PrayBC

MLA: Ron Cantelon - Parksville-Qualicum

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord God, maker of heaven and Earth, we pray for MLA: Ron Cantelon to be given Your wisdom and peace in his heart as he undertakes the daily and weekly duties and tasks of his position as a member of the Legislative Assembly. You give us instruction in the Bible to pray for our leaders in 1 Timothy 2:1&2: "I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity." We give You thanks and praise for Your caring for our leaders and the privilege of being invited to pray for them. It is in this faith we are trusting in You to help MLA: Cantelon to do his job well. May Your will also be manifest in all our provincial leaders, Lord God. Amen.

Ron Cantelon was re-elected for his second term on May 12, 2009 to the riding of Parksville-Qualicum. Ron is also the Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors to the Minister of Health and sits on the Select Standing Committee on Health and the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs.

Previously, Ron served as 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 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.

MLA: Hon. Stephanie Cadieux - Surrey-Panorama - Minister of Social Development

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord God of all the heavens, we come to You in prayer for MLA: Hon. Stephanie Cadieux. Lord, it is with humble hearts that we pray for leaders in these turbulent times. We ask that You would help MLA: Cadieux in her quest to be all that You would have her be in her portfolio of Minister of Social Development and representing the people of this amazing province. Please give her confidence in all the possibilities of her leadership. May she be renewed with encouragement from her colleagues, staff, friends and family. Jesus, we ask that Your blessing will be on her and her house for this new year. Keep her safe as she travels and is away from her husband. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Stephanie Cadieux serves as Minister of Social Development, having been appointed on September 26, 2011. She formerly served as the 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 resides as chair of the of the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement. Formerly, she servied on the Special Committee to Appoint an Information and Privacy Commissioner, and is also a member of Agenda and Priorities Committee, 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.

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.

MLA: Jagrup Brar - Surrey-Fleetwood

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father, We are delighted to pray for MLA: Jagrup Brar who has faithfully served the members of his riding and British Columbia for almost a decade. His valued services to his community have been felt by many who live and work there as he volunteers his services freely to the youth, seniors, homeless and new Canadians. We thank You for his dedication and commitment to give strong leadership to the people in Surrey - Fleetwood. We pray a blessing on MLA: Brar and also his family that You will keep them happy and in good health as they make sacrifices as a family to support him in his many hours of service to the people our province. In Jesus' Name. 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.

MLA: Hon. Shirley Bond - Prince George-Valemount - Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Our earnest prayer for MLA: Hon. Shirley Bond, as she meets the daily challenges of an MLA, is Psalm 91:1-4 “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. His truth shall be your shield and buckler." As British Columbians we are indeed blessed to have a legislator of her, commitment, experience and integrity who has been chosen to lead in these two very important portfolios. Lord, may Your will be done as we pray for divine wisdom, direction, vision and favour on all of her endeavours. May You continue to guide her in making right, good and needed changes for our province, many of which are already evident. May she know an abundance of Your love, strength and encouragement as You keep her family safe and in good health.
In the Name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Shirley Bond was appointed Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General on March 14, 2011. She was re-elected for a third term as MLA for Prince George-Valemount in 2009.

Shirley has previously served as Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Minister of Education and Minister responsible for Early Learning and Literacy and Deputy Premier, Minister of Advanced Education and Minister of Health Services.

She also serves as Vice-Chair of the Treasury Board, chaired the Cabinet Committee on New Relationship Coordination, and sat as a member of the Cabinet climate Action Committee. She is also part 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.

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.

MLA: Hon. Harry Bloy - Burnaby-Lougheed - Minister of State for Multiculturalism

2012-01-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Our Father, we pray Your blessings will rest on MLA: Hon. Harry Bloy as we give thanks for his many years of faithful service to his constituents in Burnaby-Lougheed.
In his present role as Minister of State for Multiculturalism give him new innovative ideas, clear direction and guidance as he seeks for unity among the many cultures we enjoy in this province.
May he know the love of Your Presence as You grant him honour and favour in all he does in order to to bring good changes to improve the lives of those in this province.
We pray for continued good health for MLA Bloy and his family, safety in travel and fulfillment in the work You have called him to do. In Jesus' Name we pray. 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 Treasury Board and Cabinet Committee for Families First.

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 three Select Standing Committees: Finance and Government Services; Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills; and, Legislative Initiatives. In addition, he is the Deputy Chair of Committee of the Whole.

Harry has also 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.

MLA: Dawn Black - New Westminster

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thank You for MLA: Dawn Black Lord. We thank You that You brought her back to British Columbia and placed her in the Provincial Government.
We are asking that her special experience in federal politics will help to sustain her and to open doors to the needs of provincial politics. We ask that You will bless her God when she goes out and when she comes in and that You will be her guiding light in all that she does. In the name of Jesus, we pray. 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.

MLA: Bill Bennett - Kootenay East

2012-01-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thank You God for giving MLA: Bill Bennett the variety of abilities that he has and the desire to use them for the good of the citizens of British Columbia and are grateful for his commitment and service.

We pray to You Father asking that You will continue to bless him with wisdom, health and a good marriage. We thank You also for giving him the opportunities to spend time outdoors with his family and for keeping him safe. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Bill Bennett was re-elected to represent the riding of Kootenay East on May 12, 2009 and was appointed Minister of Community and Rural Development on June 10, 2009. On June 11, 2010, he was appointed the Minister of Energy, Mines, and Petroleum Resources.

Bill was first elected to represent the riding of East Kootenay in 2001 and re-elected in 2005. He was previously appointed Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts on June 23, 2008, and Minister of State for Mining on June 16, 2005.

Previously, Bill was 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 B.C. Outdoor Caucus. Bill also served as the government leader on the Parliamentary Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts. In addition, he served as deputy chair of the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations. As a rural MLA, Bill's caucus committee focus has been on natural resource issues, having participated on committees dealing with mining, forestry, agriculture and land use.

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, at the age of 42, a law degree from Queen’s University. Bill owned and operated fly-in wilderness 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 took the plunge into 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 is a passionate snowboarder who enjoys the outdoors by hunting, fishing and hiking in the Canadian Rockies.

MLA: Hon. Patrick Bell - Prince George-Mackenzie - Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation

2012-01-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father in Heaven, we are thanking You for MLA: Hon. Pat Bell and for installing him in the position of Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation. We appreciate his heart to see British Columbia and all of its citizens be all that they can be. God, in You we trust and we ask that You will bestow on Minister Bell innovative ideas for Jobs and for increased tourism in BC. That He will recognize Your hand in his ideas and be able to implement them for the benefit of the people and the Glory of God. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Pat Bell was appointed Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation on March 14, 2011. He was re-elected for a third term as MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie in 2009.

Pat has previously served as Minister of Forests, Mines and Lands, Minister of Forests and Range, Minister of Agriculture and Lands and as Minister of State for Mining.

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. Pat has also served on the Legislative Select Standing Committees on Education and Crown Corporations.

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

Committed to youth sport, Pat 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, Pat has lived in Prince George since 1988. He and his wife Brenda have three children.

MLA: Donna Barnett - Cariboo-Chilcotin

2012-01-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

We come to You our most gracious Lord and Savior to pray for MLA: Donna Barnett. This energetic talented women has many many, years of service to the community in which she resides and is now directing her focus to the greater good of both her vast northern riding and to all the people of British Columbia. We ask a special blessing upon her of good health, happiness and well being. May she sense that she is accomplishing much for the electorate. We pray especially that she shall let You, who are the Wisdom of All the Ages, guide her in every activity and decision she is involed in while in the legislature. In the most precious and Holy Name of Our Lord and Savior we offer up this prayer. Amen and Amen.

Donna Barnett was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Communities to the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development on September 26, 2011. She was 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 the Committee 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 & 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.

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

2012-01-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

We are grateful Lord for MLA: Hon. Bill Barisoff and his many years of unselfish dedication to the public good of the people of the Okanagan Valley in particular and also to the citizens of this great province of British Columbia which is doubly blessed by incredible beauty and vast resources. We pray for him and his family that they shall sense the uplifting power of the prayers that are being sent heavenward for them. May they realize that the very God of the Universe is vitally interested in their well being and wants to gift them with patience, clarity of thought and purity of action. As speaker of the Legislative Chamber MLA Barisoff is under intense pressure to rule carefully and impartially therefore we pray that he be endowed with the wisdom of Solomon as he oversees the ebb and flow debates in the house. In the mighty name of our Savior we pray. Amen

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.

MLA: Harry Bains - Surrey-Newton

2012-01-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

In Your good time, Lord You have raised up talented individuals to represent the people of British Columbia. MLA: Harry Bains is one of those very dedicated men who has given much time and effort to the sometimes thankless tasks to which he has committed himself on our behalf. We pray, therefore, that You will encourage him to redouble his efforts in this new year. We pray for good health and renewed strength for him, his good wife and children as they press forward together with wise insight and the dedication of a humble servant. In Jesus mighty name we pray. 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.

MLA: Robin Austin - Skeena

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord we are thankful for MLA: Robin Austin. We thank You for his commitment to his constituents and British Columbia. It says in Your word in Isaiah 41:30 "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint." May You give him not only renewed strength but also vigor, vision and purpose this year as he tackles the issues and projects that he is already involved in as well as those new ones that you have for him. We also pray for protection for all of his family and may all of his relationships be ones of encouragement. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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 and Chair of the caucus committee on Social Policy.

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.

MLA: Hon. George Abbott - Shuswap - Minister of Education

2012-01-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we thank You for the Minister of Education, MLA: Hon. George Abbott, and ask that You will lead him in ways that will preserve the greatest natural resource that our province and nation has, our children. Continue to guide him in overseeing the education of our children to be individuals of ethics, integrity with strong principles, morals, and character that will impact our nation and the world. Families and children are at the very center of Your heart and the strength of a city, province and nation and will help keep our nation a global leader. May 2012 bring him into prosperity in all areas of endeavour, in Jesus' name. Amen.

George Abbott is currently the Minister of Education. Previously, he served as Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. He was re-elected as MLA for the Shuswap on May 12, 2009. George is also a member of the Priorities and Planning Committee and the Cabinet Committee on Families First.

Prior to the 2009 election, he served as Minister of Health since June 16, 2005, 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.

MLA: John Yap - Richmond-Steveston

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we thank You for MLA: John Yap. We appreciate his commitment to his constituency of Richmond-Steveston and serving our province in the capacity of MLA. May Your face shine upon him with grace, favor and blessing. May he walk in wisdom and understanding as he walks into this new year ahead of him. Keep him in health and prosperity. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen

John Yap was first elected in the riding of Richmond-Steveston in the 2005 provincial election. He was re-elected on May 12, 2009.

MLA Yap currently serves as the Parliamentary Secretary for Clean Technology to the Minister of Energy and Mines.

Yap previously served as the Minister of State for Climate Action and as the chair of the Government Caucus. He was also a member of the Treasury Board, the Legislative Review Cabinet Committee, as well as the Select Standing Committees of Public Accounts Crown Corporations and Finance and Government Services. He has also served as a member of the Special Committee on Sustainable Aquaculture and was previously a member of the Finance and Government Services Committee.

MLA: Hon. Naomi Yamamoto - North Vancouver-Lonsdale - Minister of Advanced Education

2012-01-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father God, we are blessed in British Columbia with a province full of beauty, diversity and opportunity. We bring MLA: Hon. Minister Naomi Yamamoto before You today and thank You for her and the role she plays as Minister of Advanced Education. Give her wisdom and grant her favour as she works to increase the opportunities for British Columbians. Bless her with health and prosperity in the coming year. Keep her save as travels and renew her energy and her vision as she represents the province to the Pacific North West Economic Region. In Christ we pray. Amen.

