News and Events

On August 26, an avalanche/ice-dam burst just across the border in Tibet sending a massive and powerful surge of water through a narrow valley in northern Nepal. The force of the flooding swept away bridges, infrastructure, homes, and everything else in its path.

The Rausuwa area is a major border crossing for China–Nepal trade and is also an important route for religious pilgrims travelling toward Mount Kailash. Due to the remoteness of the region and the difficult terrain, assessments and rescue efforts have been challenging and slow. Initial reports indicate that approximately 800 people are missing, while 20 motorable bridges, 25 telecommunications stations, and 11 hydroelectric dams have been damaged or destroyed. These numbers are still being assessed and are expected to change as access to affected areas improves.

We invite CPD churches to pray for the people of Nepal. Please pray for:

• families and individuals who have experienced loss, displacement, or uncertainty during this difficult time
• those who are missing and for rescue efforts, especially as time becomes increasingly critical
• effective coordination between the government, NGOs, local communities, and first responders
• wisdom and discernment as relief efforts are organized and aid is distributed honestly and equitably
• the church and that God would equip churches and ministries in Nepal to serve their communities well - with wisdom, courage, full and generous hearts, and a tangible display of the loving and generous God we follow

If you would like to contribute to the Nepal Emergency Response, please give to the Alliance GERF Fund.

As our neighbors return home to assess wildfire damage, we are rallying support to aid in their recovery. Whether through your time, supplies, or financial support, your contribution directly impacts local families rebuilding their lives.

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Volunteer Opportunities

- Property Recovery & Sifting: Assist residents on-site with clean-up and carefully sifting through ashes for salvageable personal items.
- Meal Prep & Hospitality: Prepare and distribute lunches, snacks, and water to residents and active work crews.
- Logistics & Transportation: Shuttle volunteers, meals, tools, and safety gear to and from work sites.
- Equipment & Inventory: Organize, maintain, and track personal protective equipment (PPE) and clean-up tools.
- Community Outreach: Connect with affected homeowners to let them know our assistance is available.

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Critical Gear Donations Needed
- Heavy-duty leather work gloves & nitrile/latex gloves
- N95 (or better) respirator masks
- Tyvek protective coveralls & safety goggles
- Duct tape, First aid kits & portable eye-wash stations
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To sign up as a volunteer or coordinate a donation drop-off, please email us at: relief@pentictonalliance.org or call the church office.

For many across the Canadian Pacific District, the Yukon can feel distant, but over the past several years, God has been steadily opening doors and building relationships in Whitehorse. This story began through the faithful presence of Pastor Ben Pantoja from NewLife Alliance, who spent extended time in Whitehorse building relationships, sharing the gospel, and walking alongside members of the local Filipino community. Over time, those relationships have grown into a small but committed core group with a desire to grow together in faith and explore what a Filipino Alliance church expression could look like.

From July 24–28, 2026, Pastor String La Guardia and a team from Central Edmonton Alliance Church travelled to Whitehorse to come alongside this emerging work in partnership with New Life Alliance and the Canadian Pacific District. During their time together, the team deepened relationships with the community, encouraged and discipled the growing core group, and continued conversations around what along-term Alliance presence in the Yukon could look like.

There is still much to discern, but there is a growing hope to see a locally rooted expression of church established in Whitehorse, one shaped by the people, relationships, and realities of life in the North. As you watch the video from Central Edmonton Alliance Church’s recent trip, we invite you to pray for this emerging community, for leaders discerning God’s call, and for what God may continue to grow from the seeds that have been faithfully planted over the past several years.

As part of ongoing efforts to simplify access to care and reduce unneccesary medical paperwork, RWAM is removing the requirement for a doctors referral for many paramedical services, where a referral is not medically required.

What this means for you: 

• Easier access to paramedical care and services
• Less time obtaining paperwork that does not add clinical value
• A simpler, more efficient claims experience

The following paramedical services under our plan no longer require a referral.

• Massage Therapist
• Physiotherapist
• Speech Therapist
• Acupuncturist
• Psychologist/Psychotherapist/Social Worker (MSW), Clinical Counsellor
• Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner/Registered Dietician

Your coverage itself is not changing. This update is intended to make it easier for you to access the services already available under your plan. If you have any questions about your benefits or coverage, please contact your Plan Administrator. 

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Please Note per RWAM: The plan member booklets will be updated to reflect the above change at a later date.

Christianity + Culture has released season two of a six-episode resource created by one of our Alliance churches to be used in Small Groups or Community Groups. Its purpose is to help churches engage various aspects of culture in Christ. Topics include: "In the Air": Ideas + Ideaology (Guest: Chris Throness), and Sexual Ethics + Gender Ideology (Guest: Iain Provan).

Watch the Trailer here and sign up to receive these free resources, available to all now!

Over the past year, the Canadian Pacific District has taken significant steps to strengthen and expand the PEAK Process across our churches. PEAK is designed to help local churches pause, listen carefully, and discern their next faithful steps in mission and ministry.Through a guided process of congregational input, leadership reflection,coaching, and strategic conversation, PEAK helps churches gain clarity about their current health, ministry opportunities, and the areas where God may be inviting focused growth.

