Ministry:
On wed. Jimbad came into our class after a break and told us that Duncan needed help sandbagging, and almost immediately, he had 25 willing students to go and help sandbag. You could argue that we just wanted to get out of class, but obviously you have not met Kaléo Seven. Fifteen minutes we all piled into two vans off to sandbag. We arrived and felt a bit stupid because there was already a group there and we had no shovels or any idea what to do, eventually we found ourselves battling against a mound of sand that never seemed to diminish. If it did, out of the darkness would come a sand truck to dump sand and bury our hops of progress. One of the vans left early, but the other half of us stayed another hour or so and wound up being there for about threeish hours. Then treated to hot chocolate and timbits. It was a time to show what the church is really about (not the eating the serving). Hopefully we have more opportunities to show this through the rest of the year.
This week at youth group I experienced something I had never experienced, 5-pin bowling. It was a bit ridiculous. To be able to palm the bowling ball and chuck it down with an insane amount of spin at five pins is something only the Canadians could think up. Us leaders also had a meeting to talk about what to do next year, and the topic of more devotionals came up. Insofar they have been pretty scarce due to so many activities and just traveling around the town and stuff.
Kaléo life:
US Americans had thanksgiving this past week with some other internationals from England and Australia. It was great we had “Gary,” really good stuffing, corn, rolls, mashed yams, magic cookies and pumpkin pie. I between first dessert and second dessert we went to the Ladysmith Light up. The light up is when they turn on all the Christmas lights in the city and have a parade down 1st ave. we then proceeded back to Amanda’s house to have second dessert.
Quite a bit less interesting is class. We just finished up foundations of church ministry, and had the final exam today, I failed by the way. We now have to write a paper on women in leadership roles in the church.
Lastly Rivera, Ellie and I ventured across to Thetis Island to pay a visit to Capenwray. Their campus is like an English country side in the 17th century. They even keep pigs and chickens that they feed with leftovers and at the end of the year, they eat them. We got to hear about a similar bible college program, they had their pros and their cons and so does Kaléo, but not for one second would I choose Capenwray over Kaléo. They have more classes, but don’t get graded for it, it sounds weird, but it makes sense. Safe to say that we all had a jolly good time.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Busy week. pt.∞
Ministry
This week was our week of 24/7 prayer. This does not mean that everyone prayed for 24 hours a day for 7 days. We all signed up for a one-hour slot either by ourselves or with someone. For me the week started off feeling energetic and excited. The first hour felt way too short, and I could feel all of the pain and hurt from people, but I also felt an immense amount of love from all of the Kaléos and leaders. The next one was similar, but the third time I went in I felt absolutely drained and empty, I could not feel God’s love or presence in the room as I had before. The next night I experienced something I had never felt before, God had filled me with love, he had filled in where I felt empty. IT WAS AMAZING. The next time I went in the prayer room the first thing I did was rip up the note I had written about not feeling God and all that. I could go on about what I experienced and what happened to others and what some of them felt and experienced but that is their story, and we could be here a long time.
This week at church, we were invited over for lunch at Vince’s house. Vince has two daughters in the youth group and helps out himself, so we kinda know Vince. He had us over for ribs and beans, which was delicious. It was just sweet to have that fellowship in the church.
We were scheduled to have a “love Crofton” chapel where we went around Crofton and did things for people such as pick up trash, help rake, pray for them, who knows. That had to be postponed because our leader Kristie was sick. Pray that we will make a difference in the community and that we can exhibit God’s love for the town of Crofton.
We also had our first Olympic missions meeting. Preparing for our missions trip to the 2010 winter Olympics. Learning what we are going to be doing and how we should go about it, so that God can be exemplified. Again pray for the hearts of those we will be interacting with and working with. Pray for focus, not only while we are there, but also in preparation for this trip. If we are not preparing now and focused now, we won’t be when we arrive. That focus includes us not having our eyes on a sweet experience, but making a change for the Kingdom of God.
Kaléo Life:
This was a sweet, but ridiculous week for me. It started off by having a OT test, which for me was not that bad, a sentiment I can assure you not many other people felt. We also had to write an OT research paper by Friday night. On top of this we all had to read two books that most of us hadn’t even started, and write summaries and evaluations and the such about them both.
All was not work and no play, au contraire! Sunday night was chocolate fondue with fresh fruit! Fresh fruit! Strawberries, pineapple, honeydew melon, grapes, it was heavenly. Then a group of us went and made puppy chow the next night, quite delicious except for the fact that the others froze it after making it instead of eating it while the chocolate is hot.
