Joy Gregory of Joy Fellowship

November 2, 1959 - June 29, 2007

It is with sorrow and gratitude for a life well lived that we remember Joy Gregory. Her name was synonymous with the church she served so tirelessly.

Joy Fellowship is an interdenominational ministry in Vancouver which has as its specific concern the needs of people with mental or physical disabilities.

In 2005, Joy began a battle with breast cancer, which later developed into a struggle with leukemia. Joy went through incredible obstacles and overcame unbelievable challenges with grace, courage and dignity - an inspiration to all who knew her.

Her own joy was found in supporting people and helping them grow to their potential. She was involved in training interns from a variety of countries, and was encouraged to see some of them initiate similar ministries in other parts of the world. Joy also helped many other churches and groups improve the services they offered to people with disabilities.

Joy received her Master of Divinity from Regent/Carey in 2001, and she was ordained by the Baptist Union of Western Canada in 2002.

She continued to study at Carey Theological College and was awarded a Doctor of Ministry degree in a special Convocation February 18.

Throughout her battle with cancer, Isaiah 41:10 was a verse that meant much to her:

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

A memorial service was held June 23 at Trinity Baptist Church in Vancouver, with over 400 in attendance.

Peddling for African school

This summer, Christian Child Care International is staging four cycling events, known as Cycling for Children. The rides take place in British Columbia (July 7 - 8) The British Columbia cycling route passes through the scenic Fraser Valley. Each day cyclists will cover 90-100 kms through a route that includes Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Fort Langley, Maple Ridge and Mission. www.ccare.ca/biketour.php

Homeless advocate retires

Douglas Woods, executur 2ive director of Mission Possible has announced his plan to retire this summer. Woods has worked for the past 10 years in street ministry in both Vancouver and Winnipeg. Last year it is estimated that Mission Possible provided goods and services worth in excess of $800,000. During the past six years the Mission has doubled the number of meals it serves annually from 10,000 to 20,000, with a focus on personal coaching. www.mission-possible.ca

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Joy Gregory, with supporters at a special convocation in February where she received her doctorate.

New president for Columbia

Columbia Bible College has appointed Ron Penner as president. Penner has a graduate education in social work, ministry and higher education. For the past 10 years he has served as VP of academics and administration, and as interim president. www.columbiabc.edu

Jazz and spiritual life

"The fine art of jazz holds many helpful metaphors for contemporary life." This describes a unique event led by Rob Des Cotes - pastor, musician, spiritual director - and Paul Beckingham - author and teacher. The event features noon day concerts July 3 and 17 with the Rob Des Cotes Trio and a one day seminar July 21 (cost $40) at Carey Centre, 5920 Iona Drive, Vancouver. 604.225.5900

First United congregation disbands

With a Sunday congregation of only 30, many elderly and not local, June 24 marked the final service for this downtown eastside congregation. Rev. Philip Cable told The Vancouver Sun this doesn't mean it's mission work will cease, although he also spoke of "sizable deficits" for the past two years. "It would be too strong a term to say the mission work is in jeopardy," he said, "but the demands on it grow almost daily. So we need every bit of support to keep that going." Weekday morning services continue, though they are usually attended only by a few staff and volunteers.

Pacific Theatre wins at Jessies

Grace, a show that tells the story of a zealous Christian couple and their disfigured neighbour, won the Small Theatre award for Outstanding Production. TWU professor Angela Konrad won for Outstanding Direction at the 25th Annual Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards. The play, written by Craig Wright (Six Feet Under, ABC's Lost and Brothers and Sisters), is not shy of controversy, something that affected Konrad's decision to direct the production. www.pacifictheatre.org

July 2007