Saturday, February 28, 2009

The Hon. Pat Bell - Minister of Forest and Range

Today we are praying for the Hon. Pat Bell.
Father we thank you the Honorable Pat Bell. We thank you for men willing to serve our communities and our province. We pray you would give Pat wisdom as he carries out his appointed duties. We pray that you would put the right people around him to help his heart stay true to your purposes. We do pray blessings upon him and joy as he serves. Would we also ask for a special blessing upon him and his family that they would walk together. May you grant him the wisdom he needs for his community, for his portfolio and for the economy.


In Jesus name we pray.


Pat Bell was appointed Minister of Forests and Range on June 23, 2008. He previously served as Minister for Agriculture and Lands and as Minister of State for Mining.



Mr. Bell was elected to represent the riding of Prince George North in the 2001 election.


He has served on the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources and B.C. Task Force on Mining, and as chair of the Small Scale Salvage Review Committee. Mr. Bell has also served on the Legislative Select Standing Committees on Education and Crown Corporations.


Prior to becoming an MLA, Mr. Bell owned a trucking company and co-owned a logging company. He owns two Wendy's Restaurants in Prince George .


Committed to youth sport, Mr. Bell chaired the junior golf program at the Prince George Golf and Curling Club from 1993 to 1997. He also coached high school volleyball and supported the Prince George Barracuda Swim Club. Mr. Bell served for several years on the Tourism Prince George Board of Directors.


Born in Vancouver and educated at the University of British Columbia, Mr. Bell has lived in Prince George since 1988. He and his wife Brenda have three children.

Friday, February 27, 2009

Hon. Bill Barrisoff - Speaker - Penticton Okanagan Valley

Today we are praying for the Hon. Bill Barrisoff, Speaker and Member for Penticton Okanagan Valley.  
Almighty and Everlasting Lord,

This day we have the privilege of praying for Bill Barisoff, who holds the position of Speaker. We acknowledge the immense accomplishments and abilities that Mr. Barisoff has, and the desire to serve his constituents. Thank you for his committment to our country, Government and the people of Canada. Give him the stamina he needs to keep up with such a busy scedule and the ability to keep balance between his family life and work. We ask Your abundant blessings will shower over Bill, Edna, Glen, Michael, Darren, Eliza and Kayla today and all throughout 2009.


Bill Barisoff was elected Speaker on September 12, 2005 and has served as Minister of Water, Land and Air Protection and Minister of Provincial Revenue.
Mr. Barisoff previously held a variety of critic roles for the Official Opposition, including agriculture, transportation and highways and aboriginal affairs. He served on the province's Motor Carrier Commission and was a member of the Select Standing Committees on Aboriginal Affairs and on Agriculture.

He was first elected in 1996 to represent the riding of Okanagan-Boundary and was re-elected in 2001 for Penticton-Okanagan Valley .

Mr. Barisoff, who was born and raised in Oliver, owned a trucking firm before his election to the Legislative Assembly.

He served as a school trustee for 18 years, including eight as chair of the Southern Okanagan school board; was a volunteer firefighter in Oliver for over 25 years; and sat on the Okanagan Labour Relations Council. He was also chair of the Oliver Recreation Commission for one year.

Bill and Edna Barisoff live in Oliver. Their family includes sons Glen, Michael, Darren, daughter-in-law Eliza and grand-daughter Kayla Ramos Barisoff.

Thursday, February 26, 2009

MLA Harry Bains - Surrey Newton

Today we are praying for Harry Bains, Member for Surrey Newton.
Heavenly Father, we ask your blessing on the life of Harry Bains as he serves the people of Surrey Newton.  You have knit him together in his mother's womb to fulfill the tremendous call of public service.  We thank you for his willingness to say yes to the opportunity to serve and for your hand upon him to help him as he does.  Guide his steps, his thoughts and his words we pray.  Help him to be a blessing to those he serves.  Amen
Harry Bains was elected as the MLA for Surrey Newton on May 17, 2005. 

Harry serves as Opposition Critic for the Olympics and Sport.
Harry has been active in the Surrey community for many years. He has years of experience in education having served on the Kwantlen College Board of Governors between 1993 and 1999. He has also volunteered with organizations like Habitat for Humanity.

Harry was an elected officer of Steelworkers-IWA Canada local 2171 for over fifteen years. He served most recently as Vice president of his local, where he led negotiations and engaged in bargaining for better working conditions for working people.

Harry and his wife Rajvinder live in Surrey. They have two children, Kulpreet and Jasmeen.

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

MLA Robin Austin - Skeena

Today we are praying for Robin Austin, Member for Skeena.

We give thanks for Robin Austin and for the position he holds in the government. Father, we lift him up today in prayer and ask that you would bless him for his commitment. We pray for him and his family and ask that you would strengthen each and everyone as it isn’t easy for families to be apart especially as a father to three active teens. We pray for a bond of unity and peace for his home.
Robin Austin was elected as the MLA for Skeena on May 17, 2005.

Robin serves as Opposition Critic for Fisheries and is the Opposition's lead Critic on Rural Issues.
Robin was employed as a Community Schools Coordinator for a Non-Profit Society in Terrace. Prior to entering the social work field, Robin spent 20 years working in the Private Sector for both large corporations and small businesses associated with the Hotel/Tourism industry.

