Rev. John G. Anderson Chatham Christian Ministry Chatham, Ontario
Rev. John Anderson has a loving heart with a capacity for compassion, practical caring and a sense of fairness and justice. He strives to manifest a sense of humour and joy to all; and like the Apostle Paul, who was very sensitive to the needs of hurting individuals, he believes that those who are strong must bear the weaknesses and help carry the burdens of those who are weaker. Rev. John Anderson is currently the , N7L 3K1 the Chaplain of The Honourable Ray Lawson Royal Canadian Legion Branch 28, 304 St. Clair Street in Chatham, Ontario.
John uses his special gift of proclaiming the good news of the Gospel at every opportunity: from the pulpit, in the streets, in homes, and to everyone he meets. He knows the importance of tending to the needs of the sick: he spends time offering up prayers to our Lord and Saviour on their behalf, and you will find him in hospitals, palliative care and nursing homes helping the sick in with their every spiritual need. John takes the time also to prepare those who are actively dying look forward to meeting their creator. Rev. John Anderson advocates for and empowers for the "less fortunate" in his community and ministers to those facing personal, family, financial and spiritual issues. In addition, he volunteers for Bibles for Mission [a used furniture and clothing etc. store where proceeds are used to purchase Bibles], within the fields of drug awareness, and on a daily basis for his local food bank "Outreach for Hunger".
To sum up, John's passion in life is to serve God's people. His reward comes by reaching out and helping others; leading them to God and His wonderful works. Ultimately, Rev. John Anderson feels called personally by Jesus to reach out and do more than he can even ask for or imagine. Rev. John Anderson's Ministry Profile
Rev. Carmen Agius Spearing Song of Praise Ministries Orilla, Ontario
Rev. Carmen Agius Spearing is drawn to people who need lots of love, support and encouragement. Carmen endeavours to live her life as a living example of the Bible - to speak of Jesus' live with them. Carmen is often asked to speak, pray or comfort someone. Her parents named her Carmen and that transates as "song of praise". Carment certainly hopes that her life is exactly that. Rev. Carmen's life has been one of many opportunities for growth and she has experience life and love, the joys and sorrows of being human and this has translated in a stronger faith in Jesus year by year.
Carmen needs to be of service to God and desires to allow her hands and feet to do His work among His people. Carmen is a Bible believing, praying in the Holy Spirit kind of woman; bold and fearless with a positive attirude about life and people. Carmen enjoys the the endless possibilities that lie before her. She is a fund-raiser and "The Queen of Words". Carmen has the heart of a servant and is a champion of justice. Carmen believes in the power of ONE. Carmen is a great and faithful friend. Her favourite part of ministry was the children. "To have the faith of a child is a great Bible lesson".
Chaplain Moira Bell Youth Minister, Bereavement Support and Counselling
Chaplain Moira Bell and her husband Fergus run a weekend retreat for youth aged 16-25. The youth retreat called "Christ in Others Retreat" focuses on faith, family, friends; and is an amazing opportunity to bring youth to Christ. Many young people have connected or reconnected with our God through this amazing ministry. This retreat is held twice a year and both husband and wife have volunteered with this outreach program for 10 years.
Moira has a special call to bereavement ministry. Many times she has been involved in palliative care, and has been privileged to journey with someone as they return home to our Lord. There is always an opportunity to share our Lord with people: from sharing their tears to praying with people. Her grief counselling work takes place in the context of journeying with people and spending time helping them to grieve their loss. In this humbling way, she has been blessed to support people who have experienced loss in their lives. Both Moira and Fergus Bell are open to opportunities to support people as they tried to find their way through the "God questions" a loss always brings. Moira observes that "God blesses us even in these tough times when we open ourselves up to His amazing strengthening, consoling eternal presence."
Chaplain Moira Bell attends many funerals, visitations, and hospital visits. Loss brings people to a door and she is grateful that God has used her to help people turn to Him in their grief. Both husband and wife feel strongly about the importance of sharing God and faith with others, of volunteering to support others in their life journeys, and sharing God's message of hope. Moira Bell's Ministry Profile
Rev. Clifford Blake Abba Waterloo Christian Ministries Waterloo, Ontario
Rev. Clifford Blake walks with God and his faith permeates every aspect of his life. Rev. Blake is extremely dedicated to everything his does and gives the praise to God. He is more than willing to minister to all people and reaches out whatever their needs are. Rev. Clifford Blake's Ministry Profile
Reverend Pamela Covert-Slater Abba Bradford Christian Ministry Bradford, Ontario
Rev Pamela's mission is to help bring Peace and Love to mankind through understanding of the true message of Jesus. To love, care and honour one another as children of God. Her first journey was at the age of 15. Pamela participated in an Ontario ~ Quebec student exchange program sponsored by the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews. She has travelled through many countries on Peace Pilgrimages, including the United States, Israel, Palestine, Portugal, France, Spain and Italy. During the past few years Pamela and her husband have volunteered for several trips to Cuba with medical supplies and aid for clinics and hospitals at their own expense.
As an accredited pastoral psychotherapist Rev Pamela helps individuals, couples and families develop the skills to demonstrate the love that they have for one another. As a therapist for an anger management clinic in Mississauga, Rev. Pamela counsels individuals who have been referred to her from the courts for community and domestic violence. Pamela Covert-Slater's Ministry Profile
Rev. Betty-Ann Cox Abba London Christian Ministries, London, Ontario
Rev. Betty-Ann Cox has spent her life answering God's call to serve while serving others. Whether it has been within a parish, in the community, or in her family Betty-Ann has answered that call in many different ways. She has been called to leadership in community prayer and facilitating at retreats. In particular, she has a special gift for empowering others to discern where God is calling them. Her enthusiasm and immense joy in following God attracts others who are searching for peace and purpose in their lives. Her sense of gratitude for what God has blessed her with manifests itself in not only her encounters with others but also in her artwork.