Naomi Yamamoto was elected as MLA for North Vancouver-Lonsdale in the 2009 general provincial election and was appointed Minister of Advanced Education on March 14, 2011.

Prior to this, Minister Yamamoto was appointed Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations in June 2009. On October 25, 2010, she was appointed as Minister of State for Building Code Renewal.

Minister Yamamoto had been the president and owner of Tora Design Group in North Vancouver for 21 years. She also enjoyed working with the business community as the president and general manager of the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce.

She also served on the board of the North Shore Credit Union and the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority and was president of the Gordon and Marion Smith Foundation. As well, she represented the North Vancouver Chamber on the North Shore 2010 Spirit Committee and Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism Association Board.

In 1997, Minister Yamamoto served as chair of the BC Chamber of Commerce. She completed a six-year term on the board of Capilano College, with the last three years as chair. She also enjoyed six years as a director of the North Shore Neighbourhood House.

In 2005, Naomi was appointed as an inaugural member of the Premier’s Small Business Roundtable.

In her role as Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations, Naomi Yamamoto is also the Premier’s representative to the Pacific North West Economic Region.

MLA: John van Dongen - Abbotsford South

2012-01-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord we thank You for MLA: John van Dongen and bring him before you in prayer. Bless him with good health and cover him and his family with Your love and protection. Grant him wisdom and discernment as he works to serve the people of British Columbia. Bring him fresh vision and enthusiasm for the tasks before him in the coming year. Grant him favour with those that he works with and open his eyes to new possibilities and opportunities as the new year unfolds. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

John van Dongen was re-elected as MLA to serve the new riding of Abbotsford-South in the spring of 2009.

John was first elected in 1995 in a by-election to represent the riding of Abbotsford and was re-elected in 1996, 2001, and 2005.

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

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

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

He was Chair of the Building and Finance Committee of St. Joseph's Church in Mission. He is also a member of the Knights of Columbus. He is the father of two sons and has one granddaughter. him fresh vision and enthusiasm for the tasks before him in the coming year. Grant him favour with those that he works with and open his eyes to new possibilities and opportunities as the new year unfolds. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

John van Dongen was re-elected as MLA to serve the new riding of Abbotsford-South in the spring of 2009.

John was first elected in 1995 in a by-election to represent the riding of Abbotsford and was re-elected in 1996, 2001, and 2005.

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

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

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

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

MLA: Claire Trevena - North Island

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father, we bring MLA: Claire Trevena before You. Thank You for her commitment and service to the people in her constituency and the province of British Columbia. We are blessed to have someone with her experience and background working to make our province a better place to live. Be with her as she travels, keep her safe and help the time she spends in travel become opportunities for her to interact with and learn about the people that she serves. Help her to see with fresh eyes the needs of her community and the ways that she can best use her skills and knowledge to represent those communities in the legislature. Grant her wisdom Lord. Bless her with health and prosperity in the coming year. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

Claire Trevena was first elected in May 2005 and was re-elected on May 12, 2009.

Claire serves as opposition critic for Children and Family Development.

Claire is a former journalist, community activist and human rights worker.

In the early 1990s, Claire came to Canada as the BBC's Canadian correspondent.

Awarded the Canadian Civilian Peacekeeping Medal, she's worked on democratic development projects overseas and in Canada.

Claire was an active trade unionist in her professional life. Since moving to BC she has been involved in a number of community initiatives, including a weekly community kitchen on Quadra Island as well as various environmental initiatives.

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

Prior to the 2005 election, Claire ran a small communications business on Quadra Island with her husband, Mike McIvor.

MLA: Jane Thornthwaite - North Vancouver-Seymour

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

We thank You, Lord, for MLA: Jane Thornthwaite and her many years of service to the communities on the North Shore and now to the entire province. We pray for wisdom, strength, and understanding as she faces the challenges that are before us in this new year. We ask for a blessing upon her and her family as she juggles being both a mother and an MLA. May she experience peace and be strengthened, on this day especially, as we pray for her. Amen.

Jane Thornthwaite was elected MLA for North Vancouver-Seymour in the 2009 general provincial election. She is a member of the Cabinet Committee on Families First.

She previously served on the Select Standing Committees on Children and Youth, Education and Finance and Government Services.

Since 2005, Jane was a School Trustee for the North Vancouver Board of Education and topped the polls in both the 2005 and 2008 municipal elections. She was elected Chair of the North Vancouver Board of Education in December 2008 and resigned from the Board June 2009 after being elected to the Legislature.

Previously, Jane was a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (B.Sc., B.H.E.) with a 22-year career in health care. Jane’s work experience includes positions in hospital dietetics and community health, an instructor for a third year required Nutrition course at UBC, a Corporate Nutritionist for an international Health Food Chain and a National Sales Representative for an international pharmaceutical firm.

Her writing has been published in a wide variety of publications and she has been a guest presenter and lecturer at numerous colleges and universities.

As a former self-employed health consultant, Jane has experience operating a small business and supporting a family as a mother of three kids.

Jane has an extensive volunteer career on the North Shore and has lived in North Vancouver for over 19 years.

MLA: Diane Thorne - Coquitlam-Maillardville

2012-01-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, we thank You for MLA: Diane Thorne and her willingness to serve the people of our province. We ask for Your blessings upon her work and her family. May she feel encouraged as she works to improve the educational system in British Columbia. We also pray for continued health and strength for her in this new year. Give her wisdom and understanding as she serves the people in her constituency. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Diane Thorne was re-elected as the MLA for Coquitlam-Maillardville on May 12, 2009. She was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Diane serves as deputy opposition critic for Education.

Diane served on Coquitlam council from 1996 to 2005, bringing considerable experience in business and social services to the political arena. Diane and her husband Neil have owned and operated several successful small businesses.

Diane has been extensively involved in a wide cross-section of women's issues over the past 35 years. She served on the board of directors of the B.C./Yukon Women's Centres Association and spent several years as the province's representative on the National Action Committee on the Status of Women.

In 1993, Diane received the BC Distinguished Service to Families Award and in 1992, the Canada 125 medal. She was a founding member of the PoCoMo Youth Services Society, the Family Life Educators of BC and the Fraser Burrard Restorative Justice Society. Diane studied liberal arts at several community colleges and Simon Fraser University. Diane and Neil live locally and have two adult sons, Jay and Lee.

MLA: Hon. Steve Thomson - Kelowna-Mission - Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we thank You for Minister Hon. Steve Thomson and his commitment to our great province. We ask that You would bless him as he works for the betterment of all the people in British Columbia. Our prayer is that You would give him great wisdom as he leads us in stewardship of our land and its resources. Bless his family as they make the sacrifices that come with having a husband, father and grandfather in such a leadership position. Amen.

Steve Thomson is currently the Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. He previously served as Minister of Natural Resource Operations, Minister of Energy, Minister of Agriculture of Lands, and was elected to represent the riding of Kelowna-Mission on May 12, 2009.

Born and raised in Kelowna, Steve comes from a pioneer family who continues to operate the original family farm established in 1896.

Steve is the former executive director of the BC Agriculture Council and has developed his career and experience working on behalf of British Columbia farmers and ranchers. He has served as General Manager of the BC Fruit Growers Association and the BC Milk Producers Association.

He has been selected for many leadership roles and advisory positions dedicated to the continuous improvement of our province. Steve brings to his role of MLA for Kelowna Mission extensive leadership expertise, experience in economic development and a clear understanding of how to get things done in government. He has served the community and province as president of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce and chair of the BC Chamber of Commerce and has represented those organizations and others on provincial government task forces focused on red tape reduction and small business development. He has also served as a director of the Kelowna Museum, the Okanagan Innovation Fund and the BC BioEnergy Network.

He has a great love of sports and had a long career in rugby including the opportunity to play for the Canadian National Rugby Team. Current interests include golf, gardening and being an ardent rugby fan.

Steve is a husband, father and grandfather. He is married to Brenda and has three children and five grandchildren.

MLA: Ralph Sultan - West Vancouver-Capilano

2011-12-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we thank You for MLA: Ralph Sultan. We thank You for the knowledge and vast experience that he brings to the Legislature. We are also grateful for his many years service to the people of British Columbia. We pray that You would continue to guide and direct him as he moves forward into the new year. May he walk in rich wisdom, understanding and revelation. May he and his family also enjoy good health. In Jesus`name we pray.

Ralph Sultan was elected to the BC Legislature to represent the riding of West Vancouver-Capilano in 2001, 2005 and 2009. He has served on the Government Caucus Committee for the Economy and the Legislature's Public Accounts Committee, and the Caucus Liaison for the Ministry of Finance. Ralph previously served as the Chair for the Government Caucus Committee for the Economy and the B.C. Mining Task Force.

Ralph is an economist, educator and businessperson who also maintains registration as a professional engineer (P.Eng.). Prior to attending university, he worked as a tree faller, as a lineman on the construction of the Kemano-Kitimat transmission line, as surveyor's helper on the Lillooet and Bridge River hydroelectric projects, and was an International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers permit member.

Graduating from UBC in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Ralph worked as a technical sales representative for a major international company before earning MBA, MA, and Ph.D. (Economics) degrees from Harvard University. He completed those degrees in 1965. He then served as Assistant and Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Business Administration, Harvard University, for nine years. He was then employed by The Royal Bank of Canada for almost ten years as Chief Economist; then Senior Vice President, Marketing in Montreal, and subsequently Senior Vice President, Global Energy and Minerals Group in Calgary. He was retained by the J. W. McConnell Foundation, Canada's largest philanthropic fund, as investment advisor.

In 1974 and 1975 Harvard University Press published his two-volume study of price fixing in the electrical industry.

Between 1980 and 2000, Ralph held senior officer and director positions in a variety of financial, mining, forestry and technology sector companies, and owned and operated his own investment company. In the mining sector, he was Executive Vice President of Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting Company, a subsidiary of Anglo American Corporation, and was Chair of Curragh Resources in the Yukon, and held other executive positions.

In the 1990's, after returning home to British Columbia , Ralph served as President of a joint venture with a major American corporation, engaged in the development of a fibreboard mill in Williams Lake.

Ralph was the Eagle Harbour Yacht Club executive secretary and was an Augustana Lutheran Church Councilor. He was Chair of the Financial Research Foundation (1984-1985), Chair, Queen's University Business School Advisory Committee (1981-84), Economic Council of Canada member (1979-83), and Harvard Business School fundraiser (1968-1994). Ralph arranged for the endowment of a UBC professorship in mining engineering (1990) and served on Harvard's Graduate School Arts & Science Advisory Committee (1993-1996). Ralph has received academic awards, including graduation from the Harvard Business School with High Distinction, UBC's Cayley Prize, the Engineering Institute of Canada Prize, Harvard's designation as Baker Scholar and Ford Foundation designation as Fellow. Ralph is a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia.

Born in 1933, Ralph was raised in a family of ten in the Mt. Pleasant District of East Vancouver. He has lived on Vancouver's North Shore since returning to B.C. His wife of 43 years, Shirley, a surgical nurse and rehabilitation clinic entrepreneur, died suddenly in 1999. He has four children and four grandchildren. He enjoys boating, skiing and gardening.

