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| Mission Capsules - December 2005 |
CANADA: Presbytery of Montreal
Our gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Action Refugies Montreal as it ministers to refugees. Ministry includes matching newly-arrived refugee women with volunteers, visiting a detention centre where men, women and children are held while awaiting immigration proceedings, sponsorship and support groups.
MALAWIOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...support Rev. Joel Sherbino, Associate Minister of St. Columba Church in Blantyne Synod. Malawi. Joel preaches and leads worship at the English service each week. He also acts as Ecumenical Officer for Blantyne Synod, and as Associate Director for the Theological Resource Centre.TAIWANOur gift to Presbyterians Sharing...support Rev. Murray Garvin, an English instructor at Yu-Shan Theological College and Seminary in Taiwan. Murray has been appointed for a two year term, and began teaching in September 2004. |
| Mission Capsules - October 2005 |
UKRAINEOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Steve Ross as he works with the Reformed Church of the Sub-Carpathian Ukraine, assisting with a PWS&D seed distribution project. The project provides farmers with technical knowledge and access to quality seeds through regional seed banks.KENYAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Dr. Richard (Rick) Allen, a community health physician working with the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA). Rick's main focus is HIV/AIDS prevention. The HIV/AIDS situation in Kenya remains serious, affecting just over 10 percent of the adult population.CANADA: Presbytery Waterloo-WellingtonOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support chaplaincies across Canada, including the University of Guelph's campus ministry. Chaplain Lucy Reid feels that diversity is the key characteristic of campus ministry. Lucy is part of a multi-faith team working with colleqgues of various faiths.CANADA: Presbytery Vancouver IslandOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support West Shore Presbyterian Church in Victoria, BC. This church's neighbourhood has seen consistent growth over the past year, prompting the congregation to assess its work and focus its efforts on growth and outreach, as well as on discipleship.JUSTICE MINISTRIESOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support the Church Council on Justice and Corrections (CCJC), which advocates the use of restorative justice practices such as victim-offender mediation, sentencing circles and family group or community accountability conferences. In Auguest 2004, CCJC participated in the Fifth International Conference on Restorative Justice Practices held in Vancouver, BC. |
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| Mission Capsules - August 2005 |
NICARAGUAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Rev. Joe Reed, Area Missionary in Central America since 1986. Among other things, Joe coordinates visits of Presbyterians from Canada to the region, helps assign personnel (volunteers and staff) and encourages partnerships.UKRAINEOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support David Pandy-Szekeres as he works with the Reformed Church of the Sub-Carpathian Ukraine (RCCU). As Supervisor of External Missions and Development Officer of Schools, David corrdinates three Christian secondary schools and 13 trained missionaries.CANADA: Presbytery of Edmonton-LakelandOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Sherwood Park Presbyterian Church in Servood Park, Alberta. This congregation shares its faith with the community through concerts, sales and use of the church facilities. It is exploring the possibility of intentional church growth.CANADA: Presbytery of Calgary-MacLeodOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support St. Andres's Presbyterian Church in Olds, Alberta. A year ago, this congregation considered closing its doors. Instead, it faithfully called a full-time minister and is now emphasizing church growth and evangelism.JUSTICE MINISTRIESOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support our participation in the Ecumenical Health Care Network of the Canadian Council of Churches (RCHN). On behalf of its members, the ECHN presented a brief to the Romanoff Commission on the Future of Health and a suggested Health Care Covenant for all people in Canada. |
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| Mission Capsules - July 2005 |
ROMANIAThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Sonya Henderson, a teacher at the Hungarian Reformed Theological institute in Cluj (Kolozsvar) Romania. She also teaches English at the Lamont Centre, a centre for people with physical disabilities.CAMEROONThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Sean Allison, an associate missionary in Cameroon, Africa. Sean and his wife Lezlie are involved in language analysis and development, literacy and translation for one of the 270 languages of this country.CANADA: Presbytery of LondonThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Dayspring Presbyterian Church in London, Ontario. Last year, Dayspring formulated a new mission statement which emphasized being welcoming within the community, contributing to the well-being of others, worshiping together and growing in faith.CANADA: Presbytery of Peace RiverThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Strang Presbyterian Church in Dixonville, Alberta. Under the leadership of the Rev. Joanne Kim, the congregation is growing and the church school is thriving. Strang church is the base for the North Peace Territorial Ministry which serves an area that covers 47,000 square kilometres. |
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| Mission Capsules - June 2005 |
ROMANIAThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Mary Gorombey who is working in the Transylvanian Reformed Diocese in Kolozsvar. At Home Missions Institute, Mary runs the library and performs administrative duties. At the Bonus Pastor Foundation, Mary carries out regular home visits to alcoholics and their families and enhances the establishment of support groups for addicts. At Koinonia Publishing, Mary is based in the International Department where she edits the quarterly Koinonia English newsletter, assists with the English web site, and oversees all English correspondence. As we support Presbyterians Sharing...let us pray for Mary and those with whom she is working.NICARAGUAThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Dr. David Villalonga, a veterinarian working with the Association of Young Christians (YMCA) in Nicaragua. David runs workshops on various issues including veterinary and animal care, nutrition, the environment, protection of water resources, and gender equality. David also oversees various community health and nutrition programs that help families to acquire livestock such as cows, goats and lambs. Families are encouraged to make organic cheese and other products to sell at market. As we support Presbyterians Sharing..., let us pray for David as he works to make a difference in the lives of people in Nicaragua.CANADA: Presbytery of NewfoundlandThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support St. Matthew's Presbyterian Church. This small congregation is located in Grand Falls/Windsor, Newfoundland. While there are not many Presbyterians in the area to support local growth, this congregation is being maintained and there is generally a good range in age of those who attend. A Sunday worship service is conducted every three weeks, and the Rev. Ian Wishart drives 430 kilometers from St. John's to lead the service. As we give to Presbyterians Sharing...let us pray for St. Matthew's, and for those churches across Canada that are small but faithful.CANADA: Presbytery of MontrealThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Concordia University's campus ministry in Montreal. Students who come into the Rev. Ellie Hummel's office find a welcoming and safe space where they can be themselves, where they can bring their questions, joys, fears, challenges and hopes. For Ellie, chaplaincy is being open to whatever happens and whoever walks through the door. It is relating the Gospel through actions and words that are appropriate and meaningful. It is making the Gospel message relevant in a secular, multi-faith environment. As we support Presbyterians Sharing...let us pray for Concordia University's campus ministry. |
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| Mission Capsules - May 2005 |
CANADA: Presbytery of MontrealOur gifts to Presbyterian Sharing...help support Concordia University's campus ministry in Montreal. Students who come into the Rev. Ellie Hummel's office find a welcoming and safe space where they can be themselves, where they can bring their questions, joys, fears, challenges and hopes. For Ellie, chaplaincy is being open to whatever happens and whoever walks through the door. It is relating the Gospel through actions and words that are appropriate and meaningful. It is making the Gospel message relevant in a secular, multi-faith environment. As we support Presbyterians Sharing...let us pray for Concordia University campus ministry.ROMANIAOur gifts to Presbyterian Sharing...help support Mary Gorombey who is working in the Transylvanian Reformed Diocese in Kolozsvar. At Home Missions Institute, Mary runs the library and performs administrative duties. At the Bonus Pastor Foundation, Mary carries out regular home visits to alcoholics and their families and enhances the establishment of support groups for addicts. At Koinonia Publishing, Mary is based in the International Department where she edits the quarterly Koinonia English newsletter, assists with the English web site, and oversees all English correspondence. As we support Presbyetians Sharing...let us pray for Mary and those with whom she is working. |
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| Mission Capsules - NOVEMBER 2003 |
| Dry Bones Live Again |
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Signs of destruction were everywhere. What used to be houses were now empty burned-out shells. The church had been destroyed, the missionary's
house was in shambles. A tribal war had devastated the village a few months earlier, and everyone who was not killed had fled in fear. There was nothing
left for the people of Agon--their homes, their livelihood, their hopes were all gone.
When Arlene Onuoha and her colleagues Rev. Friday Inya and Rev. Emenike Peter Ibeka arrived in the village of Agon, they discovered that the people were returning to their village. They were rebuilding their homes and replanting their farms. They were trying to rebuild their lives. As the news of the guests' arrival spread through the village, people came to greet them. They were happy, eager and excited. Old men and women, young people, small children, dressed in whatever they could find. They came, whether healthy or sick. They knew Friday well--he had baptized many of them. Arlene and Friday gave the people the clothing and rice that they had brought with them. Friday spoke to the villagers about their struggles and about God's love. He read from Romans, telling them that God loved them, had not abandoned them, would not abandon them. He assured them that the Church would come back to be with them at Agon, and encouraged them to resume their worship and praises and prayers. They sand and prayed together. As she stood with the villagers, Arlene was deeply saddened by the destruction and massacre that had taken place here. Yet, as she looked from face to face, there was joy and excitement. Despite what had happened to them, these people were filled with new hope. A fire was rekindled in their eyes. God had not abandoned them. Arlene felt the presence of God, and know at that moment that dry bones could live again. Arlene Onuoba works with the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria as Finance Officer of the National Directorate of Missions and as Project Manager for the Project of Democracy and Governance. She is supported by our gifts to Presbyterians Sharing... Writers: Arlene Onuoha/Heather Chappell |
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| Training for Ministry and Vocations |
| In the mid 1970s students at Hsin Chu Bible School needed money for scholarships. So they made cards out of red paper, carefully cutting out designs by hand, and sent them to Canada to help raise funds. Many people in our congregations got involved in this fundraising project, developing a keen interest in the Bible school and a special fondness for the students. |
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"To the Taiwanese, and especially the aboriginal people of Taiwan, God is their life, not just one hour out of their week. Since
being here I have seen the result of so many miracles and experienced Jesus coming into so many new lives with such passion that I really feel I have
learned more about faith and living with God than I have taught." --Marlene Buwalda, former mission staff at Presbyterian Bible College |
| So began our Church's relationship with what is now called the Presbyterian Bible College in Hsin Chu, a city in the north of Taiwan.
