First Nations worship

Worship (pictured right) was a key component of an event honouring First Nations youth, held April 28 at the Salvation Army’s Cross-Culture Centre in Vancouver. In addition to powerful testimonies and music, there was a special moment of unity. “Seven youth delegates from different ethnicities – including Chinese, Caucasian, Black and Indian – laid hands on the First Nations youth,” said organizer Esther Leung-Kong. “It was as if a marriage had happened between the two groups of youths – First Nations and all nations.”

Local legend seeks help

For the past 12 years, ‘Street Mom’ Ellen Shonsta and her Mom’s Agape Street Ministry has been providing food, vitamins and hugs to street folk in downtown Vancouver. Many street kids see the ministry as a lifeline. The church group which has been donating 3,000 sandwiches each week for the past 10 years is taking a well-deserved break; so Shonsta is searching for one or more groups to fill in the void, starting this month. Contact: 604-608-1748 or momsagape.com.

Wagner swings into action

Langley-based Wagner Hills Farm Society is a Christian organization which ministers primarily to men with addictive lifestyles. The ministry is holding its Swing into Freedom Golf Tournament June 22, to raise funds. The fun starts 11 am at the Fort Langley Golf and Country Club. A banquet takes place 6:30 pm at Wagner Hills Farm, with food served by the residents – followed by music and awards. Contact: 604-308-3364.

World Refugee Day

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees first designated June 20 as World Refugee Day in 2001. As this date approaches, Christians continue to reach out to refugees by volunteering to befriend a refugee family or by being part of a group or church which sponsors people resettling in Canada .  Journey Home Community and New Hope Welcome House are hosting a special event  June 20 in Burnaby. Call  604-451-7948.

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Volunteers recognized

In late April, at its Taylor Award Ceremony, the Correctional Service of Canada recognized two key participants in its Pacific Region volunteer program. Long-time correctional volunteers Arden and Jean Robertson were honoured with a buffet dinner at the Mission Institution, where they have frequently volunteered.

Wilf back on the air

Wilf Ray, one of Canada’s longest-running radio hosts, resumed his weekly AM 600 gospel program May 20. His 42 years of broadcasting was interrupted last November with a heart attack, followed by open heart surgery – requiring five bypasses and the replacement of his mitral valve to stay alive. He is happy to be back in the saddle.  wilfray.com

Velma Chapman passes on

“God’s faithful servant, Velma Chapman, 92 years, passed on to her heavenly home on Tuesday, May 22,” wrote Frances Doucet of Sunday Line in a statement to BCCN.

Chapman, along with her life-long friend and ministry colleague, broadcast evangelist Bernice Gerard, had been in hospital since January.

Doucet added: “Velma spoke of her struggles this way: ‘All is a fiery trial we are passing through.’

“Bernice is still at UBC Hospital care facility. It is a very sad time for her. God’s compassion and her strong faith keep her steady, as well as being surrounded with the love and support of family and friends.”

A memorial service was held May 30 at Broadway Church.

June 2007