• BC Christian News • NOVEMBER ISSUE 2000 • VOL. 20 #11 • Formerly "Christian Info News" •

Christian perspective on unemployment
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DAVID was a shy person trying to find work. Although he was educated and had many talents, he was having difficulties with his job search. David's pastor referred him to Marion C. Tansey, the coordinator of a new program created by the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC)'s Employment Development Department.

Gifts for the Journey is an employment mentoring program designed to connect those who are looking for work with trained volunteers who will accompany them on a journey that helps people discover their gifts and talents and how they can use those in finding work that matches their sense of calling. The goal is to walk alongside people who want employment that reflects a vocation rather than 'just a job.'

David and Marion met weekly to work through a process of self-assessment in which he identified four priorities for himself: Christianity, photography, website design and engineering. He used these priorities for volunteering with a Christian organization, and working on a website to promote his photography and interest in Christian issues. He is now focused on that which is important to him and gives him an opportunity to express his gifts.

"I'm further than where I was and I'm looking forward to how things unfold in the next year," says David.

Tansey, who has worked in this field since 1983, feels that the program is filling a much-needed void in the area of employment and community support.

"Prior to joining MCC, I had concerns about career [counselling], namely that not enough discussion was taking place between myself and job seekers related to their faith," she says. "Gifts for the Journey is intended to contribute to the discussion, and addresses my concerns in several ways."

Given that our work consumes more than half our waking hours, determines the quality of our lives, uses gifts and defines our place in the community, "it's critical to MCC to reach out and help the churches," she says.

MCC will be launching Gifts for the Journey in January 2001. Phase One will concentrate on recruiting and training volunteers in Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack and Langley and will work closely with 15 people who are willing to commit to four months of walking alongside someone who wants more than 'just a job.' To volunteer, contact 1-888-622-6337. David's website is :

www.seercom.com/dvoth