Thursday, January 31, 2013

MLA: Adrian Dix - Vancouver-Kingsway

We pray that as Leader of the Opposition MLA: Adrian Dix would seek to be guided by You, Lord. You say that Your wisdom is pure, peace-loving, gentle, full of mercy and good deeds, shows no favoritism and is sincere. May this wisdom guide him and as a result may he accomplish much for our province. Protect his thoughts and actions and surround him with principled counselors as they develop strategies for the upcoming campaign.  Direct his thinking so he knows when to stand strong and when to be flexible. Give him insight and creative solutions to issues and courage, strength and heart to lead in a way that brings to the people of BC  dignity, honour and respect.  In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.

Adrian Dix was elected Leader of the British Columbia New Democratic Party on April 17, 2011.

Adrian Dix was re-elected as MLA for Vancouver-Kingsway on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.

Adrian has extensive experience as a non-profit director, education community leader, government strategist and media commentator.

For the past five years, Adrian travelled the province as Executive Director of Canadian Parents for French – BC & Yukon Branch, a non-profit organization promoting language education.

Adrian is a commentator on public policy whose regular columns were published in the Victoria Times-Colonist and The Source, a Vancouver multicultural newspaper. Over the past five years, he was regularly called upon to present views on public policy issues for local, provincial, national and international media.

Adrian also served as the Chief of Staff to Premier Glen Clark from 1996 to 1999.

Adrian grew up in Vancouver, graduated from University of British Columbia and now lives in the Collingwood neighbourhood.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

MLA: Hon. Michael de Jong, Q.C. - Abbotsford West - Minister of Finance

Father, thank You for the years of service that MLA: Honorable Michael de Jong has given to the people of our province.  We thank You that he has given of himself completely and in that we ask that You would BLESS him. We ask, Lord, as he moves into this next season that You would lead him and guide him supernaturally and that along the way he would have the confidence that the decisions that he is making are the ones that You have laid on his heart and given him the responsiblity to accomplish. Amen.

Michael de Jong was named Minister of Finance on September 5, 2012.

He will also serve as the Government House Leader.

The five-term MLA previously served as Minister of Health, Attorney General, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, Minister of Labour and Citizens’ Services, and Minister of Forests.

He was re-elected in 2009 as the MLA for Abbotsford West, an area he has represented since first being elected to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in a 1994 byelection.

Before his election as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in 1994, Mike 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.

Michael has also been involved with the Abbotsford-Matsqui Arts Council, the Matsqui Youth Commission, and holds the rank of Captain in the Canadian Armed Forces Air Force Reserve.

Still an avid hockey player, in his teen years Michael was a member of the Abbotsford Pilots Junior B hockey team. He attended Mouat Secondary School and still lives on the Matsqui Prairie farm where he grew up.
  

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

MLA: Marc Dalton - Maple Ridge-Mission


We bless MLA: Marc Dalton, Father, and we thank You for the heart of a servant that you have given him. We pray that You would give him fresh eyes to see those things that are unseen or hidden. As he looks into the issues that come before him we pray that  You would bring clarity and quick understanding and unique solutions. As he steps into this next season we pray for open doors for him. Protect him and his family and may they continue to be strength to one another. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Marc Dalton was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Independent Schools to the Minister of Education on September 5, 2012.

He was elected as MLA to represent the riding of Maple Ridge-Mission in May 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.

Marc 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.

He 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, Marc 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, January 28, 2013

MLA: Kathy Corrigan - Burnaby-Deer Lake

Father, we thank You for MLA: Kathy Corrigan. We thank You that she is a women that is passionate about all those things that she works on. Our children are our most valuable resource and we thank You for the many years that she has given attention to the details that would have an effect on their education and well-being. We ask that You would  strengthened her in her physical body and that in the midst of her busy schedule you would give her supernatural rest. We ask Father for an increase of wisdom and revelation concerning the issues that affect those within her sphere of responsibility. Amen.

