Serving In Mission

www.sim.ca OCTOBER 2011

Myriam’s pastor smiled proudly as he shared that she would be their church’s first missionary. They’d started by setting up the first-ever missions prayer groups in the church.

As a result, the congregation had been strengthened in their prayer life.

They had no systems in place to collect money for a missionary, and weren’t sure if they could do it as a single church. So several churches in

her denomination committed to raising support for Myriam. This resulted in the formation of missions’ committees and cooperation in the collection of funds. By sending Myriam these churches learned the processes and developed the vision to send out many more missionaries.

All of this blessing, of course, is in addition to the lives impacted by Myriam in Nigeria! She was a highly valued member of the SIM team there. Myriam was delighted with the warm reception she received from SIM Nigeria, and expressed a sense of security in knowing that her (Page 2)

SIMNOW

Latin America: A growing passion for world mission

mobilization

colleagues from around the world would look out for her.

Despite the violence and unrest that erupted again in Nigeria, Miriam (pictured above) was ready and willing to serve where needed. Finally forced to return home, she continues to encourage other Latin Americans to consider mission and especially to consider serving with an experienced multi-cultural mission like SIM.

Ten years ago only a handful of Latin Americans were serving with SIM. Today there are more than 40 serving in Asia, Africa and Latin America. We have missionaries from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay and Venezuela. This makes the Guatemala office one of the fastest growing in SIM, and we anticipate hundreds of Latin Americans joining SIM in the future.

Currently more than 12,000 Latin Americans are serving cross-culturally, with many feeling called specifically to reach out to Muslims. SIM is

Amazing energy and creativity

partnering with this missions’ movement in innovative ways. In Guatemala Obed and Juanita Cruz have led the way by forming partnerships with Latin American sending agencies.

SIM seeks to strengthen these existing agencies. ProVision in Chile is a wonderful example. Though the evangelical Church in Chile has grown tremendously in numbers, it’s known for being quite divided and denominational.

Into this context steps a sending agency that is interdenominational, serving as a living example of cooperation and unity in the body of Christ. SIM’s Hans and Carmen Ziefle and Tim and Sharon Sandvig have been key partners in the formation and growth of ProVision, which is under Chilean leadership. This new sending agency has already sent out missionaries to several partner missions, and SIM recently learned that a young Chilean woman will be the first to go through ProVision to join a SIM team going to Mozambique.

The SIM Peru team has also captured a vision to help the national

Church send missionaries. One of the team members, Chris Conti (pictured on front page), has been mentoring and coaching a group of Peruvians who feel called to serve. The team recently celebrated sending Lucy to serve with SIM in East Asia. She had heard God’s call to world mission 30 years ago, but, as she recalls, ‘in those days the only missionaries were white and from other countries.’

God is moving in Latin America. He is strengthening his church, and he is calling Latin Americans to serve as missionaries to further his kingdom plans. The energy and creativity emanating from the Latin American churches that are engaging in mission is astonishing.

At times the task seems daunting, the challenges overwhelming. But then again, we are placed in the position of recognizing that we serve an Almighty God, whose kingdom will grow. We praise God for the increase in labourers from Latin America, and we thank him for allowing SIM to play a part in seeing those missionaries thriving in ministry around the world. n

,it’s a Go o d thing( )

2

mobilization

We moved from a very mono-cultural context to a multicultural context. From our own language, Portuguese, to English and hundreds more that can be listened to everyday on the radio, TV, in schools and the marketplaces. We were used to things one way, and then we found different and exciting ways to do things. In Brazil, I was a Presbyterian minister in an average sized church, and my wife was a middle and high School teacher. We were known quite well in our city and surrounding area. We were confident in our environment and our roles as pastor, teacher and as leaders.

Moving to Canada, we were not known and not necessarily needed the way we used to be. We were not well understood and found it difficult to see how we would fit in this new context. This inadequacy has helped us a lot to work with newcomers and refugees through their own pain and conflicts.

God helped us see that Canada was a great place to live due to its multicultural context and the open door to preach, teach, serve and share the gospel. As it is often said, we have the world at our doorstep. By God’s will and through SIM, we were wisely chosen to come to a neighbourhood that reflects people from all around the world. Hamilton Ontario, especially the North end of Hamilton, has the fourth biggest percentage of immigrants in Canada. The North end has the second largest

Inadequacy helps

immigrant neighbourhood in the city and the seventh poorest area in Canada. They also have a large Portuguese, Italian and Hispanic population which has really helped us feel at home and be more easily accepted. With Hughson Street Baptist Church we have been able to reach some of these different nations with the gospel. We have established an on-going evangelism course called “Christianity Explored” with the Church and are co-leading it with the assistant pastor. Elaine has been very much accepted by the women. Through her charisma, talents and servant-like attitude she has made an impact in several ladies’ lives including Eva. She gave her life to Jesus, was baptized last year and is now a member of the church.

We are about to launch three different programs that will benefit the church and the neighbourhood we are involved in. The first new initiative is to start a Christian Hub to meet three times a week. People will be invited to come and have refreshments, play games and talk. Another initiative is to work with another Culture ConneXion missionary to help run ESL classes. We are also considering starting cooking classes. And for those who enjoy sports, we want to start a competitive soccer league to get to know the families in the area. Please be in prayer as we look to start these programs. We are glad and thankful to God that we already have our permanent residency status in Canada which provides no restrictions to plan ahead in our ministry in the city. We hope that God still gives us confirmation for our ministry in Hamilton, and will continue to lead as we work with Hughson Street Church to reach the community around us!

New initiatives

n

3

SIM

NO

W

From Brazilto downtownHamilton... 3 years onMarco and Elaine Silva have just completed three years ministry in Canada including two furlough months in Brazil. They have 2 boys, aged 13 and 17.

mobilization

colleagues from around the world would look out for her.

Despite the violence and unrest that erupted again in Nigeria, Miriam (pictured above) was ready and willing to serve where needed. Finally forced to return home, she continues to encourage other Latin Americans to consider mission and especially to consider serving with an experienced multi-cultural mission like SIM.

Ten years ago only a handful of Latin Americans were serving with SIM. Today there are more than 40 serving in Asia, Africa and Latin America. We have missionaries from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Uruguay and Venezuela. This makes the Guatemala office one of the fastest growing in SIM, and we anticipate hundreds of Latin Americans joining SIM in the future.

Currently more than 12,000 Latin Americans are serving cross-culturally, with many feeling called specifically to reach out to Muslims. SIM is

Amazing energy and creativity

partnering with this missions’ movement in innovative ways. In Guatemala Obed and Juanita Cruz have led the way by forming partnerships with Latin American sending agencies.

SIM seeks to strengthen these existing agencies. ProVision in Chile is a wonderful example. Though the evangelical Church in Chile has grown tremendously in numbers, it’s known for being quite divided and denominational.

Into this context steps a sending agency that is interdenominational, serving as a living example of cooperation and unity in the body of Christ. SIM’s Hans and Carmen Ziefle and Tim and Sharon Sandvig have been key partners in the formation and growth of ProVision, which is under Chilean leadership. This new sending agency has already sent out missionaries to several partner missions, and SIM recently learned that a young Chilean woman will be the first to go through ProVision to join a SIM team going to Mozambique.

The SIM Peru team has also captured a vision to help the national

Church send missionaries. One of the team members, Chris Conti (pictured on front page), has been mentoring and coaching a group of Peruvians who feel called to serve. The team recently celebrated sending Lucy to serve with SIM in East Asia. She had heard God’s call to world mission 30 years ago, but, as she recalls, ‘in those days the only missionaries were white and from other countries.’

God is moving in Latin America. He is strengthening his church, and he is calling Latin Americans to serve as missionaries to further his kingdom plans. The energy and creativity emanating from the Latin American churches that are engaging in mission is astonishing.

At times the task seems daunting, the challenges overwhelming. But then again, we are placed in the position of recognizing that we serve an Almighty God, whose kingdom will grow. We praise God for the increase in labourers from Latin America, and we thank him for allowing SIM to play a part in seeing those missionaries thriving in ministry around the world. n

,it’s a Go o d thing( )

2

mobilization

We moved from a very mono-cultural context to a multicultural context. From our own language, Portuguese, to English and hundreds more that can be listened to everyday on the radio, TV, in schools and the marketplaces. We were used to things one way, and then we found different and exciting ways to do things. In Brazil, I was a Presbyterian minister in an average sized church, and my wife was a middle and high School teacher. We were known quite well in our city and surrounding area. We were confident in our environment and our roles as pastor, teacher and as leaders.