Then the many-times postponed “UFC Kaléo” or dubbed by Jenna “man fight” finally took place. With pre-fight trash talking videos and everything. Most of the guys participated, but everyone watched. My fight was the scrappiest fight known to mankind, well that’s what you get when you put two 130 poundish guys into a wrestling match. I lost.
By far the most fun night of all was the unnecessary all-nighter. Rivera, Caroline, John and I stayed up all night for no reason. It was like 3:15 when I finished the first half of my hw, when about seven others came down into the lounge and just started talking. By 4ish all but us had left, and we decided to watch the sunset, and thatled to us staying up all night. We watched some comedians on youtube, made a fort, had some in depth talks, made hot chocolate and played hide-and-seek. That took us to about sunrise so we headed to the dock, and could see the sun highlighting some of the clouds. Half an hour later, it started to sprinkle and we couldn’t see any of the sun because of the clouds. So we went to the kitchen and chilled in the tent that is being taken down there until breakfast. Why, you might ask? Because we can.
This week was our week of 24/7 prayer. This does not mean that everyone prayed for 24 hours a day for 7 days. We all signed up for a one-hour slot either by ourselves or with someone. For me the week started off feeling energetic and excited. The first hour felt way too short, and I could feel all of the pain and hurt from people, but I also felt an immense amount of love from all of the Kaléos and leaders. The next one was similar, but the third time I went in I felt absolutely drained and empty, I could not feel God’s love or presence in the room as I had before. The next night I experienced something I had never felt before, God had filled me with love, he had filled in where I felt empty. IT WAS AMAZING. The next time I went in the prayer room the first thing I did was rip up the note I had written about not feeling God and all that. I could go on about what I experienced and what happened to others and what some of them felt and experienced but that is their story, and we could be here a long time.
This week at church, we were invited over for lunch at Vince’s house. Vince has two daughters in the youth group and helps out himself, so we kinda know Vince. He had us over for ribs and beans, which was delicious. It was just sweet to have that fellowship in the church.
We were scheduled to have a “love Crofton” chapel where we went around Crofton and did things for people such as pick up trash, help rake, pray for them, who knows. That had to be postponed because our leader Kristie was sick. Pray that we will make a difference in the community and that we can exhibit God’s love for the town of Crofton.
We also had our first Olympic missions meeting. Preparing for our missions trip to the 2010 winter Olympics. Learning what we are going to be doing and how we should go about it, so that God can be exemplified. Again pray for the hearts of those we will be interacting with and working with. Pray for focus, not only while we are there, but also in preparation for this trip. If we are not preparing now and focused now, we won’t be when we arrive. That focus includes us not having our eyes on a sweet experience, but making a change for the Kingdom of God.
Kaléo Life:
This was a sweet, but ridiculous week for me. It started off by having a OT test, which for me was not that bad, a sentiment I can assure you not many other people felt. We also had to write an OT research paper by Friday night. On top of this we all had to read two books that most of us hadn’t even started, and write summaries and evaluations and the such about them both.
All was not work and no play, au contraire! Sunday night was chocolate fondue with fresh fruit! Fresh fruit! Strawberries, pineapple, honeydew melon, grapes, it was heavenly. Then a group of us went and made puppy chow the next night, quite delicious except for the fact that the others froze it after making it instead of eating it while the chocolate is hot.
Then the many-times postponed “UFC Kaléo” or dubbed by Jenna “man fight” finally took place. With pre-fight trash talking videos and everything. Most of the guys participated, but everyone watched. My fight was the scrappiest fight known to mankind, well that’s what you get when you put two 130 poundish guys into a wrestling match. I lost.
By far the most fun night of all was the unnecessary all-nighter. Rivera, Caroline, John and I stayed up all night for no reason. It was like 3:15 when I finished the first half of my hw, when about seven others came down into the lounge and just started talking. By 4ish all but us had left, and we decided to watch the sunset, and thatled to us staying up all night. We watched some comedians on youtube, made a fort, had some in depth talks, made hot chocolate and played hide-and-seek. That took us to about sunrise so we headed to the dock, and could see the sun highlighting some of the clouds. Half an hour later, it started to sprinkle and we couldn’t see any of the sun because of the clouds. So we went to the kitchen and chilled in the tent that is being taken down there until breakfast. Why, you might ask? Because we can.