For those unfamiliar with PEAK, it is more than a church survey or a report. PEAK is a church health and discernment process that invites leaders and congregations to pay attention to what is truly happening in the life of the church. It offers a structured way to listen to the congregation, reflection key areas of church health, identify strengths and areas for growth, and develop practical next steps for the season ahead. At its heart, PEAK is a discernment journey. It helps churches ask important questions, such as: Where are we healthy? Where are we strained? What are we hearing from our congregation? Which patterns need our attention? What opportunities might God be placing before us? What faithful next steps should we take together?

The PEAK process is especially helpful for churches in seasons of transition, renewed vision, leadership development,pastoral change, ministry evaluation, or a desire to better understand how their ministry is experienced by the wider congregation. Some churches enter PEAK because they sense momentum and want to steward it well. Others enter because they face complexity, uncertainty, or decline, and need a clear, guided way to listen and respond. In both cases, PEAK creates space for honest reflection and hopeful movement.

We are encouraged by the momentum already building in our District. The Canadian Pacific District now has 20 people trained in the PEAK Process. This growing group of trained leaders and coaches strengthens our capacity to walk alongside churches with care, wisdom, and consistency. It also represents an important investment in the long-term health of our churches, pastors, boards, staff teams, and ministry leaders. This fall, five churches are participating in a PEAK cohort. In addition, four other churches are already on or will soon start an independent PEAK journey with a coach.These churches are taking intentional time to listen, reflect, and discern how God is leading them in this next season of ministry. Each church’s journey will look slightly different, but the common thread is a willingness to engage honestly, listen carefully, and move forward prayerfully.

One of PEAK's strengths is its ability to provide churches with a shared language. Often, pastors, elders, staff, and congregants perceive different aspects of the church’s reality, and they may lack a clear way to bring those perspectives together. PEAK helps to gather those voices into a structured process, enabling leaders to better understand what people are experiencing and where more focused conversation is needed. PEAK also helps churches celebrate overall health! The process is not simply about identifying problems but is about noticing where God has already been at work, naming the church's strengths, and discerning how to steward those strengths into the future. At the same time,PEAK permits churches to name areas that may need attention, growth, healing,or renewed clarity.

As we look ahead, we are beginning to plan for 2027 PEAK cohorts. We would love to invite your church to prayerfully consider participating. Would your church benefit from a guided process of listening, assessment, coaching, and discernment? Are you in a season of transition, growth, decline, renewed vision, pastoral change, or simply longing to better understand where your church is and where God may be leading? If so,would your church consider participating in PEAK in 2027?

Based on the responses we receive, we will begin forming several PEAK cohorts for churches across the district. Our goal is to make this process accessible, meaningful, and timely for churches that are ready to engage. Cohorts will be shaped by the level of interest, timing,and readiness of participating churches.

We are grateful to the leaders, coaches,and churches already participating in PEAK, and we believe this process can strengthen local churches, deepen congregational listening, clarify ministry priorities, and help leaders move forward with greater confidence and unity. Asa District, we want to continue helping churches take their next faithful step.PEAK is one way we are seeking to do so. If your church is curious, interested,or ready to explore participation in 2027, we would be glad to begin that conversation with you!

The Alliance Canada has three leader formation pathways towards vocational ministry and they can all happen withing your local church community. The three formation pathways to find the right fit for you are: Church Hubs, Second Career, and Advanced Formation Pathway. To find out more information please visit The Alliance Canada or view the Leader Formation: Discern and Pursue your Calling in Ministry.

Eagle Bay Camp is an Alliance camp set on the stunning shores of the Shuswap, offering over a kilometre of pristine waterfront and a peaceful, unplugged setting. With accommodations for groups of 30–200 guests, it’s an ideal destination for retreats, events, and camps of all kinds.
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Guests can choose from rustic cabins or our lodge, featuring comfortable ensuite rooms that sleep 4–5. Both catered and self-catered options are available, with our head cook known for creating meals that are both welcoming and memorable. Whether you’re gathering around the lakeside fire pit or diving into activities like the climbing wall, zipline, paintball, and archery, Eagle Bay Camp offers an experience that brings people together and creates lasting impact.

YA Retreat - May 1-3

‍Our Young Adult Retreat is designed to create space for worship, teaching, and authentic community—where faith is deepened and lives are shaped. This retreat is open to those age 18-25 and costs $135. Please let us know if your church would like more details.

Family Camping Weekend - May 8-10

This weekend is not only designed to be a great first taste of summer, but also a special way to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend at camp! Families will enjoy a fun and relaxing weekend together with: great meals, games and camp activities, campfire worship, Biblical encouragement, and plenty of time together as a family. 

May Long Weekend Availability

Who is looking for a late notice space to enjoy a retreat as a church or to host a family gathering? We currently have May Long Weekend available! Rates would vary according activity or meal requests. Site booking option available (no dinning services or activities).

Email us at office@eaglebaycamp.com.

