Wednesday, September 30, 2009

MLA: Hon. Michael de Jong

Photo of MLAToday we delight in You. You are the One who brings the sunlight and the rain, the One who knows the hairs of our head and the attitudes of our hearts. And You are the Author and Provider of all that we need—including our BC legislative representatives.


Today we bring Mike de Jong before you. Father, may he be aware of Your presence surrounding him and providing him with the wisdom he needs to fulfill the responsibilities of Attorney General and Government House Leader. May You lift the veil created by our sinful natures, and allow him to receive insight and understanding from You. Help him to understand Your ways, Your purposes, and Your principles, and recognize how they fit into his responsibilities as he works within the restrictions of our laws.


Bless him with physical health, and help him to arrange his busy life so that he has quality time with his family. Father, we thank you for his commitment to his constituency; may he serve them well. And may Your will be accomplished within our province.


Michael de Jong was re-elected as MLA for the new riding of Abbotsford West in the spring of 2009

Michael G. de Jong, Q.C., was named British Columbia’s Attorney General on June 10, 2009. The five-term MLA previously served as Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, Minister of Labour and Citizen Services, and Minister of Forests.
Michael de Jong was re-elected on May 12, 2009 as the MLA for the newly named constituency of Abbotsford West, an area he has represented since first being elected to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in a 1994 byelection. The constituency was then known as Matsqui, a name that continued through the 1996 general election until 2001. The riding was then renamed Abbotsford – Mount Lehman, a designation that was held through the 2005 election until the 2009 general election.
In addition to his role as Attorney General, Mr. de Jong also serves as Government House Leader, a post he has held since 2005.
Prior to his roles in government, Mr. de Jong served as Deputy House Leader for the Official Opposition and was Opposition Critic for a variety of portfolios.
Before his election as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in 1994, Mr. de Jong served two terms as an elected School Trustee for Abbotsford School District 34, and was a practicing lawyer with his own Abbotsford firm. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Carleton University in Ottawa and a law degree from the University of Alberta.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Marc Dalton

Photo of MLALord we bring Marc Dalton before you and thank you for raising him up to sit in this provincial governmental role. Even as Solomon prayed at the outset of his government, we ask that you would grant Marc divine wisdom to know how to best represent the people of Maple Ridge-Pit Meadows and understanding as to how to bring his experience and expertise to the table in a way that would serve the province.


As a new MLA, we ask you would give Marc fresh and creative ideas to contribute to the caucus, ideas that address the many complex problems facing the province at this time, especially in the educational arena. Let him be a voice for change, for integrity, for justice. Let him be salt and light, a blessing both to his colleagues and to his community. Let him walk before You with Your full favour and blessing upon him.

Marc Dalton was elected as MLA to represent the riding of Maple Ridge-Mission on May 12, 2009.
Previously, Marc worked as a long-time teacher in the Maple Ridge School District at both the elementary and high school levels.  He has a Bachelors Degree in French and History and a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership, both from Simon Fraser University. Raised in a military family he lived in bases across the country and served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves after graduating. He is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Maple Ridge.
Mr. Dalton is Aboriginal (Metis) and speaks French.  He has led student exchanges to Quebec to promote unity, French language fluency and an appreciation of Canadian culture. He has attended the Teachers Institute of Parliamentary Democracy in Ottawa and has been active in politics at all different levels over the past 25 years.


Mr. Dalton is a resident of Maple Ridge and has been married to his wife, Marlene, for 24 years.  They have three grown children.
For several years, Mr. Dalton worked as a volunteer with youth and reaching out to the needy. Currently, he and Marlene are involved with feeding the homeless in downtown Maple Ridge.

Monday, September 28, 2009

MLA: Kathy Corrigan

Photo of MLALord we bring Cathy before your throne of grace and we bow our hearts as we pray for Cathy


Draw her close to you Lord in these days, may she hear your voice speaking to her,guiding her thoughts as she is about the business of goverment.Give her strength, focus and wisdom as she seeks to make right choices . May her mind be sharp and resolute in the face of adversity and may she not be swayed in the authority given her. Thankyou Lord for equipping her for the task ahead.In Jesus name Amen.
 
Kathy Corrigan was elected as MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake on May 12, 2009. 
Kathy serves as opposition critic for the Olympics and ActNow BC.
Kathy Corrigan has lived in Burnaby for more than 30 years. She has served for nine years on the Burnaby school board and was chair of the board for two years.
Her involvement in the community includes serving on parent advisory committees, coaching and supporting sports teams, and writing a column on education for the Burnaby NOW.
Kathy Corrigan is a lawyer by training and has worked as a policy analyst, specializing in social, labour and trade policy.
Kathy and husband Derek Corrigan, who is the Mayor of Burnaby, have raised four children.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

MLA: Gary Coons

Photo of MLA Father God, We thank you for Gary Coons, and his desire to serve the people of British Columbia. I pray a blessing on him and his family and our communities in the North. There are some challenging times that we are, and will be facing, so I pray for wisdom to prevail in all situations, and that You will be instrumental in guiding all decisions that will be made.