Founded in 1952, the school has developed into an excellent educational institution for the laity. There are three streams of learning -- Early Childhood Education, English and Music. Each stream includes a Bible training and Christian education component in the curriculum. One of the college's goals is to train and nurture the laity with Biblical teaching so that they can witness to the gospel in their secular work field. However, many go on to become ministers of word and sacrament. Yabu Syat, a Tayal aboriginal man, attended the college in Hsin Chu several years ago. During his time at the school, he felt a strong call to ministry and was ordained after further study at one of the theological colleges of The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan. Yabu has served in tribal congregations in Taiwan for many years and became the Moderator of The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan in 2000. He is the second aboriginal person to serve as Moderator. Over the past ten years The Presbyterian Church in Canada has sent mission staff to teach English and lead Bible classes at the college. After their experience in Hsin Chu, two of them returned to Canada and enrolled at Knox College in Toronto to become ministers. Our gifts to Presbyterian Sharing...support Louise Gamble, a teacher at Presbyterian College in Hsin Chu. Louise teaches both formal and informal classes, focusing mainly on conversational English and Bible Straining. Writers: Wilma Welsh/Heather Chappell |
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| God Has Us Here For a Reason |
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A little girl smoothes her dress carefully over her knees, looks at Rev. Ina with serious eyes, and asks, "What does God look like?"
A little boy scratches the mosquito bite on his elbow and asks, "And why did God create mosquitoes?" During children's time at Kitimat Presbyterian Church, Rev. Ina Golaiy encourages the children to ask her anything they like. When she doesn't have an answer, they talk about it and come up with suggestions, or ask the adults in the congregation what they think. Sometimes Ina will start the discussion with the words "I wonder..." I wonder what it's like to worship in a small church in Kitimat in the Presbytery of Kamloops, British Columbia? I wonder how many of us can easily locate Kitimat on a map? I wonder how the members feel about being part of The Presbyterian Church in Canada? There are times when people at the church feel a sense of isolation from other Presbyterian congregations because the distance between churches is so great. Financially it's very difficult for members to travel to conferences, camps, workshops or meetings where they can connect with other Presbyterians. And yet, despite difficulties, connections are still being made. Good friendships were formed when Prince Rupert's youth group joined Kitimat youth for an April Fool's weekend -- an event they hope to hold annually. Connections are also being made with the community. The congregation prepares and serves lunch to almost 100 people once a month. In addition to raising funds, this is also an outreach, letting Kitimat know that the church is present in the community. Good food, good hospitality, good witness. According to Ina, this industrial town needs Christ's witness to face the challenges of life in Kitimat. There is always talk of plant closings and layoffs. Drugs and alcohol are a problem. There are youth recreation facilities in town, but it's hard for all to participate because of the costs. The community needs to know that the church cares. When you get home, please get out your atlas and find Kitimat. Ina asks Presbyterians to pray for the church in Kitimat, that they will feel God's guidance as they seek to be a witness to the community. She also says, "We may be small but we're here...God has us here for a reason and we're working on it." Your gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help this small but vibrant congregation in Kitimat to witness with joyful hearts. Writers: J. Holohan/A.Klassen, H. Chappell |
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| Singing the Good News in a Foreign Land |
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It is September 23th, 2001. The silent sanctuary in Scarborough, Ontario, is packed with people. Many are grieving and searching for hope after the horrific
terrorist attacks that occurred earlier in the week.
At the front of the church stand 23 poised young men dressed in dark suits and ties. They break the waiting silence with the familiar and powerful hymn, " Great is Thy Faithfulness." They sing it in Hungarian, their native language. Harmonies soar. Tears fall. Healing begins. After the concert, choir members speak openly of their spiritual journey, of their faith, of their beloved Transylvania. They have come to Canada to serve the Lord, to share the good news of God's love. Their presence touches the hearts of Canadians who have had the privilege of hearing their songs of praise and worship. These young men have travelled thousands of miles to be here tonight, to sing their mission in a foreign land. They have been preparing for this journey for almost two years. All are students at the Hungarian Reformed Theological Institute in Cluj, Romania, where they are training to become ministers. This is the first time any of them has travelled overseas. |
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"Through psalms and songs, followers of Christ are able to communicate with each
other despite language barriers. Singing to the Lord is the common native tongue of the Christian heart."