Moving to Canada, we were not known and not necessarily needed the way we used to be. We were not well understood and found it difficult to see how we would fit in this new context. This inadequacy has helped us a lot to work with newcomers and refugees through their own pain and conflicts.

God helped us see that Canada was a great place to live due to its multicultural context and the open door to preach, teach, serve and share the gospel. As it is often said, we have the world at our doorstep. By God’s will and through SIM, we were wisely chosen to come to a neighbourhood that reflects people from all around the world. Hamilton Ontario, especially the North end of Hamilton, has the fourth biggest percentage of immigrants in Canada. The North end has the second largest

Inadequacy helps

immigrant neighbourhood in the city and the seventh poorest area in Canada. They also have a large Portuguese, Italian and Hispanic population which has really helped us feel at home and be more easily accepted. With Hughson Street Baptist Church we have been able to reach some of these different nations with the gospel. We have established an on-going evangelism course called “Christianity Explored” with the Church and are co-leading it with the assistant pastor. Elaine has been very much accepted by the women. Through her charisma, talents and servant-like attitude she has made an impact in several ladies’ lives including Eva. She gave her life to Jesus, was baptized last year and is now a member of the church.

We are about to launch three different programs that will benefit the church and the neighbourhood we are involved in. The first new initiative is to start a Christian Hub to meet three times a week. People will be invited to come and have refreshments, play games and talk. Another initiative is to work with another Culture ConneXion missionary to help run ESL classes. We are also considering starting cooking classes. And for those who enjoy sports, we want to start a competitive soccer league to get to know the families in the area. Please be in prayer as we look to start these programs. We are glad and thankful to God that we already have our permanent residency status in Canada which provides no restrictions to plan ahead in our ministry in the city. We hope that God still gives us confirmation for our ministry in Hamilton, and will continue to lead as we work with Hughson Street Church to reach the community around us!

New initiatives

n

3

SIM

NO

W

From Brazilto downtownHamilton... 3 years onMarco and Elaine Silva have just completed three years ministry in Canada including two furlough months in Brazil. They have 2 boys, aged 13 and 17.

In the mid-1980s Joanne realized she wouldn’t graduate from her high school in the Philippines. Aged 14, she had completed only her primary school education. But her family simply couldn’t afford for her to continue.

Today Joanne works in a Manila suburb at the Peace Child Care Center. Children come here for the necessities of life - food and education - because in their community of several thousand these commodities are often in short supply. And there’s another thing they come for: something palpable and life-changing that they see in the lives of the 10 adults who work at the center. It’s joy.

“I think it’s God’s will for me to work in this area, because there are so many kids who need people to teach and care for them,” says Joanne. She is a member of FilSIM, a network of Filipinos serving in communities across Manila under SIM’s umbrella.

Joanne sits in a hallway near the classroom and radiates concern. She’s not alone. Catherine, her FilSIM colleague, is there too. Together with eight people from other organizations, they’ve been feeding and teaching

children in this neighborhood for the past decade. It’s through such efforts that they’ve earned the trust of even the most pious in the close-knit, religious community.

Joanne is keenly aware of the value of education. In the 1980s, when it seemed her school days were over, a missionary couple stepped in to pay her high school fees, which set her up to attend university. This personal testimony, and her love for Christ, led to her decision to spend her life working in her own community. It’s a place many Filipinos choose to avoid. But because Joanne and Catherine have made in-roads with the local leaders, they need not fear. Relationship truly makes the difference. And relationship is what FilSIM is all about.

Today 13 people are part of FilSIM and set to become SIM associates.

The SIM office pulses with life. Missionaries come and go, warm greetings are exchanged and embraces are clearly the norm. With almost six years under the SIM banner,

Pulsing with life

FilSIM is a vibrant community rooted in the local Filipino culture.

“Kuya” Albert Andrada is the SIM Philippines Deputy Director. A Manila mission veteran, he knows a lot about two things in particular: sharing God’s love with others and navigating the sprawling Manila roads that 16 million people call home. Albert, along with his wife Marissa, will manage the newly-relocated SIM office.“I am focused on member care and how we can elevate the support to our co-workers in the field,” says Albert.

The year 2005 was pivotal for SIM’s work in the Philippines. Not only was FilSIM conceived, SIM nearly left the country for good. Yet, despite the retirement of key leaders, SIM committed to expand the field.

Between 1984 and 2004 there were

Turning points

Filipinosembrace

and enhance

localmission

”

”

4 5

SIM

NO

W

by John Stuart

only six expat SIM missionaries in the Philippines. A tenuous political situation, travel restrictions, personal threats and a resistant population were the factors they

faced in the south particularly. In this type of situation, according to outgoing Director David Hastie, workers are forced to regularly gauge their motives.

“The strength of God’s call has kept us here all these years,” says David, looking back on that October day in 1984 when he and wife Nicole arrived with three blond-haired daughters to a place where they were clearly outsiders. Even in 1991, when a close missionary friend was murdered several blocks from their home, David and Nicole knew they would stay. Their love for the Filipinos and surety of God’s purpose held them fast.

David remembers, “We held a memorial service several days after John’s death at the place where he was murdered. His widow told the people, ‘Go and tell whoever did this that I forgive them.’”

But four years later the Hasties moved away from the church plant

ministry in that city because of increasing personal threats. Their ministry shifted to Bible translation, where they’ve worked ever since.

The family’s world mission journey, which started 27 years ago, ended in May as they returned home. David believes that his departure means the future has arrived for mission in the Philippines.

In April 2011, SIM Philippines officially underwent changes in structure and governance. The field and sending components were formally joined under one country director, with each component maintaining a council.

Arnel Castillo assumed the SIM Philippines Director post in May. His directorship now means that Filipinos missionaries will govern themselves. It is SIM’s goal to empower indigenous Church movements worldwide.

“I’m really excited about having a Filipino leader,” David comments. “I think people will rise to the challenge, and it will have a definite Filipino flair to it rather than a foreign one. I couldn’t be more thrilled.” n

It is SIM’s goal

to empower indigenous

Church movements

worldwide

relationshipsrelationships

At the Peace Child Center in Metro Manila, students of a minority religious group are offered free tutoring and meals through the ministry

In the mid-1980s Joanne realized she wouldn’t graduate from her high school in the Philippines. Aged 14, she had completed only her primary school education. But her family simply couldn’t afford for her to continue.

Today Joanne works in a Manila suburb at the Peace Child Care Center. Children come here for the necessities of life - food and education - because in their community of several thousand these commodities are often in short supply. And there’s another thing they come for: something palpable and life-changing that they see in the lives of the 10 adults who work at the center. It’s joy.

“I think it’s God’s will for me to work in this area, because there are so many kids who need people to teach and care for them,” says Joanne. She is a member of FilSIM, a network of Filipinos serving in communities across Manila under SIM’s umbrella.

Joanne sits in a hallway near the classroom and radiates concern. She’s not alone. Catherine, her FilSIM colleague, is there too. Together with eight people from other organizations, they’ve been feeding and teaching

children in this neighborhood for the past decade. It’s through such efforts that they’ve earned the trust of even the most pious in the close-knit, religious community.

Joanne is keenly aware of the value of education. In the 1980s, when it seemed her school days were over, a missionary couple stepped in to pay her high school fees, which set her up to attend university. This personal testimony, and her love for Christ, led to her decision to spend her life working in her own community. It’s a place many Filipinos choose to avoid. But because Joanne and Catherine have made in-roads with the local leaders, they need not fear. Relationship truly makes the difference. And relationship is what FilSIM is all about.

Today 13 people are part of FilSIM and set to become SIM associates.

The SIM office pulses with life. Missionaries come and go, warm greetings are exchanged and embraces are clearly the norm. With almost six years under the SIM banner,

Pulsing with life

FilSIM is a vibrant community rooted in the local Filipino culture.

“Kuya” Albert Andrada is the SIM Philippines Deputy Director. A Manila mission veteran, he knows a lot about two things in particular: sharing God’s love with others and navigating the sprawling Manila roads that 16 million people call home. Albert, along with his wife Marissa, will manage the newly-relocated SIM office.“I am focused on member care and how we can elevate the support to our co-workers in the field,” says Albert.