In Jesus name, Amen

Gary Coons was re-elected as the MLA for the North Coast on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.
Gary serves as deputy opposition critic for Transportation and Infrastructure.
Gary has been an educator in the Prince Rupert School District for 27 years. He has taught Mathematics/Special Education and has been an active community advocate for many years. His other interests include spending time with his family and friends.
He also enjoys coaching, playing racquet sports and taking advantage of the many outdoor activities that the north coast has to offer.

Saturday, September 26, 2009

MLA: Katrine Conroy

Photo of MLADear Father, please sustain Katrine in her work as an MLA, and in her private life. We pray that whatever committees and meetings she is part of she will be diligent and courageous. May you give her a thankful heart and count this position for the people of British Columbia as a trust.


Bless and pour your grace upon her.

In Jesus Holy name. Amen.


Katrine Conroy was elected as the MLA for Kootenay West May 12, 2009. She served as MLA for West Kootenay-Boundary from May 17, 2005 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.
Katrine Conroy has been successful in both community and career endeavors. Katrine has enjoyed successful careers as one of B.C.'s first female Steam Engineers, as an Early Childhood Educator, Administrator and College Instructor, and as a small business person.
Katrine has worked and volunteered in her community as the Executive Director of Kootenay Family Place, Co-Chair of the Castlegar and District Social Planning Council, Treasurer of the Regional District of Central Kootenay Community Futures Board, Hospital Board member, and founding Board member of the Community Social Services Employers Association.
With her husband Ed, Katrine lives in Pass Creek where they run a successful ranch breeding prize winning Polled Hereford cattle. Together they have raised four children, and have five grandchildren.

Friday, September 25, 2009

MLA: Hon. Rich Coleman

Photo of MLALord, thank you for an MLA who strives to make a difference in the community . We ask that you continue to bless his desire to provide homes for the homeless and give him wisdom in all other areas for which he is responsible. We especially ask that he be enabled to focus on areas dear to your heart. Bless and protect his home and family, in Jesus Name , Amen.



Rich Coleman was first elected in 1996 to represent the riding of Fort Langley-Aldergrove and was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and 2009.
Rich Coleman was appointed Minister of Housing and Social Development on June 23, 2008.
He previously served as Minister of Forests and Range and Minister Responsible for Housing, as well as Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
From 1996-2001, Mr. Coleman served in a variety of Official Opposition roles, including housing critic, forests deputy critic, and caucus whip. He also sat on the Official Opposition Caucus Committee on Crime.
Mr. Coleman has served as governor of the B.C. Kinsmen, president of the Aldergrove Chamber of Commerce, and as a director on several volunteer boards. He was awarded Rotary's highest honour, the Paul Harris Fellowship, and received a Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal in 2003. He has also received the Canada 125 Medal for community service and was chosen Langley's Volunteer of the Year in 1988.
Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Coleman ran a real estate management and consulting company. He is also a former member of the RCMP and a security specialist.
Rich Coleman and his wife, Michele, live in Aldergrove and have two adult children

Thursday, September 24, 2009

MLA: Hon. Murray Coell

Photo of MLA"Knowing that you oh Lord move the hands of the kings of the earth to perform your purpose we present to you the right honorable MLA Murray Coell. Our prayer is that you endow him with the spirit of wisdom like Solomon so that he can carry out his duties confidently and with a sense of renewed vision. Keep his mind from unhealthy alliances which would compromise the quality of service that is dispensed through his ministry. May you provide him with leaders of integrity that will champion the vision he sets forth and may each of the men and women that serve under him develop a strong sense of cohesiveness as a team that works well together. May unity be their portion and may they fulfill the mandates in the coming years that will improve the quality of education in our province. Above all protect them from a mindset that would be insular instead of visionary. May they walk in the light that enables them to see where things must change for the betterment of future generations. This we ask in the strong name of Jesus Christ!


Amen.


Murray Coell was re-elected to the riding Saanich North and the Islands in the 2009 election. On June 10, 2009, he was appointed to serve as Minister of Labour.
Previously, Minister Coell served as Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, Minister of Advanced Education and Minister Responsible for Research and Technology. In addition, Minister Coell’s past portfolios include Minister of Human Resources and Minister of Community, Aboriginal and Women's Services.
Minister Coell also served as Official Opposition critic for environment, for children and families, and for social services. He sat on the Select Standing Committees on Public Accounts, and on Environment and Tourism, as well as the Official Opposition Caucus Committee for Children.
He was first elected in 1996 to represent the riding of Saanich North and the Islands, and was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and 2009. He has served on the Government Caucus Committee on Communities and Safety, the Cabinet Committee of Agenda and Priorities, the Treasury Board, and the Public Sector Employers' Council.
Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, Minister Coell was a social worker, specializing in alcohol and drug rehabilitation as well as in services to those with mental disabilities. He also owned and operated a small business.
He received his bachelor of arts in social welfare from the University of Victoria.
Minister Coell sat on Saanich Municipal Council for 12 years, six of them as Mayor. He also chaired the Capital Regional District, the Saanich Police board and the Capital Regional District hospital board, and was deputy chair of the Municipal Finance Authority.
He served as a volunteer for 10 years on the board of Silver Threads Meals on Wheels and for five years on the board of the Queen Alexandra Hospital for Children.
Murray and Corinne Coell live in Central Saanich.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

