Abbotsford’s new Cyrus Centre

Responding to a growing need in Abbotsford, the Cyrus Centre opened April 1 to provide a drop-in resource for youth.

The centre, which is open every day, is utilized by youth from all walks of life.

“Some are homeless, street entrenched, sexually exploited, affected by poverty; yet others come because they feel they don’t belong or don’t fit in elsewhere,” said the centre’s leader, Les Talvio.

“Our name stems from Isaiah 45:13: ‘I will raise up Cyrus to fulfil my righteous purpose, and I will guide all his actions. He will restore my city and free my captive people  and not for a reward! I the Lord Almighty have spoken!’” he said.

Supported by a number of churches (notably the large Northview Community Church) and the Abbotsford Christian Leadership Network, Cyrus (at 2616 Ware Street) provides services such as laundry, showers, meals and food hampers, advocacy, and computers. Even such issues as emergency dental care and extreme weather shelter beds can be offered.

“Most importantly, relationships are built with youth showing them the love of the Father,” said Talvio. “Many youth have been saved and families restored, yet there is much work to be done.”

Staffing is handled by 3.5 full time people and 14 volunteers and practicum students.

For information: cyruscentre.com or 604.859.5773.  – PB

Gateway of Hope begins

Langley’s proposed Gateway of Hope, a development that will provide 55 beds for homeless people, commenced construction April 18. The $14.1-million facility to be run by the Salvation Army is jointly funded by all levels of government and represents a significant partnering between the church and government.  Several politicians spoke at the ceremony, including: Rich Coleman, Minister Responsible for Housing; Langley MLA Mary Polak; City of Langley Mayor Peter Fassbender; and Township of Langley Mayor Kurt Alberts. The initiative integrates health and social services to help people move to more secure housing, greater self-reliance and appropriate employment.

New lead pastors

Elders at Northview Community Church, one of the largest in Canada, have recommended Jeff Bucknam to the congregation as lead pastor. Bucknam has been pastor of young adults since 2006, after five years of pastoral ministry at Hope Community Church in Nelson, New Zealand

Surrey’s Johnson Heights Church in Guildford has appointed Justin Dennison to lead pastor. He started Sunday April 27. Prior to coming to Surrey, Dennison had been a pastor in San Jose, California.

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Hugeyouth event

Historymaker 2008 takes place May 17 – 19 in Chilliwack. This year’s featured musicians include Delirious?, The Revolution Band, Stellar Kart and Parachute Band. Historymaker’s organizers are touting it as “the largest annual youth and young adult event in B.C. that focuses on community, faith, live music, teaching and lots of high-energy fun.”Teaching sessions will address topics such as miracles, faith, leadership, sex and relationships.   There will also be extreme sports, testimonies, an ‘unplugged cafe’ and rock climbing. www.historymaker.ca

Biker Blessing

After a one year hiatus, Willingdon Church hosted another motorcycle Biker Blessing April 19. “Motorcyclists,” organizer Tom Venables said, “often experience the freedom and enjoyment of God’s creation that makes the activity so attractive.” Willingdon’s senior pastor, John Neufeld, then led the group in a collective prayer for safety in the coming riding season. 

Daystar still shining

An event to be held May 31 – ‘Take Me Back’ – will honour Doug Moody, who passed away in 2007. Moody served as music minister at Glad Tidings Temple in Vancouver from 1961 to 1982. Over the years, he worked with musicians such as Jake Hess, Andrae Crouch and Billy Preston. Sixteen years ago, Moody formed Daystar, a group made up of singers and musicians from different churches in Metro Vancouver. The group has since ministered in Scandinavia, Estonia, Russia and Latvia. The event, to be held at Christian Life Assembly in Langley, will also benefit the group’s August missions trip to Russia.

Chilliwack First Nations

The Chilliwack First Nations Christian Gathering is holding a combined potluck and cultural celebration May 10, 1– 4 pm at Southside Place, #7-7355 Vedder Road, in Sardis. Organizer Standing Bear states:“Bring your drum, guitar, regalia, songs, stories. Come and network, and encourage one another in the Jesus Way.” For more details, call:604-824-8724.        – P

Rwandan  memorial

In a poignant evening that commemorated the 15 years since the country’s genocide, Christians gathered April 6 at Cedar Grove Baptist Church in Surrey. For more info on this ministry: www.thewellspringfoundation.com.

May 2008