Monday, November 16, 2009
OT!
Ministry:
This was a pretty normal week. At youth this week we went to a hockey game, just some local teams, the Nanaimo Clippers against the Burnaby Express. The kids had fun and so did I. Luckily it didn’t go into overtime. Church this week I stayed in the service instead of the routine of going to Sunday school. Lately I’ve realized how old the kids in the high school Sunday school actually are. They are all around 14-16 years old and yet they are still in Sunday school learning about basics of Christianity. I feel as if the church should be challenging these kids more and not spoon feeding them. Pray that us as Kaléo students can challenge the kids in our youth group and Sunday school to go deeper and to really challenge them.
This week is our 24/7 prayer week where someone is always praying throughout the week. We have a designated room where we can write prayers and pray for others and just be open and free with God and others in Kaléo. I’m really excited for this week, to be able to pray and know that others are always praying is such a sweet thought. So check back next week to see what’s happened during our prayer week.
Here at Kaléo there has been several people sick and feeling down and out. There has been coughing, wheezing, sniffling and sore throats going around. So please pray for health and that it would not spread and those that are afflicted can recover quickly.
Kaléo life:
This week has been taken up by our Old Testament class. It was the sweetest and by far the most helpful class in understanding the both the New and Old testament. This was the class that I was most looking forward to, and now that it’s gone I feel an unmotivated sense towards the other classes. I have been excited for this class and now I don’t know how to get excited for the other classes.
During the week of OT we had to make a movie that included the important events of the OT. We had a theme of movie trailers, so all of the events were a movie trailer. The final product turned sweet and hilarious. One night we were filming until 4 in the morning and the next night Trent and James were up the whole night editing the movie, props to them (actually that would be the set director).
This was a pretty normal week. At youth this week we went to a hockey game, just some local teams, the Nanaimo Clippers against the Burnaby Express. The kids had fun and so did I. Luckily it didn’t go into overtime. Church this week I stayed in the service instead of the routine of going to Sunday school. Lately I’ve realized how old the kids in the high school Sunday school actually are. They are all around 14-16 years old and yet they are still in Sunday school learning about basics of Christianity. I feel as if the church should be challenging these kids more and not spoon feeding them. Pray that us as Kaléo students can challenge the kids in our youth group and Sunday school to go deeper and to really challenge them.
This week is our 24/7 prayer week where someone is always praying throughout the week. We have a designated room where we can write prayers and pray for others and just be open and free with God and others in Kaléo. I’m really excited for this week, to be able to pray and know that others are always praying is such a sweet thought. So check back next week to see what’s happened during our prayer week.
Here at Kaléo there has been several people sick and feeling down and out. There has been coughing, wheezing, sniffling and sore throats going around. So please pray for health and that it would not spread and those that are afflicted can recover quickly.
Kaléo life:
This week has been taken up by our Old Testament class. It was the sweetest and by far the most helpful class in understanding the both the New and Old testament. This was the class that I was most looking forward to, and now that it’s gone I feel an unmotivated sense towards the other classes. I have been excited for this class and now I don’t know how to get excited for the other classes.
During the week of OT we had to make a movie that included the important events of the OT. We had a theme of movie trailers, so all of the events were a movie trailer. The final product turned sweet and hilarious. One night we were filming until 4 in the morning and the next night Trent and James were up the whole night editing the movie, props to them (actually that would be the set director).
Sunday, November 8, 2009
gimme a break!
Ministry
This week at youth group was a delicious progressive dinner. But it also served as a better getting to know you tool with the adults of the church. Instead of just seeing them Sunday morning, you get to see them in their houses and eating their food, what better way of getting to know someone? Katie led a devo on Philippians 4:4-8. I have the privilege of leading next weeks. Ideas?
Today is Remembrance day, the equivalent to Memorial day. The service had quite the production. Flag bearers and this whole ceremony of putting the poppies on a cross. Singing “O Canada” and “Long Live the Queen” was an interesting experience as an American, but I enjoyed it.
The biggest thing that needs praying for right now is sickness. There seems to be a lot of people that are sick, although it’s just two, it feels like there’s more. With class coming up tomorrow, it won’t be good to be sick and trying to learn about the OT for eight hours a day. Pray for health, rest, attentive minds, ears and unsure butts for the coming week.
