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DWAYNE BUHLER is optimistic.
The Missions Fest (MF) CEO knows the event’s planners are facing some logistical challenges this year, but is convinced his
staff and volunteers will be up to the task.
Missions Fest 2010 will offer the same weekend full of activities as usual.
However, it will take place several weeks earlier than normal, and at a
different Vancouver venue.
The 2010 Olympics juggernaut is the reason for the changes. The huge event will
occupy Canada Place at the end of January; so MF organizers needed to find an
alternative, and chose Broadway Church as its main facility.
Activities will also be happening at the Italian Cultural Centre; the Warehouse;
and Vancouver Technical High School. All venues are within a few blocks of the
church.
Asked whether the changes could significantly affect attendance, Buhler was
candid. “We’re not sure,” he told BCCN, adding: “Some people are thrilled that we’re doing it differently, and returning to our roots.”
Negative factors, he said, could include “the busy-ness of the city. People are creatures of habit. But this time we have
almost the same amount of space as usual; it’s just distributed differently.” The key challenge is “getting the word out that there’s a worthwhile event to get to.”
This year’s scheduled speakers include: Will Graham, grandson of Billy Graham; hockey legend Paul
Henderson; Jamie McIntosh, executive director of International Justice Mission
Canada; Jackie Pullinger, author of Chasing the Dragon; and Alex Dias Ribeiro, director of the International Sports Ministries
Coalition.
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One event Buhler is particularly excited about is the Missions Fest Film
Festival. Films such as The Original Promise, As We Forgive and Grandfather have “captured a missions theme.” Most importantly, he said, “My desire is that young people will learn from the filmmakers.”
This year’s overall theme is ‘Finish the Race’ – especially, said Buhler, “finishing well, with perseverance.”
Missions Fest 2010 runs January 8 – 10.
Contact: 604.524.9944 or missionsfestvancouver.ca.
Another Missions Fest article is on page 9.
– David F. Dawes
December 2009
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