MLA: Raj Chouhan - Burnaby Edmonds

Photo of MLAFather , we give thanks to-day for the privilege to pray for MLA. Raj Chouhan. It has been proven once again, by his constituents in Burnaby -Edmonds, the value and confidence they have in Raj to lead them for another term.


His experience to anticipate and discern the needs of his community is evident. May he be strengthened by wisdom and good judgement as he seeks to find new and fresh ways to implement change that will benefit all he serves so faithfully.

Dear Lord, watch over him, prorect and keep him safe as he travels. Richly, bless his wife and their two children, as they seek to have quality time to-gether. We pray for continued good health and happiness.

In Jesus Name, Amen



Raj Chouhan was re-elected as the MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature May 17, 2005. 
Raj serves as opposition critic for Labour. Previously Raj served as critic for human rights, multiculturalism and immigration.


Born in the Punjab province of India, Raj was the founding president of the Canadian Farmworkers' Union and served as a Director of the Hospital Employees Union. Raj also served as a member of the Labour Relations Board of B.C. and the Arbitration Bureau of B.C.
A founding member of the B.C. Organization to Fight Racism, Raj has worked in promoting human rights and racial equality. He has served as the Vice President of B.C. Human Rights Defenders since 2003.
Raj has taught courses on Human Rights, the B.C. Labour Code and collective bargaining since 1987.
Raj and his wife, Inder, have two children, Amrita and Anu, and live in Burnaby-Edmonds.

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

MLA: Hon. Ida Chong

Photo of MLA Lord, we come to you today for the Hon. Ida Chong.


Father, we pray that you will fill her with divine wisdom. We ask that she will have insight into the Kingdom of Heaven in British Columbia: That her words in Cabinet Meetings will reflect your Kingdom, and that all who are seated there will hear and begin to grasp what she is saying, and their responsibilities to this view. We ask this whether she is addressing her own portfolio, or sitting in meetings on other matters. We ask that through her, your influence will spread through our Provincial government and into the fibre of how we do things here in British Columbia.

We also ask that you will protect her from her enemies and those who would work against your will: That her words will be seen to be truth and will overcome.

We ask that through her, Jesus, you will be glorified.

Ida Chong was re-elected to represent the riding Oak Bay–Gordon Head in the 2009 election. On June 10, 2009, she was appointed to serve as Minister of Healthy Living and Sport.
Minister Chong’s previous cabinet portfolios include Minister of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development, Minister Responsible for the Asia-Pacific Initiative, Minister of Community Services, Minister of Advanced Education and Minister of State for Women’s and Seniors’ Services. In addition to her role as Minister, she also served on the Cabinet Committee for Climate Action and B.C.’s Treasury Board.
A native of greater Victoria, Minister Chong has represented her constituency of Oak Bay-Gordon Head since she first entered provincial politics in 1996. During her first term at the legislature she was the Official Opposition critic in a number of areas, including critic for Small Business and Deputy Critic of Finance.
Minister Chong has been involved in her community for years – volunteering for a number of not-for-profit groups and serving as municipal councilor for the District of Saanich, from 1993-1996.
For nearly 20 years, she was senior partner in an accounting practice based in Saanich, catering to small and medium sized enterprises. While no longer in active practice, she proudly retains her credentials as a Certified General Accountant, having won a number of awards for her work in this field, including being named in 2006, a Fellow of the Certified General Accountants Association of Canada, a national designation for exemplary service.

Monday, September 21, 2009

MLA: Ron Cantelon

Photo of MLAHeavenly Father we give thanks for Ron Cantelon and for his service in the riding of Parksville Qualicum. We lift him up in prayer asking that You would use him in ways that would even surprise him. Bless and protect him as he serves the people of his riding and our province.


In Jesus Name, Amen

Ron Cantelon was re-elected for his second term on May 12, 2009 to the riding Parksville-Qualicum.
Ron served as Minister of Agriculture and Lands and prior to joining the Cabinet, Ron served on the B.C. Agriculture Plan Committee and the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture. He has also served as Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth and as Chair of the Committee to Review the Personal Information Protection Act. In addition, Ron has been a member of the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations, the Special Committee of Selection, Treasury Board and the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development.
Ron first entered political life as a city councillor for the City of Nanaimo in 1999. He has also acted as Chair of the Nanaimo Conference Centre Advisory Committee, Chair of the Downtown Nanaimo Partnership, Director of the Nanaimo Regional District Board and President of the Port Theatre from 1994 to 1999.