MLA: Dr. Moira Stilwell - Vancouver-Langara

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we thank You for Moira Stillwell. She is one that truly loves people. We ask Father that You would richly bless her and her family as she has blessed many others. May You pour out on her a spirit of wisdom and revelation that only comes from heaven. We thank you that you have called her and strategically placed her as an MLA for just such a time as this. Provide her with times of rest and relaxation in the midst of her busy schedule. Amen.

Moira Stilwell was elected MLA for Vancouver-Langara in the 2009 provincial general election. She was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Industry, Research and Innovation to the Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation on March 14, 2011. She also serves as Vice Chair of the Cabinet Committee on Jobs and Economic Growth.

She previously served as Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development from June, 2009 to October, 2010.

Dr. Moira Stilwell is a radiologist and nuclear medicine physician who has been working at BC Women’s Hospital for nearly a decade.

Prior to being elected, Moira was Head of Nuclear Medicine at St. Paul’s Hospital, Surrey Memorial Hospital, Abbottsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Clinic. She was also the Co-Chair of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation 2020 Task Force. She previously worked at BC Women’s Hospital where she was Co-medical director of the Breast Health Program and staff radiologist. She was a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Radiology in the Faculty of Medicine at University of British Columbia.

She is the past Chair of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation/BC Yukon Chapter, has served on the Board of the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Alliance, as well as on the BC Women’s Hospital Foundation Board.

In addition to her active involvement in promoting a healthy community, both as a volunteer and physician, Moira has been actively involved in her children’s schools and local community.

Moira has three grown children and currently lives in Vancouver with her husband Dr. Sam Lichtenstein.

MLA: Ben Stewart - Westside-Kelowna

2011-12-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we thank You for MLA: Ben Stewart and pray that You will give him supernatural wisdom and revelation as he makes decisions for his constituents and British Columbia. We also pray that You would open many doors for him that would lead to new, fresh places and ideas for making our province an even better place than it already is. May Your favor, blessing and protection surround both him and his family during the coming new year. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Ben Stewart is the MLA for Westside-Kelowna and serves on the Legislative Review Committee, as well as the Priorities and Planning Committee.

Ben previously served as the Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Community and Rural Development, Minister of Citizens' Services, and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism and the Public Affairs Bureau. He was elected MLA for Westside-Kelowna on May 12, 2009.

An entrepreneur, Ben founded and built Quails’ Gate into one of Canada’s leading estate wineries.

Ben has 30 years of extensive experience serving the community and is a founding director of a Venture Capital Fund for local business development. He was on the board of the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation and has been active in the fundraising and establishment of the Brookhaven Extended Care Facility Campaign, Southern Interior Cancer Centre Campaign, and the Rotary Centre for the Arts.

Ben was chair of the BC Grape Marketing Board where they successfully negotiated with provincial and federal governments on agricultural stabilization. Additionally, he was chairman of the Regional Transportation Advisory Committee for the Thompson Okanagan, as well as a member of the Presidents Community Advisory Council at UBC Okanagan.

His other experience includes having served as the past chair of VQA Canada, where they successfully resolved a number of significant international issues such as trademark protection, international mutual recognition agreements including national wine and health standards. As vice-chair of the Canadian Vintners Association, he oversaw the establishment of new national wine association offices in Ottawa and the hiring of their first CEO.

Ben has been recognized as Business Leader of the Year in Kelowna in 1998, received the Westbank Chamber of Commerce President’s Award in 2006, and recognized as Family Business of the Year by Grant Thornton in 2007. He also received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for Community Service. He was a Kinsman, a scout leader and a member of the Canadian Ski Patrol.

Ben lives in Westside with Ruth his wife of 30 years and has three grown children.

MLA: John Slater - Boundary-Similkameen

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we bless MLA :John Slater, and ask that You strengthened him and give him an even clearer vision for his constituency. We ask that when faced with challenges that You would give him quick understanding and wisdom that leads to strategies that change communities for the betterment of all. Protect him and all family members with health, happiness and joy during the entire upcoming new year. Amen.

John Slater is the MLA for Boundary-Similkameen and serves on the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement.

John previously served as Parliamentary Secretary for Water Supply and Allocation to the Minister of Environment. He has also served on the Environment and Land Use Committee, and the Select Standing Committees on Aboriginal Affairs, on Legislative Initiatives, and the committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders, and Private Bills.

He also owns Desert Edge Nursery, a retail/wholesale operation selling vegetable and nursery products.

John is a well-known proactive community leader in the South Okanagan having served Osoyoos for twelve years on city council and then an additional six years as Mayor.

For nearly 30 years in Osoyoos, John has been actively involved in the community. For more than 20 years he coached youth basketball, soccer, hockey and baseball. He was a Kinsman as well as serving as Director for the Osoyoos & District Recreation Commission, the Osoyoos Child & Youth Committee, the Osoyoos Chamber of Commerce, the Okanagan Regional Library, the Interior Vegetable Marketing Agency & Greenhouse Growers Association, Chair of the Okanagan Basin Water Board and was a Director of the BC Vegetable Marketing Commission.

Born and raised in Kelowna, John studied at the University of Victoria but soon returned to the Okanagan moving to Osoyoos in 1980. Over the years, he has owned and operated tourism and service industry businesses. He established a nursery and greenhouse business specializing in vegetable production where he became very involved in agricultural issues and organizations.

MLA: Shane Simpson - Vancouver-Hastings

2011-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we pray for wisdom for MLA: Shane Simpson as he brings to light the needs of those that live with poverty, homelessness and are vulnerable. We also ask Father that You would reveal to him creative solutions that would help solve some of the struggles in these areas. Please also bring those along side of him that can provide some key insights and understanding of these issues to help improve the quality of life. May You uncover the things that are hidden and that cause hinderance to the solutions that are needed. May he experience greater joy in relationships this holiday season than ever before. Amen.

Shane Simpson was re-elected as the MLA for Vancouver-Hastings on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Shane serves as Official Opposition Caucus Chair and critic for Social Development and Housing.

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

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

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

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

MLA: Bob Simpson - Cariboo North

2011-12-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we thank You for MLA: Bob Simpson's passion to see that British Columbia has the best form of government possible and his untiring efforts in this regard. We realize that he has been very busy the past few months in the legislative assembly and with projects. We pray that you would give him Your supernatural rest as he goes about his day. During this holiday season we also pray that he has very special moments with his family and friends and there is much joy and laughter. May 2012 be a year of fulfillment for him in all areas of endeavour. In Jesus' name, we pray.

Bob Simpson was re-elected as the MLA for Cariboo North on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005. He began sitting as an Independent MLA in December of 2010.

While in Opposition, Bob was the critic for Forestry and for Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. As an Independent, Bob works towards Electoral and Democratic reform, as well as working to solve issues important to his constituents and to British Columbians with both the Government and Opposition in a non-partisan matter.

A former small business owner and entrepreneur, Bob was most recently Corporate Manager, Organizational Effectiveness and Leadership Development for a major forest products company.

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

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

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

MLA: Nicholas Simons - Powell River-Sunshine Coast

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, You say in Your Word that we are to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. We Thank You that You have given us MLA: Nicholas Simons whose background in the areas of health, justice, social services and child welfare has exemplified the living out of this directive. Continue to give him new wisdom, direction, insights and contacts in order to be able to fulfill his duties as opposition critic for community living and deputy critic for social development and housing. May he find new comfort and joy in the midst of his busy schedule not only during the Christmas season but also in the new year. In Jesus's name, we pray. Amen.

Nicholas Simons was first elected as MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast on May 17, 2005.

Nicholas has spent over fifteen years working in the areas of health, justice, social services and child welfare.

Nicholas serves as opposition critic for community living and deputy critic for social development and housing.

Prior to his employment with the Sechelt Nation, he worked as a child-protection social worker for the Ministry for Children and Family Development, as a Financial Assistance Worker, and as the Crime Prevention Coordinator for the Northwest Territories. He has been a consultant for the Federal, Northwest Territories, and First Nations governments in areas including law reform, child welfare, and legal.

He has lectured in Criminology at Simon Fraser University (SFU), in which he has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Ottawa (1986) and a Master's degree from SFU (1993). He has taught child-protection social work to social workers working in First Nations communities.

Nicholas has been active in the arts community both as a cello teacher and performer. He has performed and
recorded with local, national and international artists and is the former President of the Sunshine Coast Arts Council.

MLA: Michael Sather - Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows

2011-12-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father God, we ask that Your favor, joy and protection would be over MLA: Michael Sather and his family as he carries out his duties. We are grateful and thankful for all the areas of expertise that he brings to the table as an MLA. Please lead and guide him during the upcoming year in finding new openings and opportunities in which to use his many skills in serving the needs of this province. May You also provide him with a deep realization of the importance of his role by a renewal of encouragement and support from his family, staff, constituents, fellow MLA's and friends during this next season of his life. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Michael Sather was re-elected as the MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Michael serves as deputy opposition critic for Environment.

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

He moved to British Columbia in 1974 and pursued a career studying wildlife for the next ten years. In 1985 he became a wilderness guide and set up a small business as owner/operator of Hummingbird Nature Tours in Maple Ridge.
Michael also served as the Constituency Assistant to former NDP MLA Bill Hartley.

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

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

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

MLA: John Rustad - Nechako Lakes

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, thank You for our awesome province and all those who govern it. We ask a special blessing on MLA: John Rustad and his committment to serve the people of British Columbia, especially those in the northern part. We ask that You would order his steps and and give him wisdom, discernment and a quick understanding in all of those areas where he has influence in order that he may continue improving the quality of life for all those individuals and resources effected. Refresh and renew him in every way during this next period and may he find new joy in all his relationships with family and friends. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

John Rustad was re-elected to represent the newly redistributed riding of Nechako Lakes on May 12, 2009, and was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Silviculture to the Minister of Forests and Range on June 10, 2009. He was previously elected as MLA for the riding of Prince George-Omineca in the 2005 provincial election.

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

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

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

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

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

MLA: Doug Routley - Nanaimo-North Cowichan

2011-12-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

We lift up MLA: Doug Routley to You today Lord and thank You for appointing him to this position. We pray that Your hand would guide his life and bless his work. Make him aware of Your presence and love. Help him to make decisions with understanding, wisdom and compassion. May he nurture positive changes within his sphere of influence. Amen.

We lift up MLA: Doug Routley to You today Lord and thank You for appointing him to this position. We pray that Your hand would guide his life and bless his work. Make him aware of Your presence and love. Help him to make decisions with understanding, wisdom and compassion. May he nurture positive changes within his sphere of influence. Amen.

Doug Routley was elected as the MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan on May 12, 2009. He served as MLA for Cowichan-Ladysmith from May 17, 2005 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.

Doug serves as opposition critic for Citizens’ Services and open government.

Doug was born May 9, 1961 in New Westminster, BC and grew up in Duncan.

He comes from a family of educators and attended the public schools of the Cowichan Valley and attended Camosun College before traveling to Japan, where he lived and worked for one year.

Doug has experience in logging, as a sawmill worker, treeplanter and in construction. He also has been a business owner and operator, school custodian and School Trustee.

While in Japan, Doug taught English and studied Sumea, traditional Japanese ink painting. He was a bicycle racer and while training in Japan, met a bicycle manufacturer. After his return to Canada, Doug established a bicycle retail and wholesale company which had dealers throughout Canada and the USA.

Doug has two daughters, Sasha, 21 and Madeline, 13.