Kaléo Life
This week has consisted of several small adventures. This week was reading break, and so many students had gone off island to the mainland, even to Calgary. The week was pretty chill and relaxed. On one occasion some of us were playing ultimate. The other team had scored on us twice, and then the next point we scored. Caught up in the frenzy of three on three pick up ultimate I spiked the disc with my elbow, resulting in a “CRACK!” I look down and there is my disc, broken in two. If ever I was to break a Frisbee, it would be like that, so I’m content…kind of.
Nate son of Melvin reigned in room 209 for one school year. He was seventeen when he entered the land of 209. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. In the third month of his reign the Lord God came to Nate and said “My kingdom is in ruins! I have appointed you Nate, son of Melvin to restore my kingdom to its proper order.” Nate arose early the next morning and traveled to the cleaning closet, south of 209 and back. As he entered the land the spirit of the Lord descended upon him and he wielded “Orange Force,” window cleaner and “Verry Berry” liked a trained warrior. None could stand in his path. He began in the land of Mirror. The mirrorites had been victorious in battle with 209 in the past, but Nate sprayed his window cleaner and wiped away the mirrorites. Now word had reached those that dwelled in the land of Toilet that Nate had completely destroyed the Mirrorites. The fear of the Lord was so strong that they could not hold their swords. When Nate entered the land they fled like gazelles at the site of a lion. Nate again came and used “Orange Force” and left none alive. Next he came to the land of Trashites. The trashite pleaded with him, “What harm have your servants done to you? We have only been your loyal servants. We will be your slaves, servants, just spare us our lives!” Now Nate had compassion on the Trashites and spared their lives, but sent them away to dwell in the land of Dumpster. Upon returning to his city he found it in disorder and chaos. He then set straight his household and the city by the stump. Lastly he went throughout the land spraying the fragrance of the lord otherwise known as Verry Berry. When all this had been accomplished the Lord looked approving on Nate son of Melvin, and the lord was pleased.
In this Nate was set apart from all the men of 209. As for the rest of Nate’s reign, all his achievements and events and how he broke his camera and made the clothesline, are they not written in the annals of the kings of 209?
We have also had to read a bit of the Old Testament for our upcoming class OT Literature. It was quite the experience to read so much. I count myself fortunate because I love the OT and love reading it, so it wasn’t really “forced” reading except for maybe Leviticus.
Also a group of us went to see “Where the Wild Things are” safe to say, it was quite a wild, ridiculous and weird movie.
Another group of us went to see “Song and Dance” which was not really a song and dance, more like some songs and a funny guy telling jokes. It was weird having music and then Adrian Plass (the funny guy) and then again at the end having to listen to a bunch of songs. I had never heard of Adrian Plass before, but figured it was free and heard rumors he was funny and that it was British humor. I loved it. Adrian was hilarious and I feel sorry for all the Kaléo students who missed out. Most of the jokes were centered around the church, or dealing with the church. I have included a link to a YouTube video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6O7Al1MqWE&feature=related
This week at youth group was a delicious progressive dinner. But it also served as a better getting to know you tool with the adults of the church. Instead of just seeing them Sunday morning, you get to see them in their houses and eating their food, what better way of getting to know someone? Katie led a devo on Philippians 4:4-8. I have the privilege of leading next weeks. Ideas?
Today is Remembrance day, the equivalent to Memorial day. The service had quite the production. Flag bearers and this whole ceremony of putting the poppies on a cross. Singing “O Canada” and “Long Live the Queen” was an interesting experience as an American, but I enjoyed it.
The biggest thing that needs praying for right now is sickness. There seems to be a lot of people that are sick, although it’s just two, it feels like there’s more. With class coming up tomorrow, it won’t be good to be sick and trying to learn about the OT for eight hours a day. Pray for health, rest, attentive minds, ears and unsure butts for the coming week.
Kaléo Life
This week has consisted of several small adventures. This week was reading break, and so many students had gone off island to the mainland, even to Calgary. The week was pretty chill and relaxed. On one occasion some of us were playing ultimate. The other team had scored on us twice, and then the next point we scored. Caught up in the frenzy of three on three pick up ultimate I spiked the disc with my elbow, resulting in a “CRACK!” I look down and there is my disc, broken in two. If ever I was to break a Frisbee, it would be like that, so I’m content…kind of.