The year 2005 was pivotal for SIM’s work in the Philippines. Not only was FilSIM conceived, SIM nearly left the country for good. Yet, despite the retirement of key leaders, SIM committed to expand the field.

Between 1984 and 2004 there were

Turning points

Filipinosembrace

and enhance

localmission

”

”

4 5

SIM

NO

W

by John Stuart

only six expat SIM missionaries in the Philippines. A tenuous political situation, travel restrictions, personal threats and a resistant population were the factors they

faced in the south particularly. In this type of situation, according to outgoing Director David Hastie, workers are forced to regularly gauge their motives.

“The strength of God’s call has kept us here all these years,” says David, looking back on that October day in 1984 when he and wife Nicole arrived with three blond-haired daughters to a place where they were clearly outsiders. Even in 1991, when a close missionary friend was murdered several blocks from their home, David and Nicole knew they would stay. Their love for the Filipinos and surety of God’s purpose held them fast.

David remembers, “We held a memorial service several days after John’s death at the place where he was murdered. His widow told the people, ‘Go and tell whoever did this that I forgive them.’”

But four years later the Hasties moved away from the church plant

ministry in that city because of increasing personal threats. Their ministry shifted to Bible translation, where they’ve worked ever since.

The family’s world mission journey, which started 27 years ago, ended in May as they returned home. David believes that his departure means the future has arrived for mission in the Philippines.

In April 2011, SIM Philippines officially underwent changes in structure and governance. The field and sending components were formally joined under one country director, with each component maintaining a council.

Arnel Castillo assumed the SIM Philippines Director post in May. His directorship now means that Filipinos missionaries will govern themselves. It is SIM’s goal to empower indigenous Church movements worldwide.

“I’m really excited about having a Filipino leader,” David comments. “I think people will rise to the challenge, and it will have a definite Filipino flair to it rather than a foreign one. I couldn’t be more thrilled.” n

It is SIM’s goal

to empower indigenous

Church movements

worldwide

relationshipsrelationships

At the Peace Child Center in Metro Manila, students of a minority religious group are offered free tutoring and meals through the ministry

gospel calls,

it’s a Go o d thing( )gospel calls

In the early 1970s the Marxist dictator in Somalia, Siyaad Barre, threatened that anyone caught listening to a radio broadcast from Western capitalists would be jailed. Nevertheless, one young Somali man turned his dial to the Voice of New Life (VNL), a Christian shortwave radio broadcast for Somalis. “My family was very liberal,” recounts Iikar. “They didn’t mind that I listened to VNL, although my grandmother used to ask, ‘Why do you listen to those liars?’” Even after the regime jettisoned its “scientific socialism” in 1978, Iikar listened, but was afraid to write to the VNL office. “I began listening just out of curiosity,” he says. “Actually, I had become a strict Wahabi Muslim as a young man.” Eventually he fled the civil war in 1993, after it destroyed his

neighborhood of peace-loving urbanites, which had few ties to the factional gunmen representing warlike nomadic clans. He fled to the Netherlands, where tens of thousands of Somalis live today. It was not until 1996, 22 years after Iikar’s first exposure to Christian radio, that he first wrote to VNL. Soon the correspondence became frequent and he completed many basic Bible correspondence courses that the radio ministry offers to listeners. He also spent much time reading the Bible and books about Christianity. One year ago a Dutch colleague involved in full-time gospel outreach to Somalis was able to contact Iikar and determine his whereabouts. Recently this colleague and I had the privilege of meeting Iikar in his apartment on the outskirts of one of the Netherlands’ largest cities. While Iikar welcomed us warmly, the apartment was chilly. Given his physical handicaps, inability to work, and need to economize his modest welfare check, Iikar kept his

thermostat low. As we listened to his story, I pondered the contrast with his past life in a large coastal city of Somalia, where warm winds from the Indian Ocean swayed the coconut palms. Iikar brought us plates heaped with steaming spaghetti, the staple food of urban Somalis, from a local carry out restaurant. Then he sat down and began to recall his change in attitude over the years. Iikar paused and grinned, “Back in 2003 I thought that your broadcast was either hypnotizing me or that I was going mad. I was experiencing an irresistible attraction to the message of the Bible.” I vividly recalled the spiritual conflict that marked his letters that year. In one he would profess faith in Christ; in the next, he would retreat back into Islam. Finally, by the end of the year, the spiritual turmoil ended. Iikar made a definite break with his past religious

commitment and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. His letters often contained short poems composed in his coastal dialect. As we finally emptied our plates, Iikar confessed that he remains very fearful of being known as a Christian by his family. While he spends considerable time reading Scripture, his understanding of some key doctrinal points has been confused by the influence of a radio preacher of dubious orthodoxy, and frequent visits by a cult group. Since my Dutch colleague lives far from Iikar, he has tried to connect him with Christians within his neighborhood, with some success. Simon and I drove away from Iikar’s flat rejoicing at how God has used radio broadcasts to change lives even if this particular listener took 29 years to surrender to the “irresistible attraction” of the gospel. n

7

by Ben I. Aram

6

In 1974, visionary SIM workers

launched a Somali shortwave radio broadcast, the Voice of New Life, for the evangelism

and discipleship of Somalis in their homeland and across

the diaspora.

Still pioneering today, the programming offers a clear

and relevant voice for the gospel. Listeners who want to

speak with a Christian or learn more through Bible

correspondence courses can contact the radio through

email, phone or in person.

A Voice of New Life related website is a safe place where literate Somalis worldwide can access the entire Bible (downloadable to cell phones), correspondence courses, videos, the JESUS Film and testimonies in their own language. Audio mp3 files include 217 radio programs and 73 hymns. The site also enables Somalis to be introduced to Christians in their vicinity. Although connecting them to fellowship is the ultimate goal, most prefer to explore the gospel on their own. While lacking a functioning government since 1991, and plagued with security issues, Somalia has advanced telecommunication systems. Thus radio and internet are accessible in many Somali homes and work places and remain the most effective voice for the gospel.

Continue to pray for this long-term and challenging ministry! We couldn’t do it without you.

Somali respond

to the “Voice of New Life”

gospel calls,

it’s a Go o d thing( )gospel calls

In the early 1970s the Marxist dictator in Somalia, Siyaad Barre, threatened that anyone caught listening to a radio broadcast from Western capitalists would be jailed. Nevertheless, one young Somali man turned his dial to the Voice of New Life (VNL), a Christian shortwave radio broadcast for Somalis. “My family was very liberal,” recounts Iikar. “They didn’t mind that I listened to VNL, although my grandmother used to ask, ‘Why do you listen to those liars?’” Even after the regime jettisoned its “scientific socialism” in 1978, Iikar listened, but was afraid to write to the VNL office. “I began listening just out of curiosity,” he says. “Actually, I had become a strict Wahabi Muslim as a young man.” Eventually he fled the civil war in 1993, after it destroyed his

neighborhood of peace-loving urbanites, which had few ties to the factional gunmen representing warlike nomadic clans. He fled to the Netherlands, where tens of thousands of Somalis live today. It was not until 1996, 22 years after Iikar’s first exposure to Christian radio, that he first wrote to VNL. Soon the correspondence became frequent and he completed many basic Bible correspondence courses that the radio ministry offers to listeners. He also spent much time reading the Bible and books about Christianity. One year ago a Dutch colleague involved in full-time gospel outreach to Somalis was able to contact Iikar and determine his whereabouts. Recently this colleague and I had the privilege of meeting Iikar in his apartment on the outskirts of one of the Netherlands’ largest cities. While Iikar welcomed us warmly, the apartment was chilly. Given his physical handicaps, inability to work, and need to economize his modest welfare check, Iikar kept his

thermostat low. As we listened to his story, I pondered the contrast with his past life in a large coastal city of Somalia, where warm winds from the Indian Ocean swayed the coconut palms. Iikar brought us plates heaped with steaming spaghetti, the staple food of urban Somalis, from a local carry out restaurant. Then he sat down and began to recall his change in attitude over the years. Iikar paused and grinned, “Back in 2003 I thought that your broadcast was either hypnotizing me or that I was going mad. I was experiencing an irresistible attraction to the message of the Bible.” I vividly recalled the spiritual conflict that marked his letters that year. In one he would profess faith in Christ; in the next, he would retreat back into Islam. Finally, by the end of the year, the spiritual turmoil ended. Iikar made a definite break with his past religious

commitment and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. His letters often contained short poems composed in his coastal dialect. As we finally emptied our plates, Iikar confessed that he remains very fearful of being known as a Christian by his family. While he spends considerable time reading Scripture, his understanding of some key doctrinal points has been confused by the influence of a radio preacher of dubious orthodoxy, and frequent visits by a cult group. Since my Dutch colleague lives far from Iikar, he has tried to connect him with Christians within his neighborhood, with some success. Simon and I drove away from Iikar’s flat rejoicing at how God has used radio broadcasts to change lives even if this particular listener took 29 years to surrender to the “irresistible attraction” of the gospel. n

7

by Ben I. Aram

6

In 1974, visionary SIM workers

launched a Somali shortwave radio broadcast, the Voice of New Life, for the evangelism

and discipleship of Somalis in their homeland and across

the diaspora.