Robin has a B.A. from Strathclyde University in Scotland as well as a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Northern BC.

Robin and his wife have been married for twenty years and are the parents of three active teenagers.

Monday, February 23, 2009

MLA John Yap - Richmond-Steveston

Today we are praying for John Yap, Member for Richmond-Steveston. 
John Yap was first elected in the riding of Richmond-Steveston in the 2005 provincial election.

Righteous Father;


We are moved by Mr. Yap's desire and committment to helping people of all ages. Thank You Father for Your favor resting upon Mr. Yap as he serves as the Chair of the Government Caucus, a member of the Treasury Board, the Legislative Review Cabinet Committee and in addition, the Select Standing Committees of Public Accounts. This is a very demanding scedule he is keeping. Give him great stamina, discernment, and clarity as he serves in all these areas. Surround him Lord with those that he can count on, who come along side him and bring support, dedication, and expertise.

We ask a special blessing on Mr. Yap's wife and two children. May 2009 be a year that brings great joy and memorable family adventures.

We pray this in the Almighty name of Jesus, Amen

John serves as the Chair of the Government Caucus. He is also a member of the Treasury Board, the Legislative Review Cabinet Committee, as well as the Select Standing Committees of Public Accounts (of which he was Deputy Chair from July 2005 to October 2006), Crown Corporations and Finance and Government Services. He has also served as a member of the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture (November 2005 to May 2007) and was previously a member of the Finance and Government Services Committee (July 2005 to October 2006).






John is active in the community as a Rotarian, being a charter member and Past President of the Richmond Sunset Rotary Club. He is also a member of Gilmore Park United Church, where he has previously served as Board Chair, Finance Chair, Treasurer and Personnel Committee Chair. He has served as board chair of Gilmore Seniors Centre, a 117 unit seniors residence. John is an honorary member of the Vancouver Diamond Lions Club.

John is also a former member of the Mission Through Finance Committee of British Columbia Conference of the United Church of Canada and is a past member of the Seniors Advisory Council of the City of Richmond.

Born in Singapore, John immigrated as a teenager to Canada with his parents and has lived in the Lower Mainland for the past 32 years, living in Richmond for 22 of those years. Married with two children, John enjoys reading, jogging, golf and travel.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

MLA Charlie Wyse - Caiboo South


Today we are praying for Charlie Wyse, Member for Cariboo South.

Father we thank you for Charlie. We thank you the passion he brings to the task. We pray blessing upon him as he continues to put his hands to what is before him. We thank you the vision he has to make a difference. We ask for the right people to champion together those things that would lead us forward as a province. May the agreement that they have also be the agreement and desire you have Father. We thank you again for this.



In Jesus name,



Charlie Wyse was elected as the MLA for Cariboo South on May 17, 2005.  Charlie serves as Opposition Critic for Agriculture and Lands, as well as Critic for Municipal Affairs.  Charlie has a long history of working for his community.

He served on Williams Lake City Council for 23 years, chairing the finance committee among other portfolios. He has been a director for the Cariboo Regional District and has chaired the Central Cariboo-Chilcotin Health Council.

He also served 5 years as a member of the Northern Interior Mental Health Planning Committee.

Charlie held several positions with the teachers' union and was awarded an honourary life membership in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Teachers' Association upon his retirement in June 2004.

Charlie has also worked as an advocate for seniors' concerns, on mental health issues, and has coached a variety of sports with both children and adults.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

MLA Katherine Whittred - North Vancouver-Lonsdale

Today we are praying for MLA Katherine Whittred, Member for North Vancouver-Lonsdale.

Lord, we ask that You would bless Katherine Whittred today.  Thank you for the leadership gifts you have placed within her and that she has developed and honed over her many years of public service.  Continue to use her as an advocate and servant within our province.  Bless her husband and family today as well we ask.  Amen

Katherine Whittred was first elected in 1996 to represent the riding of North Vancouver-Lonsdale and was re-elected in 2001 and again in 2005.


In her many years of public service, she has been and continues to be a strong advocate for seniors and social issues.

Katherine was appointed Deputy Speaker November 6, 2007. Prior to this Katherine was Chair of the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development – one of two Government Caucus Committees. She also served as Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth.

In March 2006, Katherine introduced a Motion in the Legislature to abolish the practice of mandatory retirement. In May 2007, Bill 31 was passed, which amended the Human Rights Code to eliminate mandatory retirement based on age.

Katherine has served in Cabinet as Minister of State for Intermediate, Long Term and Home Care, a position which she held from 2001 to 2004.

Ms. Whittred studied at the University of Calgary where she obtained a Bachelor of Education degree. Before her election to the Legislative Assembly, she worked as a secondary school teacher, and also owned and operated a small manufacturing business with her husband.

Katherine and Don Whittred live in North Vancouver. Their grown children and their grandchildren live nearby.

Friday, February 20, 2009

hon. John van Dongen - Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General

Today we are praying for John van Dongen, member for Abbotsford Clayburn and Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
Heavenly Father we give thanks for John van Dongen and for his ongoing work in the government and in the community. Here is a man that has garnered much trust in his riding of Abbotsford-Clayburn as is seen by the record of being elected over and over again. Trust and respect are not given but earned and in these areas it is evident that John walks tall and is known for these qualities. Thank you that he is being used in the political field and that he has and will continue to make a difference in all the areas that are given to him to serve in. We pray for a blessing for him and his family.
John van Dongen was first elected in 1995 in a by-election to represent the riding of Abbotsford and was re-elected in 1996, 2001, and 2005.