Kathy Corrigan was elected MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake in 2009 and serves as Official Opposition Deputy Caucus Chair, and Public Safety and Corrections critic.

A strong advocate for public education, Kathy served three terms on the Burnaby Board of Education (1999-2008) and was board chair in 2007 and 2008. She served on numerous district committees and was a member of the BC School Trustees' Provincial Council. 
 
Kathy is a lawyer and public policy researcher by profession. She has also edited a legal journal and has written about privatization and trade agreements.

As a long-time community volunteer, Kathy spent many years serving on parent advisory committees, the Burnaby Minor Hockey Association, the Burnaby & New Westminster Ringette Association, the Lakeside Advisory Board, and other organizations.

She and husband Derek Corrigan have lived in Burnaby since 1977. They have four grown children.

Sunday, January 27, 2013

MLA: Gary Coons - North Coast

 
Father, we ask that You would bless MLA: Gary Coons with Your wisdom, peace and strength. We pray that You would fill him with an excitement for what the coming year has in store. May he receive reviving and renewing encouragement from his colleagues, friends and family as the legislature gets back to business. Give him a renewed sense of purpose and may he sense Your presence right there with him in accomplishing all that you have given him to do. 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 opposition critic for B.C. Ferries and Coastal Communities.

During his first term Gary served on the Special Committee for Sustainable Aquaculture and the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. He currently is a member of the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations.

Before entering politics Gary was an educator in the Prince Rupert School District for 27 years. He taught Mathematics/Special Education. It was during his time as a teacher and union activist that Gary first start down the path to political involvement.

An avid sportsman, Gary enjoys coaching, playing racquet sports and taking advantage of the many outdoor activities that the north coast has to offer.

Gary is married to Lois Elliot and together they have two daughters, Breton and Hannah.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

MLA: Katrine Conroy - Kootenay West

Lord, we are blessed that You have MLA: Katrine Conroy serving in our legislative assembly. We thank You for her enthusiasm, dedication and commitment while serving. This year we ask that You would expand her influence in order that she may accomplish even more of those things that You have given her to fulfill. As she works to see these things accomplished may she be filled with a supernatural joy, peace and sense of being right where You have destined her to be. May her times with her husband, children and grandchildren be even more rejuvenating for all. In Jesus' 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 serves as opposition critic for Seniors and Long-term Care.

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 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.

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

MLA: Hon. Rich Coleman - Fort Langley-Aldergrove - Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing and Deputy Premier

Jesus, we are grateful for MLA: Hon. Rich Coleman, a man whose life has been dedicated to public service and who comes from a heritage of the same. May this year be one of fulfillment for him and his colleagues. May You help him accomplish those things that have been on his heart but have not yet come to fruition. May You provide him all the resources he needs as well as the strategic relationships necessary to see his projects to completion. Give him those times of refreshing in the midst of his busy schedule so that he can be even more effective. Amen.

Rich Coleman was appointed Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas and Minister Responsible for Housing and Deputy Premier on September 5, 2012.

He was re-elected for a fourth term as MLA for Fort Langley-Aldergrove in the 2009 general election.

Rich’s previous cabinet positions include Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General and Minister Responsible for Housing, Minister of Housing and Social Development, and Minister of Forests and Range.

Rich’s dedication and passion for public service was shaped by his parents—a father who was a civil servant and a mother who was school teacher. They taught their children that community came first, and that serving others was the noblest thing a person could commit themselves to. That community-first attitude has guided Rich his entire life.

Before entering public life, Rich was governor of the BC Kinsmen, president of the Aldergrove Chamber of Commerce, Langley’s 1988 Volunteer of the Year, and a director on several volunteer boards. As a member of the Aldergrove Kinsmen Club in the 1980s, Rich oversaw the volunteer fundraising and construction efforts that built the Aldergrove Kinsmen Community Centre, a vital community facility which houses a preschool, library, workout area, and meeting space. The Club was also involved in building a successful housing project in Aldergrove. Rich is a life member of the Kinsmen.