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Background

Abbotsford Vietnamese New Venture was born out of years of prayer and discernment by Surrey Vietnamese Alliance Church, which has faithfully served the Vietnamese community since 1990. As leaders sensed God leading them beyond Surrey, Abbotsford increasingly came into focus, where a growing Vietnamese-speaking population presented both need and opportunity. With a shared desire to see the gospel take root in the Fraser Valley, a vision emerged for a Vietnamese-speaking church presence in the city.

Through partnership with Sevenoaks Alliance Church and the support of the Canadian Pacific District, this vision has become a reality. Sevenoaks has generously opened its facility, allowing the congregation to gather weekly and begin building a Christ-centered community. Now established as a New Venture, Abbotsford Vietnamese exists to share the transforming hope of Jesus and to reach Vietnamese-speaking families in Abbotsford, Mission, and Aldergrove through worship, discipleship, and relational outreach.

Join them on mission

Click here to read more and support

What is the Pastoral Apprenticeship program?

It’s for anyone who is exploring their call to vocational ministry. In partnership with The Alliance Canada, this program gives you practical, hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities as you take your Bachelors or Masters at any accredited Canadian Bible college.

Alongside your theological education, you will meet with other pastoral apprentices and mentors to help you grow in ministry, discover your calling and give you hands on experience in a church context.

Based on your interests and gifts, you will explore different ministries within Peace Portal Church like Spiritual Formation, Care Ministry, Youth and more.

Click here to read more and apply

Doxa is a fully-accredited Bible College Program, created to equip the next generation with a strong biblical foundation, a deep love for Jesus, and the practical skills needed to live out their calling. It’s for those discerning what’s next and for those who already sense a call, whether to church leadership, business, creative fields, or everyday faithfulness in the home and workplace.

At Doxa, students take Bible and theology courses in the classroom (mind), apply what they’re learning through real ministry and leadership experience (hands), and grow in Christlike character through intentional discipleship (heart).

The goal is not just information, but transformation.

Doxa is for anyone who wants to be rooted in truth, formed in character, and equipped for a lifetime of following Jesus. We believe formation happens from the inside out, and our vision is to raise up leaders, pastors, entrepreneurs, creatives, parents, and culture-shapers, who are grounded in the Word of God and ready to serve wherever He calls.

If you’re hungry to know God more deeply, to understand the Bible more clearly, and to step confidently into the life God is inviting you into, Doxa may be the next step for you.

Please note that this program is willing to work alongside churches so that the student is able to gain practical ministry experience while participating in the program.

Students may complete their practical ministry experience at their home church. *

*This assumes that the right mentorship and expectations are in place. Doxa is happy to partner with the church to establish clear, practical expectations so students can meet the criteria.

Click here for more information!

Annually the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) sets mileage expense rates for reimbursement when employees use personal vehicles for business purposes, and the District Office uses this rate for reimbursing its employees. The CRA has announced that the rate for 2026 is $0.73 per kilometre. Churches may set their own reimbursement rates, and this can serve as a reference for churches as they set their own rates. If you have any questions about this, please contact Justin Greenway at justing@pacificdistrict.ca and he'd be happy to help you.

Joy to the World

Twenty-five years ago, as my second Christmas in Africa drew to a close, I sat in my dark living room staring at my little Christmas tree. Its flickering lights tried, but failed to cheer up my lonely heart. I was lost in thought, recalling past Christmases in the snow of my Rocky Mountain home. Days on the ski hill. Afternoons skating on the frozen lake. All the family home.

My mind continued to leap from memory to memory as I let the tears fall. Singing carols around the Christmas tree. Playing games past my bedtime. Turkey dinner, topped with pumpkin pie. Christmas that year had none of those things. Celebrating in the African heat seemed wrong.

I had some happy moments for sure, but that night I was lonely. I turned on my CD player to enjoy the soothing sounds of my favourite Christmas melodies. One of them interrupted my reverie as the words pounded their way into my heart: “Joy to the world, the Lord is come!”

I suddenly felt convicted. The song does not say, “Joy to the world, there’s a Christmas party every night this week.”

It does not say, “Joy to the world, the turkey is in the oven, and the freezer is full of cookies.”

It does not say, “Joy to the world, the gifts are under the tree.”

It does not say, “Joy to the world, there’s a lot of snow on the ski hill.”

It doesn’t even say, “Joy to the world, the family is home.”

No, it says, “Joy to the world, the Lord is come.”

I asked the Lord to forgive me for looking for joy in the wrong places. It’s not that the traditions of Christmas in and of themselves are wrong. It’s that my focus had been wrong. It had been on me and all the traditions that I was missing—traditions that can never be my source of joy.

The angel said to a group of shepherds that first Christmas night, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ, the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11).

May the Saviour bring joy to your heart this Christmas season! May he dry your tears, carry your burdens, and grant you deep rest, as you celebrate this “good news of great joy”!

- Lisa Rohrick, Assistant District Superintendent

It means a lot to Ukrainian pastors serving in the midst of a war that we have not forgotten them. The work is ongoing and prayer is needed for the pastors, churches, and believers who continue to serve courageously in the middle of war. Pray for their strength – physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Pray for peace, for justice, and for an end to this war. The Alliance Canada remains deeply committed to this work. But this is not a short-term crisis response. It is a long, difficult journey. That is why continued prayer and regular giving to the “Ukraine Response” is so vital. Together, we can keep bringing hope where it is needed most.