Ron has won several awards including Tourism Nanaimo’s Citizen of the Year 1999, Re/Max manager of the year for Western Canada in 1999 and was one of the 125 notable citizens for Nanaimo’s 125th anniversary.

Ron Cantelon has five children and one grandchild.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

MLA: Hon. Gordon Campbell

Photo of MLAOur Father in heaven,


I thank you that you are the author and architect of the life of our Premier, the Honourable Gordon Campbell. You have called him into being; you have gifted him for leadership. I pray, along with others all across BC, that you will grant him, beyond the common: wisdom to understand the times and to lead accordingly, peacemaking skill to bring together that which has been broken, a teachable spirit to learn and to excel, blessing and protection for his personal and family life and deep-rooted character to leave a legacy that far outshines any mere accomplishment. You, Lord, have instructed us to pray for those in authority over us and I do so today with anticipation that you will do even more than what we ask for.

I pray all of this in the name of Jesus, Amen


Gordon Campbell was sworn in as British Columbia's 34th Premier on June 5, 2001.
Mr. Campbell was elected leader of the B.C. Liberal Party in September 1993. He was elected to the B.C. Legislature in 1994 in a by-election to represent the riding of Vancouver-Quilchena and was re-elected in 1996, 2001, 2005, and 2009 for Vancouver-Point Grey.
Mr. Campbell attended public school in Vancouver. After graduating he received a scholarship to Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. He worked his way through university in the dining hall and as the associate to the secretary of the college, and received his Bachelor of Arts degree. He later received a Master's of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University.

He was a secondary school teacher, basketball and track coach in Yola, Nigeria, working under the auspices of CUSO. He then became an assistant to former Vancouver mayor Art Phillips. From 1976 to 1981, he worked with Marathon Realty, where he became general manager of development. In 1981, he founded Citycore Development Corporation.

In 1984, Mr. Campbell was elected to Vancouver City Council. From 1986 to 1993, he served as Mayor of Vancouver for three successive terms.

Mr. Campbell and his wife Nancy, a school vice-principal, have two sons.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

MP Donna Cadman - Surrey North

Dona Cadman is the MP for Surrey North, British Coumbia. She is a member of the Conservative Party, and this is her first term in Parliament.

She is currently a member of the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (HUMA). She also sits, as a member, on the Scrutiny of Regulations committee.

Dona Cadman has faced many challenges throughout her life. In 1992 her son Jesse was murdered. This loss compelled her and her late husband, Chuck Cadman, to start “CRY” (Crime Responsibility and Youth). To further advance this cause, Chuck Cadman entered federal politics being elected in 1997. Through different circumstances he became an independent member not affiliated with any party. On July 9, 2005 he passed away from cancer.

Through all these trials Dona Cadman has emerged and is now the MP for the riding in which her husband used to sit.

As we pray for her let’s ask for hope and continued courage. Let’s pray that in all trials the faithfulness of God would shine through. Let’s pray that she would be a woman of continued strength, not only for herself, family, and riding, but for those struggling with pain & hurt.

You can learn more about Dona Cadman on her official website.






Friday, September 18, 2009

MLA: Stephanie Cadieux - Surrey-Panorama

Photo of MLAHeavenly Father, we lift up Stephanie Cadieux in prayer to you and thank You for her. We ask that You bless her indeed as she begins her new position as MLA representing the people of Surrey-Panorama. That she be able to learn that which is required of her quickly, and become a strong advocate for her constituents. Give her the stamina and strength required to as she fulfils her duties; shower her with Your abundant blessings, O God we pray. In Jesus’ Name.

Stephanie Cadieux was elected MLA for Surrey-Panorama in the 2009 general provincial election.
Living with a spinal cord injury since a car crash at the age of 18, she became a strong community advocate for programs to assist people with physical disabilities to achieve their goals and regain independence. In 2007, Stephanie worked with 2010

Legacies Now to develop an Accessible Tourism Plan for BC.
Stephanie worked with the BC Paraplegic Association for eight years, most recently as director of marketing and development. She has been an active community volunteer and was the president of Realwheels Society, Ambassador for the Rick Hansen Man in Motion Foundation, as well as a member of the advisory panel and a researcher with International Collaboration On Repair Discoveries (ICORD). 