In recognition of his tireless and long-term work in the community, Rich has been awarded both Rotary’s top honour, the Paul Harris Fellowship, and the Kinsmen’s highest honour, the Hal Rogers Fellowship. Rich was the second person ever honoured with the Hal Rogers—the first being Kin founder Hal Rogers himself.

Rich has been elected four times (1996, 2001, 2005, and 2009) as MLA for Fort Langley-Aldergrove. He and his wife Michele live in the Fraser Valley.
 

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

MLA: Murray Coell - Saanich North and the Islands

Father, we ask that You lead and direct MLA: Murray Coell in all that he puts his hand to as he serves his constituents and the people of our province, .  May he hear Your voice and follow your leading. Expand his influence and opportunities as he follows the path You lay before him.  May he know great peace and be a source of peace to his fellow MLA's as they work together to carry out their various duties.  Bless MLA Coell and his family with good health and great joy.  We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Murray Coell was first elected to represent the riding of Saanich North and the Islands in 1996, and was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and 2009.

Previously, he has served as Minister of Environment; Minister of Labour; Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development; Minister of Advanced Education and Minister Responsible for Research and Technology; Minister of Community, Aboriginal and Women's Services; and Minister of Human Resources.

Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, Coell sat on Saanich Municipal Council for 12 years, six of them as Mayor.  He also chaired the Capital Regional District board, the Saanich Police board and the Capital Regional District hospital board, and was deputy chair of the Municipal Finance Authority.

Prior to his service in government, 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 lives with his wife Corinne in Central Saanich.

Monday, January 21, 2013

MLA: Hon. Christy Clark - Vancouver-Point Grey - Premier and President of the Executive Council

Father, we ask Your grace to be upon MLA: Hon. Christy Clark,  the Premier of our province.  We know the great weight that sits upon her shoulders and pray that You, the Great Burden Bearer would be with Premier Clark.  Be a mighty strength for her in times of need and impart a Godly wisdom to her. Fill her with Your will and vision.  We ask that You continue to give her the ability to see issues with clarity and to make decisions that all may benefit from her leadership.  Surround her with integral people who share the same vision You have for our province.  Bless Premier Clark with relaxing, refreshing times with her family and friends and may they be a source of inspiration to her.  We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Christy Clark was sworn in as British Columbia’s 35th Premier on March 14, 2011 and was elected Vancouver-Point Grey MLA in a by-election on May 12, 2011.

She previously served as the MLA for Port Moody-Burnaby Mountain (1996-2001) and Port Moody-Westwood (2001-2005). She has served as Deputy Premier, Minister of Education, Minister of Children and Family Development and vice-chair of Treasury Board.

During her first term, she sat on the Select Standing Committee on Environment and Tourism and on the Official Opposition Caucus Committee for Children.

She took a break from government in 2005 to spend more time with her family. She worked in the media during her time from government, including as a columnist and commentator and host of the “Christy Clark Show” on CKNW.

Premier Clark brought the anti-bullying “Pink Shirt Campaign” to British Columbia to raise awareness of issues related to bullying in our schools, workplace and communities.

She has received several awards, including the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award and the 2009 Woman of the Year in BC by the Consumer Choice Awards. She attended Simon Fraser University (SFU), the Sorbonne (France) and the University of Edinburgh (Scotland, UK), studying Political Science and Religious Studies. She was born and raised in Burnaby and graduated from Burnaby
South Senior Secondary.

Sunday, January 20, 2013

MLA: Raj Chouhan - Burnaby-Edmonds

Father, thank You for Your wisdom in placing Raj Chouhan in the positions of MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds and the Official Opposition Critic for Multiculturalism, Immigration and Human Rights.  We ask that Your guiding hand be upon him as he carries out his various duties and tasks.  Impart to him great wisdom and may he be open to hear Your voice and follow Your leading and thus be Your hand extended to perform all that You will.  Encourage him as he deals with difficult matters and may he find great refreshing during his personal time off.  We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Raj Chouhan was elected as the MLA for Burnaby-Edmonds on May 17, 2005 and re-elected on May 12, 2009.