Click here to read the full update

City on a Hill Documentary

This one-hour documentary provides a firsthand look at the sustained aid and support being provided to Ukrainians near the front line, as well as those who have fled to Poland. We are committed to continuing this work alongside our partner churches in Poland and Ukraine.

Click here to watch the one-hour City on a Hill Documentary.

Click here to view the trailer.

Click here to view the trailer with Traditional Chinese subtitles.

Click here to view the trailer with Simplified Chinese subtitles.

To give a donation:

Click here

Background

The Forge is a new venture led by Rev. Jeremy and Rev. Carmen Kinniburgh in Vernon, BC. Since 2017, the Kinniburgh's have hosted a small gathering in their home. Recently, this group participated in a four-month discernment process and collectively sensed that the Holy Spirit was leading them to explore fresh missional opportunities in the North Okanagan and new ways of being the church. The Forge has now launched as a movement of small communities of Jesus followers who long to help the unchurched and de-churched (re)discover Jesus, embrace His Gospel, and be equipped to live in spiritual renewal—and to help others do the same.

Join them on mission

Click here to read more and support

Does your church want to serve new Canadians in your neighbourhood? Do you wonder where to start? Love New Canadians equips churches to develop pathways to Jesus for new Immigrants.

Click here to learn more

Alpha Canada: Made For This

There are 4,911 high schools in Canada. That’s 4,911 places filled with students looking for purpose, belonging, meaning, and connection. They’re spiritually curious and have deep questions about life and faith. They’re hungry for something real.

Now imagine this:

Every one of those schools, every student and staff member who walks the hallways, covered in prayer.

What if every church across Canada adopted two high schools to pray for? One close to your home and one close to your heart. What could happen? How would we see God moving?

The rising generation can change the world, and our role in that change is prayer. Prayer changes everything. The emerging generation is made for these times. The Church in Canada is made for this moment.

Today, we’re launching Made for This, a National Prayer Campaign for Canadian High Schools.

Join us; it will take all of us.

All you need to do is:

• Check out the map and choose two schools.
• Assemble your prayer team.
• Commit to praying for them throughout the academic year.

Let’s lift up the rising generation, and pray for their well-being, peace to reign in their schools, and boldness and courage to face the issues of the day. Let’s stand with them and for them as we see how God will work in and through them.

Learn more and get involved below:

Click here

It was a familiar feeling. We had just returned from a fantastic vacation—much-needed, delightful, deeply refreshing. Yet, I ask myself: how did this vacation impact my connection with God? I felt less spiritually in tune, unable to maintain my usual rhythms of intimacy with Him.

I've noticed that when I'm in the normal rhythm of life, the spiritual practices I need for holistic health naturally fall into place. All goes well, until—life happens. My rhythms get disrupted and suddenly, my well-honed practices don’t fit, at least not in the way I'm used to.

Lately, God has been teaching me to view these interruptions as a spiritual practice. The spiritual practice of embracing life as it happens. I am learning to accept each season of life for what it is, while also asking God for new ways to encounter Him in the midst.

This requires intentionally engaging with life and inviting God to meet me where I am. For instance, I search for moments of quietness amidst the busyness. I pause to take a deep breath, remembering that my very breath is Triune God flowing through me. I allow myself a moment to linger between tasks, simply being present with God. I pay attention to what I see—a flower, a child playing—and I give thanks for His beauty and grace. I listen to what’s going on within me—irritation, impatience—and ask God to continue His work in me. I notice pain and suffering, and I groan with Him for all that still awaits healing.

I need my regular rhythms; they are vital for my well-being. But I also need the interruptions because they reveal something different about God. I learn to allow Him to fill me in new and unexpected ways as I intentionally tune into Him. My prayer is: God, grant me the grace to see all of life as an opportunity to know You more deeply and be transformed by Your presence.

- Ruth-Anne Gilbertson

Bonhoeffer’s story is well-known. He was a man of immense bravery who made some difficult choices in his life. In 1933, he chose to speak out against Hitler in a radio address with the theme “a man who lets himself be worshipped mocks God.”  The address was swiftly cut from the air.

He wrote to pastors across Germany, urging them to speak out in support of their Jewish neighbors as the persecution began.  Most churches remained silent.  He taught at a subversive seminary until it was discovered and shut down.  He chose to return to Germany from a trip to the U.S. in 1939, despite the clear dangers and numerous offers to remain safe in the United States. He assisted several Jewish friends and families in escaping the country.

He was a part of a plot to assassinate Hitler after learning of the plans for the extermination of the Jews.  In April 1943, he was arrested and put in jail, in solitary confinement.  He was later moved to a Gestapo prison, then to Buchenwald, then to the death camp of Flossenburg.

By all accounts, Bonhoeffer brought great peace and comfort to many fellow prisoners at every stop.  On April 9, 1945, just days before the Allies would have freed him, he was led outside to a courtyard with a scaffolding and noose set up and ordered to remove his clothes.  He walked to the platform, now 39 years old.  His last words before being hanged were these:

“This is the end…but for me, the beginning of life.”

