlightwww.lightmagazine.ca on Home Schooling GrowingpgSocial 4 Biz Metro Vancouver edition the Rebroadcasts 24/7 websites + social media PACIFIC ACADEMY be mission? It seems so humble, so simple, so old fashioned—like 778.823.2801 for micro + small biz Jr. K - 12 Independent Christian School Sue Cockburn Engaging YouthTHE WILF RAY December 2014 PRIMARY OPEN HOUSE A Christian lifestyle www.GrowingSocial.Biz GOSPEL SHOW WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2014 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM linkedin.com/in/SueCockburn Programs change every month Give Canada’s twitter.com/SueCockburnlight www.WilfRay.com most meaningful something our grandmas did. It is so much less dramatic than hun- m a g a z i n e g a z i n e gifts Pg 10inspiring faith for everyday life www.pacificacademy.net see World Vision Prayer for the persuted churchflyer inside magazine for the pg 4 kering down in famine-ravaged Africa to start an orphanage. Plant- Transformed by Scripture Publications Mail Agreement #42167018 • If undeliverable return to Box 26103 Langley BC V3A 8J2 V3A BC Langley 26103 Box to return undeliverable If • #42167018 Agreement Mail Publications ing a garden is just so… ordinary. But then so are the words of Pgpg 166 Mission/Ministry Spotlight Fraser Valley
Need church or business security that never sleeps? www.lightmagazine.ca Jeremiah to the Jewish people during the Babylonian exile: “Build A CulturedRebroadcasts Christmas 24/7 PACIFICFraser ACADEMY Valley edition Pg 18 Apple Jr. K - 12 Independent Christian School January 2015 THE WILF RAY SECURITY REGISTRATION houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat what they produce. .ca GOSPEL SHOW FOR SEPTEMBER 2015 A holiday604.507.9577 classic on stage NOW AVAILABLE! & Metro Vancouver Programs change every month the www.WilfRay.com www.pacificacademy.netlight Take wives and have sons and daughters. …Seek the welfare (shalom m a g a z i n e in Hebrew) of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to inspiring faith for everyday life the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” Publications Mail Agreement #42167018 • If undeliverable return to Box 26103 Langley BC V3A 8J2 V3A BC Langley 26103 Box to return undeliverable If • #42167018 Agreement Mail Publications Pick up a copy pg 16 pgpgMission/Ministry 7 Spotlight (Jer 29:5-7) When we seek the welfare of the city, when we plant gar-
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Publications Mail Agreement #42167018 • If undeliverable return to Box 26103 Langley BC V3A 8J2 V3A BC Langley 26103 Box to return undeliverable If • #42167018 Agreement Mail Publications locations pg 29 to make all things new. pg 15 Rappin’Mission/Ministry Spotlight
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Missions Fest – 2017 51 Supporting Ministries and Church congregations for over 110 years through promoting and encouraging the translation, publication, distribution and use of God’s Word in Canada and around the world.
Contact us to find out how your ministry can benefit by partnering with the Canadian Bible Society. www.biblesociety.ca [email protected] 1.888.465.2425
A new ministry office opening soon in Vancouver Revealing the truth of the Word in a fresh and engaging way. Stay tuned for more details.
vancouver handout.indd 1 2016-08-02 2:01:37 PM 8th Annual See pages 30-31 for a complete list 2017 of films that will be shown
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