Still pioneering today, the programming offers a clear

and relevant voice for the gospel. Listeners who want to

speak with a Christian or learn more through Bible

correspondence courses can contact the radio through

email, phone or in person.

A Voice of New Life related website is a safe place where literate Somalis worldwide can access the entire Bible (downloadable to cell phones), correspondence courses, videos, the JESUS Film and testimonies in their own language. Audio mp3 files include 217 radio programs and 73 hymns. The site also enables Somalis to be introduced to Christians in their vicinity. Although connecting them to fellowship is the ultimate goal, most prefer to explore the gospel on their own. While lacking a functioning government since 1991, and plagued with security issues, Somalia has advanced telecommunication systems. Thus radio and internet are accessible in many Somali homes and work places and remain the most effective voice for the gospel.

Continue to pray for this long-term and challenging ministry! We couldn’t do it without you.

Somali respond

to the “Voice of New Life”

Time to go viral for HIV/AIDSTime to go viral for HIV/AIDS

1. We have launched our new website at www.voiceforaids.ca! It’s a user-friendly place to connect, get involved and find out more about what we’re doing.

2. We have a new campaign - Going Viral for AIDS. By calling a “communication fast” you will experience a bit of what it is to lose your voice because of discrimination and learn a little about the challenges faced by people living with HIV. Head to the website to find out more about spreading hope in your youth, school, university or church group. The support you raise will go directly to helping people who are affected by HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia and Niger.

3. You can Create-a-Campaign. If you have a great idea to help people get involved, we want to support you. Contact us with your idea and we will help you to get things going and will promote your campaign or event as you engage your peers in the response to HIV/AIDS.

4. You can volunteer, join a speakers’ bureau, or come up with your own ways to engage with us we have lots of opportunities if you have the time, skills and passion.

5. Make a donation on our website and become our partner in the response to HIV/AIDS.

Christmas may seem like a long way off, but the hope that it brings is always with us. As we look towards advent this year, we hope you will join us in bringing hope to people living in difficult circumstances and make a difference in the lives of people who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. n

It’s barely fall, but already the shops are beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Perhaps you’ve already started your holiday planning. What is the first thing you think of when you see December 1 on the calendar? Winter? Christmas shopping? Or the first day of Advent?

December 1 is World AIDS Day - an apparent departure from Christmas cheer, but a day that shares a surprising common theme: hope.

AIDS can be an uncomfortable subject. Harnessed to a host of taboo topics and political and religious debates, it can be easy to lose sight of what’s really important - the people who are affected. AIDS has led to severe discrimination, rejection, sickness and death. Today there are more than 33 million people living with the disease, 16 million children who have been orphaned because of AIDS, and more people who are being infected every day.

But the story doesn’t end there. There is good news. There are fewer people being infected. More people than ever before are able to access life-saving medications that mean they can continue to care for their families and participate in their communities. In many places, openly talking about the disease has meant there is less fear and stigmatization. It is a long process, but we are slowly but surely moving from rejection to acceptance: from death to life. It is a good move, and in step with the deep love our Father has for us.

So what are we doing about it? Voice for AIDS is a partner initiative of SIM Canada and the Canadian International Development Agency, dedicated to engaging Canadians in the response to HIV/AIDS. Connected with our projects in Ethiopia and Niger, Voice for AIDS is an exciting opportunity for people of all ages to get involved and make a difference in their communities and their world. Together with our overseas partners, we are working to prevent new infections, care for those who are affected and provide better economic opportunities for people living with HIV and their families. Here in Canada we want people like you to get involved, learn more and be a part of the great work at hand.

As part of that work, we have several new initiatives to share with you!

watchWORLD

8

Jacqueline SolomonPublic Engagement,

Canada

voicef o r

a i d svoice

f o r a i d s

What are you

doing on December 1?

The Bad Newsn

n

n

The Good Newsn

n

n

n

There are 33.3 million people living with HIV/AIDS

There are 16.6 million children who have been orphaned by the disease

1.8 million people die from the disease every year

Since the start of The Global Fund to fight HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis, over 6,000,000 people living with AIDS now have access to life-saving antiretroviral medications

There are 2.6 million new infections every year - down from 3.1 million in 2001

In 33 countries, the HIV incidence rates dropped by more than 25% between 2001 and 2009

The incidence of children born with HIV has dropped more than 24% in the last seven years

9

Time to go viral for HIV/AIDSTime to go viral for HIV/AIDS

1. We have launched our new website at www.voiceforaids.ca! It’s a user-friendly place to connect, get involved and find out more about what we’re doing.

2. We have a new campaign - Going Viral for AIDS. By calling a “communication fast” you will experience a bit of what it is to lose your voice because of discrimination and learn a little about the challenges faced by people living with HIV. Head to the website to find out more about spreading hope in your youth, school, university or church group. The support you raise will go directly to helping people who are affected by HIV/AIDS in Ethiopia and Niger.

3. You can Create-a-Campaign. If you have a great idea to help people get involved, we want to support you. Contact us with your idea and we will help you to get things going and will promote your campaign or event as you engage your peers in the response to HIV/AIDS.

4. You can volunteer, join a speakers’ bureau, or come up with your own ways to engage with us we have lots of opportunities if you have the time, skills and passion.

5. Make a donation on our website and become our partner in the response to HIV/AIDS.

Christmas may seem like a long way off, but the hope that it brings is always with us. As we look towards advent this year, we hope you will join us in bringing hope to people living in difficult circumstances and make a difference in the lives of people who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. n

It’s barely fall, but already the shops are beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Perhaps you’ve already started your holiday planning. What is the first thing you think of when you see December 1 on the calendar? Winter? Christmas shopping? Or the first day of Advent?

December 1 is World AIDS Day - an apparent departure from Christmas cheer, but a day that shares a surprising common theme: hope.

AIDS can be an uncomfortable subject. Harnessed to a host of taboo topics and political and religious debates, it can be easy to lose sight of what’s really important - the people who are affected. AIDS has led to severe discrimination, rejection, sickness and death. Today there are more than 33 million people living with the disease, 16 million children who have been orphaned because of AIDS, and more people who are being infected every day.

But the story doesn’t end there. There is good news. There are fewer people being infected. More people than ever before are able to access life-saving medications that mean they can continue to care for their families and participate in their communities. In many places, openly talking about the disease has meant there is less fear and stigmatization. It is a long process, but we are slowly but surely moving from rejection to acceptance: from death to life. It is a good move, and in step with the deep love our Father has for us.

So what are we doing about it? Voice for AIDS is a partner initiative of SIM Canada and the Canadian International Development Agency, dedicated to engaging Canadians in the response to HIV/AIDS. Connected with our projects in Ethiopia and Niger, Voice for AIDS is an exciting opportunity for people of all ages to get involved and make a difference in their communities and their world. Together with our overseas partners, we are working to prevent new infections, care for those who are affected and provide better economic opportunities for people living with HIV and their families. Here in Canada we want people like you to get involved, learn more and be a part of the great work at hand.

As part of that work, we have several new initiatives to share with you!

watchWORLD

8

Jacqueline SolomonPublic Engagement,

Canada

voicef o r

a i d svoice

f o r a i d s

What are you

doing on December 1?