Bonhoeffer’s life, before and after death, reflected the certainty of Jesus’ resurrection- and, consequently, his and ours.  Resurrection life is the way we can choose to live, believing that death has disarmed its ultimate weapon. Therefore, when we defend the weak, reach out to the lonely, and establish a home, we embody the resurrection.  When we forgive an enemy, take time to stop and talk with someone, and dare to raise children, we inhabit the resurrection.  When we include those on the margins in our lives, take joy in God’s creation, and sit beside a friend who is sick, we embody the resurrection.

Remember Mary Magdalene, that solitary figure standing outside the tomb that morning.  She did not come to believe in the resurrection because her mind comprehended the logic of it all, nor even because of the angels’ presence at the tomb. She believed in the resurrection because she encountered the person of the resurrected Jesus. When we become aware of God’s presence, here and now, in our lives, and lean into it, we embrace the resurrection.

When John concludes his resurrection story, he finishes his writing with this:

“There are also many other things that Jesus did; if every one of them were written down, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.”   (John 21:25)

More can be said, and more will be said.  But in the end, all that is needed is this:      

Christ is risen! (He is risen indeed!)

–  Rev. Dwayne Toews, Assistant District Superintendent

"Over the last several years I’ve been writing devotionals through successive portions of the New Testament. This past Fall I published a collection focused on the Gospel of John (Eyes on Jesus: Through John’s Gospel). For churches who are doing a preaching series in the Gospel, it strikes me that weekly preaching together with daily readings could be a powerful combination – so, I’m wanting to make copies of my book available basically at cost."

- Tim MacIntosh

Purchase Below

Click here

Ephesians 2.10 tells us that we are God’s handiwork, his workmanship, his masterpiece. Like a lump of clay formed into an instrument of use or value, we, as followers of Jesus, are something lumpy that God is shaping for his purposes.

A few years ago, I was on my first sabbatical and was re-engaging in woodworking. Enjoying a beautiful sunny day and the feel of a Dewalt power saw in my hand, I was in our backyard building a pergola for our deck when I heard the still small voice talking to me about the process of formation. As I was cutting 6x6 beams to join them at the top corners of the pergola with a lap joint, I noticed how the amount of pressure applied to the tool was very important to the speed and quality of the cut it made. Too much pressure slowed down the blade. Not enough pressure didn’t actually cut the wood. It was important in forming these pieces to apply an appropriate amount of pressure, and then let the tool do the work.

As I look back over the last year (well, realistically many years), I see that times when I have felt uncomfortable because of new frontiers of ministry, conflict, discouragement, uncertainty, or challenges, those were points of pressure that the Lord was using to form me - enough pressure to get my attention, but not too much that it crushed me. God was using my discomfort to shape me - like when he caused his people to be hungry in the desert and then fed them to show them they could rely on him.

In a similar way, feeling these pressure points compelled me to seek God, and he has drawn me to various tools he has made available to his people that help with his process of formation. Tools like the practices of Sabbath, spiritual direction, solitude, and meditation on Scripture have served to open space for God to do his shaping work in me.

At present, I still feel like I’m in a liminal space with a lot of uncertainty of what God is up to in our church and in me personally, but I’m grateful to know that when I feel the discomfort of any number of pressures in my life, I have a loving Father who uses pressure to make something beautiful and of lasting value.

-   Rev. Dave Driedger, Lead Pastor at Lakewood Alliance Church

A number of years ago, my wife and I brought our children to Disneyland; they were still young enough to be filled with wonder at the sights and sounds. While there, we were all caught up in the “magic”—everything was clean, beautiful, and designed for our pleasure. As we entered the park, the signs proclaimed Disneyland to be “the happiest place on earth.”

As we walked through the park, from time to time, a well-known Disney tune was played, “When you wish upon a star, it makes no difference who you are, anything your heart desires, will come to you.” In a place like Disneyland, one wishes—and almost believes—this song to be true.

But if we are honest, when we look at our own lives, and the world around us, we are forced to admit that things aren’t the way we want them to be. Brokenness abounds: broken bodies, broken dreams and desires, broken families, broken economic systems, and broken nations. “It shouldn’t be this way,” we tell ourselves.

We long for so much more, we hope things will be different, but so often our hope is little more than wishful thinking. I hope it won’t rain in Vancouver. I hope eating Christmas baking won’t affect my weight. There is vast difference, isn’t there, between wishful thinking and hope? Wishful thinking doesn’t have the power to sustain us in the real world.

At the centre of the universe lies a story about the Good God. He creates, sustains, pursues, and redeems; in Him we have hope.

As you well know, the word “advent” means “coming,” or “arrival”. God the Son became human in the person of Jesus, His arrival long foretold. Charles Wesley writes, “Come, Thou long expected Jesus Born to set Thy people free; From our fears and sins release us, Let us find our rest in Thee. Israel’s strength and consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art; Dear desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart.”

Jesus is the embodiment of God’s goodness, a promise that God will do what He has said. He will sustain, pursue, and redeem. Through Jesus we’ve been ushered into a living hope that will never perish, spoil, or fade.^[1]

In the next few weeks, if you gather around a tree to exchange beautifully wrapped presents, let me encourage you to think about Jesus and the gifts He gives. May His joy fill you, His peace sustain you, and His hope surround you.

