In the picture you see me with officers of the ZIM USA which sails from Haifa, Israel. The officers you see are Israeli's. It is a rather sad picture because this is the last visit this shipping line will be making to Delta Port. Container traffic has (temporarily I hope) collapsed. It is a sad farewell because I have come to know many of the sailors and I’ve built some excellent friendships over the last 5 years with these men.On the MV "Oriental Sun' I met a young Korean captain who doesn't believe in God- period! I asked him why? He replied: “Churches and Buddhist temples are always asking for money!” Doesn't that sound familiar? I started talking with him about God in the context of creation etc. Unfortunately he was called away because of a visit by the agent.
The crew was from Myanmar. I had just read that day in Christianity Today that the government of that country wants to forbid the churches in the capital to worship. (religious persecution) I gave some of the sailors a Jesus DVD, which they first refused to accept because they thought that they had to pay for them. Realizing that it was a gift they gladly accepted it. It is my prayer that God will do mighty things in that country.
On the MV "Corona Lion" I met a Philippine sailor who said that he was going home to Japan after 15 months on board the ship. I asked him why so long? He told me that he was afraid of not getting a new contract. I have talked to other seafarers who have had their contracts extended. There is a lot of fear and uncertainty among seafarers due to this economic crisis.
I attended the CRCWM Seminar in Abbotsford. Excellent seminar. Good workshops and I again met a lot of familiar faces.
This last month I attended both Classes meetings. The BCSE Classis was at a retreat centre in Princeton. It was still winter up there. During the night it froze - 29 C!! Although I didn't like the drive it was very worthwhile and productive to be with the delegates and to interact with them. At both Classes I gave a short verbal report.
Last Sunday I preached in the Chilliwack CRC (Cornerstone). I will be preaching this month in the Ladner and Kelowna CRC. As part of a two Sunday program, Roelien VanGeeman, Peter Yzerman and I will give a 'workshop' for youth in the Fleetwood CRC.