Through her many years of parish pastoral work, she has fine-tuned her gift for compassion and caring. She is especially sensitive to the needs of the elderly and the lonely. Her outreach is also to the sick and dying. Her support for them through listening and sharing is of great comfort to them in the last chapter of their life on earth. She is their prayer-pal and assists them to a peaceful place where they can rest in the Lord... "He maketh me to lay down in green pastures" (Psalm 23). She leads prayer vigils as well as funeral liturgies that are meaningful and comforting to family and friends. Betty also supports those who are left behind and grieving losses... be it through death, divorce, separation or loss of quality of life through illness or an accident.
Betty also has a great love for children and enjoys teaching them about God and recognizing His presence in their lives. Her ministry to young people is not just in difficult times as in her time with young offenders but also in times where they are searching for direction and guidance. God's work through her is powerful. She also has a special spot in her heart for young mothers and enjoys assisting them to find balance through spiritual reflection. Betty also enjoys ministry with young engaged couples and journeying with them as they begin a life together. She has trained leaders and facilitated marriage preparation courses. She is creative and has a wonderful sense of humour and it is clear that this ministry is as life-giving for her as it is for the young couples. She is excellent at encouraging them to use their gifts and talents for God's work.
Betty is also a God-send to the unemployed and has been instrumental in giving them hope and encouragement in this difficult and often humiliating time. Betty has a true gift in leading worship in an ecumenical environment and has mastered bringing many faiths together celebrating their individual differences. Like one would tend a garden of many different flowers. Betty is passionate about all aspects of God's ministry and grateful to have been called to serve. People know that when they call on Betty in their time of need, she in turn calls on God on their behalf. Ministry Profile for Rev. Betty-Ann Cox
Pastor Blair Crawford Blair Crawford Ministries Hachet Lake and Halifax, Nova Scotia
In a self-centred world, Pastor Blair Crawford and his wife Brenda are called to help this generation of believers to learn how to give and receive BY PUTTING GOD FIRST: taking the scripture from Proverbs 13:22 to heart: "A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children" and making that verse a reality in their lives. 3 John 2 says: "Beloved, I wish [God's desire] above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers." Pastor Blair has the gift of a shepherd's heart and a God-given love for people that enables him to nurture and care for the flock. Blair believes people need to hear God's love for them in a real way and that God wants happy and prosperous family lives.
Reverend Linda Dow Abba Grand Bend Christian Ministries, Grand Bend, Ontario
Mark 10:45 tells us that Jesus did not come to be served but to serve. It is Reverend Linda Dow's desire to follow the example that Jesus set before her and to serve however and where ever she is needed to help spread the good news that God loves each and every one of us. It is because of this immeasurable love that God gave His only son to make a way for us to have a personal relationship with him.
Reverend Linda has worked in children's ministries over twenty-five years working with children of all ages through the Sunday School program as superintendent and teacher as well as mid week children's programs and youth groups. God has given Linda a heart for the needs of the children and young people and she finds it a true blessing to be able to serve them by example and through leadership. By teaching the children they are then able to spread the word of God in their home by sharing their papers and drawings with family. For twenty years Linda and her husband Ronald have opened their home to special needs children or high needs children as they are sometimes referred to. When children arrive at Linda and Ron's home they are very fragile and emotionally broken and many have not heard about God or that God loves them and will never abandon them. It does not take them long to know and accept that God does indeed love them and will continue to love them and carry them through all things. Linda and Ronald teach by example, everything they say and do. By the time the children have grown up and ready for independence they know they can rely on their relationship with Jesus to give them strength and they also know they can rely on the relationship that Linda and Ron have built for emotional support as well.
Reverend Linda Dow cannot help but be awestruck at the wonders of God and the unending love He has for his creation, especially mankind. John 13 shows Jesus rising from the dinner table and wrapping the towel around his waist then proceding to wash his disciples feet as a servant would. Linda wears that symbolic towel around my waist kneeling in servanthood ready to serve following the example set by Jesus. Linda Dow and Abba Grand Bend Christian Ministries
Reverend Chris J. Drury North Gate Ministries Orangeville, Ontario
Reverend Chris Drury is returning to official ministry: evangelizing, exhorting, preaching, and praying for Gods people and for the lost. Chris believes the Lord stirring him as never before, and sees in his heart that God will be using him once again to powerfully preach His Word. Chris has been receiving so many opportunities from the Lord to pray for the lost, the sick, and the hurting. He see so much opportunity for us and believers to share our faith with those who don't know the Lord. Rev. Chris Drury has been so moved in his heart to minister with others who also have a vision for the lost, the hurting, the poor, and the sick.
Chris' spiritual journey began when he was quite young. His Grandfather [Evangelist Ross B. Lee] was an Evangelist from the mid 1960's right up until his passing in 2000. As young children, the highlight of Chris and his sisters' summers was spending one week each summer at my Grandparents', who sought to teach us all they could about the Lord. Rev. Chris Drury enjoys ministering publicly, whenever God allows him the privilege. Chris has also been involved in one-on-one ministry continuously throughout the years, learning much in the practical sense from beloved Christian mentors. Ministry Profile of Rev. Chris J. Drury
Chaplain Maureen Dwyer Pond Side Ministries Specializing in Bereavement/Pastoral/Palliative Care London, Ontario
Journeying through life's transitions can be difficult to navigate alone. Maureen has been called to minister to people in the midst of these changes. She has spent thirteen years assisting High School students find out who they are as people in God's eyes, and has spent the past seven years following God's call to minister with seniors in Long Term Care Facilities.