John van Dongen was recently appointed Solicitor General and Minister of Public Safety. He previously served as Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations and as Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries. He is also a member of the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development. For the past several years, John served on the Hospital Construction Committee for the new Abbotsford Hospital and Cancer Centre.

Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, Mr. van Dongen operated a dairy farm in Abbotsford. He studied agricultural economics at the University of British Columbia.

Mr. van Dongen was involved in farm organizations and businesses for almost two decades. He was on the board of directors of the B.C. Dairy Foundation, Agrifoods International Co-operative (Dairyland) the B.C. Federation of Dairymen's Association and the Federal Farm Debt Review Board.

He was Chair of the Building and Finance Committee of St. Joseph's Church in Mission. He is also a member of the Knights of Columbus. He is the father of two sons and has one granddaughter.

Thursday, February 19, 2009

MLA Claire Trevena - North Island

Today we are praying for Claire Trevena, member for North Island.
Lord, We thank you for Ms. Trevena. Please be with her as she deals with her daily tasks. We thank you Lord for her passion and dedication towards areas of service. We ask today that you would grant her your peace of mind and clarity of thought in all her decisions. 


Please grant her your favor and grace to accomplish all her tasks today. Thank you for hearing our prayer.

In Jesus name, Amen.

Claire Trevena was elected as the MLA for the North Island on May 17, 2005. Claire serves as Opposition Critic for Childcare, Early Childhood Development and Women’s Issues. She is an experienced journalist and diplomat with a history of social activism.
In the early 1990s, Claire came to Canada as the BBC's Canadian correspondent. Subsequently she worked for the CBC in Toronto.


In the mid-1990’s, Claire began working internationally for Canada, the United Nations and other international organizations on democratic development projects in post-conflict societies. She was awarded the Canadian Civilian Peacekeeping Medal.

Most recently Claire founded a small communications business on Quadra Island with her husband, Michael McIvor.

She grew up in a mining town in the north of England. Since moving to BC she has been involved in a number of community initiatives, including a weekly community kitchen on Quadra Island as well as various environmental initiatives.

Claire has been elected to the board of the Quadra Community Association and held a seat on the Regional District of Comox Strathcona Regional Area J Advisory Planning Committee.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

MLA Rick Thorpe - Okanagan-Westside

Today we are praying for Rick Thorpe, MLA for Okanagan-Westside

Lord, we pause to celebrate the long career of Rick Thorpe in public service.  You have used him to direct the affairs of our province for many years as a cabinet minister and we ask you to bless him for his commitment and diligence.  As he completes his public career and transitions into retirement we pray that you would fill his life with good things in every way.  We ask that these last few months of service would be enjoyable and rewarding for him.  We ask these things in Jesus name, Amen.

Rick Thorpe is currently the Vice Chair of the Treasury Board after recently having served as Minister of Small Business and Revenue and Minister Responsible for Regulatory Reform from June 16, 2005 until June 23, 2008. He previously served as Minister of Provincial Revenue, as Minister of Competition, Science and Enterprise as well as Official Opposition critic for small business, tourism and culture. He was chair of the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts and deputy chair of the Select Standing Committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills. He also sat on the Select Standing Committees on Legislative Initiatives, and on Finance and Government Services, as well as the Official Opposition Caucus Committee on Economy.


He was first elected in 1996 to represent the riding of Okanagan-Penticton and was re-elected in 2001 and 2005 to represent Okanagan-Westside.

Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Thorpe worked in the Canadian brewing industry for 22 years in a variety of senior management positions in Canada and internationally. He was then involved in repositioning the B.C. grape and wine industry, and was a partner in an Okanagan winery for five years.

Mr. Thorpe is a certified management accountant and was president of the Okanagan Wine Festival in 1994 and 1995. In October 2007, Mr. Thorpe was awarded the Fellow of the Society of Management Accountants of Canada – the highest honour that is given to a certified management accountant.

He has three children, two granddaughters and one grandson.






Tuesday, February 17, 2009

MLA Diane Thorne - Coquitlam Maillardville

Today we are praying for Diane Thorne, member for Coquitlam Maillardville.
Father we thank you for the different ones that serve our province and our communities. We thank you for Diane and the place she has chosen to step into. We ask for wisdom for her. We ask you Father to give her your heart. Father we pray for her that she would know what is best for the province and communities. We also pray for clarity as she communicates this. May you cause to work together all that is necessary so that Diane would succeed in what she is appointed to.



In Jesus name,

Diane Thorne was elected as the MLA for Coquitlam Maillardville on May 17, 2005. Diane serves as Opposition Critic for Housing and Lead Critic for Consumer Affairs. Diane served on Coquitlam council since 1996, bringing considerable experience in business and social services to the political arena.

Diane and her husband Neil have owned and operated several successful small businesses.  In 1993 Diane received the BC Distinguished Service to Families Award and in 1992 the Canada 125 medal. She was a founding member of the PoCoMo Youth Services Society, the Family Life Educators of BC and the Fraser Burrard Restorative Justice Society.