Stephanie was voted one of Business in Vancouver’s Top 40 under 40, in 2007.
Stephanie has lived Surrey for seven years with her husband and enjoys sailing and travel.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

MLA: Jagrup Brar

Photo of MLA Today we are praying for Jagrup Brar, the member from Surrey-Fleetwood


Heavenly Father, we come to you on behalf of Jagrup Brar and thank you for him, for his willingness to serve the people of this Province. As the Opposition Critic for Employment and Income Assistance, we ask that you give him much wisdom in providing helpful and constructive criticism as he works with the governing party. Let him be an instrument of help to those who are in desperate need in this difficult economic time. Strengthen his marriage and his relationship with his daughter we pray. In Jesus name.


Jagrup Brar was elected as the MLA for Surrey-Fleetwod on May 12, 2009. He served as MLA for Surrey-Panorama Ridge from Oct. 28, 2004 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.
Jagrup serves as opposition critic for Healthy Living and Sport.
Born in India, Jagrup moved to Canada to study at the University of Manitoba where he earned a Master's degree in Public Administration. Jagrup moved to British Columbia from Winnipeg ten years ago. Since then, Jagrup and his family have put down strong roots in Surrey.
An involved member of his community, Jagrup is a dedicated local volunteer, and has taken time to help a variety of local organizations providing services to young people, seniors and new Canadians.
For over a decade, Jagrup worked in the public and non-profit sectors, assisting professionals with career development and working with employers to develop strategies to recruit a highly-skilled, multicultural workforce.
As the Executive Director of the Surrey Self Employment and Entrepreneur Development Society (SEEDS), Jagrup trained new entrepreneurs to develop and launch successful small business ventures.
Jagrup is married and lives in Surrey with his wife Rajwant and their daughter.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

MLA: Hon. Shirley Bond

Photo of MLA Our Heavenly Father, to-day we come to You in the name of Jesus to pray for Shirley Bond. We give grateful thanks that she will , once again, serve this province for yet another term.



As she faces the challenges of her new portfolio, as Minister of Transportation, we pray You will grant her great wisdom, knowledge and understanding, with special clarity of vision.

We pray the sufficiency of Your grace will give her courage, strength, confidence and sound judgement that will always sustain her through the many daily challenges of making decisions, adjustments and innovative changes.

Encourage her with a strong supportive, dependable staff, ever ready to carry out their responsibilities with integrity and faithfulness.

We give thanks for her faithfulness and recognize the daily sacrifices made by herself and her family, to discharge the myriad of duties as an MLA. in order to serve the people of this province, she does so well.

Father, bless her abundantly with good health, happiness, as well as protection and safety, as she travels.


Shirley Bond was re-elected to a third term as MLA for Prince George-Valemount on May 12, 2009 and appointed Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure on June 10, 2009.
Shirley was previously appointed Minister of Education and Minister responsible for Early Learning and Literacy on June 16, 2005 and Deputy Premier on September 20, 2004. She also serves as Vice-Chair of the Treasury Board, chairs the Cabinet Committee on New Relationship Coordination, and is a member of the Cabinet climate Action Committee.
Shirley was elected in 2001 and re-elected in 2005 to represent the riding of Prince George-Mount Robson. She previously served as Minister of Advanced Education and Minister of Health Services.
Before her election to the Legislative Assembly, she served three terms on the Prince George School Board, the last as chair. She also worked with the continuing education department of the Prince George School District, becoming its business manager. She was given the B.C. Interior, North & Yukon Woman of Distinction Award for her work in public education.
Minister Bond has an arts and science diploma from the College of New Caledonia and, up until becoming MLA, was working on a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science at the University of Northern BC.
She was protocol director for the 2001 Special Olympic Summer Games and sat on the boards of Carey Theological College, the Personal Living Choices Society, the Trinity Opportunity Fund Grants Committee and the City of Prince George's Standing Committee on Youth.
Shirley and Bill Bond live in Prince George. They have twin adult children.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

MLA: Harry Bloy

Photo of MLA Lord, we bring Mr. Bloy before you today. We ask that you would bless his work as an MLA. We recognize his commitment and dedication to service. We pray today that you would be with him and allow him to sense your presence throughout his day. Lord, we realize that his job can be challenging so we ask that you would grant him strength and courage for the road that lies ahead of him.
Thank you for hearing our prayer today.

In Jesus name, Amen

Harry Bloy was first elected in the riding of Burquitlam in 2001 and was re-elected in the May 2005 provincial general election. He won election to the Legislature for a third time in 2009 for the new riding of Burnaby-Lougheed.