Maureen strongly believes that walking someone through the challenges of the later years of life is a privilege. She ministers in a special way with those whose family member is living with Alzheimer Disease and those who are marginalized by society. Maureen finds it rewarding assisting seniors in finding meaning and purpose in their days, and then when the time comes to walk them 'home' to be with God. She looks forward to conducting services of baptism, marriage and funerals in a way that uniquely reflects you and your needs.
Rev. Josephine Egan and Rev. Malachy Egan Church of Saint Mary Magdalene Halifax, Nova Scotia Website: www.saintmarymagdalene.ca
A husband and wife pastoral team who tries to exemplify the compassion of Jesus to the people they serve whether in the hospital acute care setting, geriatric long-term care centre, or the safe places reserved for survivors of abuse. Their passion to witness Christ's love drives them to work that engages families in art and music initiatives, extends spiritual support and friendship to foster parents and parents with young children, helps people in distress, and ministers to the needs of couples as they prepare to declare life-long marriage vows. They encounter on a daily basis many young couples seeking marriage in their 20s and 30s who openly declare themselves disillusioned with mainline Christian churches so much so that they reject the authority of these churches [sometimes it is the church authorities that reject them], yet these young people seek God to sanctify their marriage. With dialogue, the task at hand then is to invite these young people to re-examine the teachings of Jesus and 'give God a chance'.
The pastors also challenge people via cyber ministry and provocative discussion groups to oppose corruption, dual standards and social constructs that marginalize, disenfranchise and discriminate. Their first website continues to attract over 450 unique visitors per month. Both are volunteer community clergy in Capital Health District and conduct pastoral care visitation as well as ecumenical worship services at two long term care centres. Church of Saint Mary Magdalene
Brent's call is to those who know the freedom that comes with riding the highways on motorcycles. Brent believes that the motorcycling community is a mission field that the "traditional church" has neglected and in some cases turned their backs on. It doesn't matter if it is at a Tim Horton's, at a bike show or other motorcycle event, Brent is aware that God opens many doors and when He does, there is always an opportunity to witness. Brent has been involved in serving God for many years in which he was involved in Christian Education, men's ministry with Promise Keepers Canada and now wears the patch of Bikers for Christ Motorcycle Ministry. The back patch will often catch someone's eye and usually leads to someone making a comment on the patch and once they do, it opens the door to witness. If you don't think you can have a great time being a Christian, then we need to talk! Brent says that "My walk with Christ has been a long one with one adventure after another! God has been so good to me and saved me from having to spend eternity in hell, what more could I do but serve Him with everything I have." There is only one way to serve such a loving God... Full Throttle!
Rev. Michele Gayle The Michele Gayle's Ministry Oshawa. Ontario
Rev. Michele Gayle's complete focus is to do the will of God. She is absolutely passionate about ministry Rev. Michele has been actively teaching and exhorting the body of Christ in the Word of God for over twenty years. Michele is gifted in all areas of Ministry especially to teach, preach, pastor and bring people into the fold of the Lord Jesus Christ. From time to time the Lord would also use her prophetically.
Since 2004, Michele has been actively preaching the Word of God at conventions and special services. Michele came to the understanding of the love of Christ Jesus and his death by cruxifixion for her sin at a tender age. As a child, Michele gave her life to Jesus [Romans 12:1,2; 1 John 2:6] and knew she was called to ministry. Michele's mother who is also a Pastor and has been for over 30 years never pushed her. At 18 years of age, the Lord appeared to Michele in a vision and shew her herslef in a strange place, and standing preaching to a group of people that she did not know. Michele is confident that the Lord who has called her will continue the work He has begun in her; trusting in the Lord that He will be able keep all that that which is committed to Him. Michele, enabled by the Holy Spirit, is currently writing a book that will be available in fall 2010. She will continue to write; she sees this as her legacy to the next generation. The Michele Gayle's Ministry
Rev. Rudy Heezen M.T.S Toronto, Oshawa, Whitby and The Greater Toronto Area, Ontario Website: www.rudyheezen.com
Rev. Rudy Heezen (M.T.S) holds a Masters Degree in Theology from Tyndale Seminary in Toronto. He earned his business credentials from the VAM business institute in The Netherlands and has extensive experience as a senior executive. Rev. Rudy Heezen is a Professional Member of CAPS (Canadian Association of Professional Speakers) and is also an accomplished author having published "New Beginnings Carpe Diem" sharing, in brutal honesty, about his own struggles and how he was able to conquer them.
In the mid-eighties, Rudy chose to take a two-year sabbatical leave wanting to give back to the community working full time as a counsellor, pastor and serving the less fortunate. In serving people on a daily basis, Rev. Rudy Heezen's aim is to treat each person with respect, build lifelong partnerships and lasting friendships. He sincerely believes that following The Golden Rule "in everything do unto others as you would have others do unto you" is a way of life that will translate into true success, especially in lives touched as we minister to others. On his "success" in life, Rudy shares: "my family keeps me balanced and grounded". Rudy is extremely grateful, thanking God every day for each one of them. Married to Anneke, his sweetheart of over 40 years, they respectively are the proud parents of grown children and even prouder grandparents. Rudy serves people through officiating weddings, baptisms, celebration of life services or motivational/inspirational seminars and speeches. Rudy Heezen M.T.S.