The Bad Newsn

n

n

The Good Newsn

n

n

n

There are 33.3 million people living with HIV/AIDS

There are 16.6 million children who have been orphaned by the disease

1.8 million people die from the disease every year

Since the start of The Global Fund to fight HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis, over 6,000,000 people living with AIDS now have access to life-saving antiretroviral medications

There are 2.6 million new infections every year - down from 3.1 million in 2001

In 33 countries, the HIV incidence rates dropped by more than 25% between 2001 and 2009

The incidence of children born with HIV has dropped more than 24% in the last seven years

9

1110

regional UPDATES

I had resisted the urge to ask how much longer it would take to arrive at the next house; silently noting that the promised “four kilometre” walk had turned into a 30 kilometre hike, over a giant, bouldered hill, through dozens of other villages and alongside beautiful Lake Malawi.

I was in the middle of my week-long village stay, a requirement for all SIM missionaries, to gain a better understanding of Malawian way of life, outside the “big city”. More than the physical stresses of adjusting to village life - using a chimbudzi (squat toilet), bucket baths and a gruelling daily routine - I found keeping my attitude in check even more challenging.

Each day began around 5:30am. As a mlendo (visitor), I wasn’t expected to help with chores, but sleeping while the family around me swept, washed dishes, did laundry, let the goats and chickens out, and cooked made me uncomfortable. So I joined them, often to the amusement of neighbours walking by. After a breakfast of nsima

Neither Abusa (Pastor) or Mayi (Mrs.) Chiweza in their nicest clothes was sweating as much as I was.

Sometime last year when I had the opportunity to go on a mission trip to Asia, I heard ‘You’re still young’ from a handful of people - both adults and peers. Despite the doubts this produced, I prayerfully and determinedly prepared to go overseas for three weeks in the summer and stay with a missionary family.

I found that missionaries are real people who worry daily about things like being late in the

morning and making dinner at night, and that often ministry is

slow and unexciting.

Missions and missionaries often seem irrelevant to many young people. I had the impression that missionaries were formidable spiritual forces, sent out into the world with mighty hearts and wise words, bringing people to Christ in masses and baptizing crowds on picturesque riverbanks. It is all part of a glorious and godly world that I heard from speakers, articles and PowerPoint presentations. It seems so far out of the sphere of my teenage life. I felt that missions was something far in the distant future, long after I had tackled the problems of exams, graduation, post-secondary studies, jobs and families. I have encountered a relatively small number of people my age who feel that they are “ready to go” on a missions trip now.

While no two trips are ever the same experience, approached with the right heart all forms of missions can be used by God to shape a person’s faith journey. The mission field is a place where I could put people in contexts that I could never imagine in my home church, and at the same time build a living and breathing relationship with that person.

It’s all about context

(thick maize porridge) and ndiwo (relish), we set off to visit the congregation members of the Africa Evangelical Church Sani, where Abusa pastored.

The walk was always arduous. I never knew where we were headed or how much English they would speak (usually none), yet each family welcomed us into their home. They always cooked and prepared food for us, and warmly greeted a foreigner like a member of their family. Something like that might be considered a waste of time here in Canada, but in Malawi, sharing quality time is significant to a community, and an important way of showing love and service.

Attempting to summarize a six-month mission trip seems nearly impossible. I couldn’t possibly recall and mention every individual who gave me some food for thought, or everything I saw that challenged my way of life and how I saw my relationship with Christ interacting with the world.

What I did learn the most about was servanthood and the multitude of ways it is expressed, the humility it requires, and my limitations at loving and giving. I was humbled to remember that He is the vine to which I must cleave in order to do even the smallest thing. It is His wide, deep and great love which compels and sustains my response to Him.

More than anything else, six months in Malawi reminded me that the lifestyle of worship and servanthood does not begin or end on a short-term missions trip. During my ministry in Malawi, I felt Him refining my heart and challenging me to consider others more important than myself. He would often ask me, “Season, is your comfort or

An unfamiliar environment was a perfect place for me to learn about God’s providence and faithfulness, and working alongside long-term missionaries, opens the door to pray for them specifically and practically.

God plants seeds in our hearts at different times and certainly not everybody will be suited to ministry overseas. He has promised that we will be a blessing wherever we go on this earth (Genesis 12:2-3).

Therefore, if one is not cut out to be a street evangelist there are places in the world where babysitters, tutors, caregivers, musicians, and everything in between are needed even more.

Before I left on my trip, I expected to be only shadowing the missionary family as they went about their usual work, not being able to contribute much. When I got there, I realized there were some things I could do simply because of my age. I had the opportunity to share Christian values with local girls by casually talking about television, school and boyfriends. What is sometimes viewed as a lack of experience can be used effectively in a different way, and an unfinished education is an opportunity to pursue new and different ideas.

At this age, we have yet to be committed to a career or a family, and we are still looking for the best direction to take for our futures. What better time to give missions a try than during these last few years of having months of holidays? Let God show you powerfully where He would like you to be! No matter how daunting missions might seem, it is definitely something you can never truly say how you feel about it until you have tried.

When all is said and done, the very fact that we are still young is perhaps the best reason for us to involve ourselves in missions as soon as the opportunity presents itself. To any youth who has ever considered the idea of missions for even the briefest of moments, I offer three different words of advice: “Go for it!”

Peer advice - GO FOR IT

n

My glory more important to you right now?” - a question He continues to ask me back here in Canada.

Beginning from my heart and moving outward toward my hands, feet, lips, life decisions and relationships, I know there is much more for me to learn about serving Christ and serving others. But I am thankful for the example of Christ - He “who became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy.” (Romans 15:8-9).

To read more reflections about Season’s time in Malawi, check out http://skmalawi.wordpress.com. n

You’re still

young

The humble servant OntarioOntario

SIM

NO

W

By Season KamOntario Associaterecently returned

from Malawi

By Justina Ho

“I will make you into a great nation, and I will

bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on

earth will be blessed through you.”

1110

regional UPDATES

I had resisted the urge to ask how much longer it would take to arrive at the next house; silently noting that the promised “four kilometre” walk had turned into a 30 kilometre hike, over a giant, bouldered hill, through dozens of other villages and alongside beautiful Lake Malawi.

I was in the middle of my week-long village stay, a requirement for all SIM missionaries, to gain a better understanding of Malawian way of life, outside the “big city”. More than the physical stresses of adjusting to village life - using a chimbudzi (squat toilet), bucket baths and a gruelling daily routine - I found keeping my attitude in check even more challenging.

Each day began around 5:30am. As a mlendo (visitor), I wasn’t expected to help with chores, but sleeping while the family around me swept, washed dishes, did laundry, let the goats and chickens out, and cooked made me uncomfortable. So I joined them, often to the amusement of neighbours walking by. After a breakfast of nsima

Neither Abusa (Pastor) or Mayi (Mrs.) Chiweza in their nicest clothes was sweating as much as I was.

Sometime last year when I had the opportunity to go on a mission trip to Asia, I heard ‘You’re still young’ from a handful of people - both adults and peers. Despite the doubts this produced, I prayerfully and determinedly prepared to go overseas for three weeks in the summer and stay with a missionary family.

I found that missionaries are real people who worry daily about things like being late in the

morning and making dinner at night, and that often ministry is

slow and unexciting.

Missions and missionaries often seem irrelevant to many young people. I had the impression that missionaries were formidable spiritual forces, sent out into the world with mighty hearts and wise words, bringing people to Christ in masses and baptizing crowds on picturesque riverbanks. It is all part of a glorious and godly world that I heard from speakers, articles and PowerPoint presentations. It seems so far out of the sphere of my teenage life. I felt that missions was something far in the distant future, long after I had tackled the problems of exams, graduation, post-secondary studies, jobs and families. I have encountered a relatively small number of people my age who feel that they are “ready to go” on a missions trip now.

While no two trips are ever the same experience, approached with the right heart all forms of missions can be used by God to shape a person’s faith journey. The mission field is a place where I could put people in contexts that I could never imagine in my home church, and at the same time build a living and breathing relationship with that person.

It’s all about context

(thick maize porridge) and ndiwo (relish), we set off to visit the congregation members of the Africa Evangelical Church Sani, where Abusa pastored.

The walk was always arduous. I never knew where we were headed or how much English they would speak (usually none), yet each family welcomed us into their home. They always cooked and prepared food for us, and warmly greeted a foreigner like a member of their family. Something like that might be considered a waste of time here in Canada, but in Malawi, sharing quality time is significant to a community, and an important way of showing love and service.