Harry served on the Government Caucus Committee for Natural Resources and Economy and three Select Standing Committees: Finance and Government Services; Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills; and, Legislative Initiatives. In addition, he was the Deputy Chair of Committee of the Whole.
Previously, Harry served on the Crown Corporations, Public Accounts, Finance and Government Services committees. He was also a member of the Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Prior to being an MLA, Harry was the President of a local telecommunications company. Harry earned a marketing diploma from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute in Toronto after which he worked as a systems analyst before moving into retail. Starting as a district manager, he became national marketing manager for a countrywide retail chain. In 1979 Harry and his brother opened the first in a series of convenience stores and over the next 12 years developed, operated and expanded the chain before selling the business. Since the early 90's, Harry has been involved in a number of businesses including the distribution of dairy products and in an executive office leasing company.
Throughout his life, Harry has believed in the importance of volunteering. He served on the board of directors and was a founding member of the Burnaby Optimist Club. Harry also serves as a member of the Regional Council of Scouts Canada-Burnaby Region.
Harry's extensive community involvement in the riding dates back to 1979 and has included the Burquitlam Community Association, Burnaby Mountain Mantas Summer Swim Club (of which he was a founding member), former President of the Burnaby Arts Council, Burnaby Minor Lacrosse, District Parent Advisory Council and the Parent Advisory Council for his children's elementary school. He has also volunteered for many events and projects including the Healthy Heart Fun Run and Walk, Mothers March of Dimes and the BC Summer Games.
Born in 1946 in Sudbury, Ontario, Harry and his wife Anita married in 1977 and have lived in the constituency since 1978; they have three children, Jeremy, Katie and Candice. Harry enjoys walking, photography, volunteering and gardening.

Monday, September 14, 2009

MLA: Hon. Iain Black

Photo of MLAHeavenly Father,

We thank you for Iain Black and his position in government, and for believing in our Nation of Canada. Thank you for the difference he has made.
We ask for increase of favor in every area of his life. Help him as he provides leadership within his ministry and the province. Bless, and protect him and his family. Amen
Iain Black was appointed Minister of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development on June 10, 2009. He was previously Minister of Labour and Citizens' Services from June 23, 2008, to June 9, 2009.
Minister Black was elected to represent the new riding of Port Moody-Coquitlam in the 2009 provincial general election. He was first elected as an MLA for the former Port Moody-Westwood riding in 2005. Prior to his cabinet appointment, Minister Black served on the BC Provincial Treasury Board and several Select Standing Committees of the Legislature including Finance, Crown Corporations (where he served as Chair) and Public Accounts. He also served as Chair of both the Special Committee to Appoint a Conflict of Interest Commissioner and the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources and the Economy.
At the point of his election, Minister Black was president of the Banking Solutions Group of Open Solutions Canada. Prior to Open Solutions, Minister Black served as president or chief operating officer of both publicly traded and private technology companies, and as a partner with a national professional services firm. He started his career with IBM Canada Ltd.
Minister Black’s list of community volunteer roles includes coaching youth soccer in Coquitlam, and serving as a board director of Canuck Place Children’s Hospice. A recipient of the 40-Under-40 award in 1998, “recognizing top business achievement in British Columbians”, Minister Black is an experienced speaker at North American business and technology industry conferences, who holds an honours degree in business from the University of Manitoba.
Minister Black and his wife reside in Coquitlam with their three children.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

MLA: Dawn Black

Photo of MLAToday we are praying for Dawn Black, member for New Westminster.

Heavenly Father,
We thank you for Dawn Black and her enthusiasm and desire to make a difference in our province. Grant her wisdom, grace and new strategies each day. We ask for continued blessings and protection for her and her family.
In Jesus Name,
Amen

 
Dawn Black was elected as MLA for New Westminster on May 12, 2009.
Dawn serves as opposition critic for Advanced Education and Labour Market Development.
Dawn and her family live in New Westminster. Dawn served three terms as a Member of Parliament.
The Toronto Star voted Dawn as one of the top ten MPs in Canada. The Globe and Mail featured her as one of only four Question Period standouts.
Following former New Westminster MLA Chuck Puchmayr’s announcement that he would not be seeking re-election, Dawn decided to come home and enter provincial politics.
Dawn lives with her husband Peter in New Westminster. They have three sons and seven grandchildren.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

MLA: Hon. Bill Bennett

Photo of MLA Lord, we thank you that you have called Bill Bennett to serve You and our Province in this wway. We ask for your blessing upon him and his family in abundant measure. Give him Your wisdom and strength as he fulfills his responsibilities and serves the people of the East Kootenays. Watch over him and protect him in every way.


We ask this in Jesus Name, Amen.
Bill Bennett was re-elected as MLA for Kootenay East on May 12, 2009 and appointed Minister of Community and Rural Development on June 10, 2009.
Bill Bennett was previously appointed Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts on June 23, 2008.  In 2007, he became Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, a member of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth, and Chair of the BC Outdoor Caucus. He previously served as Minister of State for Mining.
Bill Bennett was elected to represent the riding of East Kootenay in the 2001 provincial election and re-elected in 2005. Bill served on the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources and is a member of the Kootenay Caucus. He was also deputy chair of the Parliamentary Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts, a member of the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources, a member of the Premier's Olympic Live Sites Committee, the Caucus Committee on Treaties, the Waste Management Review Committee and is a legislative member of the committee for the Pacific Northwest Economic Region. Bill served on the Committee of Development of the Provincial Noxious Weed Strategy, the Land Use Task Force as well as the Small Scale Salvage Committee and the Mining Task Force.
He formerly served as deputy chair of the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations and as a member of the Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct Committee, Standing Orders and Private Bills Committee.