Rev. Connie Howes Church of the Northern Light Kingston, Ontario
Rev. Connie Howes' ministry gets the job done: bringing people to Christ and giving them hope. Connie serves all across the spectrum of our society and her outreach ministries includes many without a regular faith community: young expectant couples, the imprisioned and their families, the disenfranchised and marginal of our society, etc. Connie knows she can make a difference in people's lives: she reaches out to those who are struggling, those who are in trouble, those who are ill, and those who are less fortunate; offering counsel and practical help. She moves amongst the people to help them, just as Christ himself did, and lets them know they are not alone - that God is with them. Connie is highly resourceful, practical, down-to-earth and empathic. We proud to have Connie on board: she loves God and her ministry possesses the love that Jesus means we should have by being 'a neighbour'. Church of Northern Light
Rev. Allan Jensen British Columbia Lower Mainland
Rev. Allan Jensen serves as volunteer missions coordinator, youth leader, church administrator and God's faithful servant in New Westminster. Allan and his wife, who shares his passion for missions, have served togther in Guatemala and locally; they also lead the middle-school youth group from church in missions-related projects and work several times a year with high school youth on a service project.
Allan annually leads a youth team on a regional missions trip to various cities throughout western Canada including Winnipeg, Edmonton, Prince Albert, Victoria and Yellowknife; and has served on teams in Rwanda, Bolivia and Mexico.
Allan has preached and served both locally and globally. He has ministered to sick and weak in Africa, preached the good news in Central American prisons, instructed pastors in Rwanda, and preached to his fellow congregrants. Allan believes these opportunities are the result of a calling by God to serve in these places, and God continues to call him to build His Kingdom and devote his life to service. Rev. Allan Jensen shares that, "the true joy is when you use the gifts which God has endowed you in His service". Allan has a real passion for service in Christ's name; he is very compassionate and goes out of his way to be a person who shows God's love in whatever he does. Allan has an amazing ability to know where God wants him to be and to understand the situation he is in, particularly in the missions field where he knows "God placed him precisely there at precisely that time" for a special purpose. Abba Halton Christian Ministries
Reverend Stephen Jones Eagle's Cross Recovery Ministry Guelph, Ontario
Pastor Stephen Jones is called to evangelize and to minister person to person. Stephen has an outreach approach; his focus is on working with primarily mental health and addictions, concurrent disorders which happens to include many homeless, people leaving the prison system and others. These are the hurting and marginalized persons whom the Lord treasures that Stephen encounters daily. Stephen believes that God puts us where we need to be. In fact, God has equipped Stephen with the tools and purpose to go to the edges of society in search of people who need Christ. Most of the people who seek Stephen out are looking particularly to fill a spiritual void but more than that, they want to be connected to God. Many identify with Stephen as someone who can help them find the way to God, someone that can trust.
The majority of Stephen's efforts involve pastoral counselling at the request of both individuals and agencies. A number of people have come to Christ as a result of successfully getting prayer and devotional groups going within programs. God supplied the motivation and people while Stephen helped supply the resources as well as personal and scriptural support. Together they read scripture, pray together, learn together, and plan futures and how to include God in that future. Steven supports the people he serves as a Priest and Ordained Minister, and he will step into the most difficult of places. Stephen has performed many funeral and memorial services by request for people without families. Stephen holds a Diploma in Social Services, an Undergraduate Degree in Social Development Studies and certification in General Social Work. Stephen has formally studied Spirituality and Addiction at a Masters level and other religious studies. Stephen is involved in Motorcycle Ministry and keeps a high profile in his community and neighbourhood. As a Pastor, Stephen has the love and support of his wife Laurie, and together they have built a unique van to go around doing ministry. This couple believes that when people come to Christ, the work is worth doing! Eagle's Cross Recovery Ministry
Pastor Al Kehn St. Jude's Ministries Songwriter and Musician, 'Leap of Faith' Band Member CD Titles: 'Power To Choose' and 'Life Is What You Make of It' Kitchener-Waterloo area, Ontario
Pastor Al Kehn's music ministry continues to shine in Southern Ontario! He is very excited about his band Leap of Faith's new CD entitled, "Power to Choose"! It is Leap of Faith's second CD, launched on February 11th, 2006. The band has had lots of interest in area churches in Southern Ontario for continued concerts. The band's upcoming concert will be held on Saturday May 13th at 7:00 PM in Holy Cross Lutheran Church 322 East Ave, Kitchener. Leap of Faith receives regular airplay on the local Christian radio stations, such as Faith FM, and plays regularly in concert at various churches. Both CDs are available at many outlets in Kitchener-Waterloo. To view the band 'Leap of Faith' and all the songs Pastor Al Kehn wrote: www.thinkleap.com
Al's main focus since leaving active parish ministry is in Music Ministry and he always makes himself available for Christian counselling, weddings and baptisms. Originally ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, Eastern Synod, in 1993 after completing four years of study at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, Pastor Al Kehn served two congregations in Kitchener: St. Pauls from 1993 to 1998 and then St. Lukes' from 1998 to 2003; and is well known in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. St. Jude's Ministries, Rev. Al Kehn and Leap Of Faith
Rev. Patricia Kennedy calling is to work with others in need. She is very emphatic, and can feel deeply what others may be feeling, and has amazing God-given gifts. Patricia shares that, "To practice spirituality we must reach into our soul and understand the teachings of Christ, how he suffered for all of mankind, to learn from the lessons and to live by them. We are dearly loved and cherished by our Lord. The Lord dwells within us." Patricia shares her lessons in unconditional love and forgiveness. Angels of Light Ministries
Reverend Donna M. Knight and Pastor Wayne R. Knight Water of Life Ministries, Oshawa, Ontario
Donna and her husband Wayne have been in ministry for several years doing a number of things for the Lord with a heart for the lost and the down and out. Reverend Donna is a Chaplain/Pastorial Care Coordinator in an Oshawa LTC Home. She has had many rewarding experiences with residents and staff, being able to share Christ and instill Christ emphasized programs and encourage moral thinking. She heads up a Palliative Care Program, and has had the opportunity to pray, sing and read scripture with those preparing to meet the Lord. Salvation of these souls is her primary ministry goal. A soft touch, a gentle hand and the voice that says "I care", has helped her open many doors that were tightly closed. Donna participates in helping those who are in need of food and clothes through her church's Food and Clothing Bank program. She has seen many ladies come and fill bags of food and much needed clothing for their children and leave with a glimmer of hope in their eyes having not only heard the word of God but seeing His love put to action. She has the opportunity to pray and share Christ not only in word but in deed as well. With many single moms, society can be harsh but Wayne & Donna both have been given the opportunity to reach out to them and their children. Donna's belief is, with such a great salvation how then can she not take every opportunity to share with others, her wonderful Heavenly Father.