--Geza Papp, biship of the Hungarian Reformed Church in Romania, Transylvania District |
| The Institute's Male Choir was formed in 1996 under the direction of Brian Johnston, a Canadian Presbyterian who teaches English and music at the
Institute. It began as a way for students to further their English skills and has grown into a strong ministry as members travel throughout Transylvania to sing
in numerous churches and concert halls. The choir's visit to Canada was sponsored by The Presbyterian Church in Canada. During the choir's 25-day whirlwind tour of Southwestern Ontario, evangelism was at work. The good news of God's love way shared through beautiful music and stirring personal testimonials. Strangers were made welcome in a new land through the hospitality of friendly Canadians who prepared meals and billeted choir members in their homes. The hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ bridged the gap between cultures and strengthened the recently formed partnership between The Presbyterian Church in Canada and The Hungarian Reformed Church in Romania. Through Presbyterians Sharing...we support the ongoing work of Brian Johnston in Romania. Through gifts to Something Extra we support the choir as it travels throughout Transylvania, singing the gospel. Through prayer we support our partner church, The Hungarian Reformed Church in Romania. Writers: Heather Chappell |
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| Mission Capsules - OCTOBER 2003 |
| The Church Blooms Again |
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It's a sunny afternoon in Nagydobrony, Ukraine. Eva sits on the front steps of the church-run orphanage enjoying the warm sunshine. She is surrounded
by young children, one in her lap, the others pressed close. "Tell us another story!" They shout. "Tell us about the animals on the boat!" Eva laughs and
begins again the story of Noah and the ark. The children giggle as they act like the animals in the story.
For over 40 years of Communist rule, Christian education was not allowed in the Ukraine. The government confiscated church property, sent ministers away to Siberian prisons, and criminalized evangelism. For the Reformed Church of the Sub-Carpathian Ukraine (RCCU) -- a denomination comprised of ethnic Hungarians -- this also meant the shutting down of their schools. With the Christian schools gone, there was no place for students to be exposed to a Christian world view. By the time Communism ended in the late 1980s, the church had suffered great losses, both spiritually and materially. Recognizing the acute need for sound, Christian-based education, the RCCU established three Christian secondary schools. The church hoped to breathe Christian spirituality into individuals and communities where atheism had been the main belief structure for so many years. Eva was one of the first 19 students to graduate from the RCCU's Christian school in Nagybereg. Despite coming from poor families, all of Eva's classmates managed to go on to higher education, studying to become ministers, teachers and doctors. But there was just no money available to send Eva to university. Though she was disappointed, she believed that God had a plan for her. Eva prayed daily that she might find work in a place where she was needed, a place where she could make a difference. Because of her Christian schooling, she soon found a job at the church-run orphanage where the staff welcomed her with open arms. Her responsible and Christian manner is greatly appreciated by the director of the orphanage, and many children look to her for guidance. Eva's job is a job for her, and her presence at the orphanage is a blessing to all who meet her. "It is only with a Christian mind that one can truly understand the world in which we live. And it is through this unique perception that we can find our place in this world -- a world in which there are countless opportunities to serve and to continue the good work to which Jesus Christ has opened our eyes and our hearts." -- David Pandy-Szekeres That first graduating class can truly attest to the fact that it was this school that changed their lives. The schools continue to function under constant hardships in an economically destitute country. With the help of foreign partners, they are working towards self-sufficiency through the development of farms to provide food for students and staff. Our gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...support David Pandy-Szekeres, who is the Development Officer for the RCCU's three schools. In addition to his work with the schools, David supervises the work of thirteen missionaries under his charge. Writers: H. Chappell/A. Klassen. |
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| Hope, Faith and Love at Work |
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"Kim's office!" chirps and 11-year-old voice. "Who's calling please? She'll be with you in a minute.