Before being elected, Bill was a partner in a Cranbrook law firm. In 1976, he earned an honours degree in English from the University of Guelph and in 1992 a law degree from Queen's University.
Bill owned and operated successful fly-in wilderness lodges in the Northwest Territories and Manitoba from 1977 to 1992. In 1988, he worked as a tourism consultant with the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs and to the Manitoba Keewatin Tribal Council.
Bill was a Cranbrook Rotary Club member who has also served as BC Chamber of Commerce first vice-chair (1999), Cranbrook & District Chamber of Commerce president (1997 & 1998), Kootenay Ice WHL franchise committee member (1998), and Kootenay Bar Association president (1998). In 1997 and 1998 he was elected Cranbrook Business Person of the Year.
Born in 1950, Bill and his wife Beth married in 1974 and have two children, Dylan and Daniel. They have lived in the constituency since 1994. Bill is a passionate snowboarder who also hunts, fishes and hikes.

Friday, September 11, 2009

MLA: Hon. Patrick Bell

Photo of MLA Father, today we pray for Pat Bell. We pray you will keep him, watch over him and bless him with health. We ask that you give him wisdom in his critical role in forests & range; as he partners to lead our government.



Give him insight, opportunity and favour with all parties, interests and governments.


May you grant him Your favour and may you provide all he needs to govern with strength.


Thank you for him - help him O God.




Pat Bell was re-elected to a third term as MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie on May 12, 2009 and re-appointed Minister of Forests and Range and Minister Responsible for the Integrated Land Management Bureau on June 10, 2009.
Bell was first 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.


Bell was elected to represent the riding of Prince George North in the 2001 election and re-elected in 2005. 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. Bell has also served on the Legislative Select Standing Committees on Education and Crown Corporations.
Prior to becoming an MLA, Bell owned a trucking company and co-owned a logging company. He owns two Wendy's Restaurants in Prince George.


Committed to youth sport, 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. Bell served for several years on the Tourism Prince George Board of Directors.


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

Thursday, September 10, 2009

MLA: Donna Barnett

Photo of MLA
Today we are praying for Donna Barnett, the member for Cariboo Chilcotin.


Heavenly Father, we come to you on behalf of Donna Barnett. We thank you for her broad experience that has prepared her very well for this role. Lord, we ask that as she enters this new chapter of service and sacrifice in her life that you would bless her greatly and help her in every way. Give her great grace as she adjusts to new responsibilities and opportunities. Help her serve with distinction and excellence we pray.

In Jesus Name, Amen


Donna Barnett was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Pine Beetle Community Recovery to the Ministry of Community and Rural Development on June 10, 2009. She was elected MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin on May 12.

A self-employed business owner and realtor, Donna served as mayor of the District of 100 Mile House from 1986 to 1990 and again from 1996 to 2008.

During that time, Donna served as co-chair of the Council of Resource Community Mayors, as well as chair of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition. Additionally, she was a member of the federal government’s Minister of Natural Resources Committee and a member of the Premier's Climate Action Team.

Donna’s political experience is very diverse.  She has been either a member of or involved in: the Cariboo Regional District and Hospital District, Community Policing, the Premier's Task Force on Opportunities, Land Use Planning, Health Care, the Restorative Justice Committee, the Regional Economic Development Committee, the BC Open Learning Agency, the Board of Directors for the Cariboo College and the Chamber of Commerce.

With over 35 years of community involvement, Donna has been a Rotarian, a member of the 100 Mile House Kinettes, a member of the 100 Mile Outriders Club, chair of the Spirit of BC 100 Mile House Community Committee, chair of the100 Mile Chapter of Kisport, chair of the 100 Mile & District Safety Committee, a member of Measuring up the North 100 Mile Committee, chair of the 100 Mile Advisory Committee for the Industrial Hemp Pilot Project, a member of the 100 Mile House Museum Society, a member of the Lower Bridge Creek Watershed Society and served as chair of the South Cariboo Planning Council.
Donna has been the recipient of many awards including the 2008 Women in Resource Communities Woman of the Year Award and 2006 BC Government Community Achievement Award.

Donna and her husband Jack have two grown children and one grandchild.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

MLA: Harry Bains

Photo of MLA
We pray that Harry will be happy in his work as a member of the legislature for the our province. We pray that his actions and words would consistently reflect God’s own principles. We pray he will be faithful in all that is entrusted to him by his constituents. As he adjusts to these changes in his life, may he be mindful of his health, and not neglect his close relationships. We thank you for him, Father, and ask your blessings upon him.