Pastor Wayne's inspiration is Isaiah 6 where it says, "SEND ME LORD SEND ME." Wayne's reply is: "I will go and I will go: depending on you for leadership and the words and the scriptures from which to preach. And of course the Holy Spirit who is with me every step, every heartbeat of the way." Wayne always liked to witness and tell people about Jesus. Wayne could witness to anyone; Wayne had been there, he had so many experiences in life. Wayne was able to give his testimony and see people saved and changed forever. Wayne received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and literally was changed forever again. It was so true, Wayne ministered in power and authority just like it is said in the Bible. Wayne did not brag about this baptism, he just used it the way it is supposed to be used, to win people to Jesus Christ, to lay hands on the sick and see them healed through the mighty name of Jesus. There is nothing in this world that Christ cannot be the victor over. Wayne's answer to every problem every concern was Jesus. At work, people sought out Wayne with their problems. Some lives were changed forever. Some just could not pay the price of serving Jesus and when they walk away weeping, Wayne would weep for them for not making the decision for Christ. Upon retirement, God made Wayne's boundaries a whole lot larger. Wayne and Donna leapt at the opportunity to preach the gospel in the far North. They gave people nothing more than the gospel and nothing less. There is power and authority in the Word of God. Then God opened more doors to go to Northern Ontario and Northern Quebec. Wayne and some great men of God preached and sang, and saw people saved, delivered and healed. People could not get enough of the Christ ther were preaching about. Wayne observes enthusiatically, "People love to have church, they search for the true God for 2000 years and when they find him, they will not let go." Water of Life Ministries
Pastor Gerry Leet Genesis Crime Prevention "A National Crime Prevention Ministry" "It Takes The Entire Village To Prevent Crime"
Pastor Gerry Leet is the Founder & Crime Prevention Coach based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This is the Foundation Statement of Genesis Crime Solution: Gerry Leet attended a few meetings with a number of other community members, leaders, and experts in regards to the rising problems of crime and deviance in the city of Halifax. Thoughtful and practical information was shared, but absent from the dialogue was any "useful" part the church, faith or spiritual belief could play in addressing the serious social issues. Canada has increasingly become a secular society and the concept that faith cannot have any practical application to social concerns is evident. We have lost our influence in society as being relevant, and are marginalized to the sidelines of community life. As a result of those dynamics, Gerry has selected one social issue that he has considerable experience with and have developed a ministry for "Crime Prevention."
Mission Statement: The purpose of a Crime Prevention Ministry (1) to reduce crime by partnering with other stakeholders in the community, (2) support public safety in every community by recognizing and engaging the social conditions that cause crime, (3) offering spiritual solutions to the complexities of crime. The ministry will also confront the spiritual void in the life of the community and the personal lives of its residents. It is recognized that government or other agencies cannot legislate or incarcerate our way out of the complex problems of crime. It is part of our mission to change hearts by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. To disarm the root causes of crime by a spiritual awakening and confronting social needs which cause instability and hopelessness.
Vision Statement: The ministry will collaborate with other interested community groups and citizens by the introduction of programs that address and impact the core issues of crime. We need to be viewed as a viable and pragmatic partner in the fight against crime and social injustices. The objective is not to directly proselytize or convert people, but introduce them to mercy and grace of Jesus Christ. We believe and trust the Holy Spirit will touch the hearts and minds of people and gather them to the Cross. The Crime Prevention Ministry will encourage churches to participate in helping and consoling the victims of crime, mentoring youth/persons at risk and offenders towards a new and responsible life. The church can become a social agent for change and provide guidance and positive role models. It is the desire of this ministry that the Church can renew and re-establish a strong connection to the community that surrounds it.
Statement of Faith: We know that the core of any society is the family and that some of the root causes of crime have been the deterioration of this God given institution. Therefore, we believe that God is to be the head of the family and of each person; that God's Son, Jesus Christ, is our Savior and that we can have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit. We believe that Jesus died on the Cross for each of us and we have eternal life in Him. The issues of doctrine can be very divisive and we believe that John 17:21 calls us to be One in the body of Christ and we subscribe to the inclusion of all Christian denominations. We sincerely respect the people of other faiths and do not judge them as only God has the power to "draw" people to Him and Jesus came to "save" the world and not to condemn it. (John 6:44) (John 12:47) www.gerryleet.com
Rev. Beth MacKenzie's heart is always open and she accepts whoever Jesus places in front of her. Beth enjoys serving God's children and has always felt His presence with her. God has faithfully placed people in Beth's life; putting her in situations where she had to witness to people who were struggling with the death and loss of a loved one. Beth takes the time to guide the young; comfort elderly who are isolated, lonely and only have their faith to keep them going; and act on her compassion for the unfortunate, lonely, homeless and poor.