When Kim Kidder, the Program Coordinator of Tyndale-St. Georges Community Centre, comes to the telephone she explains that her very competent telephone assistant is one of the children who attends Tyndale's after-school program. Because young people between the ages of ten and twelve don't have many opportunities to be in leadership positions, this is one of the areas of focus for Tyndale programming. Kim enthusiastically describes some of the programs at Tyndale-- programs that serve the economically depressed community in which the large 3-storey building is located. You don't have to show a membership pass to get into Tyndale. Everyone is welcome. It belongs to the church and the community. In fact, Kim invites you to visit Tyndale when you're in Montreal, to come and see some of the things that are going on:
What is the added value of the Centre's ministry? It's something very simple -- Christian faith, hop and love. It finds its source in the prayer at the beginning of every team meeting -- prayer that God will guide and bless the work. And in the knowledge that this is the Christian gospel in action. The ministry at Tyndale-St. Georges Community Centre could not happen without about 100 volunteers annually. Pray for the volunteers and staff. There're providing an important joy-filled ministry, supported by your gifts to Presbyterians Sharing... Writers: J.Holohan/A.Klassen, H. Chappell. |
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| A Place of Peace and Hope |
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Anishinabe: a place of healing Ten women sit together in a circle around a large drum. These women are all survivors of abuse. The traditional drumming group encourages healing through traditional and Christian teachings. A sharing circle is an integral part of the group and its healing process. Anishinabe: a place of security Susan, one of Anishinabe's regular Sunday School teachers, is not at church service one Sunday. She is sorely missed by three-year-old Dabita. When Susan returns after church, Dabita flies into her arms. "My Susie!" she says, patting her teacher's neck. Anishinabe: a place of hope On the day of his baptism, George weeps as Marie, one of the elders, sings to him. With the help of Anishinabe staff, George has overcome a drug and alcohol addiction. He has been attending church at Anishinabe Fellowship Centre for three years now and volunteers at the Centre on a regular basis. Anishinabe Fellowship Centre is an inner city mission that serves mainly Aboriginal people in Winnipeg, MB. The Centre offers people a place of peace where they can find hope. it provides hope for adequate food, clothing and a safe place to live. It provides the opportunity for listening and understanding. It helps people discover the joy of learning, and offers the hope of employment through its First Steps to Employment program. It provides a place to enjoy a new life in Christ. For children there is an after school drop-in program, a summer drop-in program and a summer bible day camp. Adults are welcome daily for coffee and conversation. Anishinabe provides community members with referrals, support and encouragement as well as advocacy with police, social workers and the health care system. Rev. Margaret Mullin is always available for spiritual direction and pastoral counselling. Our gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...support the much needed ministry of Anishinabe Fellowship Centre. Together, we are helping to provide a place of peace, healing, stability and hope. Writers: Margaret Mullin/Heather Chappell. |
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| Let the People Know Jesus |
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At Soojung Presbyterian Church in Port Coquitlam, BC, it's about connection. A shy woman who has recently arrived in Canada from Korea attends conversational English classes run by the church. She makes new friends and gains confidence in speaking the language of her new country. It's about interaction. A Korean-Canadian teenager worships with his grandmother on a Sunday morning. Together they enjoy a service that bridges old world traditions and Canadian culture. Both feel welcome and comfortable in this setting. It's about transformation. A man searching for meaning in his life is invited to join one of the small groups that meets weekly for Bible study and fellowship. The support he receives and the spiritual growth he undergoes are life-changing. Soojung's goal is to bring together Koreans who live in Coquitlam, Prot Coquitlam and Port Moody, with a special emphasis on Korean youth and Korean- Canadians. The church seeks to provide loving care for the entire church family, making available a ministry team and trained caregivers who offer spiritual assistance or physical aid to anyone in need. It desires to reach out with the love of Christ to the community and to the world. It supports the local native mission and gospel mission centre and serves in various ways at the hospital, university campus and seniors' homes. It also faithfully supports Presbyterians Sharing... Our gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help The Presbyterian Church in Canada to grow new churches in places where the need is great. Because of our support, Rev. Alfred Lee and the congregation of Soojung Presbyterian Church are making connections in the community so that lives may be transformed through Christ. They continue to live their mission statement, to "let the people know Jesus, and share their joy in Him." Writer: H. Chappell. |
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| Sharing the Good News |
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The women are shy at first, quiet, unsure. They have been silenced all of their lives, both in society and in the church. By the end of the two-day
seminar, each woman begins to discover her own voice. Rev. Fernando Cascante watches with tears in his eyes as the women work together, play, tell
stories, and share their dreams for themselves and for their children. They have been given hope.
The 42 women from four different Mayan ethnic groups in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, have come together to listen to Fernando as he talks about the issues of gender injustice. Guatemala is a country dominated by male politics and power. Domestic abuse is culturally accepted and there are very few social services available to women and children. The majority of the population believes that women do have the right to civic power. Women themselves believe this. Fernando teaches that the message of the Gospel destroys all forms of inequality, oppression and abuse. He shares the good news of God's love with these women who so desperately need to hear that they are loved. Once again, he sees the power of the Gospel liberating the human spirit. This is just one type of workshop that Fernando leads in Central America. Other workshops focus on theological and Christian education for seminaries and congregations. With support from Presbyterians Sharing...Fernando has worked as a consultant to our partners' churches and seminaries in Central America since 1997. Fernando is Assistant Professor of Christian Education at the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond, Virginia. He was a minister in Costa Rica for many years, as well as a professor at the University of Costa Rica. During his academic breaks and holidays, Fernando leads workshops for seminary students, pastors and lay leaders in Central America and Cuba. Fernando's work is evangelism at its most traditional level--proclaiming Christ in word and deed. Through his workshops he brings hope to those who need it and gives support to leaders, helping to strengthen the church and encourage new growth. Writer: Heather Chappel |
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| Standing Tall in Nepal |
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When Suraj came to the INF (International Nepal Fellowship) surgical camp in Arghakhanchi, Nepal, he was seven years old. Born with a severe deformity
to both of his legs, he had spent his entire life being carried around or dragging himself along the dusty ground with his hands. He was extremely shy and
lacking in confidence.