In Jesus name , Amen.



Harry Bains was re-elected as the MLA for Surrey-Newton on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.
Harry serves as opposition critic for Transportation and Infrastructure.
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.

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.

Monday, September 7, 2009

MLA: Robin Austin - Member for Skeena

Photo of MLA 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 re-elected as the MLA for Skeena on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.
Robin serves as opposition critic for Education, Early Learning and Literacy.


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 two active teenagers.

Sunday, September 6, 2009

MP Alex Atamamenko - BC Southern Interior

Alex Atamanenko is the MP for British Columbia Southern Interior in British Columbia. He is a member of the NDP, and this will be his second term in Parliament.
Alex is a member of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Committee and Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food. He is also an associate member of the Canadian Heritage, Health and Official Languages Committees. Educated at UBC and U of Toronto with a BA in Physical Education, a teaching diploma, and MA in Russian, Atamanenko has demonstrated that he has a passion for languages and teaching. Alex lives with his wife Ann, a retired French teacher, in Castlegar, BC.

Please pray that Alex Atamanenko’s passion for languages and teaching spills out into his work as a Politician. Pray for safety and protection for his wife Ann, while Alex is away in Ottawa, also pray that their marriage remains strong, secure and healthy. Let us thank God for the position that Alex has been blessed with and pray that he would be able to represent and to be the voice for the people in his consitituency.

You can learn more about Alex on his official website.






Saturday, September 5, 2009

Hon. Jim Abbot - MP for Kootenay-Columbia

The Honourable Jim Abbot is the M.P. for Kootenay-Columbia in B.C. A member of the Conservative Party this is his sixth term in Parliament.
He serves as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Cooperation and sits on the Foreign Affairs Committee, both very significant international roles.

He is married to Jeannette and they have 3 children.

Let’s pray that Jim Abbot would enjoy good health, and that the Lord would bless his marriage and his family. Pray that the Lord would give him great wisdom and healthy relationships with his parliamentary colleagues. May the Lord use him to bring wise strategies in our relations with foreign nations especially in the Asia-Pacific. May he represent the citizens of Kootenay-Columbia well and be responsive to their needs.

You can learn more about the Hon. Jim Abbot at his official website.

Friday, September 4, 2009

Hon. George Abbott - Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, Member for Shuswap

Father we pause and thank you for the Hon. George Abbott, we thank you for his dedication to serve the citizens of the North Okanagan/Shuswap Riding and the Province of British Columbia. I ask that you would bless him with Divine Wisdom as he endeavours to do what is right for the betterment of the whole in regards to his position as The Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation for our Province.

Father you know what is uppermost on George’s mind today…please bring clarity to uncertainty, bring peace where there may be unrest, cause doors of opportunity that have been locked to open up. Father, thank you in advance, for Your Divine protection upon him and his family. In the Name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen!


George Abbott was appointed Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation and government deputy house leader on June 10, 2009. He was re-elected as MLA for the Shuswap on May 12, 2009.
He had served as Minister of Health since June 16, 2005 and previously served as Minister of Community, Aboriginal and Women’s Services and Minister of Sustainable Resource Management.

George has also been deputy house leader for the Official Opposition and was critic for municipal affairs and forests. He was Deputy Chair of the Select Standing Committees on Forests, Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, and was a member of the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. Additionally, he sat on the Official Opposition Caucus Committee on Crime.

First elected as MLA in 1996 to represent the riding of Shuswap, George was re-elected in 2001 and again in 2005. Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, George was a political science instructor at Okanagan University College. He also owned the oldest and largest berry farm in the Interior.

He received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia and his Master of Arts in political science from the University of Victoria.

George was the chair of the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District. He was also involved in amateur sports as a minor hockey coach.

George and Lesley Abbott live in Sicamous and have three children.

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Hon. John Yap - Minister of State for Climate Action

Father God we thank You for another day that we can come before You to seek Your wisdom and counsel in prayer. We pray today for Mr. John Yap and his team, that where necessary You would give them new vision, strategy and plans to accomplish & successfully complete the goals and projects that have been planned for the benefit of the community and if any adjustments and amendments need to be made that You would direct them to those areas that need to be changed. We ask for a divine release of finances & resources to cover the costs involved.
We ask Your protection & blessing over our leaders as they continue to work on behalf of our province.
 We pray in the name of Jesus, Amen
John Yap was appointed Minister of State for Climate Action on June 10, 2009. He previously served as the Chair of the Government Caucus and on various committees.
First elected in the riding of Richmond-Steveston in the 2005 provincial election, Minister Yap was re-elected in 2009.

Minister Yap 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. Minister Yap is an honorary member of the Vancouver Diamond Lions Club.

Minister Yap 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, Minister Yap 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, he enjoys reading, jogging, golf and travel.