MLA: Bill Routley - Cowichan Valley

2011-12-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, we thank You for MLA: Bill Routley’s willingness to serve his constituency. We pray that You will establish his thoughts and plans to benefit the needs in his constituency. Open the necessary doors to meet these needs so that people’s lives are impacted for good. Enrich the lives of all those around him, his family, constituents and associates. May he know God’s peace and wisdom in his work and leisure. Amen.

Bill Routley was elected MLA for Cowichan Valley on May 12, 2009.

Bill serves as deputy opposition critic for Forests and Range.

Bill began his career in the Forest industry working at the Youbou Sawmill where he became active first as the Safety Chairman, and then as Plant Chairman. He was elected the President of IWA Local 1-80; now USW-Steelworkers Local 1-1937.

Bill served as a Pension Trustee on the IWA-Forest Industry Pension Plan. He was a member of the IWA-Forest Industry Pension Audit Committee, and was a Trustee on the IWA-Forest Industry Health and Welfare Benefit Plan. Bill's service to the community includes five years as a School Trustee in Lake Cowichan (1980 -1985).

Bill and his wife Charmaine enjoy the company of their two grown children, son Noah and daughter Alisha who have provided the gift of five wonderful grandchildren; ages four to nine years. While Bill and Charmaine currently reside in Duncan, they started their family in Youbou and then lived at Marble Bay on Lake Cowichan for many years. Bill and Charmaine were very active in Lake Cowichan with their involvement in Boy Scouts(Beavers) and Girl Guides.

Bill and Charmaine owned a home decorating business "Decorating Den" for many years.

MLA: Linda Reid - Richmond East

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the life and work of MLA: Linda Reid. Thank You for the gifts and talents you gave her which she ably uses to serve the people of British Columbia. Bless her and her family through this season. Give her rest and relaxation and a focus on the things that are of real value. Let her know that she is valued and appreciated. Renew her mind and refresh her ideas according to your purposes. May she approach her work with a renewed sense of commitment to excellence as she leads by serving her constituents and colleagues. Continue to bless her with strength, patience and Your peace. Amen

Linda Reid is the Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and has served since June, 2009. Previously, she was Minister of State for Childcare from June, 2005 to June, 2009 and the Minister of State for Early Childhood Development from June, 2001 to June, 2005. She was first elected in 1991 to represent the riding of Richmond East and was re-elected in 1996, 2001, 2005 and 2009.

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

She has served on Treasury Board, and on the Select Standing Committee to Appoint a Child, Youth and Family Advocate, the Select Standing Committee to Appoint a Police Complaints Commissioner, the Select Standing Committee on Transportation, Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations.

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

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

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

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

MLA: Bruce Ralston - Surrey-Whalley

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dearest Heavenly Father, by Your design, Bruce Ralston, MLA for Surrey-Whalley and Opposition Critic for Finance and Public Accounts, has come into service in our provincial government for such a time as this. Thank You for the plans You purpose to accomplish through Bruce. May You guide every decision that he will make and may he greatly effect those around him as he follows Your leading in all that he does. May he be encouraged as He sees what You will bring about as he listens to You. We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Bruce Ralston was re-elected as the MLA for Surrey - Whalley on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Bruce serves as opposition critic for Finance and Public Accounts.

Bruce is currently the chair of the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts. He has also been a member of the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services since 2006.

Bruce is a lawyer in Surrey, where he has operated his own law firm for 18 years.

From 1995 to 2006, Bruce was elected to four consecutive terms as a member of the VanCity Savings Credit Union board of directors. He served as the chair of the board from 2001 to 2003. In 2003 BC Business magazine recognized Bruce as one of BC’s leading five board chairs. From 2003 until 2005, Bruce acted as the chair of the board of VanCity Enterprises, a VanCity subsidiary with a mandate to provide innovative housing solutions throughout the Lower Mainland.

Bruce also served on the Surrey City Council from 1988 to 1993, where he promoted planned development for healthy neighbourhoods for Surrey families. He is a former board member of Surrey Memorial Hospital and the Surrey Public Library.

A former president of the BC NDP, Bruce was born in Victoria and grew up in Vancouver. He has degrees in history and law from the University of British Columbia and a degree in history from the University of Cambridge in England.

Bruce is married to Miriam Sobrino. They have three children, 20, 18 and 15, who grew up in Whalley and attended public schools in Surrey and New Westminster. The elder two attend Canadian universities, while the youngest is entering Grade 10. The family is active in their community through a number of community and sports organizations.

MLA: Lana Popham - Saanich South

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dearest Heavenly Father, may Your will be accomplished through Lana Popham, MLA for Sannich South and Opposition Critic for the Ministry of Agriculture, as she serves her constituency and the people of British Columbia in her current posting. Use the knowledge she has to affect those around her and the decisions that have to be made in order to accomplish all that You purpose. May she feel supported by her colleagues at work and her family at home and be encouraged to do all she must do to the best of her ability. Refresh her spirit and let anxiousness be far from her. We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Lana Popham was elected as a Member of the British Columbia Legislative Assembly for the Constituency of Saanich South on May 12, 2009.

She is also the New Democratic Opposition Critic for the Ministry of Agriculture.

Lana was raised on Quadra Island and has an undergraduate degree from the University of British Columbia.

Lana has an extensive track record as a community leader, advocate and environmental activist. For example, her recent contributions include being a:

Member of Saanich's Planning, Transportation and Economic Development Committee,
President the Vancouver Island Grape Growers Association,
Chair of the Certification Committee for the Islands Organic Producers Association,
Commissioner on the Peninsula Agricultural Commission, and a
Voting Member of the Agri-Food Initiative Advisory Committee.

In late 2007, Lana launched a campaign called “Think Outside the Bag” to reduce the use of disposable bags. While initially dismissed by cynics, in less than two years this campaign has helped to dramatically change how consumers use plastic bags

Lana has lived in Saanich South since 1996. She is married to Jon Popham, a fire-fighter, and has one young son. The family owns and operates Barking Dog Vineyard, the first certified organic vineyard on Vancouver Island.

MLA: Hon. Mary Polak - Langley - Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

2011-12-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You for the Honourable Mary Polak the MLA for Langley and the Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, and ask that You guide her in the way she should go. We pray that You will also give her all the wisdom she needs to accomplish all that You set before her to accomplish. May she be energized and enthusiastic as she fulfills her daily duties and may she sense Your leading in all the decisions she must make. Bless her with times of true rest and seasons of refreshing. We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Mary Polak was appointed Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation on March 14, 2011. She was re-elected to the B.C. Legislature in 2009, having represented the constituents of Langley since 2005.

Prior to her new Cabinet post, Mary served as the Minister of Children and Family Development and Minister Responsible for Child Care, Minister of Healthy Living and Sport and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for the Conversation on Health.

Mary previously sat on the Cabinet Committee on New Relationship Coordination and the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development as well as on the Government Caucus Committee for Natural Resources and the Economy, the Select Standing Committees for Children and Youth, Education and Public Accounts, the Cabinet Committee on Agenda Development and the Special Committee to Review the Personal Information Protection Act.

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

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

Mary lives happily in the Willoughby area of Langley.

MLA: Pat Pimm - Peace River North

2011-12-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord Jesus, thank You for MLA:Pat Pimm and his willingness to serve the people of British Columbia and his constituency of Peace River North as a member of the legislative assembly.You say in Your Word in Psalm 55:22 that if we give our cares to You Lord You will take care of us and never let a good man down. May You be extra close to him this next season of his life so that he may he accomplish all that You have for him. May he also find times this holiday season for real joyous and relaxed times with his family and friends. Keep both he and his family in good health. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Pat Pimm was elected MLA for Peace River North in the 2009 provincial election.

Pat has served as the Chair of the Northern Caucus and currently sits on two Select Standing Committees: Aboriginal Affairs and Finance and Government Services. Pat has served as a member of Treasury Board.

A long-time resident of the Peace River region, Pat served twelve years as councillor for the City of Fort St. John from 1993-2005. For six years, he was chair of city hall’s Finance Committee, responsible for overseeing the municipality’s budget process.

With 25 years experience in the oil and gas industry, he was co-chair of the BC Oil and Gas Conference in 2002 and 2005, bringing together industry stakeholders to identify further strategies and opportunities for economic development in British Columbia’s northeast region. He has also served on a variety of other local community boards and committees.

Pat possesses an extensive background in the construction industry. He is president of Alpha Controls Ltd, a company that provides construction, maintenance, and electrician services for numerous projects. He is also a director and vice-president of the North Peace Construction Association.

Pat was a director of the British Columbia Golf Association and past president of the Lake Point Golf and Country Club. He is a long-time youth sports volunteer, having coached golf, hockey, and minor league fastball. He enjoys travel, curling, and playing hockey. Pat is married to Jody and the father of two daughters and two sons.

MLA: Barry Penner, Q.C. - Chilliwack-Hope

2011-12-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, we are thankful for MLA: Barry Penner, Q.C and his many years of faithful service to the citizens of British Columbia. We thank You for leading and guiding him in the decisions he has made. We pray that You fill him with renewed strength, courage and vision for our province for the days and years ahead as he helps create an exciting future for our province. May he continue being encouraged by his constituents, staff and family. In all his endeavours may he have Your peace which passes all understanding. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Barry Penner was re-elected to the riding of Chilliwack-Hope in May 2009. He previously served as Attorney General.

He was first elected to represent Chilliwack in 1996, and was re-elected in the renamed riding of Chilliwack-Kent in 2001 and 2005.

Mr. Penner was appointed Minister of Environment in June, 2005 and fulfilled this role until October, 2010. He was the longest serving Environment Minister in BC history, and by late 2009 was the longest serving Environment Minister in Canada.

Mr. Penner was appointed Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation in October 2010, serving in this role until mid-March, 2011.

Barry was raised in Chilliwack. He studied political science and economics at Simon Fraser University to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree. He later earned his law degree from the University of Victoria. A former park ranger and sawmill worker, Barry also worked as a B.C. Legislative intern in Victoria. In 1991, he worked for an International law firm in Bangkok, Thailand and then later practiced law in Chilliwack until his election in 1996.
Barry was appointed by Premier Campbell as the co-chair of B.C.’s Alternative Energy and Power Technology Task Force in April 2005. He is keenly interested in renewable energy and conservation technologies.

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

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

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

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

MLA: Hon. Don McRae - Comox Valley

2011-12-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thank You for MLA: Hon. Don McRae and his willingness to serve his constituency. May he find time to relax and enjoy the holiday season and may he also find his working times effective and productive too. Lord, give him a sense of balance in his work and in his leisure time; we pray. Bless his family and those near him and thank You for his commitment to this province. In Jesus' name we pray these things, Amen.

Don McRae was elected on May 12, 2009 as MLA for the riding of Comox Valley. On March 14, 2011 he was named Minister of Agriculture.

Don has served as Convener of the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and was a member of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth, the Select Standing Committee on Health and the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services.

Don was born and raised in the Comox Valley. For the past 14 years he has taught at GP Vanier Secondary School. Aside from teaching Social Studies, Military History, and Psychology, he has also served as a rugby coach, athletic director, department chair, and Staff Leadership Committee Chair.

Don has served as a Courtenay City Councillor for the past seven years. During his time on council, he has served as a municipal director for both the Comox Strathcona Regional District and the newly restructured Comox Valley Regional District. He has also been a member of the Comox Strathcona Hospital Board, vice-chair of the Comox Valley Sewer and Water Committees and numerous community organizations and boards. In 2008, he was also appointed by Premier Campbell to the Citizen’s Conservation Council.