The doctors at the camp could not help Saraj, but they told him and his mother about Green Pastures Hospital in Pokhara where he could go for further assessment and treatment. It wasn't easy for Suraj's mother to bring him for treatment. she had to give up her work as a labourer to travel to the hospital with her son. Abandoned by her husband several years earlier, she had to leave her four daughters behind to the village with family members, not knowing if they would receive adequate care. it wasn't easy but she knows that she must try to get help for Suraj. They arrived in Pokhara in November and stayed for five months. Suraj had his surgery within a couple of weeks of their arrival. His right leg was so badly deformed that it had to be amputated just above the knee. His left leg required extensive surgery and a cast to help correct some of the deformity. A prosthetic leg was created for him, and a brace to support his left leg. The physiotherapy and occupational therapy departments helped Suraj learn to use his new leg and the brace. When Suraj left the hospital to return to his village, he walked upright for the first time in his life. He felt confident, and his shyness was almost gone. What an amazing transformation! No longer shy and lacking in confidence. No longer reliant upon others to move around. No longer illiterate. No longer unaware of God and the saving power of Jesus. The life of Suraj has a hope and a future which once hardly seemed possible. Our gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Dr. Richard Schwarz, a surgeon who works at Green Pastures Hospital doing reconstructive surgery for people with leprosy, cleft lips and palates, burns and various congenital deformities. He also runs reconstructive surgical camps which are held in remote areas and serve some of the most neglected people in Nepal. It is a great joy for Richard to work in a Christian environment where justice and kindness are an integral part of the care that is given. Writer: Richard Schwarz |
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| Mission Capsules - SEPTEMBER 2003 |
| Dare To Be a Daniel |
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The winding road leading to Tabor Hill Conference Centre in Kenya is lined with lush pineapple plantations. The sun sets over softly undulating hills. The
Centre is modern, yet unpretentious; a place of peace and meditation.
The sound of voices singing together in harmony fills the warm evening air as people emerge from the Centre. Dare to be a Daniel, dare to stand along. Dare to have a purpose firm, dare to make it known! These 35 men and women--youth, elders, ministers, deacons, teachers and students--have just completed a week-long Trainer of Trainers (TOT) workshop on HIV/AIDS prevention, implemented by the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA). They have been inspired and challenged by messages of hope, provocative messages, prayers and hymns. They have learned various teaching tools and techniques during their training sessions including poems, songs and dance. These are used to teach a simple message: "Kenyans, AIDS is killing us. What are we going to do about it?" The new trainers at Tabor Hill are excited to go back to their villages and teach what they have learned. With their help, changes in attitudes and behaviours will continue to spread throughout Kenya. These trainers are destined to save lives. They are people tasked with cultivating love and understanding. Armed with power, faith and knowledge, they leave the Centre, singing. Like Daniel, they are daring to make a difference. The PCEA's HIV/AIDS Control Program has been operating since 1998. It tackles the issue of HIV/AIDS prevention through various levels of training that involve the entire community. The Trainer of Trainers program provides intensive training for people who then go on to train others as Community AIDS Educators (CAEs). The emphasis of the training program is on prevention, but there are components dealing with home-based care and counselling as well. Once the CAEs have completed their training, they create HIV/AIDS community awareness within churches, schools and other forums within their communities. The PCEA also offers sever-day seminars for church ministers, that equip them to support and facilitate the work of those who have completed the training courses. Our gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...support Richard Allen, a community health physician, working with the PCEA in the area of HIV/AIDS prevention and education. He has been actively involved in developing and implementing the HIV/AIDS TOT courses. The HIV/AIDS Control Program receives funding from PWS&D. Writers: J.F. Beauchesne/Heather Chappel |
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| Mission Capsules - JUNE 2003 |
KENYAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Rev. Dr. Ian Clark who is teaching Christian Education at St. Paul's United Theological College in Limuru, Kenya. The college is a collective ministry of the National Council of Churches in Kenya and the Anglican, Presbyterian, Methodist and Reformed churches in Kenya.CUBA/CENTRAL AMERICAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support the ministry of Fernando Cascante, a professor of Christian education in Richmond, Virginia. During holidays and academic breaks Fernando works as an education advisor in Central America and Cuba, coordinating events for pastors and leaders, leading workshops and teaching courses.CANADA: Presbytery of WinnipegThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Flora House, an inner city ministry in downtown Winnipeg. With a grant from the Winnipeg Foundation, Flora House and Anishinabe Fellowship Centre purchased ten computers and hired two teachers who offer a computer program for residents of the community.CANADA: Presbytery of Calgary-MacLeodThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we have supported Trinity Presbyterian Church in Calgary, Alberta. 2002 was the final year for a Canada Ministries grant, and now Trinity is self-supporting! Let us pray for Trinity Presbyterian Church, that it will continue to grow and reach out to the community. |