Diane studied liberal arts at several community colleges and Simon Fraser University.



Diane and Neil live locally and have two adult sons, Jay and Lee.

Monday, February 16, 2009

The Hon. Steven Point, the Lieutenant Govenor of British Columbia

Today we are praying for The Honourable Steven L. Point, the Lieutenant Govenor of British Columbia.  The Lieutenant Governor is the representative of Her Majesty The Queen of Canada in the Province of British Columbia, and as such, takes precedence over everyone in the province except the Sovereign.

Lord Jesus, today we bring the Hon. Steven L Point before you.  This is an important day for him as he will read the Speech from the Throne.  We ask that you would bless him tremendously and that your favor and strength would be upon his life.  We see that he has an important role in our province and a very busy schedule.  We ask that you would help him to fulfill his responsibility with excellence and distinction. 

Lord, we also know that his personal home was recently destroyed by fire due to arson.  Would you help him and his wife to deal with this sad loss?  Please comfort them and ease their pain during this difficult time in their lives.  Restore what has been taken from them.  We ask these things in Jesus' Name, Amen.




The Honourable Steven L. Point was sworn-in as British Columbia’s 28th Lieutenant Governor on October 1, 2007.


In 2005, he was appointed Chief Commissioner of the British Columbia Treaty Commission. His Honour served as an elected Chief of the Skowkale First Nation for 15 years. He also served as the tribal chair of the Stó:lo Nation Government, and he was honoured as Grand Chief by the Chiefs of the Stó:lo Tribal Council.

His Honour was appointed a provincial court judge in February 1999. Point received an Honorary Doctorate of Law degree from the University College of the Fraser Valley in June 2000 and is a recipient of a National Aboriginal Achievement Award, also in 2000. He received a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of British Columbia in 1985 and was called to the Bar in British Columbia in 1986.

Born in Chilliwack, the Lieutenant Governor and his wife, Her Honour, Mrs. Gwendolyn Point, have four children and 11 grandchildren.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

MLA Ralph Sultan - West Vancouver Capilano

Today we are praying for MLA Ralph Sultan - West Vancouver Capilano.

Today we lift up Ralph Sultan in prayer and we give thanks to how just the right people are placed within structures for the right time. Thank you Father for the amazing wealth of training and experience that Ralph brings to the job of MLA – as an economist, educator, businessperson plus graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering just to list a few of his accomplishments really underscores the depth and width of this man’s scope of talents and how those have been used. We pray that Ralph would continued to be used to bring about solutions in the areas and the committees that he serves on. Our province needs men and women with education and experience to model how to bring about good changes so we ask that Ralph would have powerful influence for healthy and constructive change where needed. Bless him and his family.

Today we lift up Ralph Sultan in prayer and we give thanks to how just the right people are placed within structures for the right time. Thank you Father for the amazing wealth of training and experience that Ralph brings to the job of MLA – as an economist, educator, businessperson plus graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering just to list a few of his accomplishments really underscores the depth and width of this man’s scope of talents and how those have been used. We pray that Ralph would continued to be used to bring about solutions in the areas and the committees that he serves on. Our province needs men and women with education and experience to model how to bring about good changes so we ask that Ralph would have powerful influence for healthy and constructive change where needed. Bless him and his family.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

MLA Shane Simpson - Vancouver Hastings

Today we are praying for Shane Simpson, member for Vancouver Hastings.

We are blessed to have leaders like Shane Simpson in our province.  We thank you for people with vision, passion and a desire to live for something more than just their own benefit and comfort.  Father we pray in particular that as Mr. Simpson serves as Environment Critic you would use him proactively to bring valuable insights and information forward that would benefit our province tremendously.  As he serves his constituents, help him to find solutions to their challenges and needs.  Use him as an instrument of blessing in Vancouver Hastings we ask.  Let you blessing be on him and his family we pray.  Amen.




Shane Simpson was elected as the MLA for Vancouver Hastings on May 17, 2005.

Shane serves as Opposition Critic for Environment.

Born and raised in Vancouver, Shane has lived, worked, and engaged in community-building activities in East Vancouver for more than 35 years.

In his professional career, Shane has worked as the Director of Policy and Communications for Smart Growth BC, Chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission, Instructor in the Community Economic Development program at Simon Fraser University, Executive Director of the Worker Ownership Resource Center, Legislative Coordinator for the Canadian Union of Public Employees, coordinator and fundraiser for the Ray Cam Cooperative Center, executive assistant to former Vancouver East MP Margaret Mitchell, and as a self-employed consultant on business and economic development for labour, co-operative and non-profit groups.

Shane was the recipient of the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal for his contribution to community in 2002. In 1992, he was awarded the Governor General's 125th Anniversary Commemorative Medal for Community Service.

Shane, his partner Cate Jones and their daughter Shayla, live in the Burrardview neighbourhood of Vancouver Hastings.

Friday, February 13, 2009

MLA Bob Simpson - Cariboo North

Today we are praying for MLA Bob Simpson, member for Cariboo North.
Father, we thank you for Bob Simpson. We thank you for his willingness to step in and be a voice and an ear to hear for many communities within our province. May you give him wisdom as he hears the concerns and needs of the forestry industry, communities and families involved. Father we ask you for wisdom for our government as to how to walk forward in these times. May you bless Bob with all he needs at this time to lead well.