Nate son of Melvin reigned in room 209 for one school year. He was seventeen when he entered the land of 209. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. In the third month of his reign the Lord God came to Nate and said “My kingdom is in ruins! I have appointed you Nate, son of Melvin to restore my kingdom to its proper order.” Nate arose early the next morning and traveled to the cleaning closet, south of 209 and back. As he entered the land the spirit of the Lord descended upon him and he wielded “Orange Force,” window cleaner and “Verry Berry” liked a trained warrior. None could stand in his path. He began in the land of Mirror. The mirrorites had been victorious in battle with 209 in the past, but Nate sprayed his window cleaner and wiped away the mirrorites. Now word had reached those that dwelled in the land of Toilet that Nate had completely destroyed the Mirrorites. The fear of the Lord was so strong that they could not hold their swords. When Nate entered the land they fled like gazelles at the site of a lion. Nate again came and used “Orange Force” and left none alive. Next he came to the land of Trashites. The trashite pleaded with him, “What harm have your servants done to you? We have only been your loyal servants. We will be your slaves, servants, just spare us our lives!” Now Nate had compassion on the Trashites and spared their lives, but sent them away to dwell in the land of Dumpster. Upon returning to his city he found it in disorder and chaos. He then set straight his household and the city by the stump. Lastly he went throughout the land spraying the fragrance of the lord otherwise known as Verry Berry. When all this had been accomplished the Lord looked approving on Nate son of Melvin, and the lord was pleased.
In this Nate was set apart from all the men of 209. As for the rest of Nate’s reign, all his achievements and events and how he broke his camera and made the clothesline, are they not written in the annals of the kings of 209?
We have also had to read a bit of the Old Testament for our upcoming class OT Literature. It was quite the experience to read so much. I count myself fortunate because I love the OT and love reading it, so it wasn’t really “forced” reading except for maybe Leviticus.
Also a group of us went to see “Where the Wild Things are” safe to say, it was quite a wild, ridiculous and weird movie.
Another group of us went to see “Song and Dance” which was not really a song and dance, more like some songs and a funny guy telling jokes. It was weird having music and then Adrian Plass (the funny guy) and then again at the end having to listen to a bunch of songs. I had never heard of Adrian Plass before, but figured it was free and heard rumors he was funny and that it was British humor. I loved it. Adrian was hilarious and I feel sorry for all the Kaléo students who missed out. Most of the jokes were centered around the church, or dealing with the church. I have included a link to a YouTube video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6O7Al1MqWE&feature=related
Sunday, November 1, 2009
kaleo update
This week we were able to go on our surf trip that was canceled two weeks ago. We were fortunate for a small church in Ucluelet, (35 minutes from the beach) to let us stay there and use their facilities. After the first day we were able to go exploring the blowhole or in town. I choose to go to the blowhole, which was epic. Seeing the waves come into a channel and slamming against the rocks and shooting into the air over 100 feet, was quite the site to see. That night we had an semi-impromptu worship night. I had the sweetest and most amazing worship night in my life. Feeling the life, realness, and presence of God in the words and in the room that night, was spectacular.
For the last time this semester, I was working at a weekend retreat, this time in the dish pit. It was actually pretty fun, and the dishes only took an hour tops to finish, which meant more time for studying. I was also in the challenge course working at the “screamer” aka the zip line. I was at the bottom, pushing the trolley back and forth. That in itself was a workout and a half.
This past week every single Kaléo was rushing to get his/her work done before the due date, some printing just a few minutes beforehand. It was quite a stressful time, surprisingly not really for me, but for a majority of the students, and we have even more work still to finish.
To top off this week, the Olympic torch ran through Crofton, the small town near camp. Why Crofton? We have no idea. It was not really that exciting watching it, but it was a lifetime experience. Honestly, the best part about the whole Olympic torch watching was the free Timbits, or donut wholes if you’re from the states.
Please pray for focus and diligence in our schoolwork, and that we will be able to see that these homework assignments are more than just work, but we are studying the word of God and learning about him. In addition, we need prayer for getting ready for our missions trip to the Olympics. Everything would go smoothly and we can get all the details worked out. More importantly that God can start preparing their hearts and making their ears ready for the gospel and our personal stories that we are going to share with them.
For the last time this semester, I was working at a weekend retreat, this time in the dish pit. It was actually pretty fun, and the dishes only took an hour tops to finish, which meant more time for studying. I was also in the challenge course working at the “screamer” aka the zip line. I was at the bottom, pushing the trolley back and forth. That in itself was a workout and a half.