Attempting to summarize a six-month mission trip seems nearly impossible. I couldn’t possibly recall and mention every individual who gave me some food for thought, or everything I saw that challenged my way of life and how I saw my relationship with Christ interacting with the world.

What I did learn the most about was servanthood and the multitude of ways it is expressed, the humility it requires, and my limitations at loving and giving. I was humbled to remember that He is the vine to which I must cleave in order to do even the smallest thing. It is His wide, deep and great love which compels and sustains my response to Him.

More than anything else, six months in Malawi reminded me that the lifestyle of worship and servanthood does not begin or end on a short-term missions trip. During my ministry in Malawi, I felt Him refining my heart and challenging me to consider others more important than myself. He would often ask me, “Season, is your comfort or

An unfamiliar environment was a perfect place for me to learn about God’s providence and faithfulness, and working alongside long-term missionaries, opens the door to pray for them specifically and practically.

God plants seeds in our hearts at different times and certainly not everybody will be suited to ministry overseas. He has promised that we will be a blessing wherever we go on this earth (Genesis 12:2-3).

Therefore, if one is not cut out to be a street evangelist there are places in the world where babysitters, tutors, caregivers, musicians, and everything in between are needed even more.

Before I left on my trip, I expected to be only shadowing the missionary family as they went about their usual work, not being able to contribute much. When I got there, I realized there were some things I could do simply because of my age. I had the opportunity to share Christian values with local girls by casually talking about television, school and boyfriends. What is sometimes viewed as a lack of experience can be used effectively in a different way, and an unfinished education is an opportunity to pursue new and different ideas.

At this age, we have yet to be committed to a career or a family, and we are still looking for the best direction to take for our futures. What better time to give missions a try than during these last few years of having months of holidays? Let God show you powerfully where He would like you to be! No matter how daunting missions might seem, it is definitely something you can never truly say how you feel about it until you have tried.

When all is said and done, the very fact that we are still young is perhaps the best reason for us to involve ourselves in missions as soon as the opportunity presents itself. To any youth who has ever considered the idea of missions for even the briefest of moments, I offer three different words of advice: “Go for it!”

Peer advice - GO FOR IT

n

My glory more important to you right now?” - a question He continues to ask me back here in Canada.

Beginning from my heart and moving outward toward my hands, feet, lips, life decisions and relationships, I know there is much more for me to learn about serving Christ and serving others. But I am thankful for the example of Christ - He “who became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy.” (Romans 15:8-9).

To read more reflections about Season’s time in Malawi, check out http://skmalawi.wordpress.com. n

You’re still

young

The humble servant OntarioOntario

SIM

NO

W

By Season KamOntario Associaterecently returned

from Malawi

By Justina Ho

“I will make you into a great nation, and I will

bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on

earth will be blessed through you.”

PrairiesPrairies

Ezekiel believes that “mission is something that affects your everyday life”. This was shown very clearly in their previous mission trip when they worked at an orphanage.

When Ezekiel and Erica returned to Canada, they wanted to sell everything and move back to the orphanage. But they knew that this response would not be good stewards of the resources God had given them.

So, they prayed and asked God to use their gifts and educational backgrounds to be most effective in their life in Canada and their next mission trip overseas.

With this mindset they joined with SIM to go to Asia this past summer. Ezekiel and Erica had decided even before getting married that they wanted to go on a mission’s trip every year to use their skills for God overseas. This is their second year of short-term missions.

Erica is a medical student and worked in a health care department in Asia for five weeks. She was able to visit an orphanage, help a doctor at an outpatient clinic, and deliver public health training sessions.

Ezekiel works in the business field in Canada and participated in about 6 projects during his two weeks in Asia. These projects included training in sales and marketing, team building activities and helping out small businesses. An orphanage wanted to start a small business selling greeting cards so Ezekiel partnered with the local team to create a business plan. He worked with the team to formulate the best way to sell the cards and

Skills and giftings put to use

determine their best target audience. Realizing their gifts, Ezekiel and Erica were able to be a light for Christ in very practical ways.

Ezekiel learned that he really wanted to understand the challenges of the people and see where he could contribute. In past trips, everything was planned for them. Conversely, nothing was planned in this trip and it was up to them to see what the needs were and contribute what they could. There was no program but rather an opportunity to go and live with the people. He says that is what long-term missionaries do; they build relationships and contribute their gifts to the best of their ability. By observing the need, you really see God use you most effectively.

Reflecting on their trip, Erica recognized the challenge of short-term mission trips. But she is hopeful that the planted seeds will grow to become strong and healthy plants. Erica may not see the growth happen but she still prays for the seeds that were planted. Erica shared that “although I have no way of knowing whether or not the work I did in the healthcare field will make a lasting difference, one thing is for sure; God was with me, he was working hard, and he will continue to bless the people and the work that I was a part of.”

They are both unsure what the long-term will look like for them - whether to become long-term missionaries who go overseas to live or being involved in a single ministry for 10-20 years. One thing they do know is that they will follow God into long-term missions and will use their skills to further His kingdom no matter what their future looks like.

Identifyiing the needs

The future

n

12

BritishColumbiaBritishColumbia

SIM

NO

W

13

After the third year in the TESOL program each student at Briercrest Bible College is required to do an internship outside of North America. Most of my classmates travelled to China to teach, but one of my classmates and I had the unique opportunity to travel to Ethiopia.

Briercrest has a connection with the Ethiopian Graduate School of Theology (EGST) through our academic dean. I was thrilled when Ethiopia was offered as an option for an internship. SIM was heavily involved with the organization for the trip both here in Canada and in Ethiopia where we lived in the SIM guesthouse in Addis Ababa. We were supervised by an SIMer, Sandy Willcox, who has a Masters in TESOL and also teaches at EGST.

Ginger (my fellow classmate) and I taught a preparatory English class for students entering their Masters studies. I taught nine students for 4 weeks (the second half of an 8 week course). We worked from a textbook but had the freedom to create a lot of our own material. We practiced essay writing, grammar, and learned new vocabulary that was relevant to the students’ studies. We put what we had learned at Briercrest to practical use. The TESOL program at Briercrest is also very mission-focused so I was able to combine TESOL with a missions focus.

The students I taught were wonderful people and very motivated in their studies and studying hard to prepare for their post-grad ministry.

This experience has made me more prepared and excited to return to for my final school year with practical experience to draw from as I continue to learn about this field of study. My internship was a one of a kind experience that I hope other Bible College students will also enjoy!

Practical freedom

Ready and excited

n

You can support a missionaryin prayer and provide financially.Contact the Regional Director (refer back page for details) and receive a prayer letter or go on-line to make a secure donation to their ministry at https://www.sim.ca/giveonlinesecurep5651.php

An important requirement of many Bible School and College

degree programs is to participate in an internship, requiring a partnership between the Bible Schools, SIM and a career missionary. Internships can be

anywhere from 6 weeks to a year.

Many emails, paperwork and personal contact are needed by all

partners to ensure that internships are successful - but the hard work often

pays off! A recent email from a former intern, advised that they are wanting

to return as a career missionary!

Some of the recent Interns have ministered in Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia,

Botswana, Paraguay and Ghana.

Interested? Contact us...

Regional DirectorsPrairies Provinces

Dan & Wanda Screpnek

By Robyn Epp

By ET Mair

mission...seeps into the

nooks and crannies

of life

PrairiesPrairies

Ezekiel believes that “mission is something that affects your everyday life”. This was shown very clearly in their previous mission trip when they worked at an orphanage.

When Ezekiel and Erica returned to Canada, they wanted to sell everything and move back to the orphanage. But they knew that this response would not be good stewards of the resources God had given them.

So, they prayed and asked God to use their gifts and educational backgrounds to be most effective in their life in Canada and their next mission trip overseas.

With this mindset they joined with SIM to go to Asia this past summer. Ezekiel and Erica had decided even before getting married that they wanted to go on a mission’s trip every year to use their skills for God overseas. This is their second year of short-term missions.

Erica is a medical student and worked in a health care department in Asia for five weeks. She was able to visit an orphanage, help a doctor at an outpatient clinic, and deliver public health training sessions.

Ezekiel works in the business field in Canada and participated in about 6 projects during his two weeks in Asia. These projects included training in sales and marketing, team building activities and helping out small businesses. An orphanage wanted to start a small business selling greeting cards so Ezekiel partnered with the local team to create a business plan. He worked with the team to formulate the best way to sell the cards and

Skills and giftings put to use

determine their best target audience. Realizing their gifts, Ezekiel and Erica were able to be a light for Christ in very practical ways.