In Jesus name we pray,



Bob Simpson was elected as the MLA for Cariboo North on May 17, 2005.


Bob is the Opposition Critic for Forests and Range and is a member of the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts and the Select Standing Committee on Legislative Initiatives. He also served two years on the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services.

A former small business owner and entrepreneur, prior to being elected Bob was Corporate Manager, Organizational Effectiveness and Leadership Development for a major forest products company.

Born in Scotland, Bob's family immigrated to Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1967 and he moved to British Columbia in 1973 when he joined the Canadian Navy. He has two undergraduate degrees and a Teaching Certificate from the University of Victoria.

Bob is a former National Triathlon Champion in his age group and was named BC’s Male Triathlete of the Year in 2002; he is also an avid mountain biker and runner.

Bob, his wife Trish, and their two teenage children live in Quesnel.






Thursday, February 12, 2009

MLA Nicholas Simons - Powell River-Sunshine Coast

Today we are praying for Nicholas Simons, member for Powell River-Sunshine Coast. 

Lord, we know that justice and children matter to you.  You tell us that we should love justice and we see that Nicholas does.  We thank you for his concern for hurting people and pray that you would use him him as a catalyst in bringing improved care to hurting people all across BC.  Thank you for his years of community service.  Strengthen him as he gives himself to serving others.  Bless him in every way!

Amen.

Nicholas was elected as the MLA for Powell River - Sunshine Coast on May 17, 2005. Nicholas serves as Opposition Critic for Children and Family Development. Nicholas spent over fifteen years working in the areas of health, justice, social services and child welfare. For the past eight years he served as the Director of Health and Social Development for the Sechelt Nation, where he was the Executive Director of Child and Family Services.

Prior to his employment with the Band, he worked as a child-protection social worker and as a consultant for private firms and various governments in areas including law reform, child welfare, legal education and crime prevention.

Nicholas lectured in Criminology, taught child-protection social work to those working in aboriginal communities, and is a proponent of First Nations autonomy in child welfare.

Nicholas is a cello teacher and performer, former-President of the Sunshine Coast Arts Council and has served as a coach with Sechelt Minor Softball.

Nicholas lives with his partner on the Sunshine Coast.






Wednesday, February 11, 2009

MLA Michael Sather - Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows

Today we are praying for Michael Sather, MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows.

Father, we ask that Your blessing would rest upon Mr. Sather as he serves his constituents and the people of British Columbia.  We know that these are challenging days to serve in this role and so we pray that you give him wisdom and strength as he fulfills his responsibilities.  Bless his work, his family, his staff and his constituents today.

Amen.

Michael Sather was elected as the MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows on May 17, 2005.

Michael serves as Opposition Critic for Intergovernmental Relations.

Michael attained a teaching certificate from the University of Alberta and taught school in Alberta. Michael later attained his Bachelor of Science in Zoology at the University of Alberta.

He moved to British Columbia in 1974 and pursued a career studying wildlife for the next ten years. In 1985 he became a wilderness guide and set up a small business as owner/operator of Hummingbird Nature Tours in Maple Ridge.

Michael also served as the Constituency Assistant to former NDP MLA Bill Hartley.

Michael attained his Masters Degree in Psychology in 1998 and was employed as a Mental Health Therapist for the Fraser Health Authority for three and a half years prior to being elected MLA.

Michael has an extensive background and experience in agriculture, education, environment, small business, social services and health care.

Michael lives with his spouse, writer and conservationist Annette LeBox. He has two stepchildren, Christian and Sara.



Tuesday, February 10, 2009

MLA John Rustad - Prince George-Omineca

Today we are praying for MLA John Rustad member for Prince George-Omineca.

Heavenly Father we pray for John Rustad today and ask that he be given much wisdom as he works on many committees within the government structure. We also pray for physical strength and health for him as he seems to be so involved on so many committees. We give thanks for his commitment and for his bringing about positive change in the community of Prince George with innovative solutions. Continue to give him insights, wisdom and the ability to bring about excellent and creative answers to problem areas that exist within the governmental structures and those things that need to be addressed. Bless him in his work and in his rest and we ask that you watch over and protect John and his family.
John Rustad was elected to represent the riding of Prince George-Omineca in the 2005 provincial election.


John currently co-chairs the Farm Assessment Review Panel and chairs the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations, the Select Standing Committee to Appoint a Police Complaint Commissioner and the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development. He also is a member of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth, the Select Standing Committee on Education, the Selection Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services and the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

Since 2005, John has chaired the Northern Caucus of B.C. and has toured extensively throughout the North to listen and bring forward issues that affect those communities. He is also a chair of B.C.’s Outdoor Caucus and government representative to PNWER (Pacific Northwest Economic Region).

Born and raised in Prince George, John has worked in the forest industry for more than 20 years. He formed Western Geographic Information Systems Inc. in 1995, offering a consulting service to the forest industry. Previously he was the Geographic Information Systems department manager for Timberline Forest Inventory Consultants in Prince George. John also owns a woodlot license and has been involved in land development projects.