This past week every single Kaléo was rushing to get his/her work done before the due date, some printing just a few minutes beforehand. It was quite a stressful time, surprisingly not really for me, but for a majority of the students, and we have even more work still to finish.
To top off this week, the Olympic torch ran through Crofton, the small town near camp. Why Crofton? We have no idea. It was not really that exciting watching it, but it was a lifetime experience. Honestly, the best part about the whole Olympic torch watching was the free Timbits, or donut wholes if you’re from the states.
Please pray for focus and diligence in our schoolwork, and that we will be able to see that these homework assignments are more than just work, but we are studying the word of God and learning about him. In addition, we need prayer for getting ready for our missions trip to the Olympics. Everything would go smoothly and we can get all the details worked out. More importantly that God can start preparing their hearts and making their ears ready for the gospel and our personal stories that we are going to share with them.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
ministry and hermeneutics!
This week we were all in class with prof. Merrill Dyck (not Dick, like I did on one of my papers) learning about hermeneutics. To say the least it was pretty sweet and intense. With hw every night along with tons of pre-course work for OT LIT, post-course work for spiritual formation and even pre-course work for the next class after OT Lit! I don’t think I got to sleep before 1am this week. But this was a week of immense learning and gaining knowledge, it was unbelievable. I don’t think I’ve yet fully absorbed all of what I learned this past week, and I for sure haven’t applied I’ve all I learned to my bible reading. We also got into some pretty heated discussions about some stuff, mainly baptism. If people got into a heated discussions about baptism, just think when it comes to pre-destination!
During the week of class I still was involved in my church and camp ministries. Here at camp I was again in the kitchen cutting up peppers, tomatoes, potatoes and the such. This week a bit bigger than last week’s but not very much so it still wasn’t so bad. Some of the Kaléos did counsel over the weekend. And some again in two weeks for another retreat. Yes we are getting into retreat season until like December, so please keep Camp Qwanoes in your prayers and that everything can go smoothly and we will be either the first encounter they will have with god, or maybe we will be the last deciding factor in their faith.
Pastor Darren is now the senior pastor of Ladysmith Fellowship Baptist. The church seems to be quite happy with him, and God is providing Darren and his family with a home in Ladysmith and three offers on his current house. I think the idea that me and the other kaleos came up with coincides perfectly with Darren coming into the church. Since the “high schoolers” I say that because they aren’t really in high school, more like middle school, but they always go to a Sunday school, and we thought that they should be in service at least once a month and then we could talk to them after the service about what they learned, or what the sermon was about. And with Darren being younger, they will be more inclined to listen.
This week at youth group we watched a movie, and then one of the leaders, Vince, set up three chairs. One for Ellie and I the other chair was for him. The situation he gave us was that me and Ellie were Christians and he was an atheist and we’re on a plane that has 2 minutes left until it crashes and we all die. We were supposed to convert him in that time frame. It’s safe to say that “atheist Vince” is not in heaven. It reminded me that in a few months we will be in the Olympics, sharing the Word of God. Although we can’t do it explicitly, we are able to make connections with fellow volunteers and share them our story, and who knows where it will lead from there?
It was just a reminder that I have no idea what kind of situations I will be thrown into, but that I have to put my full and complete trust in God the Father.
During the week of class I still was involved in my church and camp ministries. Here at camp I was again in the kitchen cutting up peppers, tomatoes, potatoes and the such. This week a bit bigger than last week’s but not very much so it still wasn’t so bad. Some of the Kaléos did counsel over the weekend. And some again in two weeks for another retreat. Yes we are getting into retreat season until like December, so please keep Camp Qwanoes in your prayers and that everything can go smoothly and we will be either the first encounter they will have with god, or maybe we will be the last deciding factor in their faith.
Pastor Darren is now the senior pastor of Ladysmith Fellowship Baptist. The church seems to be quite happy with him, and God is providing Darren and his family with a home in Ladysmith and three offers on his current house. I think the idea that me and the other kaleos came up with coincides perfectly with Darren coming into the church. Since the “high schoolers” I say that because they aren’t really in high school, more like middle school, but they always go to a Sunday school, and we thought that they should be in service at least once a month and then we could talk to them after the service about what they learned, or what the sermon was about. And with Darren being younger, they will be more inclined to listen.