–   Rev. Mark Peters, District Superintendent

^[1] 1 Peter 1:4-5.

Details

Christianity + Culture is a NEW six-episode resource that is created by one of our Alliance churches to be used in Small Groups or Community Groups. It’s purpose is to help churches engage various aspects of culture in Christ. Topics include: Identity (Guest: Mark Peters), Media + AI (Guest: Andy Crouch), and Reconciliation in Canada (Guest: Milissa Ewing).

Watch the Trailer HERE and sign up to receive these free resources, available to all on January 6th, 2025.

Jonah’s prayer of thanksgiving (Jonah 2:1-9) reminds us that we need to do 3 things when we encounter trouble:

1. Pray to Jehovah (2:1-2)
   

Being in the belly of a great fish leads to Jonah’s prayer, and becomes the beginning of a new relationship between him and God. This is where he recognizes his own insignificance and the greatness of God. Jonah praying in the belly of a fish shows us that we can pray to God anywhere, anytime. Our life is not smooth sailing, there will be adversities and low points such as illness, emotional problems, losing loved ones, problems with work, school, family, or marriage. While facing these adversities, we need to tell ourselves: I want to cry out to God and seek His help. Because I know God is not watching my difficulties from the outside, He is with me through my difficulties. God will listen to my sincere prayers.

2. Look upon the Holy temple (2:3-7)
   

I guess Jonah’s predicament is the darkest moment of his life, but he does not despair because of the environment; although he is completely isolated from the world, he is not isolated from God. He still has hope in his heart. He misses the Lord and Jerusalem and the Holy Temple. Jonah’s faith allows him to transcend all environmental limitations. Although he is in an undesirable environment, he still looks to God with faith. Because his experience tells him that Jehovah is his only salvation, and God will never leave him alone. The belly of the fish can imprison Jonah’s body, but it cannot imprison his faith, nor can it hinder his spirit from communing with God. His spirit meets God in the darkest moments of his life. Similarly, when we face the darkest moments in our lives, we need to actively reflect on our life experiences so that we can look to God with faith.

3. Offer sacrifice with a voice of thanksgiving (2:8-9)
   

Jonah promises that when he comes out of the belly of the fish, he will offer sacrifice to God and sing praises of thanksgiving. He knows that his prayers can reach God because the God who sent him to Nineveh is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. When Jonah sincerely prays and thanks God, God immediately intervenes. Verse 10 says that the Lord commands the fish, and the fish vomits Jonah on the dry land. When you encounter the darkest moment of your lives, uncertain of when it will end, ask yourself whether you can still thank and praise God in the moment. It is definitely not easy, but ask God to grant us confidence and strength, and learn to praise and be grateful while facing adversity.

Janice Zhou – Women’s Ministry, Vancouver Chinese Alliance Church

A New Venture in Sun Peaks

In partnership with Kamloops Alliance Church and the Pacific District, Sun Peaks Community New Venture is emerging with a desire to join with Jesus to bring a missional church presence to the resort town of Sun Peaks, one of British Columbia’s fastest-growing municipalities. With a year-round population of 1,500 that swells up to 8,000 during peak ski season (and has 250,000+ visitors for the entire season), Sun Peaks provides a incredibly unique ministry context. The vision for Sun Peaks is to focus on building relationships and community connections. Under the leadership of Phil Koehooorn, this New Venture plans to host gatherings on Sunday nights, creating a space for worship and fellowship after the ski slopes close. They will also focus on the development of small, outreach-oriented groups to foster friendships and evangelism, all while exploring innovative ways to establish a more permanent church presence in the future. These initiatives are grounded in the core values of connection, simplicity, leadership development, and prayer. See below to learn more about the different ways you can partner with this team as they join Jesus at work in this place.

Join them on mission

PRAY

Would you join Phil in praying for the following:

1. For a long term building/facility rental so they don’t have to move to a different location each week.
2. Spiritual protection for the team.
3. Clear vision and unity to follow what God is leading the team into.

GIVE

If you are excited about the things that Jesus is doing in this unique place, and you would like to partner financially, click the give button to be directed to their donation page!

Click here to give

CONNECT

If you are someone you know would like to connect with the team to find out more, you can send Phil an email to philk@kac.ca

Throughout high school, I always remember teachers trying to prepare everyone for what life would look like after they graduated. The process always seemed so easy and smooth. Graduate High School, take a year off, work, or head to post-secondary, graduate with a degree, start a career, have a family, and so on. One lesson I learned quickly after High School was resilience. Throughout life, knowing how to navigate the highs and lows is crucial.

One year ago, my family and I listened to God’s call and moved to Dawson Creek, BC. Leading up to this, our family endured hardship, clung to the Lord and became resilient. For us, this meant experiencing peace and hope amidst the difficulties and challenges in life. We made the choice to run in to the arms of God, surrendering and yielding ourselves to Christ, allowing Him to lead us, and hold us up. This is our story of resiliency.

