shift

29.08.07

Whistle while you work

Flip back to July, when our organization came together in Whistler for our annual week-long Staff Conference. It was somewhat like any other Christian conference, with a worship band and guest speakers. Most impacting was Mark Driscoll’s discussion of idolatry and religion as enemies of the gospel. It was the Thursday morning session, if you want to have a listen.

I roomed with Vaxevanis, and had a chance to meet new people, as well as some alone time hiking to Lost Lake (just follow the signs!). Since I was carrying my new camera the whole time, I became somewhat of the “official photographer.” It was great fun, and a nice break from the usual grind.

Another season in sight

Meanwhile, my American cohort made significant visible progress on our project. I got back and jumped right in, implementing another side of the cube. There is still a tonne to do, but thankfully my contract has been extended up until April. IT offered a paid position (no fund raising necessary), permitting me to finish this HR project, with the aim of becoming acquainted with the IT team and their projects.

Since I had only arranged to stay for the summer, I needed to find a new place. A room became available with a friend of a friend in Mission, BC. Last week I made the move, which left me sad about changing churches and leaving a great small group. But keeping with the same denomination, I attended the Evangelical Free Church here in Mission. The sermon on the armor of God was insightful, but I still need to make some friends.

There are some neat things in Mission, like one of the two Benedictine Abbey’s in Canada. A commuter train goes between Mission and Vancouver, and a gorgeous view of the mountains. I am looking forward to spending the winter here, and planning to bring my things from Edmonton to make my stay more permanent.