Rev. Beth MacKenzie believes that everyone has a chance to make the most of this world with the right guidance and support and everyone needs God's friendship: "God was always there in every circumstance. I took my strength from reading the Bible. God promised, that as his child, He would never to leave or forsake me. I took heart in that revealed truth in God's word. I have applied the principles of the Bible to every situation I have found myself in and they have always directed me in doing what was right and honouring the Lord Jesus. God's word has never failed me."
Beth's inspiration is her grandmother, an extraordinary woman who taught Beth the word of God. Beth's beloved grandmother impressed upon her on how much Jesus was a part of Beth's life and that there is always hope. Rev. Beth MacKenzie serves the Lord by serving families during funerals. Rev. Beth MacKenzie serves couples in their journey of love and life. Beth shares with couples the love that God has given to them as He brought them together to love one another. Beth finds it very rewarding to bring two people together as one in holy matrimony. Next year Beth plans to travel with young people to an African community to assist with development and peace by building shelters for the community. Abba Brampton Christian Ministries BACK
Reverend Robert Mayer Stepping Stones Ministry Georgetown, Ontario Website: www.steppingstonesministry.ca
Reverend Robert Mayer and his wife Eleonora serve through Stepping Stones Ministry and provide clergy services to anyone regardless of church affiliation or identification.
"Our ministry title 'stepping stones' reflects our philosophy that all of life, from our first steps to our last, is along a path or a journey envisioned as a path of stepping stones. Many of which have been set before us at the moment of birth. People cross our paths, we come to low points and high points, we come upon directional changes in which we need to choose a way, and much of our contentment in life depends not much on whether or not we are walking along high ground or low ground, but on what our attitude is about it."
Rev. Robert Mayer also serves as a funeral chaplain specifically dedicated to families that have drifted away from traditional church observances. In addition to his joyful personal experience and powerful encounters with Lord, Robert has a deep understanding of the sacraments and how people crave the experience of being in the actual presence of God. In Robert's experience, Jesus has always loved him and walked with him step-by-step all the time.
Unfortunately many have not discovered the most beautiful 'way to live' that looks beyond self. Modern western society is in a state of serious spiritual poverty where compassion and empathy for others are clearly absent. Rev. Robert Mayer wants to do his part in turning the trend around one person at a time in God's will and God's time, and by serving the vast majority of non-churched people who are in need of clergy services and others whose spiritual needs are poorly attended to. God uses His people, in this vast world that is full of need, to minister to others and to help them along the journey of life.
Pastor Arthur McCord Ed.S., A.C.C.P. Abba West Nipissing Christian Ministry Sturgeon Falls, Ontario
In the past 30 years, Pastor Arthur McCord's ministry has primarily been with the addicted individual. His ministry as an ordained pastor offers opportunities to carry the message of hope and reconciliation, thus moving beyond a simple call to spirituality and the need to be part of a Christian lifestyle while engaging others in a kind and loving manner.
Arthur believes that everyone has a message; his journey is to not only hear but to listen. Pastor Arthur McCord has been working with the public in counselling, human resource development, motivational speaking and as Addictions educator with specialized training. In addition, he is a volunteer driver with the Canadian Cancer Society and the Children's Aid Society. If you are so inclined, Arthur will share with you how God took the opportunity to provide hope when there was none and how a lost soul started on a journey beyond the most vivid imagination. A journey complete with an amazing spiritual rebirth and growth, miracles, thirty years filled with amazing events and a lifetime worth of opportunities to touch others.
Arthur has shared with large groups of people, in both Canada and the United States, at conventions and other events. He has been recognized by all levels of government; but most significantly, Arthur has touched thousands of lives and he is most honoured to see personal effort by these persons bring about life-changing and God-centred rebirth to productive and valued lives. In December, you can certainly spot him taking the opportunity to carry a Message.
Pastor Darlene McGregor Abba Perth Christian Ministries Perth, Ontario
The Lord Jesus spoke to Pastor Darlene's heart and spirit, and touched her life so profoundly that she choses to serve Jesus and to love Jesus with all her heart and soul. It has always been this way for Pastor Darlene, she has known nothing else; and it is a life that brings her such joy and pleasure. She knows she can only ever be content in ministry: working for the Lord and loving people for the Lord.
Pastor Darlene McGregor has a hunger within her heart for working for the Lord. A hunger for ministry. A hunger to share His love with everyone that she possibly could. This is all Pastor Darlene's life is about: loving and serving the Lord, loving and telling others about the love of Jesus and His plan for their life. Her desire is to know the Lord more, to love His people more for him, to see people come to know Him more, to see people saved and filled with HIs spirit, to see the broken-hearted healed and set free. Deep down within her heart, she wants to be the Lord's hands extended, a vessel through which his healing virtue could flow, where her life was His life. Pastor Darlene counts it a blessing that the Lord should entrust her with His gift of healing and love, to those who need Jesus the most yet does not know him as of yet.
Pastor Darlene works with healing/grieving through the challenged of divorce both with adults and children affected by divorce and as community chaplain with funeral homes. She works with those affected by other areas of life grieving besides bereavement and divorce. Pastor Darlene's rich ministry experiences include chaplaincy work at correctional facilities, hospitals, retirement homes and psychiatric hospitals; children's ministries as well as outreach into the lives of children; a foster parent to over 100 children; a missionary at an isolated, desperate and remote community; guest teachers at Bible College; assistant pastor, director of youth and Christian education. She has certification in grief counselling and holds a diploma in Christian Counseling and Christian Education and plenty of hands on experience. Pastor Darlene has touched many lives, all experiencing the love of Jesus in action from her heart. She is a true blessing sent by God. But most humbling of all, she wants Jesus glorified through her life and work.