This week at youth group we watched a movie, and then one of the leaders, Vince, set up three chairs. One for Ellie and I the other chair was for him. The situation he gave us was that me and Ellie were Christians and he was an atheist and we’re on a plane that has 2 minutes left until it crashes and we all die. We were supposed to convert him in that time frame. It’s safe to say that “atheist Vince” is not in heaven. It reminded me that in a few months we will be in the Olympics, sharing the Word of God. Although we can’t do it explicitly, we are able to make connections with fellow volunteers and share them our story, and who knows where it will lead from there?
It was just a reminder that I have no idea what kind of situations I will be thrown into, but that I have to put my full and complete trust in God the Father.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
busy week all around
This week was rather unexpected. It all kinda caved in on us. It was supposed to be the surf trip at tofino, but that was canceled due to bad weather and too big of waves. Instead we had a combination of things to replace the surf trip. First we went shopping at “Goats on the Roof” in Coombs. We then proceeded to go caving, which an awesome experience. Singing songs in the cave with all our lights off was pretty sweet. Then on the way to the nanimo pool Kristie who was driving the fifteen passenger stops on a wet wooden bridge and yells, “alright Chinese firedrill” but since no one really wanted to do it, no one moved. A few seconds later there comes a jolt and a loud thud from the back of the van. Justin who had been driving a pt cruiser with a few other students slammed into the back of the van because they weren’t able to stop because of the bridge. Who’s then to blame? Bo. Bo a fellow kaleo student had apparently been praying for a car crash. I don’t know why he was praying for that, but he got his prayer answered.
Another shocker for me was that we had thanksgiving the previous day. The guys had quite the array of dress on. Some in short shorts and tank tops others in semi-formal and others in formal dress. I was among the formally dressed with a few more guys. A good time was had all around by everyone.
Our moderately frequent chapels of which we had two were awesome. These serve as a more personal get-to-know-you time. It’s just a great way to bring the whole kaleo class together both socially and spiritually.
The other event that was planned instead of the surf trip was DTG. Ditch the Gender. The guys went and played hockey, played on a playground, a little bit of parkour, ultimate, grilling your own steaks, ice cream, Mario kart 64. Lastly we had four women come over so as to ask them questions from a girls point of view. This at first seemed a little weird, but it wasn’t as if we didn’t know them, so it all worked out. It was actually a really good talk that gave me a new perspective and how women view Christianity and their role as a woman of God.
Lastly this weekend I had the opportunity to serve in the kitchen and dish pit. I was scheduled for the challenge course (zip line, ropes, giant 80 foot swing, etc.) but it was pouring rain so they didn’t need as many staff. But being in the kitchen really gives you a bigger and better understanding of exactly how much work goes into preparing and making the meals. This weekend we only had 50 in the guest group. Just imagine cooking for 300.
this has been one of the fuller weeks I’ve had since coming here because on top of all this we had homework to do.
Because of my camp ministry I wasn’t able to go to church, but they were voting on the new pastor, hopefully Darren will be voted in. he will bring many talents to Ladysmith Baptist that they having been lacking for a while. In all I think that all of kaleo needs prayer for patience and calmness with our hermeneutics class starting tomorrow, the girls fighting bed bugs, our homework for the next few classes, our church and camp ministries and our personal walk with God. Keep these in mind.
-Ben
Sunday, October 11, 2009
kaleo ministries
So this past week due to thanksgiving (i know thanksgiving in October?) there was no youth group this week, which was quite fortunate because we were just returning from our S.A.L.T.S sailing trip. this whole past week we were on a 130 foot schooner on the pacific ocean sailing. although we didn't get to see any whales, we did see seals and porpoises. It was another opportunity to get closer and bond with the other kaleo students and with God. looking out on top of a 80 foot mast and seeing God's glory is quite an experience. just being able to be in an even closer community then back here at camp qwanoes with other christians is just an awesome time for learning and growing.
today we were invited to eat with a couple from church, who their daughter was a previous kaleo student. luckily they had thanksgiving yesterday and so we had basically a thanksgiving meal. it served as good get-to-know you and a more familiar face in the church. I honestly don't think that getting to know people will be a problem. Ladysmith is a very friendly and welcoming church, so being an outsider has already started to dissipate.
unfortunately our surf trip has been postponed until who knows when. the only good that comes of this is more studying time, if you can call that a good thing.
today we were invited to eat with a couple from church, who their daughter was a previous kaleo student. luckily they had thanksgiving yesterday and so we had basically a thanksgiving meal. it served as good get-to-know you and a more familiar face in the church. I honestly don't think that getting to know people will be a problem. Ladysmith is a very friendly and welcoming church, so being an outsider has already started to dissipate.
