Dear friends,
One of the most encouraging gatherings in this family of churches is the annual youth event called SERVE. Last year it was in High River, AB, and ably led by Brent Weick. Over 275 youth and leaders attended. We continue to be thankful for the hospitality of the High River Church last year. This year I am very excited to have SERVE located in Victoria at Emmanuel Baptist Church on the edge of the University of Victoria campus. Tammy Klassen, our Youth Coordinator for the CBWC, is a gifted leader and organiser and she has expressed to me great enthusiasm for this upcoming SERVE. I have asked Tammy some questions which, in the middle of being an Associate Pastor at Mill Bay and coaching girls basketball finals, she graciously agreed to answer.
Where has SERVE been for the last few years?
SERVE has been all over Western Canada. In the past six years that has included High River, Cowichan, Winnipeg, Peace River, Kitimat, and Flin Flon. One of the most memorable trips for me was a number of years ago when we traveled to Yellowknife.
What kinds of activities does SERVE do?
SERVE is a unique blend of getting out into the community to serve both God and others in practical ways, learning from an incredible speaker (this year it is Sid Koop), high energy worship with the Fraser Campbell Band, a free day to see the local sights, and many opportunities to hang out together with other Canadian Baptists from across Western Canada.
Where is SERVE this year?
This year SERVE is in Victoria, BC on beautiful Vancouver Island. Our theme is “Be The Light” based on Matthew 5:14-16: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” It will be held from July 3-9, 2016.
What do you plan to do?
There is a local team working on what our service projects will be but based on the past they will include gardening, painting, light construction, repairs, visiting seniors, and helping with VBS.
What is the response so far?
So far we have had lots of interest and I know groups are traveling from as far away as Winnipeg and Fort St. John.
How might we pray and support SERVE?
Pray that this will be a week of new and renewed friendships, deepening of our faith, and transformed lives. Pray for Emmanuel Baptist as they plan and prepare and that they will have opportunities to connect in their city because of SERVE. Pray for Sid as he prepares his messages for the week. Pray for the health and safety of all participants.
If you would like to volunteer in the kitchen or by making muffins or cookies to help feed the hungry youth contact Ingrid whiteingrid@emmanuelvictoria.ca
How might we find out more information?
Registration is available online at cbwc.ca/serve
If you would like to bring your youth to SERVE and have not yet received a SERVE Leader Kit email me at tklassen@cbwc.ca
Warmly,
In Christ,
Jeremy Bell