Raj serves as the Official Opposition Critic for Multiculturalism, Immigration and Human Rights. Previously Raj served as critic for Labour. Raj also serves as the Opposition Deputy-Whip since 2007.

Before immigrating to Canada in 1973, Raj was involved in student union activities in India. On his arrival in Canada, Raj was impacted by the plight of immigrant workers and developed a passion for community and social justice work.

Raj is the founding president of the Canadian Farmworkers' Union, and he served as the Director of Bargaining at the Hospital Employees Union for 18 years. Raj has 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. He has traveled across Canada to give seminars and attend conferences that raise awareness of issues regarding racism, poverty, worker rights, and discrimination.

In addition, Raj supports many programs offered through community organizations including neighbourhood safety, refugee assistance, and health and wellness programs f

Thursday, January 17, 2013

MLA: Hon. Ida Chong - Oak Bay-Gordon Head - Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation


We pray for Minister Chong today.  As she works in the very important area of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, we ask that You would use her as a bridge builder and as an advocate for Aboriginal concerns in our Province. Continue to give her Your wisdom and grace as she gives leadership to this area of our province. Amen.

Ida Chong was appointed Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation on September 5, 2012.

Ida’s previous cabinet portfolios include Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, Minister of Science and Universities, Minister of Regional, Economic and Skills Development, Healthy Living and Sport, 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, Ida 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. She was re-elected to represent the riding of Oak Bay-Gordon Head in 2009.

Ida 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.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

MLA: Spencer Chandra Herbert - Vancouver-West End

 
We thank You for people like MLA: Spencer Chandra Herbert who care about their communities enough to give themselves to public service. We pray for him today and ask that You would flood his life with Your goodness and kindness.  Bless him in every way!  Continue to help him as he serves the people he represents with integrity and passion. Give him Your strength and encouragement as he fulfills his mandate. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Spencer Chandra Herbert was elected MLA for Vancouver-West End on May 12, 2009. He served as MLA for Vancouver – Burrard from October 29, 2008 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.

Spencer serves as opposition critic for Tourism, Arts and Culture and the B.C. Lottery Corporation and Gaming Policy.

A strong community activist, Spencer tackles issues head on. He was elected to serve as Vancouver Parks Commissioner in 2005. He was voted “Unsung Hero” by the readers of the WestEnder and one of Vancouver’s three best politicians by the readers of Georgia Straight.

Spencer's achievements include initiating the first of many fundraising drives to restore storm-damaged Stanley Park and helping improve environmental sustainability at parks throughout the city. He was instrumental in the improvements to Nelson Park in the West End, and Emery Barnes Park in Yaletown.

Spencer’s background is in the arts and culture industry. He was the associate producer of the United Nations World Urban Festival and has been a facilitator and lecturer with Better Environmentally Sound Transportation, the GLBT Centre and the B.C. Civil Liberties Association.

He's also worked actively with the Coal Harbour Residents Association, the West End Residents Association, the Stanley Park Ecology Society, the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre and the Save St. Paul's Coalition.

Born and raised in Vancouver, Spencer enjoys baseball and is a keen community gardener.

Spencer lives in the West End with partner Romi, a community developer.

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

MLA: Ron Cantelon - Parksville-Qualicum

 
Lord we thank You for MLA: Ron Cantelon today.  We pray that You would bless his life as he fulfills his duties as MLA for Parksville-Qualicum.  Continue to grant him wisdom as he serves his constituents and the people of British Columbia.  Help him to know Your goodness and love in his life today. We ask this in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Ron Cantelon was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation and Technology on September 5, 2012.

He was re-elected for his second term on May 12, 2009 to the riding of Parksville-Qualicum.

Previously, Ron served as the Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors to the Minister of Health,  Minister of Agriculture and Lands, and was a member of the B.C. Agriculture Plan Committee and the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture. He was also Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth and Chair of the Special Committee to Review the Personal Information Protection Act. In addition, Ron has been a member of the Special Committee of Selection, Treasury Board, the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations, 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 two grandchildren.