unfortunately our surf trip has been postponed until who knows when. the only good that comes of this is more studying time, if you can call that a good thing.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Church Ministry
Our trip to the nanaimo pool went swimmingly, the kids weren't hesitant at all, they just dove right in. It was really fun, all the kids are quite out-going, not a single shy kid. At the pool, one of the other Kaleos, Katie, attempted a dive off the high dive, and wound up doing a belly flop. i went next and did a half-graceful dive, but when i came up, my swim suit had two huge tears in it, luckily nothing was showing, except my chicken legs. I consequently spent the rest of the time in my towel.
these kids are quite easy to like, albeit a little off-the-wall, but they give so much love to you, it's hard not to love them back. This past friday we were at the church for a "normal" youth group, which consisted of pictionary, relay races, shaving cream and corn pops, eating food off fishing line, and shrink wrapping all the kids. Safe to say that all the kids and leaders had a blast, and that i look forward to the next youth group.
Because of the kids' love and quick acceptance of us, hopefully we will be quick to be the influence and the role models that these kids need in their lives, to see what a man or woman of God looks like.
Our church is in transition since they have had an interim pastor for the past several months, and today they had a prospective, but from what i can see, the new pastor at Ladysmith baptist. Please pray for the church to follow God's leading and prompting on whether or not to accept Darren as senior pastor.
On a more home front base for me, we had Trinity Western University leadership group come through last weekend. I was set to help out with the kitchen in the morning, not knowing it was a 7am start. Me and 7 in the morning don't go together real well, so i ended up waking up at 9am (missing 8:30 breakfast). fortunately i was able to help out after lunch with cleanup, which actually worked out because another kaleo, who will remain nameless forgot to go to her shift.
Off to SALTS!
these kids are quite easy to like, albeit a little off-the-wall, but they give so much love to you, it's hard not to love them back. This past friday we were at the church for a "normal" youth group, which consisted of pictionary, relay races, shaving cream and corn pops, eating food off fishing line, and shrink wrapping all the kids. Safe to say that all the kids and leaders had a blast, and that i look forward to the next youth group.
Because of the kids' love and quick acceptance of us, hopefully we will be quick to be the influence and the role models that these kids need in their lives, to see what a man or woman of God looks like.
Our church is in transition since they have had an interim pastor for the past several months, and today they had a prospective, but from what i can see, the new pastor at Ladysmith baptist. Please pray for the church to follow God's leading and prompting on whether or not to accept Darren as senior pastor.
On a more home front base for me, we had Trinity Western University leadership group come through last weekend. I was set to help out with the kitchen in the morning, not knowing it was a 7am start. Me and 7 in the morning don't go together real well, so i ended up waking up at 9am (missing 8:30 breakfast). fortunately i was able to help out after lunch with cleanup, which actually worked out because another kaleo, who will remain nameless forgot to go to her shift.
Off to SALTS!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Church Home
Recently me and three others were placed (of our choosing) in a church in the surrounding area by the camp. Katie, Ellie and I met with the pastor (Chris he’s got a british accent!) and one of two youth leaders (Natasha) of Ladysmith Fellowship Baptist. We got together and talked about what we’re looking forward to, and what we can bring to the church. The main thing that we can bring to the church is youth and energy, seeing as how the church is an older congregation, and they are looking to attract a younger crowd. Unfortunately, none of us are musically talented, which they are kind of shorthanded with.
This past Sunday all of us went to the church for the first time. Although we didn’t get to hear the sermon, we did get to see and participate in Sunday school, which is one of the main reasons we are here at this church. The kids are very receptive, fun and excited to see the new students. One issue that the youth leader brought up is that some of the kids seem to be living a double life. She mentioned them going out last year after youth group and doing some “inappropriate things.” Please pray that we can be the influence to make Jesus Christ real in their lives.
This Friday we are going on a trip to the Nanaimo pool. Luckily this is the first time that we are involved in the youth group, so this will serve as a good get-to-know-you night. So hopefully everything goes smoothly and the transition into the group will be effortless.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Hola!
Welcome to my blog. I don't feel like writing in depth at this moment, but stay tuned and check back in a few days. Wednesday we get back from our back pack trip from Strathcona Mountain. So check back then.
-Ben
-Ben
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