This past June, as a church, we worked through the book of Daniel, reading about the amazing stories of hope, resilience and perseverance. These stories are so good to cling to in the middle of hard times and stories that can produce resilience in our own lives. In Daniel, we see how Daniel and his friend’s initial expectations were to live a smooth and easy life, but when faced with uncertainty and unexpected circumstances, they had to make a choice. They were either going to deny God by following what culture wanted or to pursue Christ and go against what the world wanted. In the end, Daniel and his friends chose faith, and God was able to show up to bless them and give them a way out.

Life is about choosing God when we want to give up and throw in the towel. Daniel is an example of resiliency for each of us, knowing that when we choose God, we will come out stronger in the end.

Regan Fossen – Lead Pastor, Dawson Creek Alliance Church

Our International Workers need our support. Below is an information sheet on how our churches can come along side and support them.

We have made a PDF version available for download. Please feel free to share it with your church family!

If you want more information or have any questions, please reach out to Lisa Rohrick at lisar@pacificdistrict.ca or 604-372-1922.

Click here to give

We often receive questions on the key interactions in employment relationships, namely in the areas of hiring employees, developing employees, and the termination of employment. To help support you in your roles as employers and people developers, we are hosting three webinars and have partnered with Courtney Glendinning, a lawyer with significant expertise inhuman resource matters. These webinars will be 45-60 minutes, and will be offered on the following days:

September 24 at 12pm (PT) – Hiring Employees
October 29 at 12pm (PT) – Employee Development
November 26 at 12pm (PT) – Ending Employment/Termination

Each session will outline common scenarios, speak to resources that may be available to you, and allow for interaction so that you can ask questions of both district staff and Courtney. We encourage you to invite any executive staff, those that handle human resource matters, those who supervise employees, as well as anyone who may benefit from developing in this area for your church or organization

Registration is now open and we would love for you to set these dates and times aside to join!

The Zoom link will be emailed prior to the event to all registrants.

After God’s Own Heart: The Praying Life‍

District Staff Retreat is a time of renewal, rest, and refreshment for CPD licensed workers and their spouses. Each year, we gather in Whistler, BC, for a meaningful time of worship, learning, laughter, encouragement, and connection as a district family. This November, we invite you to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with Jesus and with fellow ministry leaders.

In Acts 13:22, King David is described as a “man after God’s own heart.” Throughout his life we see that no matter the season, whether it's in praise, repentance, sorrow, or anger, King David brought it all before God. Through the Psalms of David, we are given the permission and the words to process and express our deepest thoughts and honest emotions in every season. Join us as we explore how the praying life is part of becoming men and women after God’s own heart.‍‍

‍Event Details

Date: November 2-5, 2026
‍Location: Westin Resort & Spa in Whistler, BC ‍
Registration Fee: $379/person‍

Click here to register for District Staff Retreat!

‍Book your hotel room with a discounted group rate at the Westin Whistler here!

‍Meet the Speakers

Milissa and Jay Ewing serve together as Pastors at Redwood Park Church in Thunder Bay, Ontario: Milissa as the Lead Pastor and Jay as the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. Having been originally called into ministry and pastoring within the CPD, they consider themselves as sent on mission with the call to lead healthy churches and see Holy Spirit-led, whole-city transformation in Jesus’ name. 

In addition to their local church ministry, Jay is a practicing Spiritual Director and Milissa is the National Coordinator of Indigenous Partnerships for The Alliance Canada. They also participate in the strengthening of emerging leaders and Lead Pastors through“The Pastorate,” with the hope of renewal in the broader Church of Canada. 

On the homefront, Jay and Milissa are the parents of two daughters: Aida, a student at Ambrose University, and Claire, who is finishing up high school. As a family, they enjoy good meals,skiing in the winter, and either cycling, running, or swimming in a beautiful lake in the summer.

‍Retreat Schedule

New Ventures is a ministry of The Alliance Canada focused on journeying with individuals and churches to reach new people, in new places, in Canada. Do you ever wonder if you are fulfilling the calling God has for you? Hear the journeys of other women who have dares to step into new areas of ministry as they have taken steps to discern God's calling on their life and ministry while engaging with New Ventures.

Register here for the online webinar taking place September 23rd from 12:00pm-1:00pm!

Intercultural Fluency, like holiness, is a discipleship issue. Following Jesus for leaders and churches of different ethnicity includes embracing and putting into practice the vision in the new creation of a “great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9).

The sessions will cover the following:​

Part 1: Developing A Theology of Cultural Diversity

Including Topics: Building A Theology of Diversity, The Multicultural Kingdom Identity, The Church’s Cross-Cultural Mission and Race, Diversity and Culture.

Part 2: Intercultural Leadership

Including Topics: Leading Across Cultures, Levels of Cultures, Navigating Cultural Iceberg, Dimensions of Culture

Part 3: Effective Intercultural Communication

Including Topics: Strategies for effective intercultural communication, Practical ways to increase capacity for intercultural communication, Helpful activities and ideas to develop Intercultural Fluency

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Register to join us September 19, from 9:00am-3:00pm at Lakewood Alliance Church for a great time of learning and discussion together.

Join us at Mountainview Alliance in Langley from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 24 for Reigniting Missions - The CPD Alliance Missions Ministry Conference.

