Vancouver Chinese EFC is the first Chinese Church in our Lower pacific District. It was born in the hearts of some brothers and sisters who came to Canada from Hong Kong. In March of 1975, they began Chinese services in a second-hand Evangelical Free Church building in Vancouver—a church that been birthed by other immigrants to Canada, many of them from Scandinavia. It had been known as Bethel EFC.
Since that day, this church has grown in numbers through the births of many children and new births in Christ. An English congregation was born, and more recently a Mandarin congregation was birthed as well. In addition to this, God has used this church to plant other Chinese Churches in Richmond, Burnaby and Port Coquitlam.
Please join us in giving thanks for and praying for Vancouver Chinese Evangelical Free Church.
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WHEN CHRISTIANS LOSE THEIR MINDS, PEOPLE LOSE THEIR FAITH
In conversations with pastors and other church leaders in recent weeks, it is evident that every church is experiencing a variety of emotions, convictions and choices that people are making about COVID. This provides opportunity for ministering to one another with grace, love and sensitivity. We can be united in Christ, though we might not be united in our response to COVID.
I am both pleased and thankful to hear of churches being resilient in providing worship services, both live and also streamed via ZOOM or other platforms. Thank you for your special efforts to this end!
I am also saddened to hear that the reputation of some Canadian churches, and the message that we share have been compromised by the actions of some who identify with our local churches and have been militant regarding COVID Policy.
Carey Nieuwhof has written an excellent article that offers some timely counsel for all of us as church leaders in the midst of our current pandemic. He writes, “Focus on timeless truths more than temporary viewpoints. Viewpoints change. Truth doesn’t.”
Here is the link:
when-christians-lose-their-minds-people-lose-their-faith
I trust that you find this both helpful and encouraging – please share it with your leadership as you deem to be appropriate.
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BC COVID-19 Policy Updates:
The BC Centre for Disease Control and BC Ministry of Health states:
“Worship services are exempt from both the provincial mask mandate that requires mask use in indoor public spaces and the requirement to provide proof of immunization against COVID-19 to access some events, services and businesses. However, faith leaders are supported to implement these additional measures in their in-person services should they desire to do so.”
Here is the full document: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/community-settings/faith-based-spiritual-and-worship-practices
In short, while wearing a mask is considered to be good medical practice and considerate of others, there is not a legal requirement for people to do so. We will welcome all who attend. Please be both considerate and mindful of those who are either compromised and/or specially cautious regarding COVID. Wearing a mask can be an act of servanthood to brothers and sisters who feel vulnerable to COVID.
In light of this, please also note and utilize the recommendations provided in the document “Guidance for Holding Low Risk Worship Services.”
COVID_public_guidance/COVID-19_Guidance_Faith_Based_Organizations.pdf
Children’s Ministries (K-Grade 12) are exempt from vaccine requirements: covid-19/vaccine/proof
Please also check current policy and resources on our LPD Website at: https://www.lpd-efcc.ca/covid-19/ Thanks to Josephine for keeping us up to date!
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Important News regarding the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) program has been extended through the end of September – and perhaps beyond...
More information can be found at:
recovery-hiring-program/crhp-compare-cews.html
For assistance or to answer questions, please contact Josephine at the district office.
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Upcoming Dates to Mark on Your Calendars:
LPD/EFCC Orientation
Monday, September 27
at the new EFCC Office on the campus of TWU
Please register at: https://www.lpd-efcc.ca/events/
This is a requirement for all pastors and staff pursuing credentialing and/or ordination with the EFCC
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“Introduction to Cultural Anthropology and Intelligence”
Sherman Lau, a member of Fort Langley EFC who has served with Mission Central will be teaching a course at Pacific Life Bible College this fall. This course will be helpful for anyone interested in developing their intercultural competency. Classes will be held on Friday, 8:30-11:15AM (the registrar may possibly change it to Wed or Thursday evening). For information, please contact Sherman at: slau@pacificlife.edu
The course may be taken for Credit or Audit.
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LPD Pastor and Staff Cruise
Wednesday, October 27
this “cruise,” we plan to return to our live time together via BC Ferries!
Pastors and staff, plan to join us for this time of fellowship, encouragement and equipping.
Here is some info: October_27_2021.01.pdf
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LPD Pastoral Staff and Spouse Retreat
– a weekend to relax and recharge…
November 12-14
at
Charis Camp: 51935 Hack Brown Rd., Chilliwack
Cost: $375.00 per couple (subsidies are available, so cost should not be a barrier).
– our theme will be “surviving and thriving in ministry,” and I (Rob) will be sharing from life experience, research and the Word about living out our pastoral calling with joy and effectiveness. Karen and I look forward to sharing this time with you!
Please contact Josephine or Rob at our LPD Office for more information.
Please confirm your registration by October 14 by contacting our LPD Office at office@lpd-efcc.ca