Monday, January 14, 2013

MLA: Hon. Stephanie Cadieux - Surrey-Panorama - Minister of Children and Family Development

Father, we lift up MLA: Hon. Stephanie Cadieux to You today and we thank You for her willingness to serve and work in this province.  We ask that You would be an ever present blessing to her and that she would continue to be a positive and encouraging voice in her riding. We ask for her family that You would protect them and keep them safe in all ways.  Thank You for Minister Cadieux and all that she brings to our province in her legislative roles.  In Jesus' Name, amen.

Stephanie Cadieux was appointed Minister of Children and Family Development on September 5, 2012.

She formerly served as Minister of Social Development, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and Minister of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government. Stephanie was elected MLA for Surrey-Panorama in the 2009 general provincial election.

Stephanie serves as vice-chair of both the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement and the Cabinet Committee on Families First. Formerly, she served on the Special Committee to Appoint an Information and Privacy Commissioner, the Select Standing Committees on Health and on Children and Youth and the Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Stephanie worked with the BC Paraplegic Association as director of marketing and development and was manager, accessibility for 2010 Legacies Now. She has been an active community volunteer and was the president of Realwheels Society, a member of the advisory panel with International Collaboration On Repair Discoveries (ICORD), and a mentor with the Y.W.C.A.

Stephanie has lived in Surrey for ten years with her husband and enjoys sailing and travel.

 

Sunday, January 13, 2013

MLA: Jagrup Brar - Surrey-Fleetwood

Jesus, we thank You for MLA: Jagrup Brar and lift him up in prayer to You today.  May You continue to renew, refresh and prepare him for this new year ahead.  Thank You for his commitment to his constituency and the people he works with.  God, we ask that You will bless him with good health and strength as he goes about his daily work.  Please watch over his family and those close to him this year. Thank You for this man who has chosen to serve this province and its people. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Jagrup Brar was elected as the MLA for Surrey-Fleetwood 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 Small Business. Jagrup has also served as Opposition Critic for Healthy Living and Sport, Small Business and Revenue, Employment and Income Assistance and as Critic for Solicitor General and Public Safety.

Born in India, Jagrup was a member of the Indian National Basketball team and earned a master’s degree in Philosophy. He then moved to Canada to study at the University of Manitoba where he earned a Master's degree in Public Administration, MPA. Jagrup moved to British Columbia from Winnipeg fourteen 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, the homeless 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 children - Noor and Fateh.

Thursday, January 10, 2013

MLA: Hon. Shirley Bond - Prince George-Valemount - Minister of Justice

Father, thank You for the opportunity to come before You today and lift  MLA: Hon. Shirley Bond up to You in prayer and thank You for her gifts and abilities that she brings to our province.  May You continue to strengthen her in this new year as she makes decisions in government. You are a God of justice, so we pray You would guide her as she fulfills her portfolio as Minister of Justice. Please bring Your strength to her family and be near them throughout this busy season coming up. Bless Minister Bond and her family. In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen.

Shirley Bond was elected in 2001 and 2005 as the MLA for Prince George-Mount Robson, and re-elected for a third term in 2009 as the MLA for Prince George-Valemount.

Shirley was appointed Minister of Justice and Attorney General on February 8, 2012. Prior to her new role, she was appointed Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General on March 14, 2011 and Acting Attorney General on August 18, 2011. She is the first woman in British Columbia to hold these positions.

As Minister of Justice and Attorney General, she is responsible for police and correctional services, the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles, crime prevention and victims’ assistance, and emergency management. As Attorney General, she is also responsible for criminal justice and family law, court administration, legal aid and public legal education, family maintenance and legal services to government.

With over ten years of Cabinet experience, Shirley has served as Deputy Premier, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Minister of Education, Minister Responsible for Early Learning and Literacy, Minister of Advanced Education, and Minister of Health Services.

Shirley currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Treasury Board, member of the Legislative Review Committee, and as a member of the Cabinet Committee on Jobs and Economic Growth.