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| Mission Capsules - MAY 2003 |
KENYAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Rev. Dr. Ian Clark who is teaching Christian Education at St. Paul's United Theological College in Limuru, Kenya. The college is a collective ministry of the National Council of Churches in Kenya and the Anglican, Presbyterian, Methodist and Reformed churches in Kenya.CUBA/CENTRAL AMERICAOur gits to Presbyterians Sharing...help support the ministry of Fernando Cascante, a professor of Christian education in Richmond, Virginia. During holidays and academic breaks Fernando works as an education advisor in Central America and Cuba, coordinating events for pastors and leaders, leading workshops and teaching courses.CANADA: Presbytery of WinnipegThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we support Flora House, an inner city ministry in downtown Winnipeg. With a grant from the Winnipeg Foundation, Flora House and Anishinabe Fellowship Centre purchased ten computers and hired two teachers who offer a computer program for residents of the community.CANADA: Presbytery of Calgary-MacLeodThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we have supported Trinity Presbyterian Church in Calgary, Alberta. 2002 was the final year for a Canada Ministries grant, and now Trinity is self-supporting! Let us pray for Trinity Presbyterian Church, that it will continue to grow and reach out to the community. |
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| Mission Capsules - MARCH 2003 |
UKRAINEThrough Presbyterian Sharing...we help support David Pandy-Szekeres as he works with the Reformed Church of the Sub-Carpathian Ukraine (RCCU), a church of ethnic Hungarians who adhere to the Reformed tradition based on Presbyterian principles. David is both Director of Schools and Supervisor of External Missions. He coordinates three Christian secondary schools and 13 trained missionaries who work among ethnic Ukranians, in city hospitals, with gypsies in rural and urban areas and with Child Evanglelism.CANADA: Presbytery of West TorontoOur gifts to Presbyterian Sharing...help support the Spanish Ministry of North Park Presbyterian Church in Toronto. In order to share the Christian message and reach out to the community, the congregation writes a weekly page for a Spanish newspaper. Last Year they also developed a program of Christmas stories that was produced and broadcast on a local Spanish radio program. The youth group has recently started participating in services and has developed a monthly puppetry outreach to families within the Spanish community. As we support Presbyterians Sharing...let us pray for the Spanish Ministry.NICARAGUAOur gifts to Presbyterian Sharing...help support Rev. Joe Reed, Area Missionary in Central America since 1986. Among other things, Joe coordinates visits of Presbyterians from Canada to the region, helps assign personnel (volunteers and staff) and encourages partnerships.CANADA: Presbytery of WinnipegThrough Presbyterian Sharing...we help support Anishinabe Fellowship Centre, and inner-city ministry in downtown Winnipeg serving primarily the Aboriginal community. A variety of services encourage healing, reconciliation and wholesome life. Staff memebers are dedicated to helping people find solutions to problems that affect their lives. |
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| Mission Capsules - JANUARY 2003 |
NICARAGUAThrough Presbyterian Sharing...we help support David Villalonga. Since 1991, David, a veterinarian, has worked with a community health and nutrition program that helps families to augment their income with backyard livestock such as rabbits and chickens. In rural villages, where there is more space, goats are being promoted for milk, meat and leather products. David's work is helping to improve the level of nutrition of children in rural areas. As we support Presbyterians Sharing...let us pray for David and the people of Nicaragua.ROMANIAThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Sonya Henderson, an English teacher at the Hungarian Reformed Theological Institute in Cluj (Koloszvar), Romania. During the school year Sonya teaches grammar and conversation to students ranging from first year to fifth, from beginner to advanced. She also volunteers at the Lamont Centre in Cluj (a centre for people with physical disabilities), where she teaches English to members and staff, works with members to write a monthly newsletter, and helps organize conferences and sporting events for the Centre. During the summer months, Sonya works at summer camps in Hungary and Croatia. Please remember Sonya and her students in your prayers.CANADA: Presbytery of Waterloo-WellingtonThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Rev. Lucy Reid, one of the chaplains at Ecumenical Campus Ministries, University of Guelph. Ecumenical Campus Ministries is made up of a multi-faith resource team representing the Presbyterian, Christian Reformed, Roman Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Bah'i traditions. Special initiatives to reach out to wider parts of the university community have included: a Thanksgiving dinner for international students, a study of spirtuality and art, a meditation workshop, and a "Blue Christmas" memorial service for those grieving the loss of a loved one at Christmas. Please continue to support Presbyterians Sharing...and pray for Lucy Reid and Ecumenical Campus Ministries.CANADA: Presbytery of Western Han-CaOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Abbotsford Korean Presbyterian Church in Abbotsford, British Columbia. This growing congregation focuses on serving and evangelizing Korean-Canadians living in the Fraser Valley area. |