Ezekiel learned that he really wanted to understand the challenges of the people and see where he could contribute. In past trips, everything was planned for them. Conversely, nothing was planned in this trip and it was up to them to see what the needs were and contribute what they could. There was no program but rather an opportunity to go and live with the people. He says that is what long-term missionaries do; they build relationships and contribute their gifts to the best of their ability. By observing the need, you really see God use you most effectively.

Reflecting on their trip, Erica recognized the challenge of short-term mission trips. But she is hopeful that the planted seeds will grow to become strong and healthy plants. Erica may not see the growth happen but she still prays for the seeds that were planted. Erica shared that “although I have no way of knowing whether or not the work I did in the healthcare field will make a lasting difference, one thing is for sure; God was with me, he was working hard, and he will continue to bless the people and the work that I was a part of.”

They are both unsure what the long-term will look like for them - whether to become long-term missionaries who go overseas to live or being involved in a single ministry for 10-20 years. One thing they do know is that they will follow God into long-term missions and will use their skills to further His kingdom no matter what their future looks like.

Identifyiing the needs

The future

n

12

BritishColumbiaBritishColumbia

SIM

NO

W

13

After the third year in the TESOL program each student at Briercrest Bible College is required to do an internship outside of North America. Most of my classmates travelled to China to teach, but one of my classmates and I had the unique opportunity to travel to Ethiopia.

Briercrest has a connection with the Ethiopian Graduate School of Theology (EGST) through our academic dean. I was thrilled when Ethiopia was offered as an option for an internship. SIM was heavily involved with the organization for the trip both here in Canada and in Ethiopia where we lived in the SIM guesthouse in Addis Ababa. We were supervised by an SIMer, Sandy Willcox, who has a Masters in TESOL and also teaches at EGST.

Ginger (my fellow classmate) and I taught a preparatory English class for students entering their Masters studies. I taught nine students for 4 weeks (the second half of an 8 week course). We worked from a textbook but had the freedom to create a lot of our own material. We practiced essay writing, grammar, and learned new vocabulary that was relevant to the students’ studies. We put what we had learned at Briercrest to practical use. The TESOL program at Briercrest is also very mission-focused so I was able to combine TESOL with a missions focus.

The students I taught were wonderful people and very motivated in their studies and studying hard to prepare for their post-grad ministry.

This experience has made me more prepared and excited to return to for my final school year with practical experience to draw from as I continue to learn about this field of study. My internship was a one of a kind experience that I hope other Bible College students will also enjoy!

Practical freedom

Ready and excited

n

You can support a missionaryin prayer and provide financially.Contact the Regional Director (refer back page for details) and receive a prayer letter or go on-line to make a secure donation to their ministry at https://www.sim.ca/giveonlinesecurep5651.php

An important requirement of many Bible School and College

degree programs is to participate in an internship, requiring a partnership between the Bible Schools, SIM and a career missionary. Internships can be

anywhere from 6 weeks to a year.

Many emails, paperwork and personal contact are needed by all

partners to ensure that internships are successful - but the hard work often

pays off! A recent email from a former intern, advised that they are wanting

to return as a career missionary!

Some of the recent Interns have ministered in Sudan, Malawi, Ethiopia,

Botswana, Paraguay and Ghana.

Interested? Contact us...

Regional DirectorsPrairies Provinces

Dan & Wanda Screpnek

By Robyn Epp

By ET Mair

mission...seeps into the

nooks and crannies

of life

14 15

SIM

NO

W

My decision to join SIM this summer was motivated by my earnest desire to serve God with all that I am, using the talents and gifts He has so graciously given me. I also wanted to learn more about SIM and world missions.

For three months I worked as Special Assistant in the SIM Québec Office. This very vague title resulted in an equally broad job description. My tasks spanned translation to hospitality with some resource creation for children's ministry sprinkled in. This experience surpassed my expectations. I had hoped for new insight into missions and what I received was a new calling for Africa and world missions. I had hoped to serve God and others with my gifts and was privileged to do that as well as rejoicing about and learning from the gifts God has given to others.

I had hoped that the blessing of being bilingual would be of service for SIM translations and, as I used those talents, I changed and grew as a child of God with every translation. I had hoped to serve missionaries as they came through the SIM Québec house and it was I who was blessed by their testimonies as they lived Christ’s love in everything they did.

I have translated numerous documents to be used here and in other French countries where SIM ministers. My participation allowed for a larger number of translations to be done in a shorter time span. It also allowed other members of the team to focus on some larger, more long-term projects. My participation included, but was not limited to, the translation and creation of material for helping children understand God’s mission, application forms, resources for prayer

Answering the need

This month my home church, is partnering with SIM to host a Ride for Refuge fund-raiser in Malagash! Our cause is an HIV/AIDS outreach ministry in Benin, West Africa called Alafia. It means a great deal to me as I intend to join the ministry in November.

Our “Crossroaders” team will be cycling 50 km on Ride Day! It’s a neat opportunity for teams to represent their churches - working together to make a difference! It’s especially exciting to see people who haven’t biked in years; digging their bikes out of the shed, dusting them off, and getting them back on the road. The event will have an African theme, and end with a West African meal, and information session to raise awareness on global outreach. The Ride takes place during SIM’s Annual Mission Conference at Malagash Bible Camp, where I first felt the Lord leading me to join SIM in 2009.

I’m continuing to enjoy traveling and sharing in churches about SIM's ministry in Benin. I’ll be taking a two week course in tropical medicine, beginning on October 23rd. The course is offered by MMI (Missionary Medicine Intensive) and was designed for missionaries serving in developing countries. Lord willing, I could be ready to leave for Benin following this course. My focus remains strong on getting to Benin and joining the Alafia team at Bembereke Hospital!

For more information, visit www.rideforrefuge.org/location/malagash. n

ministries, material for the SIM Canada French website and parts of a team training manual.

For three weeks I joined an outreach effort in a Montreal neighbourhood. This was part of a church planting project by a church in another area of Montreal. It was great to work alongside people from all walks of life who are united in the advancement of the kingdom. It was amazing to see how the family of God came together for His sake in an effort that resulted in new people being exposed to the Gospel and some accepting invitations to meetings so they could hear more.

All this work was of great usefulness in enabling ministry through SIM and a great learning experience for me, but these are not the reasons I would recommend this opportunity to you. Just based on the wonderful discussions and exchanges alone, it was worthwhile.

I recommend it to anyone who is seeking God’s will in their lives. God used translations and service opportunities to help me grow, but most of all He used His children. I was blessed to be part of a team where the importance was not always put on the work produced but on the growth of each team member. There was a time for work and a time for discussion. This balance created an awesome work environment and a place where I was pushed to grow to become who Christ has called me to be.

I have learnt that there is something more important than my work or my abilities: it is the humility to simply stop and listen to what God is trying to teach me through His word and through those who have more wisdom than I.

Outreach in Montreal

A blessing

n

regional UPDATES

QuebecQuebec

by Karell Frenette

Karell will complete her

Bachelor of Education at McGill University in 2012 and is applying

to SIM to serve in West Africa next

summer.

The SIM Quebec Team welcomes

others who would like a short-term

experience working locally and thinking

globally.

Worklocal

...thinkglobal

AtlanticC a n a d aAtlanticC a n a d a

The Alafia AIDS ministry was begun by two nurses to reach out to people living with HIV and is based at L’Hôpital Évangelique deBembéréké in northern Benin.The ministry provides HIV/AIDS and operates from a clinic where patients receive personal attention, medical

care and counselling.

by Miriam Stirling

Alafia home-based care worker

Alafia clinic

Want to ride for a worthy cause?

Contact a SIM Regional Office nearest you

(details back page) for a ‘Ride’ in your area.

14 15

SIM

NO

W

My decision to join SIM this summer was motivated by my earnest desire to serve God with all that I am, using the talents and gifts He has so graciously given me. I also wanted to learn more about SIM and world missions.

For three months I worked as Special Assistant in the SIM Québec Office. This very vague title resulted in an equally broad job description. My tasks spanned translation to hospitality with some resource creation for children's ministry sprinkled in. This experience surpassed my expectations. I had hoped for new insight into missions and what I received was a new calling for Africa and world missions. I had hoped to serve God and others with my gifts and was privileged to do that as well as rejoicing about and learning from the gifts God has given to others.