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.

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 lives in Prince George with Bill, her husband of more than 30 years, and they love spending time with their twin adult children and their families, especially their grandsons Caleb and Cooper.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

MLA: Harry Bloy - Burnaby-Lougheed

Today we bring Harry Bloy before You, Lord God, and ask for an extra measure of strength and endurance for him.  May this strength show in his life as well as in his legislative tasks. 2013 appears to have challenges ahead, so we pray that You, God, will be with him to encourage him in his daily work.  We put our trust in You Lord to guide MLA: Bloy in wisdom, intuition, perception, and decision making to bring positive results in his many endeavors.  May he sense that You are his Almighty Helper. Give him a rewarding time meeting and greeting people as he serves this year. We pray all these requests in the name of Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Harry Bloy was appointed Minister of State for Multiculturalism on September 26, 2011.  He 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 also serves on the Cabinet Committee on Jobs and Skills Training, the Select Standing Committee on Health, and is the designated Deputy Chair of Committee of the Whole.

Previously, Harry served as Minister of Social Development and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism, was on the Government Caucus Committee for Natural Resources and Economy and five Select Standing Committees: Finance and Government Services; Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills; Legislative Initiatives; Crown Corporations; and, Public Accounts. 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.



Tuesday, January 8, 2013

MLA: Dawn Black - New Westminster

Precious Lord, Thank You for Your Word, The Bible, and all the promises contained in it. Today we pray Lord for Your blessing on MLA: Dawn Black. She is in a leadership position in our society and we ask that You would be her help and guide in performing her duties and serving her constituents. We pray for physical health and spiritual insight as she goes about her business. May You also help her to achieve some of her personal goals as time moves forward in this ever changing world.  Show her Your love Jesus in ways that build her strength for the tasks she has to perform and may her friends and colleagues always remain faithful to her and she to them. It is in Your Name, Jesus, that we pray with confidence.  Amen.

Dawn Black was elected as MLA for New Westminster on May 12, 2009.

Dawn serves as the Assistant Deputy Speaker.

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.

Monday, January 7, 2013

MLA: Hon. Bill Bennett - Kootenay East - Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development

Father,we offer our prayers to You today for MLA: Hon. Bill Bennett. God, we pray that You help him lead in a way that is both positive and effective.  These are times in which all our leaders need wisdom and guidance from You, the creator of all things.  Lord God, help him in all that he puts his hand to in the work he is doing on behalf of everyone in British Columbia. May Your supreme guidance be with this leader in many ways throughout the year. We pray this sincerely for Minister Bennett. May You also be with his family in all of their endeavours.  Thank You Lord. Amen.


Bill was appointed Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development on September 5, 2012.

He was first elected to represent the riding of Kootenay East in the southeast corner of British Columbia, Canada, in 2001, re-elected in 2005 and in 2009. Bill has previously served as Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, Minister of Community and Rural Development, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, and Minister of State for Mining.

Bill has chaired the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, the B.C. Outdoor Caucus, the Kootenay Caucus, and chaired the Special Committee on Cosmetic Pesticides. He has also been a member of various parliamentary committees, including the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth, the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations, the Select Standing Committee on Health, and the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts. He has also served on many government committees, particularly focused on land use and natural resource issues.

Before being elected, Bill was a partner in a law firm in Cranbrook. In 1976, he earned an honours degree in English from the University of Guelph and in 1992, at the age of 42, a law degree from Queen’s University. Bill owned and operated fly-in wilderness fishing and hunting lodges in the Northwest Territories and Manitoba from 1977 to 1993. Bill served as president of the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce in 1997 and 1998 and was incoming chair of the BC Chamber of Commerce in 2000 when he made the decision to enter provincial politics. Bill was twice elected Cranbrook Business Person of the Year and served as president of the Kootenay Bar Association.

Bill and his wife Beth married in 1974 and have two sons, Dylan and Daniel. Bill enjoys the outdoors by hunting, fishing, hiking, and snowboarding in the Canadian Rockies.