He is an avid jogger and enjoys hiking and fly fishing. Don has been married to his wife Deanne for 14 years and they have two daughters, Gracie and Chloe.

MLA: Hon. Mary McNeil - Vancouver-False Creek

2011-12-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

God, We lift up MLA: Hon. Mary McNeil to You and ask for Your blessing to rest on her in this upcoming season. May she find a time where she can enjoy her family and friends and be refreshed from all of her responsibilities. Thank You for her dedication to her community and everything she has invested into people's lives. We also pray that You will be especially close to her this season. In Your Name we pray. Amen!

Minister Mary McNeil was appointed Minister for Children and Family Development on March 14, 2011. Before that, she served as Minister of Citizen Services from June 11, 2010 to March 14, 2011. She previously served as
Minister of State for The Olympics and Actnow BC.

Minister McNeil was elected MLA for Vancouver-False Creek in the 2009 general provincial election.

Most recently, Mary served as president and CEO of the BC Cancer Foundation for eight years. She has served in key roles for international economic events including the G7 meetings in Halifax and Toronto, APEC in Vancouver and the XI international conference on AIDS. Mary has also served on the Vancouver Police Board for four years.

Mary was born and educated in Vancouver and has lived in Yaletown for 11 years with her husband of 38 years, Rod. She has raised four daughters and currently has eleven grandchildren.

MLA: Joan McIntyre - West Vancouver-Sea to Sky

2011-12-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we lift up MLA: Joan McIntyre to You and thank You for her service and time that she invests into so many people. Bring people around her to encourage her and let her know that she is a valuable part of her community. Please keep her safe in all her travels this season. Thank you for her family also and bless them. May they experience Your Peace and Love this season in a fresh way. Bless Joan in all she sets her hands to do. We pray in Jesus' Name; Amen.

Joan McIntyre was first elected in the riding of West Vancouver-Garibaldi in the 2005 provincial general election and re-elected in the riding of West Vancouver-Sea to Sky in 2009.

She currently serves on the Cabinet Committee for Families First. Prior to that, she served on the Agenda and Priorities Cabinet Committee, the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth (which she chaired), and the Select Standing Committees on Crown Corporations and Public Accounts, respectively, the latter of which she previously deputy-chaired. She served as Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations from June 2008 to June 2009.

In 1980, Joan co-founded the well-known BC polling firm of McIntyre & Mustel Research Associates Ltd. She sold her interest in 1996 to work independently concentrating more on the qualitative side of the research business and she worked in this field until 2005 when first elected.

An avid skier and sailor, Joan takes full advantage of living in one of the healthiest and active ridings in Canada.

MLA: Norm Macdonald - Columbia River-Revelstoke

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Our gracious Heavenly Father, we thank You this morning for MLA: Norm Macdonald and appreciate a man of his calibre as he serves the people of his riding with integrity and diligence. We pray You will bless him with the abundance of Your grace as he serves as Opposition critic for Forests and Range and reward him with honour and favour for his involvement to protect our natural resources in this province. We pray You will refresh and uplift his spirit today, Dear Father. May you keep him and his family in good health and give them happy quality time with one another. In Jesus Name. Amen

Norm Macdonald was re-elected as the MLA for Columbia River-Revelstoke on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Norm serves as opposition critic for Forests and Range.

Recently the principal of Nicholson Elementary School, Norm has taught for more than 15 years in the Columbia Valley.

He has a further six years experience teaching in Africa.

Norm served as a Councillor and was then elected Mayor of Golden in 1996.

Norm Macdonald lives in Golden with his wife Karen and two teenage daughters.

MLA: Hon. Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid - Vancouver-Fairview

2011-11-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Our prayers go out to MLA: Hon. Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid today for strength and wisdom in the handling of her new portfolio as Minister of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government. May she draw on Your resources and know Your guidance and direction is there for her daily. In her busiest of days, grant her Your peace that passes all understanding. We pray she will be encouraged as she tackles the hard issues always knowing she is covered by prayer. Dear Father, bless her and her household with good health and happiness and with safety in her travels always. In Jesus Name, Amen

Margaret was elected MLA for Vancouver-Fairview in the 2009 general provincial election. She was appointed Minister of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government on September 26, 2011. She also serves as Chair on the Cabinet Committee for Open Government and Engagement.

Margaret was appointed Minister of Tourism, Trade and Investment and Minister responsible for Intergovernmental Relations on October 25, 2010. She previously served as Minister of Education and Minister Responsible for Early Learning and Literacy from June, 2009 to October, 2010.

Margaret has been a family physician for 23 years. She served on the board of the BC Medical Association for 12 years and was president in 2006-2007. The BCMA is a voluntary association of 11,000 members comprised of British Columbia's physicians, medical residents, and medical students. During her time with the BCMA, Margaret met with key leaders from government and other organizations.

Margaret experienced the health care system as a patient after an early diagnosis of breast cancer in 2007. She received treatment and has fully recovered.

Originally from Saskatchewan, Margaret and her husband Robert moved to Rossland, BC in 1989. Since the mid-1990s, both Robert’s and Margaret’s work brought them more frequently to Vancouver, where ultimately they decided to settle. Margaret enjoys golf, bridge, playing piano, kayaking and treasures the time she spends with family and friends.

MLA: Norm Letnick - Kelowna-Lake Country

2011-11-29T00:00:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father, our prayers go out to MLA: Norm Letnick .We pray blessings and encouragement for him as he continues to serve the constituents of Kelowna-Lake Country with excellence. His keen perception and wisdom is evident as he contends to bring about good solutions for the changes needed for that area. May he be aware of Your Presence daily as You watch over and keep him and his family in the palm of Your hand giving them safety and good health. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen.

Norm was elected as MLA for Kelowna-Lake Country on May 12, 2009 in the provincial general election.

Norm is the Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Health and serves on the Legislative Review Committee. Previously, he was on the Select Standing Committees on Public Accounts, as well as Finance and Government Services. He is also the President, Francophone Parliamentary Assembly, B.C. Section.

His previous community involvement includes serving on Kelowna City Council from 2005-2008, sitting on the council of St. Charles Garnier Parish, president of the Kelowna Gyro Club, and Rotary Club past president.

As a City Councilor, Norm served on the Housing Committee; the Downtown Entertainment District Task Force; the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Task Forces; as chair of the city’s Affordable and Special Needs Housing Task Force; and served on the central Okanagan on the province’s single business license implementation committee. Prior to being elected to Kelowna City Council Norm served on both the City of Kelowna’s Entertainment District Task Force and Roads Task Force.

Before moving to Kelowna, Norm lived in Banff and owned two H&R Block franchises, a Motorola dealership, and a computer store. He served on the Banff Tourism Bureau, as president of the Banff Rotary Club, secretary/treasurer of the Banff Shine Club, and was chairman of both the Banff Hospital Board and Municipal Planning Commission. Norm also served the Banff community as a city councilor, first elected in 1992 and re-elected in 1995. He was also president of the Banff Housing Corporation developing over $20 million in affordable housing.

Before being elected as MLA, Norm was a tenured Associate Professor in the business program at Okanagan University College. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with a Rhodes Scholarship Nomination from the University of Calgary, a Master of Business Administration degree from Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh, and is currently working toward a Ph.D. in health economics at UBC Okanagan. His thesis focus is on the effectiveness of Divisions of Family Practice.

Norm was the 2009 recipient of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Regional Community Champion Award for his work with the Gala of Hope helping to fund raise $624,000 over three years.

He is bilingual in English and French, enjoys sports, reading, good movies and helping others reach their full potential. He and his wife Helene have three children.

MLA: John Les - Chilliwack

2011-11-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord Jesus, please help MLA: John Les achieve the goals he has set before him. We the people of British Columbia as well as the rest of Canada are blessed by You God and are extremely thankful to You for our land . Father, You know that we need strong leaders willing to keep our province and country stable, strong and growing. It is is this vein that we thank you for MLA: John Les and ask your wisdom be given to him in daily decision making. Lord God, we also pray that whatever his needs are at present time that you will help him with them. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

John Les is currently the Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier. He previously served as Parliamentary Secretary for HST Information to the Minister of Finance.

John was re-elected as MLA to represent the new riding of Chilliwack in the spring of 2009. He has also served as Solicitor General, and Minister of Small Business and Economic Development.

Mr. Les was first elected to represent the riding of Chilliwack-Sumas in 2001 and re-elected in 2005.

He served as Government Caucus Chair, and also chaired the Legislative Special Committee on the Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform. Mr. Les has served on the Government Caucus Committee on Economy and Government Operations, as well as the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations. He has also been chair of the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, and was formerly a member of the Select Standing Committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills.

Before being elected to the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Les served for three years as a Chilliwack municipal councillor before he became Mayor from 1987 to 1999. During his 13 years as Mayor, he served on a number of bodies, including Chair of the Fraser Valley Regional District; Trustee of the Municipal Finance Authority of B.C.; Director of Union of BC Municipalities; and President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

In his private business career, Mr. Les was a partner in a Chilliwack dairy operation, an award-winning realtor, as well as the owner of a successful land development company

Mr. Les is an Honorary Rotarian, who was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship in recognition of his exemplary community service, by the Rotary Club of Chilliwack.

Mr. Les and his wife Mattie live in Chilliwack and have six children and 15 grandchildren.

MLA: Hon. Blair Lekstrom - Peace River South

2011-11-27T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord God, today we thank You for all our leaders as we pray for MLA: Hon. Blair Lekstrom as he works diligently. Lord Jesus You know all things and You know what issues he is facing in carrying out his portfolio. We ask that You give him strength and guidance by the mighty power of Your Holy Spirit. Dear God, may he, along with those he works with, know that people do care about him and appreciate his leadership. May he also look up to You Lord for help in fulfilling all of his duties. This is all in the Name of Jesus Christ the Lord that we make this request. Amen.

Blair Lekstrom was appointed Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure on March 14, 2011. Blair was first elected in the riding of Peace River South in 2001. He was re-elected for a third time in 2009.

Blair has previously served as Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources and Minister of Community Development. Previously, Blair chaired the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services (2001, 2002, 2005 and 2006) and served on the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts, the Agriculture Policy Development Committee, the Legislative Review Committee and the Government Caucus Committee on the Economy.

Before becoming an MLA, Blair served as Mayor of the City of Dawson Creek. He was first elected mayor in 1996, after serving for three years as a councillor.

Born in 1961 in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Blair moved to Dawson Creek later that year and has lived there ever since. Following graduation from South Peace Secondary School, Blair started with BC Tel in 1979 and worked for the next 17 years as an installer-repairman until his election as Mayor in 1996. He was a Peace River Regional District member and served on the North Central Municipal Association executive.

Blair's previous appointments include serving as a Municipal Finance Authority board member, North Central Municipal Association president, BC Task Force on Bank Mergers member, BC Agri-Food Policy Working Group member, and Union of BC Municipalities executive member.

Blair's community involvements included: Dawson Creek & District Hospital Foundation board member, Board Member, Pouce Coupe Long-Term Care Facility as well as participation in a wide range of community groups in his capacity as Mayor of Dawson Creek.