Elected as a school trustee in 2002, John has worked on innovative projects throughout the district, including the South Fort George Family Resource Centre, a project designed to combine social services from a variety of agencies. John also championed the renovation and expansion of the College Heights Secondary School (CHSS) through a self-financed project; and advocated for the new Trade and Technical Program of Excellence for Grade 10-12 students and the Healthy Choices Committee designed to promote healthy choices in diet and exercise within schools.

John and his wife Kim were married in 1995. John is an avid soccer player and he and Kim enjoy theatre, golf, skiing and the outdoors.





Monday, February 9, 2009

MLA Doug Routley - Cowichan Ladysmith

Today we are praying for MLA Doug Routley, member for Cowichan Ladysmith.

Father we thank you for Doug. We thank you for the heart and passion he brings. We thank you for his willingness to serve our province. We bless what you Father have put inside of him. We bless His desire to make a difference. We ask that you would give him wisdom in what he is appointed to do. We ask for success in helping many to be trained and apprenticed within our province. We pray that you would create vision for him to know how to lead and prepare us for the future.
In Jesus' Name, Amen
Doug Routley was elected as the MLA for Cowichan Ladysmith on May 17, 2005.  Doug serves as Opposition Critic for Apprenticeship and Training.  Doug grew up in the Cowichan Valley, and still lives in the community with his wife Christine. Doug and Christine have also lived in Japan where they taught English.

Doug comes from a family of educators and has a deep commitment to public education.

Most recently Doug served as a trustee in the Cowichan School District. He sat on the Finance and Education committees as well as the Cowichan Valley Safety Advisory Committee.

Doug also spent many years as a bicycle racer. He and Christine owned and operated a bicycle store during the 1980s.

Doug and Christine have two daughters, Madeline and Sasha.




Sunday, February 8, 2009

MLA Val Roddick - Delta South

Today we are praying for Val Roddick, member for Delta South.
Val Roddick was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture Planning on June 16, 2005. Val was first elected in a by-election on December 7, 1999 in the riding of Delta South, and was re-elected in 2001 and again in 2005.

Val served on the Core Review Committee and Government Caucus Committees for Natural Resources, Health, Environment, Economy and Government Operations, Estimates, and the Women’s Caucus. She also served on the Select Standing Committees for Public Accounts and Health. As chair of the Select Standing Committee on Health from 2001-2003 and again in 2004/05, Val and her colleagues toured the province, heard and received over 1000 submissions, and produced their first report in December 2001 - Patients First: Renewal and Reform of British Columbia's Health Care System followed by a second report in December 2002 - Patients First 2002: The Path To Reform. In November 2004, the committee released a new report - The Path to Health and Wellness: Making British Columbians Healthier by 2010.

A resident of Westham Island in Delta since 1974, Val has a lengthy history of community service in agricultural and environmental endeavours and with various civic groups. Val's provincial involvement includes the BC Investment Agriculture Foundation and the BC Director for the Canadian Association of Agriculture Retailers.

The Roddicks founded a farm fertilizer business in 1971, which serves the local farm community.

Val was the president of the Delta South BC Liberal Riding Association for two years for MLA Fred Gingell.

Val and her husband Noel have two grown children and a new granddaughter.




Heavenly Father, we come to you on behalf of Ms. Roddick. We pray and ask that you would be with her today, may she truly sense your presence as she goes about her daily tasks. Lord please give her fresh ideas and strategies to be an even more effective in her area of service.


Father we pray that you would continue to bless and strengthen her as she continues to serve her constituents and the legislature.

Amen.


Saturday, February 7, 2009

Claude Richmond - Kamloops

Claude Richmond, Member for Kamloops, served as Minister of Employment and Income Assistance from June 16, 2005 to June 23, 2008 and previously as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.

He was elected in 2001, as the 35th Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, and re-elected in 2005. Mr. Richmond was born in Blue River, British Columbia and educated in the Kamloops area.
Prior to his first election to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in a 1981 by-election, Mr. Richmond served with the Royal Canadian Air Force and worked for twenty-five years in small business.
From 1974 to 1977, Mr. Richmond served two terms as a City of Kamloops councillor and from 1978 to 1982 managed CHNL radio station. Mr. Richmond was re-elected in 1983 and 1986 serving until 1991. During his three terms as Member for Kamloops, he served as Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for Expo '86, Minister of Social Services and Housing, and Minister of Forests. From 1988 to 1991, he also served as Government House Leader. In recent years, Mr. Richmond worked as a business consultant to the resource industries and markets and also held the position of managing director of the Kamloops Airport Limited.

Mr. Richmond and his wife Patricia have three children and two grandchildren. He is the bandmaster of the Kamloops Rube Band, a group of thirty-five musicians who travel the world as goodwill ambassadors for Kamloops and British Columbia. He is also an avid golfer and motorcyclist.


Heavenly Father, we thank you for a legacy of service to our province and the City of Kamloops.  We are grateful for the hours of sacrifice and selfless service Mr. Richmond has given to our province as he has sought to serve British Columbia.  We pray that as he enters retirement, his transition would be easy and that he would enjoy many years together with his wife, children and grandchildren.  We would also ask that You would raise up many others like Mr. Richmond who would follow his example of public service.  Bless him today and in his retirement we pray.