Sunday, January 6, 2013

MLA: Hon. Patrick Bell - Prince George-Mackenzie - Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour

Gracious Heavenly Father, as we agree together in prayer for MLA: Hon. Pat Bell today, we ask You to  help him embrace all the potential that this New Year has to offer. We thank You for him and for his diligence, care and hard work over the years to make our province a better place to live. We pray You will grant him clear direction and a fresh vision to make wise innovative positive changes in the portfolio he has been chosen to lead. Bless him and his family with Your hope, peace, joy and love in abundance and happiness this year. We pray in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Pat Bell is the Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour. He was elected as MLA in 2001, re-elected in 2005 for the riding of Prince George-North, and re-elected again in 2009 for the riding of Prince George-Mackenzie.

He has served as Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation; Minister of Forests, Mines and Lands; Minister of Forests and Range; Minister of Agriculture and Lands; and as the first Minister of State for Mining.

Pat chairs the Cabinet Committee on Jobs and Skills Training. He is also an active member on the Treasury Board, and Priorities and Planning Cabinet Committees. Prior to becoming a MLA, Pat was on the Tourism Prince George board of directors.

He has worked in the hospitality business his entire life, both at the corporate level and as a small business owner. He has also owned a trucking company and co-owned a logging company.

Thursday, January 3, 2013

MLA: Donna Barnett - Cariboo-Chilcotin

Isaiah 40:31: "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” is our earnest prayer for MLA: Donna Barnett.  May her many diverse abilities and her care and concern for the Cariboo Chicotin riding assure her continued  success in completing the goals she envisions for her constituents there. We wish her a healthy, happy, prosperous and productive New Year. May she also be rested, refreshed, and energized as the new year begins. Keep her and her family healthy, happy and supportive of one another. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen.

Donna Barnett was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Communities and Development to the Minister of Community, Tourism, Sport and Cultural Development on September 5, 2012.

Elected MLA for Cariboo-Chilcotin on May 12, 2009, Donna has served as a member of the Select Standing Committees on Aboriginal Affairs, on Health, and on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills.

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 the 100 Mile Chapter of Kidsport, chair of the 100 Mile and 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.

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

MLA: Hon. Bill Barisoff - Penticton - Speaker of the House

Gracious Father, our heart felt prayers go out to MLA: Hon. Bill Barisoff as he makes plans to leave the legislature. We give thanks for his faithfulness to the province of British Columbia over these many years. He served with excellence and distinction especially in his last position as Speaker of the House.  He  will be sadly missed by all. We are glad Your word, declares in Jeremiah 29:11, “ For I know the plans I have for you" and so we pray with confidence that You, Lord, will lead and direct his paths in all his future endeavors. We give thanks to him and also his family for their sacrifices in sharing him with the people of our province. May You bless them dear Lord, with an abundance of Your grace and love. In Jesus' name, we pray.  

Bill Barisoff was first elected Speaker on September 12, 2005, and re-elected to this position on August 25, 2009. He also 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 and in 2005 as the Member for Penticton-Okanagan Valley. In 2009 he was re-elected as the Member for Penticton.
Bill, 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, his wife Hilary, and grand-son Benjamin Charles; Michael; Darren, his wife Eliza, and grand-daughters Kayla Ramos Barisoff and Allison Elizabeth Barisoff.

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

MLA: Harry Bains - Surrey-Newton

Gracious Creator, we pray today for MLA: Harry Bains the representative for the electoral riding of Surrey-Newton.  As he works both in his riding and in the legislature, we pray that he will continue demonstrating a discerning heart, a listening ear and a thoughtful mind.  May he focus  on those things which  enrich and elevate the debate in the house. Continue to give him grace and respect for his colleagues that they may all work together for the greater good. May You bless and strengthen him physically with energy and good health.  Keep his wife and children safe, caring and supportive through all that is involved in fulfilling his mandate. Father, we pray in the name of Your blessed Son, Jesus. 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 Jasmee