He and wife Vicki were married in 1982. They have two children. Blair is an avid motorcyclist and enjoys working on and riding his Harley Davidson. Other hobbies include: carpentry, camping with his family, and playing baseball and hockey

MLA: Richard T. Lee - Burnaby North

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father in Heaven, we bring before You today in our prayer MLA: Richard T. Lee. Lord God, you tell us in Your Holy Word to pray for our leaders and we are glad to do so. We thank You Lord for Your protection and direction through the leaders that govern our amazing province of British Columbia. We pray that You will guide him and give him strong leadership abilities in every area that he is involved in. Please encourage him by Your grace. May he prosper and be happy in all aspects of his life. We ask this in the matchless name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Richard T. Lee was first elected as the MLA for the riding of Burnaby North in 2001 and was re-elected in May 2005 and 2009. He was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Asia-Pacific on September 26, 2011.

Currently, Richard also serves as member of the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement, the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth, LSSC on Health and LSSC on Legislative Initiatives.

Previously, Richard served as Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism (2011) and Parliamentary Secretary for the Asia-Pacific Initiative (2005-2011), Vice Chair of the Legislative Special Committee to Appoint a Merit Commissioner and Chair of Government Caucus Asian Economic Development Committee.

He was also a member of the Cabinet Committee on Climate Action and Clean Energy, the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Education, the LSSC on Public Accounts, the LSSC on Finance and Government Services, the Legislative Special Committee to Review the Police Complaint Process, the LSC to Appoint a Police Complaint Commissioner, the Government Caucus Committee on Economy and Government Operations and the GCC on Multiculturalism and Diversity.

Before being elected to the Legislature, Richard was a programmer analyst at TRIUMF, Canada's national particle research facility. In 1976 he earned a Combined Honours Bachelor of Science degree from UBC in physics and mathematics, and in 1980 a Masters of Science from UBC in Applied Mathematics. While studying, Richard worked as a research assistant from 1975 to 1977 and then as a teaching assistant from 1977 to 1979 with the Department of Mathematics at UBC. From 1979 to 1982 he worked as a programmer at TRIUMF and in 1982 became a programmer analyst. Richard attended the United States Particle Accelerator School at Berkeley in 1989 and once again in 1990 at Harvard University.

Richard's community service included: British Columbia Heritage Language Association director; Burnaby District Parents’ Advisory Council member, Burnaby Chinese Parents Association vice-president; Burnaby Multicultural Society director; Burnaby Voters Non-Partisan Association director and Civic Education Society director.

In 1971, Richard moved to British Columbia, where his grandfather settled in 1913. He and his wife Anne married in 1986 and have lived in Burnaby since then. They have three children.

MLA: Hon. Dr. Terry Lake - Kamloops-North Thompson

2011-11-23T10:34:00.001-08:00

We pray for MLA: Hon. Terry Lake today and ask that You would bless his life, family and work. As he serves our province as Minister of the Environment, fill him with wisdom, insight and strength to do what is right and best so that we and the generations that follow us would benefit in great ways. We ask that he would be very aware of Your presence, help and assistance as he fulfills his responsibilities today. In Jesus' name, Amen

Terry Lake is MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson and Minister of Environment.

Previously, he was the Parliamentary Secretary for Health Promotion to the Minister of Health Services. He also served as Parliamentary Secretary for the Ranching Task Force to the Minister of Agriculture and Lands. He was elected MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson on May 12, 2009.

Terry also served on the Selecting Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, on Health, and on Legislative Initiatives. He was also a member of the Early Childhood Education Innovations Committee.

A veterinarian by profession, Terry served as the Mayor of the City of Kamloops from 2005-2008 and as a city councillor from 2002-2005, a time when Kamloops reached record employment and construction and was recognized for service to residents by the National Quality Institute.

Terry is a recipient of the BC Veterinary Medical Association Award of Merit for service to the profession and has served as Vice President of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association and Vice President of the Union of BC Municipalities. He was a member of the BC Transit Board of Directors for three years when transit service increased dramatically in Kamloops.

Community service has long been a part of Terry’s life whether serving as president of the Coquitlam Rotary Club in the 1990s or as president of the Kamloops Recreational Soccer League. One of his most rewarding experiences was traveling with Developing World Connections to Tangalle, Sri Lanka in 2008 to assist with tsunami relief.

Terry and his wife Lisa have three daughters, a dog and a cat.

MLA: Harry Lali - Fraser-Nicola

2011-11-23T00:00:00.001-08:00

Thank You for the energy and passion that MLA: Harry Lali brings to his work. Direct his paths today. We thank You for his many years of faithful service as an MLA. Grant him Your peace, strength and wisdom as he continues to give of himself in service to others. Let Your blessing rest upon his personal and professional relationships throughout this next season of his life; we pray.

Harry Lali served as Minister of Transportation and Highways from February, 1998, to February, 2001. He was the longest serving NDP Highways Minister in British Columbia. Previously, Harry served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Forests from June, 1996, to February, 1998.

Harry serves as opposition critic for community and rural development.

In 1988, Harry was elected City Councillor in Merritt for one term. In 1991, Harry was elected Member of the Legislative Assembly for Yale-Lillooet, re-elected M.L.A. in 1996, and 2005. He was elected to a fourth term on May 12, 2009.

Harry is 51 years old and was born in Jullundur District, Punjab, and currently lives in Merritt. He was educated at the University of Victoria and the University of British Columbia, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and South Asia Area Studies. Harry is the founder of the group that established the Chair of Punjabi and Sikh Studies at the University of British Columbia.

Before his election to the Legislature, Harry was an Employment Counsellor for the federally-sponsored Merritt Outreach Program from 1986 – 1991. He has also worked at MOSAIC in Vancouver. Harry is a former member of the IWA Local 1-417 when he spent 11 summers working in the sawmill industry in Interior B.C. Harry is also a former co-owner of a sporting goods store.

From 2001 – 2006 Harry owned his own business that was involved in international development and technology transfer to developing countries, namely in the field of environmental technologies and power generation.

Harry and his wife, Rani, are the proud parents of two sons and one daughter.

MLA: Jenny Wai Ching Kwan - Vancouver-Mount Pleasant

2011-11-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, we thank You for MLA: Jenny Wai Ching Kwan. We are grateful for her years of service to her community and our province. May You be a guide and help to her as she serves her constituents. Fill her with compassion, wisdom and the ability to bring positive outcomes to all the situations that she will encounter in fulfilling her duties. Use her to be a tremendous blessing to the people around her. Amen

Jenny Kwan was first elected as the MLA for Vancouver - Mount Pleasant in 1996, becoming one of the first Chinese-Canadians to sit in BC's Legislative Assembly and the first Chinese Canadian Cabinet Minister in the history of B.C. She was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and again on May 12, 2009.

Jenny Kwan was first elected as the MLA for Vancouver - Mount Pleasant in 1996, becoming one of the first Chinese-Canadians to sit in BC's Legislative Assembly and the first Chinese Canadian Cabinet Minister in the history of B.C. She was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and again on May 12, 2009.

Jenny serves as opposition critic for Jobs, Economic Development and Trade.

Born in Hong Kong, Jenny Wai Ching Kwan immigrated to Canada with her family when she was nine years old.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Criminology) from Simon Fraser University. Jenny began working as a community legal advocate in the Downtown Eastside shortly after graduation.

Jenny was elected to Vancouver City Council in 1993 --becoming the youngest councillor in Vancouver’s history -- and served for three years as the sole representative of Vancouver's progressive municipal political party, COPE.

In 1998 Jenny was appointed Minister of Municipal Affairs, becoming BC's first Chinese-Canadian cabinet minister. Jenny also served as Minister of Women's Equality and Minister of Community Development, Cooperatives and Volunteers and was the provincial government’s lead person in developing the Vancouver Agreement.

Jenny is married and lives in East Vancouver with her husband, daughter, son and stepson.

MLA: Kevin Krueger - Kamloops-South Thompson

2011-11-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord,we lift our collective voices to You on behalf of MLA: Kevin Krueger. This gracious gentleman has given of his time and treasure for many years in the service of others, firstly in his own community and then to the entire province. His responsibilities are varied and challenging and we pray for him an abundant measure of strength, patience and understanding as he communicates with his home constituents and his colleagues in the Legislature. We pray also for his wife, children and grand children. Give them good health and thank You for the example they have in this good man. We pray these blessings in and through the precious name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Kevin Krueger is MLA for Kamloops-South Thompson and also serves on the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement.

Previously, he has served as the Minister of Social Development, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts and was re-elected as MLA for Kamloops-South Thompson on May 12, 2009. Prior to the 2009 election, he served as Minister of Community Development and Minister of Small Business and Revenue and Minister Responsible for Regulatory Reform and Minister of State for Mining.

Kevin Krueger was re-elected as MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson in 2005 after being elected in 1996 and re-elected in 2001.

While in Opposition, Kevin served as the BC Liberal Critic for Labour. He was Caucus Whip as well as a member of the Select Standing Committee on Education. Kevin was named to the Legislative Standing Committees for Committee of Selection and the Special Committee for the Citizen’s Assembly on Electoral Reform. He was also a member of the Legislative Assembly Management Committee. He previously was a member of the Small Scale Salvage Committee.

Before becoming an MLA, Kevin worked with the Insurance Corporation of BC for 20 years, and at the time of his departure was a road safety regional manager.

His community work includes the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce, Kamloops Community Counterattack Committee, Rotary Club past-president, coordinator with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and secretary of the Protocol Committee for the 1993 Canada Summer Games. He arranged the twinning of the Rotary Clubs of Kamloops and Uji, Japan. He is a former board member, executive councillor and shop steward of the Office and Technical Employees Union, Local 378. He was a director of the Prince George & District Credit Union.

Kevin and his wife Debbie, a school teacher, have six children, including two daughters-in-law and a son-in-law. They are the proud grandparents of seven children.

MLA: Leonard Krog - Nanaimo

2011-11-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

Our Gracious and Eternal Heavenly Father, we pray today for MLA: Leonard Krog who serves with energy and distinction. Give him a wise and discerning spirit that will enable him to use his education and giftings in a credible and generous manner. May You empower him with energy and a generous spirit of dedication and co operation as he endeavours to create a climate of trust and forward thinking among his colleagues. Grant peace and safety upon his wife, children and grand children as they support him in his dedication to the citizens of this grand province of British Columbia. We pray this blessing in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Leonard Krog was re-elected as the MLA for Nanaimo on May 12, 2009.

Leonard serves as opposition critic for the Attorney General.

Born in Nanaimo and raised in Coombs, Leonard served as MLA for Parksville-Qualicum from 1991 to 1996.

Since 1980, Leonard has been a practicing lawyer in a Nanaimo law firm, most recently with his wife Sharon.

In addition , Leonard has served as the director and president of the Mid-Island Consumer Services Co-operative, chair of the United Way for Nanaimo and District, director of the Nanaimo City Centre Association, president of the Nanaimo City Bar Association, director and president of the Planned Parenthood Association's Nanaimo Branch, a member and supporter of Amnesty International and Lawyers for Social Responsibility.

Leonard and his wife Sharon live in Nanaimo. They have two children, Jessica and Parker, and two grandchildren, Portia and Archer.

MLA: Maurine Karagianis - Esquimalt-Royal Roads

2011-11-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Gracious Heavenly Father, we petition You this day for MLA: Maurine Karagianis. We thank You for her concern for the environment of this beautiful province which You created for us to enjoy. We ask a special blessing on this dedicated lady. May You encourage her in her endeavours to use her gifts and talents to benefit all citizens of this special place called British Columbia. We pray for her family, her children and her grand children. May they grow up to call her blessed. May You grant her vision and wisdom during the hectic days that will confront her in the legislature. In our Lord’s glorious name we pray.

