Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Winnipeg, but my formative years of youth were spent in the Aldergrove area, just a few miles from our church. I attended the Ross Road Community Church where I was baptized and they graciously offered me my first leadership opportunities. My high school years were at MEI, the 'old site', which no longer exists. Today some of our folks at Emmanuel live in the apartment complex built on the soccer field at that old MEI site where I loved to play.

How did you end up at EMC and how long have you been on staff? My wife Karin and I returned to BC in the summer of 2023 after many years of ministry in Ontario and the Maritimes. During a coffee conversation with a friend from high school I was encouraged to consider coming alongside the staff at Emmanuel. That was never on my radar, but I sensed God opening my/our hearts to this opportunity--a chance to serve and lead at EMC. I began my new role here in November of 2024.

What is your favorite aspect of the life and community of EMC?
I love the people. I've discovered that there are so many amazing individuals, many who have served Jesus in varied capacities often in places spanning our globe. They have nurtured their eyes to see and ears to hear of what God has been and continues to be doing in our day. They inspire me and give me hope for the church moving forward.

What do you do in your spare time? If you hang out with me for even a short time you will discover that I'm a big Blue Jays fan. During the season I'm captivated by the countless stories that make up this winning team (we came so close this past fall...). In addition I love to hang out with my 2 grandsons who live close by, and I enjoy different renovation projects that come my way. I also gain passion and life through reading, listening to different podcasts, and watching movies which help to keep my mind sharp and engaged. I also enjoy the outdoors, hiking and walking.

Where were you born and raised?
I was born and raised in Langley, BC.

How did you end up at EMC and how long have you been on staff?
I applied for the Family Pastor role at EMC because I knew my former professor, Gareth Brandt, was a member here. I figured if he could put up with EMC, it must be an okay place! I’ve been on staff since July 2021.

What is your favorite aspect of the life and community of EMC?
I love the collaborative spirit of this community. My favourite moments are when I feel like I’m just facilitating and guiding as others bring ideas, inspiration, and expertise. I hated group projects in school, but I love them in church!

What do you do in your spare time?Arts & crafts. If you’ve known me for more than a month, you probably could have guessed that. I also love spending time with my family, watching movies, cooking, and listening to audiobooks.

Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Winnipeg, MB and spent some of my kid years throughout the prairies, but most of my growing up was done in Abbotsford, BC.

How did you end up at EMC and how long have you been on staff?
My family started attending here shortly after we moved to Abbotsford in the year 2000 and I started working here in June of 2018.

What is your favourite aspect of the life and community of EMC?
I think we have a pretty good sense of humour as far as church congregations go. I like that we emphasize serving and encouraging others and that we incorporate visual art into a lot of our worship. My favourite part of community life are our fellowship meals.

What do you do in your spare time?
I like to watch and play sports, watch movies, play music, and hang out with my family.

Where were you born and raised?

I was born in St. Boniface, Manitoba and raised most of my life in Regina, Saskatchewan.

How did you end up at EMC and how long have you been on staff?

I ended up at EMC after my Dad and stepmom moved to Abbotsford and I decided to follow their move. When arriving here they invited me to Emmanuel and Waldo and Elinor were the first couple to introduce themselves to me and it just felt like a good fit. I joined the Emmanuel staff after I decided to retire from teaching and I was invited to the position of Interim Administrative Pastor, which I ended up filling twice, and then the council created a position to coordinate and develop better usage of the church so I am presently the Facilities Coordinator for Emmanuel.

What is your favorite aspect of the life and community of EMC?

I really like the diversity of people that attend or have attended our church - different cultures, age groups and people that are interested in learning.

What do you do in your spare time?

I presently fill my spare time with a lot of volunteer work. I like to read and play around with technology. The one hobby that has been put on the back burner that I would like to bring out of the closet is my interest in photography.