I had hoped that the blessing of being bilingual would be of service for SIM translations and, as I used those talents, I changed and grew as a child of God with every translation. I had hoped to serve missionaries as they came through the SIM Québec house and it was I who was blessed by their testimonies as they lived Christ’s love in everything they did.

I have translated numerous documents to be used here and in other French countries where SIM ministers. My participation allowed for a larger number of translations to be done in a shorter time span. It also allowed other members of the team to focus on some larger, more long-term projects. My participation included, but was not limited to, the translation and creation of material for helping children understand God’s mission, application forms, resources for prayer

Answering the need

This month my home church, is partnering with SIM to host a Ride for Refuge fund-raiser in Malagash! Our cause is an HIV/AIDS outreach ministry in Benin, West Africa called Alafia. It means a great deal to me as I intend to join the ministry in November.

Our “Crossroaders” team will be cycling 50 km on Ride Day! It’s a neat opportunity for teams to represent their churches - working together to make a difference! It’s especially exciting to see people who haven’t biked in years; digging their bikes out of the shed, dusting them off, and getting them back on the road. The event will have an African theme, and end with a West African meal, and information session to raise awareness on global outreach. The Ride takes place during SIM’s Annual Mission Conference at Malagash Bible Camp, where I first felt the Lord leading me to join SIM in 2009.

I’m continuing to enjoy traveling and sharing in churches about SIM's ministry in Benin. I’ll be taking a two week course in tropical medicine, beginning on October 23rd. The course is offered by MMI (Missionary Medicine Intensive) and was designed for missionaries serving in developing countries. Lord willing, I could be ready to leave for Benin following this course. My focus remains strong on getting to Benin and joining the Alafia team at Bembereke Hospital!

For more information, visit www.rideforrefuge.org/location/malagash. n

ministries, material for the SIM Canada French website and parts of a team training manual.

For three weeks I joined an outreach effort in a Montreal neighbourhood. This was part of a church planting project by a church in another area of Montreal. It was great to work alongside people from all walks of life who are united in the advancement of the kingdom. It was amazing to see how the family of God came together for His sake in an effort that resulted in new people being exposed to the Gospel and some accepting invitations to meetings so they could hear more.

All this work was of great usefulness in enabling ministry through SIM and a great learning experience for me, but these are not the reasons I would recommend this opportunity to you. Just based on the wonderful discussions and exchanges alone, it was worthwhile.

I recommend it to anyone who is seeking God’s will in their lives. God used translations and service opportunities to help me grow, but most of all He used His children. I was blessed to be part of a team where the importance was not always put on the work produced but on the growth of each team member. There was a time for work and a time for discussion. This balance created an awesome work environment and a place where I was pushed to grow to become who Christ has called me to be.

I have learnt that there is something more important than my work or my abilities: it is the humility to simply stop and listen to what God is trying to teach me through His word and through those who have more wisdom than I.

Outreach in Montreal

A blessing

n

regional UPDATES

QuebecQuebec

by Karell Frenette

Karell will complete her

Bachelor of Education at McGill University in 2012 and is applying

to SIM to serve in West Africa next

summer.

The SIM Quebec Team welcomes

others who would like a short-term

experience working locally and thinking

globally.

Worklocal

...thinkglobal

AtlanticC a n a d aAtlanticC a n a d a

The Alafia AIDS ministry was begun by two nurses to reach out to people living with HIV and is based at L’Hôpital Évangelique deBembéréké in northern Benin.The ministry provides HIV/AIDS and operates from a clinic where patients receive personal attention, medical

care and counselling.

by Miriam Stirling

Alafia home-based care worker

Alafia clinic

Want to ride for a worthy cause?

Contact a SIM Regional Office nearest you

(details back page) for a ‘Ride’ in your area.

The combined “SIMnow #116”, “World Watch #56”, is an official publication of SIM Canada and is published 4 times per year. SIM (Serving In Mission), is an interdenominational evangelical Protestant mission founded in 1893. SIM includes Africa Evangelical Fellowship, Andes Evangelical Mission, International Christian Fellowship, and Sudan Interior Mission. Send address changes to: The Editor, 10 Huntingdale Blvd., Scarborough, ON, M1W 2S5, Canada. Printed in Canada. © 2011 by SIM. Additional copies are available. Permission to reprint any material must be obtained from the Editor. FAX: 416-497-2444. E-mail: info@sim.ca. Subscription is free (Donations appreciated). Subscribe on-line at www.sim.ca or email info@sim.ca. International Editor: Suzanne Green. Canadian Editor: John Rose. Designer: John Rose.

SIM Canada10 Huntingdale BlvdScarborough, ONM1W 2S5

TEL: 416-497-2424FAX: 416-497-2444FREE CALL: 1-800-294-6918E-MAIL: info@sim.caWEB: www.sim.ca

ESL connects neighbours

Who to callATLANTIC CANADA

QUEBEC

ONTARIO

MANITOBA (NW ONTARIO)

PRAIRIE PROVINCES

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Jim LongworthRegional Director (Atlantic)E: jim.longworth@sim.orgT: 506-472-6855

Angela BrandleRegional Director (Quebec)E: angela.brandle@sim.orgT: 514-425-6611Willy BrandleQuebec Mission ConsultantE: willy.brandle@sim.orgBrigitte MarcellinRepresentative, Eastern TownshipsE: Brigitte.Marcellin@sim.orgT: 819-566-8676

Rick BradfordRegional Director (Ontario)E: rick.bradford@sim.orgT: 416-497-2424 (ext.176) Doraine RossOntario Mission ConsultantE: doraine.ross@sim.orgT: 519-740-1422

Harry EnnsRegional Director (Manitoba)E: harry.enns@sim.orgT: 204-663-9914

Dan & Wanda ScrepnekRegional Director (Prairies)E: dan.screpnek@sim.orgE: wanda.screpnek@sim.orgT: 403-886-5961Cell: 403-352-2859

John PolkkiRegional Director (BC)E: john.polkki@sim.orgT: 778-574-0500Cell: 604-448-2185

BC Region RepresentativesKeith & Cindy FrewCell (Keith): 604-217-2893Cell (Cindy): 604-217-2894Phil & Marcia LeskewichE: Phil.Leskewich@sim.orgT: 604-744-8159

One of SIM’s goals is to support the local church in Canada to reach out to its increasingly diverse neighbourhood. This aligns well with a large church in southwest Toronto -Queensway Baptist - whose vision is “To serve the community, show them God’s love in action, and form friendships that will lead to accepting Christ”.

Part of my work as a Culture ConneXions missionary is training churches for ESL ministry to connect with their neighbours. Effective connec-tions are made when there is support from the leadership, people within the congregation and a spiritual foundation of prayerful dependence on God.

Queensway Baptist Church began an ESL programme that took shape after a couple from the church, ESL trained, took up the cause. I was asked to run a 10-hour training course to equip them for organizing and teaching an ESL conver-sation program.

From a modest beginning, one teacher made an enthusiastic presentation to the congregation about what was happening during the 90-minute Monday evening classes. The result? More volunteers for the program as well as increased interest among the congregation. The ESL ministry is frequently on the agenda of Queensway’s weekly prayer meeting, so the congregation receives regular updates.

After a year, the number of volunteers has increased to the level that they now hold special-

ized classes according to student request. There continues to be conversation classes for advanced and intermedi-ate students, one of which is for men only.

There is also a small class of Tibetan women who are learning to read and write for the first time in their lives. This group uses a picture dictionary as their text, and they focus on simple sentence vocabulary.

Other classes include tutorials for reading comprehension, ‘Bible English’, and a group of Ukrainians who would like to learn pronunciation and vocabulary. One Korean woman learning Bible English is serving God as a student. Her sole purpose for this specialized vocabulary is so she can tell people about Jesus.

Individual lives have been affected. One Mid-eastern student, has attended church, and her family feels an affinity for Queensway. Her husband has come to the church with their son to thank teachers for their help in establishing his credentials to pursue his medical profession.

God has clearly begun a good work at Queensway, and those involved in the ESL ministry are excited about how He will work out His purposes in future.

If you know of a church who is seeking to reach their culturally diverse neighbourhoods and would benefit from ESL training, please contact 416-531-5151 or email: chang.marion@gmail.com n

By Marion Chang

40062613