"Something Old, Something New" - Friends of Toronto gathering, 7 May 2010

There was something about connecting with old friends that we love. It is in understanding and knowing each other's idiosyncrasies. *grin*. Yet, with new friends, there is always something new that we love discovering.

Today, amongst the four families who were regular members of Friends of Toronto (FOT), we welcomed three new friends and a couple at Richard and Yuet Mei's place. We sat under three giant maple leaves structure which was artistically conceived and hand-made by our designer professionals, Alvin and Sophie. The signature maple leaves carried landmark pictures of Canada both past and present.

Good news always lift us up. We rejoice that three of our students who visited us during Canada Mission Night were successful accepted by the prestigious University of Toronto. Two of them were in fact well on their way to Toronto sometime this year! Halleluia! What a mighty forward team they will make! We eagerly await their testimony!

We learnt about ministering in a changing Canada, faced with increasing trends of immigrants into Canada. In year 2005, there were already 262, 236 immigrants from 213 countries! Three times as many newcomers settled in Toronto as compared to Montreal or Vancouver. Outreach Canada also highlights strategy for outreach. It was exciting to see where the opportunities were. Our hearts were more open to embracing even more cultures than we are faced with in our own country! (Presentation slides are available at Outreach Canada.)

We watched a video entitled titled From the River to the Ends of the Earth, from Acts News Network. "The documentary explores the history of revival in Canada and examines trends that suggest Canada is moving toward unprecedented spiritual revival that could impact the nation spiritually, socially and economically. It also features First Nations and Inuit spiritual leaders who affirm, through dreams and visions, their belief that the entire nation is on the verge of a powerful awakening." It deepens our burden to want to see people come to know the true Lord and Saviour. We want to be part of what God is doing, and we want to be the vessels God can use!

Last but not least, explorations are on the way. The Yeoh family with their two boys, aged six and ten years old will be making a trip to both Alberta, Calgary and Toronto on 22 May on a look-out for job opportunities. May the Lord guide them and speak to them. Please keep them in your prayers.