Amen

Friday, February 6, 2009

Hon. Linda Reid - Minister of State for Childcare, Member for Richmond East

Today we are praying for the Hon. Linda Reid, Minister of State for Childcare and Member for Richmond East.
Linda Reid was appointed Minister of State for Childcare on June 16, 2005. She had served as Minister of State for Early Childhood Development since June 5, 2001. She was first elected in 1991 to represent the riding of Richmond East and was re-elected in 1996, 2001 and 2005.


Linda previously served in a variety of critic roles for the Official Opposition, including children and families, health, attorney general, municipal affairs, and science, technology and research.

She sits as a member of the Government Caucus Committee on Education.

Before her election to the Legislative Assembly, Linda worked as a language therapist, teacher and school administrator for the Richmond School District.

She graduated from the University of British Columbia with an education degree and earned a master of arts from UBC specializing in education, exceptional learners, language acquisition and public administration.

Linda was the BC chair for the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind and a director of the Garden City Hospice Society. She has been active in the Richmond Chamber of Commerce, the Asia-Pacific Business Association, and the Canadian Council for Exceptional Children and the Family Court Committee of Richmond. She was a founding member of the Richmond Chinatown Lions Club and was chair of the British Columbia Youth Parliament board from 1986 to 1991.

Linda and her husband Sheldon live in Richmond and have two children - Olivia and Will.

Precious Lord, we are so inspired as we read through the long list of accomplishments, achievements and offices held by the Hon. Linda Reid.  We honour her appointment of Minister for Childcare.  We recognize Your heart in the work that she does as a minister.  We thank You for her commitment, expertise and devotion to the children of our province.  Father we ask that you would give her creative ideas and workable solutions to every challenge that she faces.  Surround her with a spectacular team that shares her vision and works with her in harmony.

Father, let your favour, wisdom and blessing rest upon Minister Reid today as she walks through this day and every day.  Bless her husband and family in every way.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

MLA Bruce Ralston - Surrey-Whalley

Bruce Ralston was elected as the MLA for Surrey - Whalley on May 17, 2005.  Bruce serves as Opposition Critic for Finance and Economic Development.  Bruce is a lawyer in Surrey, where he has operated his own law firm for 18 years.

A member of the VanCity Savings Credit Union board of directors since 1995, Bruce served as the chair of the board from 2001 to 2003.
Bruce also served on the Surrey City Council from 1988 to 1993. He promoted planned development for healthy neighbourhoods for Surrey families. He is a former board member of Surrey Memorial Hospital and the Surrey Public Library.   Bruce is also a former president of the BC NDP.
Bruce was born in Victoria and grew up in Vancouver. He has degrees in history and law from the University of British Columbia and a degree in history from the University of Cambridge in England.
Bruce is married to Miriam Sobrino. They have three children, 15, 13 and 10, who attend public schools in Surrey and New Westminster. They are active in their community through a number of community and sports organizations.


We pray for Bruce today and ask for protection for him and his family. With one of the largest municipalities to oversee as well as one that has had much violence attached to it we ask that Bruce would be used to bring about a peace and a unity to the cultures that exist within the borders of Surrey-Whalley. We ask that he be given great wisdom as well as to be a powerful voice for calling cultures and ethnic groups to work together in harmony and for the betterment of community. We pray that Bruce would also be used within the political realm as a peacemaker and the voice of reason . Bless Bruce and his family and surround them with a hedge of protection.



Wednesday, February 4, 2009

MLA Chuck Puchmayer - New Westminster

Chuck Puchmayr was elected as the MLA for New Westminster on May 17, 2005.

Chuck serves as Opposition Critic for Labour. Chuck is a long-time New Westminster resident who has proudly served his community on City Council since 1996.
He is also a past Director of Westminster Legal Services Society, and was a founding organizer of the New Westminster Food Bank and Unemployment Action Centre. He was a founding executive member of the Kelvin Neighbourhood Residents Association.
Chuck coached minor hockey and lacrosse, and brought Jr. B Lacrosse back to New Westminster.
Together, he and his partner, Amber, have four adult children. Chuck is also a proud grandfather. He recently announced that he has been diagnosed with liver cancer and will not be running for re-election. He has recently received a liver transplant and is proceeding with treatment for his medical condition.

Father we thank you for the leaders we have in this province. We thank you for the desire in different ones to make a difference. Father we bless what you have put within Chuck to better our province. Father we pray your blessing upon this. We ask for wisdom for him as he carries out the task before him. We ask you to keep his heart close to the people and we ask for wisdom to know how to help those that he is appointed to oversee. Give him joy in his work. We ask you Father to keep him fresh in his vision and we ask you Father to give him hope so that he can release that to others.
In Jesus name,

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Hon. Mary Polak - Minister of Healthy Living and Sport and MLA for Langley

Mary Polak was appointed Minister of Healthy Living and Sport on June 23, 2008. She was elected to the Legislature in 2005 to represent Langley. On December 19, 2006, the Premier appointed her as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for the Conversation on Health.
Mary currently sits on the Cabinet Committee on New Relationship Coordination and the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development. She has served on the Government Caucus Committee for Natural Resources and the Economy, the Select Standing Committees for Children and Youth, Education and Public Accounts. She has also been a member of the Cabinet Committee on Agenda Development and the Special Committee to Review the Personal Information Protection Act.