Join missions leaders, committee members, pastors, and volunteers as we explore practical ways to inspire greater missions engagement in our churches. Whether your church has a long missions history or is looking for fresh ideas, this conference will provide encouragement, resources, and connections to help your congregation grow in global and local mission involvement.

Please email Eleanore (eleanore@mvachurch.org) to register.

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Stay tuned for more information as well as a link for an online option!

Save the Date!

Looking for ways to mobilize your congregation on mission? The Interface Seminar is an engaging and thought-provoking journey that explores God’s mission as the central theme of Scripture and equips believers to see their role in advancing His Kingdom. Participants will discover what it means to live a life on mission with God and how local churches can become more fruitful, missional communities. This course will inspire a renewed vision for mobilizing all God’s people for ministry.

This online course is five 90 minute sessions, each Thursday evening in October. Hosted by Lisa Rohrick and Kamloops Alliance Church. Free registration opens Sept 1. For more information, please email Diane Down at dianed@kac.ca.

Justice Semester is a 12-week immersive discipleship experience for young adults (ages 18–22) seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus and explore His mission in the world. Through biblical teaching, cultural immersion, mentorship, and practical ministry, students gain a broader global perspective, grow in their understanding of God's heart for the nations, and discover how He may be calling them to live out their faith. It's an opportunity to be stretched, challenged, and transformed alongside a community of peers pursuing Christ together. Rooted in Micah 6:8 and Matthew 6:33, Justice Semester invites students to seek first God's Kingdom while learning to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him.

Justice Semester runs from September 10 to December 4, 2026, and is open to young adults ages 18–22. Applications are currently open for both male and female students. There is also an opportunity to serve as a Justice Semester Intern for followers of Jesus ages 22 and older who are eager to broaden their global perspective while gaining hands-on leadership experience alongside the program.

There's still space in this year's cohort!

We welcome everyone to attend Dr. Ken Drapers final lecture “Reflections on Alliance History and Thought” on the afternoon of June 8^th well as our Alumni event on June 11^th where we will be honouring Rev. Dr. Mel Sylvester with the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Register to receive a daily prayer devotional, Journey Through the Vision Prayer, beginning April 20 and ending on June 7, right before Assembly.

There will be scripture readings, videos from Alliance Next Gen leaders, an update prayer points for both Canadian and International contexts.

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The Annual General Meeting of the Society of the Christian and Missionary Alliance – Canadian Pacific District will be held in person at the District Office on April 21, 2026 at 1:00pm (PT). The District Office is located at 101-17660 65A Avenue in Surrey, BC.

The agenda for the meeting is attached.

Licensed workers and members of local churches may attend the meeting. The Annual General Meeting has no extraordinary business coming to the membership and is embedded within the District Executive Committee meeting on April 21, 2026. We are anticipating that the Annual General Meeting will take approximately 10 minutes’ time.

Please contact the District Office at 604-372-1922 or cpdoffice@pacificdistrict.ca to notify us by April 10, 2026 at 12:00pm if you intend to attend the meeting. The documents for the Annual General Meeting will be circulated no later than April 14, 2026.

‍Loving Muslims Together Regional Conference

Across Canada, the Lord is bringing the nations to our doorstep. Today, nearly 2.5 million Muslims live in Canada, and that number continues to grow rapidly. In many cities, especially here in the Greater Vancouver area, Muslim neighbours, coworkers, and friends are now part of our everyday lives.

This moment presents a profound opportunity for the Church.

For this reason, House of Omeed is honoured to partner with Loving Muslims Together to host a regional gathering designed to inspire, equip, and encourage believers who desire to see Muslims encounter the love of Christ.

This conference will bring together believers from across the region who share a growing burden to see the Gospel reach Muslim communities in Canada.

Throughout the gathering, participants will explore important questions such as:

• Vision: Why Muslims? Why now? Who are they, and where are they in Canada?

• Testimonies: Is it really possible for Muslims to come to Christ?

• Fruitful Outreach: What does it look like to reach Muslim communities with wisdom, humility, and love?

• Discipleship: How do we walk alongside those who respond to the Gospel?

• Call to Action: What steps can we take to faithfully engage our Muslim neighbours?

You will hear powerful testimonies from Muslim Background Believer leaders, learn from experienced ministry workers who have spent decades serving among Muslim communities, and receive practical tools to strengthen and energize your local mission to Muslims.

This is a unique opportunity to gain insight that is rarely accessible in a single gathering.

The Envision Summit is a gathering for 18–28 year olds who want to be stretched and formed as they discern God’s call on their lives.

This year, we’re exploring what it means to live Kingdom Rooted — Mission Sent—to be deeply grounded in Jesus while actively participating in what He is already doing in the world. Together, we’ll worship, pray, learn, and listen for God’s voice as we grow in clarity, courage, and calling.

Come connect with peers from across Canada, be encouraged by stories of God at work, and be shaped through teaching, creative expression, and intentional community. This is more than a conference—it’s a shared experience designed to help you take your next step in God’s Kingdom, locally and globally.

Dates: May 15-18, 2026

Location: Ambrose University in Calgary, AB

Cost: $500 (includes food and accommodations)