Chaplain Margie O'Connor Ritual Celebrant Abba London Christian Chaplaincy London, Ontario
Chaplain Margie O'Connor feels called to model the invitation of our God in all she says and does. Building Christian community is at the heart of Margie's ministry, and her work is a response to the gifts God has given her and to loving serve the people of God.
Reverend Gary O'Dwyer Pastor, Christ The Servant Catholic Church Cold Springs, Ontario Church Website: www.christtheservant.ca
Rev. Gary O'Dwyer cherishes the opportunity to live the Beatitudes as a gift from Jesus. He treasures daily the very humbling experience of being a conduit for Jesus. Gary is the pastor at Christ The Servant Catholic Church [CTS] in Cold Springs, Ontario. The saints at CTS very much believe in the power of prayer, no matter the situation. Their community is not afraid to share its burdens, hopes and aspirations; with a very active prayer group and a music ministry that has been a major force in this Christian communty's spiritual and social development. When the Sunday service at CTS has finished, virtually everyone stays for fellowship and food. Laughter is a major part of our spiritual focus. This is simply some of what and who we are.
Rev. Gary had received many accolades, awards and honors throughout his teaching career, but the opportunity to serve the CTS Community means much more to him than any such material recognition. We have very inclusive statements of faith, we are constantly striving to be Social Justice Advocates, we act out our love, seeing the face of Jesus in everyone. The Beatitudes are a guide for us in our daily life and interactions with those we encounter. Gary's involvement at CTS grew to delivering homilies to visiting the sick and dying as well as funerals. As I continued to take on the role of an ordained minister at CTS, I was getting more and more encouragement from the community at the Church to seek ordination. When I found Abba Ministries, I knew that I had found a home. Our CTS community has evolved greatly since the Fr. Ed era. On a personal level, I have finally found a spiritual home. Each Sunday is an inspiration and motivates me further. This has been the case since 2006. Ministry Profile of Rev. Gary O'Dwyer
Pastor Pete Olsen Mosaic Ministries 59 Montana Road, Guelph, Ontario Tel: 519. 242. 8491
Pastor Pete Olsen is clear on the fact that all he wants to do with his life is to serve Christ. Pete simply wants to go and serve. Pete and his wife Cindi are inspired hold open discussions about faith out in the world, encourage existing Christians to engage with the world through their faith and connect people to the love of Christ.
Pastor Pete has been serving people in ministry for nearly a decade. In his pastoral work with youth, children and adults, Pete has an amazing ability to inspire, empower and challenge people in positive, impactful in ways. Pete is very creative and gifted in the arts and drama. Pastor Pete discovered while teaching children and youth about Jesus and His amazing grace that the stories of Jesus would come alive through drama and song, through worship and the hearts of little children. Pete has an affinity for teaching and new ways to teach and run programmes that kids and youth enjoyed. Pete and Cindi have a real heart for young lives. Cindi has a career in Education and is completing her Master's in Education with a special interest in literary techniques. Pete is pursuing online courses with Trinity, Indiana, towards an MA and holds a Bachelor of Religious Education from Emmanuel Bible College in Kitchener, Ontario.
Pete and Cindi have been involved in powerful short term international missions in Kenya, Nicaragua and Guatemala which have transformed their view of the world and shaped their passions as they stand today. After each powerful experience, they return with new awareness of many critical issues and realized how sad and forlorn our culture is - this has truly developed a deep desire in them to be able to witness and live out lives of faith here at home. The couple seek to serve those who may be disenfranchised with 'church'. They have a real heart for people who are unchurched, those who grapple with spiritual issues, and those who have been turned away. Pete has a great passion for serving Christ and serving people and walking with them. It is the passion to connect Christian with non-Christian people that drives Pete each day. Pete and Cindi care about those who struggle in difficult situations, and those who are hurting and at risk. Other powerful experiences that have shaped their passions involve ministering to the urban poor in inner city Toronto and people who suffer from poverty and/or mental illness in Guelph. These have made Pete very aware of an ache in his heart for the poor, and has heightened his desire to serve Jesus in this broken world - in this case the poor and downtrodden, the outcast and broken. Pete's life and work is all about Jesus - many can certainly see Christ in him.
Pastors Blair and Wendy Riley Increasing Faith Christian Ministries Sydney, Nova Scotia
Rev. Wendy Riley was raised in a Christian home, dedicated her life to Christ and has followed Him wherever He has led. Wendy has ministered to children at Bible Camp as coordinator and counselor and as a Sunday school teacher; she has participated in outreach and evangelism teams to reach young people for Christ; worked with the Quechuas of Bolivia in 1982 as a missionary and ambassador for Christ, training them to minister to their own people and spread the Gospel message; and Wendy attended the New Brunswick Bible Institute [NBBI].
Rev. Blair Riley earned a Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of Cape Breton. When Rev. Blair Riley worked as an Addictions Counselor and program coordinator in Halifax, he stressed to other staff and clientele the importance of having a Christ-centred program and the success they experienced was phenomenal and many lives were changed: many of the clients still serve God today.