Maurine Karagianis was elected MLA for Esquimalt-Metchosin on May 17, 2005, and re-elected to the reconfigured riding of Esquimalt-Royal Roads on May 12, 2009.

Maurine serves as official opposition caucus Whip.

She was elected to Esquimalt Council in 1996. Serving for three terms, Maurine helped create and chaired the CRD Arts Committee, and by working to save the Matson Gary Oak meadow in the Inner Harbour and daylighting the Gorge Creek helped enrich green space and renew bird habitat in Esquimalt.

A long-standing Director of the Veins of Life Watershed Society, Maurine has worked in support of environmental stewardship for the Gorge Waterway and watershed protection in the Capital Region.

She worked in the fashion industry for over 15 years, in retail, wholesale and import/export, and also spent more than a decade working in the communications industry for the tourism market and international motorcycle industry.

Maurine ran a consulting firm that worked with non-profit organizations and First Nations communities to create affordable housing. Her career has also included working for the provincial Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Social Services.

A proud mother and grandmother, Maurine lives with her partner in Esquimalt.

MLA: Carole James - Victoria-Beacon Hill

2011-11-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father, we pray today for MLA: Carole James. May she sense Your guidance in the many areas of her involvement in British Columbia as well as Victoria-Beacon Hill. Thank You Lord for her years of public service and the experience she has. May she be encouraged daily as she serves the people of this great province. Amen.

Carole has served as the MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill since 2005.

Prior to entering provincial politics, Carole served as President of the B.C. School Trustees Association for an unprecedented five terms, commencing in 1995.

She was elected to the Greater Victoria School Board from 1990 to 2001. She has also served at the national level as the Vice-President of the Canadian School Boards Association.

Carole has been appointed to numerous provincial initiatives, including the Independent B.C. Budget Review Panel, the Public Education Restructuring Consultation, the Ministry of Children and Families Secure Care Committee.

In addition to serving a two-year term as the Director of Child Care Policy for the government of British Columbia, she has served on the Greater Victoria Region Social Planning Council, the City of Victoria Parks and Recreation Committee, and the Task Force on Violence Prevention.

In recognition of her work in the area of co-operative pre-schools, she was named an Honorary Life Member of the Vancouver Island Co-operative Pre-School Association.

In 2001, Carole moved to Prince George to serve as the Director of Child and Family Services for Carrier Sekani Family Services. As part of her management responsibilities, she coordinated the planning for regionalization of child and family services from the Ministry of Children and Families to an Aboriginal Authority.

Carole is the mother of two children, Alison and Evan. She was also a foster parent for 20 years, giving care to children and adults with special needs.

MLA: Vicki Huntington - Delta South

2011-11-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Dear God, we thank You for MLA: Vicki Huntington and her years of committed service to Canada, British Columbia and Delta. May all of her endeavours have Your hand of blessing and protection on them as she leads the many people she influences. We pray also that You would continue to give her Your spirit of wisdom in all the many necessary decisions that she is required to make. Amen.

Victoria (Vicki) Huntington is a native of Vancouver, BC and has a degree in Political Science from the University of British Columbia. Much of her early career was spent in Ottawa with the federal government. More recently, she served as an elected Councillor for the Municipality of Delta, BC.

For most of the 1970s, Vicki worked with the RCMP Security Service, beginning as a civilian member and later a Special Constable (Investigator) in the force. In preparation for this position, she was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant in the Canadian Army Intelligence Corps (Res).

Vicki served as Band Manager for the Gitanmaax Indian Reserve in Hazelton, BC. First-hand knowledge and understanding gained in this capacity was invaluable in her later work with the federal Minister of Indian Affairs & Northern Development; Nisga’a Task Group; and as Vice Chair of the Lower Mainland Treaty Advisory Committee and its representative on the Provincial Treaty Negotiating Team.

During a number of years in Ottawa, Vicki served the Solicitor General of Canada; and the Ministers of both National Revenue and Indian Affairs & Northern Development. She was also involved in various capacities at the federal level with the Progressive Conservative Party. She returned to British Columbia in 1988 as the Director of the Federal Ministers’ Regional Offices in Vancouver.

Vicki has shown a particular interest in environmental matters. In this regard, she received an award from the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust for exceptional service.

A resident of Ladner (Delta), British Columbia, Vicki was first elected in 1993 to Delta Municipal Council and returned to Council at or near the top of the polls in the four subsequent municipal elections. She declined to run again in 2008.

Vicki was elected as an Independent MLA for Delta South in May 2009.

MLA: Rob Howard - Richmond Centre

2011-11-10T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we lift up Rob Howard to You. We pray Your blessing upon his leadership in the Legislature and his constituency of Richmond Centre. May he sense Your love and guidance as he goes about his day. We pray that You give him great wisdom and understanding of the issues that he faces day by day. Let this next season of his life be a time of great encouragement for both him and his family. Amen.

Rob Howard was elected as the MLA for Richmond Centre in 2009.

Rob has served as President of Tourism Richmond, was co-Chair of the Vancouver chapter of the Real Estate Institute of BC and has served on the board of the Richmond Caring Place Society and the Heritage Commission. During his time on Richmond City Council, he chaired several committees including the Finance and Community Safety Committees.

Rob was the driving force behind the Richmond Airport Vancouver Rapid Transit Task Force and was a strong proponent of the City’s long-term financial plan. During his time as City Councilor, he was also deeply involved in the Asia Pacific Strategy.

Along with his wife Trudy and son Jay, Rob enjoys giving back to the community in which he has spent his life. Together, they have spent 12 years volunteering, assisting, coaching and running tournaments for the Richmond Minor Hockey Association.

MLA: Douglas Horne - Coquitlam-Burke Mountain

2011-11-09T00:00:00.000-08:00

Thank You Father for MLA: Douglas Horne and gifts and talents that he brings to his roll as MLA and to his Committee responsibilities. Be with him each day and bless him with good health, strength and wisdom. Protect him as he travels about his constituency and back and forth to Victoria. Help him to see great rewards for his efforts and renew his vision. Let him know that You have called him to this work at this time in his life. Bless him Father. May You be with his family and let them find times of rest and refreshment in this busy season. Amen.

Douglas Horne was elected as the MLA for the electoral district of Coquitlam-Burke Mountain in May, 2009. He is currently Deputy Chair of the Committee of the Whole (Chair – Committee of Supply), a Member of the Executive Counsel’s Legislative Review Committee, the Deputy Chair of the Select Standing Committee for Public Accounts, and a Member of the Select Standing Committee for Children and Youth.

In addition, Douglas was previously a Member of the Provincial Treasury Board, a Member of the B.C. Local Government Elections Task Force, a Member of the Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and a Member of the Special Committee to Appoint a Merit Commissioner.

Douglas has been active in federal, provincial and civic politics for many years. While working in Ottawa, he served as a Special Assistant to a former federal Minister, and as a Special Assistant to the former Speaker of the House of Commons, The Honourable John Fraser.

Before entering politics, Douglas was Managing Director – Corporate & CEO of Maple Leaf Studios Ltd. This leading international design and production studio has created innovative and engaging experiences for international themed attractions, World Fairs & Expos, visitor centres and destination resorts. Douglas was instrumental in the success of British Columbia – Canada Place (the log house) during the 2006 Winter Games in Torino, Italy. In addition, Douglas worked with Russian business leaders and the City of Sochi on their successful bid to host the 2014 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. As well, Maple Leaf Studios and its partner, Shanghai Art-Design (a member of the Shanghai Media Group) were selected by Shanghai Expo 2010 for the central theme pavilions preliminary design competition.

Doug has lived in Coquitlam on Westwood Plateau with his wife and two children since 1996.

MLA: John Horgan - Juan de Fuca

2011-11-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Lord, it is a pleasure and privilege to bring MLA: John Horgan before You today. Thank You for his continued commitment to serve his constituency and the people of our province. Give him wisdom and discernment in his role as Official Opposition House Leader. Help him to balance the many demands on his time and energy. Protect him and bless him with good health. Bless his wife and sons and cover them with your love and protection. Amen

John Horgan was elected as the MLA for Malahat-Juan de Fuca on May 17, 2005, and re-elected to the reconfigured riding of Juan de Fuca on May 12, 2009.

John serves as Official Opposition House Leader and is the opposition critic for Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources.

John was born and raised in Victoria.

A former long time public servant, he started his career in Ottawa working in the House of Commons before returning to British Columbia to work for the provincial government. He has also worked in the private sector, running a management and consulting company.

John has a Bachelor of Arts from Trent University and completed his Master of Arts at Sydney University in Australia.

John and his wife Ellie have two sons who attend the University of Victoria.

MLA: Gordon Hogg - Surrey-White Rock

2011-11-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Father, we are truly blessed to have a person like MLA: Gordon Hogg serving the people of British Columbia. We thank You for his years of service and the experience and wisdom he brings to his many areas of responsibility. Be with him each day Lord; guiding and protecting, multiplying his energy and his time. Grant him favor with those he meets each day and help him to be sensitive to the needs and perspectives of others. Bless his family and may the times that they share together be full of love and laughter. Amen

Gordon Hogg was first elected to represent the riding of Surrey-White Rock in a 1997 bi-election. He was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and again in 2009.

Gordon is currently the Parliamentary Secretary for Non-profit Partnerships to the Minister of Labour, Citizens' Services and Open Government. He also serves on various committees, including the Cabinet Committee on Families First and the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement.

Previously, he served as Parliamentary Secretary for Social Entrepreneurship to the Minister of Finance and a member of the Select Standing Committees on Education, Aboriginal Affairs and Crown Corporations. He is also the former Minister of State for Mining, Minister of State for ActNow BC and Minister of Children and Family Development.

He previously served as Minister of State for ActNow BC and Minister of Children and Family Development.

Mr. Hogg also served as chair of the Government Caucus and was a member of the Legislative Assembly Management Committee. He was also the chair of the Seniors Caucus Committee and has served on the Cabinet Committee for Agenda Development and the Select Standing Committees on Finance and Government Services; Sustainable Aquaculture; Children and Youth; Health and Social Services; Justice; Constitutional Affairs; and Intergovernmental Relations.

Previously, Mr. Hogg served as the Official Opposition Critic for education and human resources and was also a member of the Official Opposition Caucus Committees on Health and Education.

Mr. Hogg was a counsellor, probation officer and regional director for corrections prior to his election to the Legislative Assembly. He received his bachelor of arts in sociology and psychology from the University of British Columbia and his master’s degree in psychology from Antioch College

Mr. Hogg served on White Rock council for 20 years, for 10 of which he was mayor. He has been a board member of more than 15 committees and non-profit societies, including the Peace Arch Community Health Council and Peace Arch District Hospital. He has also been a foster parent and little league coach.

Gordon and his wife, LaVerne, live in White Rock and have one son.

MLA: Kash Heed - Vancouver-Fraserview

2011-11-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

Lord, we are thankful for the leadership that MLA: Kash Heed has shown in his public service careers both in law enforcement and now in government. We ask for Your divine wisdom and guidance for him as works to bring the needs of the people in Vancouver Fraserview into government. We pray a blessing upon both him and his family and ask that You would continue to give him health and strength each day. In Jesus' name, we pray.

Kash Heed was appointed Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General on June 10, 2009.

Minister Heed was elected MLA for Vancouver-Fraserview in the 2009 general provincial election.