Before being elected to the Legislative Assembly, Mary was director of operations for a small polling and research firm and a trustee and former chair of the Surrey School Board. Under her leadership, Surrey became the first school district in B.C. to balance its books according to generally accepted accounting principles. She also led an initiative to make Surrey the first school district in the province to publish school-by-school results for both elementary and secondary schools.

Throughout her nine years in local government, Mary has worked with many regional and provincial organizations. As a representative to the Lower Mainland Consortium of School Districts for Successful Settlement, she twice presented briefs to the Federal Immigration Commission. In the mid 1990s, Mary chaired the Council of British Columbia School Districts and in 2003, she was elected to the board of directors of the British Columbia School Trustees Association.

Mary lives in the Willoughby area of Langley.

Father, we bring the Hon. Mary Polak before you today.  We thank you for her desire to serve those around her and the diligence with which she does it.  Thank you for her recent promotion and the increased influence and authority you have given to her.   Help her as she provides leadership to our province in the area of Healthy Living and Sport.  Give her insight into key issues that will cause British Columbians to benefit in many ways.  Bless her as she gives herself to serving our province in this important role.  In Jesus' name, Amen.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Hon. Barry Penner - Minister of Environment and Minister responsible for Water Stewardship and Sustainable Communities

Today we are praying for the Hon. Barry Penner - Minister of Environment and Minister responsible for Water Stewardship and Sustainable Communities on June 16, 2005.


Barry Penner was appointed Minister of Environment and Minister responsible for Water Stewardship and Sustainable Communities on June 16, 2005.

Barry Penner was first elected to represent Chilliwack in 1996, and was re-elected in the new riding of Chilliwack-Kent in 2001 and 2005.

Barry was raised in Chilliwack. He studied political science and economics at Simon Fraser University to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree. He later earned his law degree from the University of Victoria. A former park ranger and sawmill worker, Barry also worked as a B.C. Legislative intern in Victoria. In 1991, he worked for an International law firm in Bangkok, Thailand and then later practiced law in Chilliwack until his election in 1996.

Barry previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Government House Leader, as Chair of the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources, and was a member of the Legislature's Standing Committee on Crown Corporations.

Barry was appointed by Premier Campbell as the co-chair of B.C.’s Alternative Energy and Power Technology Task Force in April 2005.

He has also chaired the Legislature’s Standing Committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct and Private Bills, and served as a member of the Legislature's Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, and the Cabinet Committee for Legislative Review.

Premier Campbell appointed Barry in 2001 to lead BC's delegation to the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER). He served as President of PNWER from June 2002 to July 2003 and remains active in PNWER issues.

Barry represents and lives in the electoral district of Chilliwack-Kent.

Our dear Heavenly Father;



Father we recognize this is not an easy appointment that You have given Honorable Barry Penner as our Minister of Environment and Minister responsible for Water Stewardship and Sustainable Communities. We thank You for his brilliant mind and many years of commitment to our beloved Canada. We pray that You would give him creative ideas and strategies that would help him in the task that is set before him. We pray for excellent health and Your peace that surpasses all our understanding. Let Your blessing be upon him and flow through him each and every day.


We ask this in confidence, knowing You hear every prayer that is spoken. In Jesus name, Amen.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Hon. Wally Oppal - Attorney General - Member for Vancouver-Fraserview

Wally was appointed Attorney General on June 16, 2005. He was elected in the riding of Vancouver-Fraserview in the 2005 provincial general election. Wally has dedicated his entire working life to improving social justice and community safety. He was born in the Vancouver-Fraserview neighborhood, attended law school at UBC, and then returned home to practice law for 14 years.

Wally was appointed to the County Court of British Columbia in 1981 and to the Supreme Court of British Columbia in 1985. In 2003, he was appointed to the British Columbia Court of Appeal.

Wally’s passion for the Canadian legal system is exemplified by the various positions he has held throughout the years:

Permanent group leader of the Advocacy course of the Continuing Legal Education Society


President, Law Courts Education Society of British Columbia


Former Director, Family Services of Greater Vancouver


Member, 1993 Ad Hoc Advisory Committee for a National Strategy on Community Safety and Crime Prevention


Director, B.C. Coalition for Safer Communities


Member, Supreme Court National Criminal Law Programme Judges Criminal Law Committee


Author of report of the Independent Commission of Inquiry into Policing in British Columbia.


Wally is an avid reader, enjoys staying physically fit by playing basketball, as well as coaching in the Steve Nash basketball league. In his teens, Wally had a professional baseball tryout. Wally is married and has two children, both still in school.

Everlasting Father,

It is so evident that the Honorable Wally Oppal has a tremendous heart and passion for people, social justice and community safety. We thank You Lord for placing this call on his life and we acknowledge that he is a man of distiction and integrity. Thank You for Wally's passion for the Canadian legal system and may that passion be contagious to others and inspire them onto great and marvellous things! We recognize the spirit of excellence upon Mr. Oppal. Please Lord, continue to grant him favor with his collegues and constituents.



May Wally's wife and children look back at this time in their lives years from now, and may their hearts be full of fond memories. May they always have time as a family and bless them above and beyond measure.

We ask this in the name of Jesus