Blair presently serves at the local addiction centre; he also provides counseling outside the workplace and sometimes counsels at another addiction centre. Pastors Wendy and Blair share a ministry distributing New Testament bibles supplied by the Canadian Bible Society, the Gideon's and "The Pocket Testament League". The couple are great witness for Christ: they live and share The Word with others. The couple knows God will use them in view of the huge problems facing society particularly in Cape Breton, and is preparing to launch an official outreach. They hope to start their own program similar to Overcomes Annonymous, a Christian self-help group similar to Alcoholics Annonymous, as well as provide marriage counseling to the community.
Rev. Derek Rymarchuk Abba Niagara Christian Ministry 6053 Franklin Ave Niagara Falls, Ontario Tel: 905. 371. 2406
Rev. Derek Rymarchuk and his wife Shelly have a strong commitment to serve the Lord: they have a strong desire to see people introduced to Jesus and His love. Derek studied theology for three years at Northeast Christian College in Fredericton, New Brunswick, later received a Bachelor of Theology degree in 1992 from International Seminary, and became an ordained minister in 1995.
Derek has a genuine love for people: he is personable, caring and sensitive, in both the spiritual and interpersonal sense of the word. Rev. Derek Rymarchuk served for over ten years as the minister of Calvary Chapel, Niagara Falls. He is an enthusiastic, interactive preacher who likes to involve the congregation in his sermons; and his teaching is based on the Word of God with a focus on His desire for our lives. Rev. Derek reaches out to people by conducting weddings, baby dedications and funerals; he is involved in Christian youth ministry; he blends innovative and entrepreneurship with a solid grounding Christian scriptures and ethics; and he is lauded as being an excellent representative of his community. When called upon, Rev. Derek always goes to the aid of Project S.H.A.R.E., a multi service, non-profit agency that helps people that are living below the poverty line with basic needs, whether through fundraising, sponsoring programs or participating in food drives.
Rev. Thomas A. Secord Progression Ministries Kentville, Nova Scotia
Rev. Tom Secord's calling is simple: bring as many hurt souls as possible to the Lord, and at the same time destroy as many false pretences about psychology and addictions as he possibly can. When Jesus proclaimed that He was here to wage war and not to bring peace, Tom understands precisely what Jesus means and as he puts it succinctly:
"There is no doubt that we are in the midst of a spiritual battle that rages on, and it is our job as Christians to step up to the plate and to stand up for the truths that we know. We cannot sit back and watch the world die around us. I myself, like all my Christian brothers and sisters, must fight back and bring peace to the hearts of as many as possible through Jesus Christ." And fight back, Tom Secord will.
His calling has manifested itself magnificently over the past two years being born out of increasing sorrow for many who are searching for their souls in a society that shuns that very search. The fact that countless die without ever being shown the truth or ever given the chance to witness God's power first hand is very real tragedy for Rev. Tom so much so you will certainly not find him sitting idly by. Tom wants to bring those who suffer to the Lord, knowing that the Lord can heal them once and for all; Tom believes everyone deserves to have the opportunity to hear the truth that Jesus Christ changes lives, offering salvation where worldly rehabilitation programs only offered a means of coping with the pains of life. Tom knows that those who suffer from addictions, from any forms of ailment, from pain as a result of a background of abuse and abandonment, or from a desperate lack of spirituality, can find peace through the Lord. They can have the opportunity to start over when they ask Jesus to fill the empty void inside their lives. Through his observation of people who had truly changed their lives, Tom has concluded that the only way for a person to truly recover from a background of abuse or addiction is to become a new person through Jesus Christ. No program of recovery could offer what Jesus can: Salvation.
Tom Secord is faithful to his calling to open the lines of communication to all who are willing to hear about the joys of salvation; to help others through moral support and as their counsellor; and to teach others how to lead happy, useful and changed lives. Jesus is faithful, and has directed many into Tom's path so that he can counsel them and help them find peace in their lives through our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
Reverend Dawn Tyndall Divine Life Creation Ministries Salmon Arms, British Columbia www.dawntyndall.com
Dawn Tyndall, author and recording artist, has been a moving humourous motivational speaker for years. It is no coincidence that both Dawn Tyndall's names mean "to shed light on". Drawing upon life experiences of being a wife and mother for over 20 years, as well as the "experience of a lifetime" as being an elected City Councillor, she mixes humour with everyday life examples and practical applications for audiences all over North America sharing Divine Light and Love. Dawn strongly believes each and everyone has something to offer and shares ways to not only find "your place" but CREATE your place. Dawn's personal mission statement is -- I am here to remind everyone to live THEIR best life. Not worrying what others think - but truly live. To end the silent suffering that happens in our lives due to feelings of 'not quite measuring up'. Truth is, we ALL measure up - when we embrace, as individuals, who we are. I am here delighting in relighting lamps.
Reverend Valetta Wile Cambridge, Nova Scotia
Rev. Valetta Wile wholeheartedly appreciates what Jesus did for us on the cross. Valetta lives to "Be Christ like in everything you do". Her desire is to bring Christ into people's hearts. Rev. Valetta is thrilled to give her life to Christ as a servant of God, and balances service for God and people with serving her own family. God has blessed Valetta with a husband and two children. Valetta believes that one of the greatest gifts that God has given her is her ability to listen and to be a shoulder to cry on. The Lord is her strength and her help.
Valetta relates to different generations of people from the very young to the elderly, but she truly enjoys teaching children simple things about Jesus and the principles of being Christian because their faith is so pure and simple. Children believe: Jesus loves us! This is what we should ALL believe: Jesus loves us! This is the simple truth! The Bible says, "teach them the way and they will not turn from it when they are old." Valetta wants to play a part in making people realize who Jesus is and what he did for us. Valetta is the friend who listens; the big sister who cares deeply; and the selfless servant of God. Valetta thrives on simply relying on God's grace and trying to be Christ like in everything she does.