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| Mission Capsules - DECEMBER 2002 |
UKRAINEOur gifts to Presbyterian Sharing...help support Steve Ross as he works with the Reformed Church of the Sub-Carpathian Ukraine, assisting with a Canadian Food Grains Bank seed distribution project. The project will provide farmers with technical knowledge and access to quality seeds through regional seed banks.CANADA: Presbytery of WinnipegOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Anamiewigummig Fellowship Centre in Kenora, Ontario. Anamiewigummig is a drop-in centre that works with people on the street, many of whom are suffering from long-term addictions. The Rev. Henry Hildebrandt is Director and Pastor of the Centre.GUATEMALAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Ken Kim in guatemala. Ken works with the Commission for the Verification of Codes of Conduct (COVERCO). COVERCO's primary work involves the independent monitoring of labour conditions in Guatemala's garment manufacturing industry and in Guatemala's agribusiness such as coffee and bananas.CANADA - Presbytery of LondonOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Dayspring Presbyterian Church, a vibrant community of faith in London, Ontario. Dayspring takes ministry of the laity seriously. Members regularly provide leadership for worship including readings and prayers. Lay people also share their gifts as workshop leaders. |
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| Mission Capsules - NOVEMBER 2002 |
UKRAINEOur gifts to Presbyterian Sharing...help support Steve Ross as he works with the Reformed Church of the Sub-Carpathian Ukraine, assisting with a Canadian Food Grains Bank seed distribution Project. The project will provide farmers with technical knowledge and access to quality seeds through regional seed banks.TAIWANOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Betty Geddes, Inter-Board Treasurer of The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT). Betty looks after the financial transactions between several mission boards and the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan. She is jointly appointed by Presbyterian Church (USA) and The Presbyterian Church in Canada.INDIAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Kelly McPhail, this year's international summer theological student intern. Kelly, a student at Presbyterian College in Montreal, has just completed his internship in Chennai, India where he worked with PWS&D's partner, the Institute for Development Education.CANADA: Presbytery of West TorontoOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...we help support the Portuguese Presbyterian Church in Toronto. This multicultural and diverse congregation enjoys a lively music program. Many in the congregation are Angolan, and express their African heritage through song and dance during services.CANADA: Presbytery of LondonOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...we help support the Campus Ministry at the University of Western Ontario in London. Campus Ministry is a unique and challenging experience that requires a special set of skills and understanding in order to give faith a voice in a secular environment. |
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| Mission Capsules - SEPTEMBER 2002 |
TAIWANOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Louise Gamble, a teacher at Presbyterian Bible College in Hsin Chu, Taiwan. She teaches both formal and informal English and Bible classes. The early classes are primarily elementary English conversation, while the upper classes involve biblical studies with discussions, oral presentations and creative writing.KENYAOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Dr. Richard Allen, secretary to the Presbyterian Church of East Africa's (PCEA) HIV/AIDS Committee and Health Coordinator for the PCEA Health Board. Through training programs, the HIV/AIDS Committee is providing much needed HIV/AIDS community awareness.CANADA: Presbytery of Halifax-LunenburgOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support Kings Presbyterian Church in New Minas, Nova Scotia. In order to create a hospitable community as described in Acts, the congregation has spent the past year "body-building" - building stronger bonds of community within the congregation.CANADA: Presbytery of PickeringThrough Presbyterians Sharing...we help support Malvern Presbyterian Church in Toronto. Through a gift from Canada Ministries, the congregation was able to purchase the building they had previously shared with an Anglican congregation. The session is committed to a visioning process that will establish direction and programming in spirituality, outreach and stewardship.JUSTICE MINISTRIES: Church Council on Justice & CorrectionsOur gifts to Presbyterians Sharing...help support the Church Council on Justice and Corrections (CCJC). CCJC brings together representatives of many churches to foster "A Faith Vision for Healing Justice." The Council believes healthy communities reduce and prevent crime and that local involvement through volunteer efforts and networking is an effective way for churches to be a voice for healing justice. |
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