Kash graduated from the B.C. Police Academy in 1979 and has spent the past 30 years serving the public in law enforcement.

Kash began his career as an officer with the Vancouver Police Department where he moved through the ranks of Constable, Detective, Sergeant, Inspector and Superintendent. During this same time, he completed his BA and MA at Simon Fraser University part-time.

While Superintendent in charge of the south part of Vancouver, and as an Inspector in the southeast quadrant of Vancouver he created the Gang Violence Task Force.

Heed was also head of the drug squad, led the Indo-Canadian gang task force and launched the COMPSTAT system, using computer technology to track crime.

In 2007, Kash was appointed Chief of the West Vancouver Police Department.

Kash lives in Richmond with his wife and new daughter.

MLA: Dave S. Hayer - Surrey-Tynehead

2011-11-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father, we thank You for MLA: Dave Hayer and his commitment to serve the people of Surrey as their representative in government. We thank You for all the tireless work that he has done in the past and ask that You give him strength as he continues to work at providing good government to the people. We ask for a blessing on his family and for special encouragement for those times when “things might get tough”. May both he and his family sense Your peace over their very busy lives. Amen

Dave S. Hayer was first elected to the BC Legislature as MLA for the riding of Surrey-Tynehead in the 2001 provincial general election and was re-elected in 2005 and 2009.

Dave formerly served as the Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism, where he worked closely with the Minister of Science and Universities and Minister of Regional Economic and Skills Development, which is responsible for the Provincial Nominee Program.

Dave previously worked with the Hon. Moira Stillwell when she was Minister of Regional Economic and Skills Development. portfolio.

Dave also worked with the Hon. Mary McNeil when she was the Minister of Citizens' Services and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism and the Public Affairs Bureau, portfolio as well as with the Hon. Ben Stewart when he was Minister of Citizens’ Services and Multiculturalism. Dave is also a member of the Cabinet Committee on Economy, the Select Standing Committees on Health, Education and Legislative Initiatives as well as helping as Chair of the Committee of Supply.

In January 2007, Dave received a prestigious award from the Government of India. The Pravasi Bharatia Samman Award is annually given to people of Indian heritage, no longer living in India, who have achieved excellence in their chosen fields of endeavour. Dave was presented with the award for his "active leadership in the community, his contributions to public service and for his achievements in government". At the presentation ceremony, Dave was described as a "great friend of India and has been a strong voice in the Indo-Canadian community against terrorism and violence". He was the only Canadian among 15 people from other countries to be given the Pravasi Bharatia Samman Award this year. Dave is only the second Canadian to be presented with this honour. Dave received his award from Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, President of India, at a ceremony in New Delhi, India on January 9, 2007. In 2008 Dave was selected by the Vancouver Sun as one of the 100 top most influential Canadians of South Asian descent making a difference in BC.

Previously, Dave served as Chair of Surrey Caucus; Caucus Liaison for the Minister of State for Mental Health and Addictions Services; vice-chair of the Caucus Committee for Asian Economic Development; member of the Government Caucus Committee on Multiculturalism & Diversity and Government Caucus Committee on Health; member of the Cabinet Committee on Environment and Resource Development for the Ministry of Skills Development and Labour and Ministry of Sustainable Resource Management; member of the Select Standing Committees on Finance and Government Services, Education, and Aboriginal Affairs; the Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act; member of the Government Caucus Committee on Government Operations, Select Standing Committee member on Crown Corporations and Caucus Liaison for the Minister of State for Intermediate, Long Term and Home Care.

Before his election to public office, Dave was a Surrey businessperson, Assistant Publisher of the Indo-Canadian Times, Kwantlen University College Governor, real estate agent, and he worked in the newspaper and forestry industries and as labourer in a steel factory. Dave earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Simon Fraser University in 1982 and from 1981 to 1982 he completed taxation courses at the University of British Columbia. Dave served as the General Manager of the Canadian Accounting Aggregates Public Accountants from 1983 to 1988 following which he joined the Indo-Canadian Times.

Dave's current involvements include: member of the Rotary Club of Surrey, Surrey Chamber of Commerce and the Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce. Some previous business involvements include: BC Chamber of Commerce director (1999-2001); Surrey Chamber of Commerce president (1996-97), vice-president (1994-96), director (1992-94); Vancouver Board of Trade Small Business Council member (1995-2000); Indo-Canadian Business Association vice-president (1993-2000); Ethnic Press Association of BC vice-president (1994-99), treasurer/director (1991-99); and, City of Surrey Economic Development Strategy Advisory Committee member (1995-2000).

Some of Dave's former community involvements include: Rotary Club of Surrey president (1999-2000), vice-president (1996-98); Surrey Community Crime Prevention Society president (1995-96); South Fraser Child Development Centre Christmas Party chair (1988-2001); and Surrey & White Rock Home Support Association director (94-95). As well, Dave initiated the Surrey Police Officer of the Year Awards and initiated the building of the Surrey Chamber of Commerce Building.

Born in 1958 in India, Dave moved to Surrey in 1972 and into the Surrey-Tynehead constituency in 1991. He and Isabelle Martinez, who married in 1981, have four children. Dave enjoys working on community projects, reading, swimming and walking.

MLA: Randy Hawes - Abbotsford-Mission

2011-11-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Lord, we ask Your blessings upon MLA: Randy Hawes as he works to meet the needs of those in the Mission area as well as British Columbia as a whole. Thank You Lord for his many years of public service and the experience he has. We would ask that You give him great wisdom and understanding of the issues that he faces day by day. May he be encouraged daily as he serves the people of this great province. Amen

Randy Hawes was named Parliamentary Secretary for Natural Resource Operations Review to the Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations on March 14, 2011. He also serves on the Treasury Board and the Environment and Land Use Committee. Randy was re-elected as MLA to represent the new riding of Abbotsford-Mission in the spring of 2009.

Randy was first elected as MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission in 2001 and was re-elected in the May 2005 provincial general election.

Randy was appointed the Minister of State for Mining in June 2009.

Randy has served as Chief Government Whip as appointed by Premier Gordon Campbell, he has chaired the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Service, Chair of the Government Committee on Health, and has been a member of the Legislative Assembly's Select Standing Committee on Health. In addition, he serves on the Legislative Assembly's Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts, the Special Committee to Select a Merit Commissioner and chairs the Burrard Thermal Options Committee. Formerly, Randy was Chair of the Special Committee to Appoint a Chief Electoral Officer, and served on the Government Caucus Committee on Communities and Safety and the Small-Scale Salvage Review committee.

Before becoming an MLA, Randy was in his third term as Mayor of the District of Mission. Randy was also Chair of the Fraser Valley Regional District, a member of the Fraser Valley Treaty Advisory Committee for four years, a four-year member of the James Sewer Treatment Plant Board, and a seven-year member (four as Chair) of the Fraser Valley Water Commission.

Randy started as a loans officer with the Toronto Dominion Bank in 1972 and worked as manager in a variety of locations throughout BC and the Yukon. Because he wanted to stay in Mission, Randy left the TD bank in 1986 to pursue a career in real estate and property development. Randy was elected to a one-year term as a District of Mission councillor in 1987 and became mayor in 1993.

Randy has been an active participant in many aspects of his constituency, including serving for two years on the Mission Community Health Council, five years on the District of Mission Justice Council, and three years on the Ferndale Penitentiary Citizens' Advisory Committee. Randy served as director of the Fraser House, a drug and alcohol treatment facility, was an honourary member of the Royal Canadian Legion's Branch 57, and is a member of the Mission Rotary Club. He also coached minor hockey for 15 years and minor baseball for 10 years in Mission.

Born in Edmonton in 1947, Randy and Alma married in 1969 and moved to Mission in 1979; they have three children and nine grandchildren. Randy's passions are playing golf, reading, and spending time with his grandchildren.

MLA: Colin Hansen - Vancouver-Quilchena

2011-11-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father, we thank You for MLA:Colin Hansen. We pray that You would guide and direct his every step. May Your grace and Your blessing cover him and his family with health, prosperity and joy. We pray also that You would continue to give him Your spirit of wisdom and revelation in every decsion that he makes as he goes forward. In Jesus' name we pray.

MLA Colin Hansen was first elected in 1996 to represent the electoral district of Vancouver-Quilchena and was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and 2009.

Colin serves on the Treasury Board. He was re-appointed Minister of Finance and appointed Deputy Premier on June 10, 2009. He was given additional responsibility for Small Business on October 25, 2010, and served in both these roles until March 14, 2011. He previously served as Minister of Economic Development (June 16, 2005 to June 23, 2008), Minister of Health Services (June 5, 2001 to December 14, 2004) and a previous appointment as Minister of Finance (December 15, 2004 to June 15, 2005).

Colin served as health critic for the Official Opposition, as well as the critic for Employment and Investment, and for Labour. He sat on the Select Standing Committees on Crown Corporations and on Economic Development, Science, Labour, Training and Technology.

He also sat on the Official Opposition Caucus Committees on Health and Economy.

Colin received his bachelor of arts in political science from the University of Victoria in 1975. Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, he and his wife Laura owned and operated a small business they established in 1988. Prior to that, he was vice-president of finance and administration for the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.

Colin served as a director of the Vancouver-Yokohama Sister City Society and chair of the Vancouver Museum board of trustees. Colin and Laura Hansen have two children and live in the Dunbar area of Vancouver-Quilchen

MLA: Sue Hammell - Surrey-Green Timbers

2011-10-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father God, we thank You for our MLA: Sue Hammell. We thank You for her heart to serve people. She is one that has had a great impact on those she has come in contact with. We ask Father that You would continue to give her favor and blessing, everywhere she walks and with everyone she meets. May You richly bless and cover her and her family with Your peace, health and joy. In Jesus' name we pray.

Sue Hammell was re-elected as the MLA for Surrey-Green Timbers on May 12, 2009. She was first elected in 1991, and re-elected in both 1996 and 2005.

Sue serves as Official Opposition Deputy House Leader and is the deputy opposition critic for Health.

Sue has served in a number of cabinet positions during her political career, including Minister of Housing, Recreation and Consumer Services, Minister Responsible for Co-operatives, and the Minister for Women's Equality. In addition, she was Government Caucus Chair and was active on several legislative committees.

Sue is also a founding member of the Minerva Foundation for BC Women, initiated in 1999 to provide funds for projects that will assist women to realize their potential and to create a safe place for them to live and work in British Columbia.

Sue has been working with Washington BC based National Democratic Institute since 2000. With NDI she traveled to the Middle East five times to work with emerging political parties and female candidates.

In 2002 Sue worked with the Surrey Aboriginal Society as their Executive Director. She developed the Society into a modern urban centre for aboriginal people with an annual budget of over 2 million dollars.

Born in Vancouver, Sue was raised on Sea Island in Richmond. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of British Columbia, she taught in Verdun, Quebec, in Courtenay and Surrey.

Sue is married and has one grown daughter, Sage. Sue and her husband John have lived in the Surrey Green Timbers area since 1990.

MLA: Guy Gentner - Delta North

2011-10-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father, we thank You for MLA: Guy Genter. We pray that favor and blessing would follow all that he does and puts his hands to. We pray that he would walk in a fresh new place of wisdom, understanding and revelation. We ask Father that You would surround him with a spirit of peace and protection that only comes from You. Amen

Guy Gentner was re-elected as the MLA for Delta North on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature May 17, 2005.

Guy serves as opposition critic for Public Health and Sport.

Guy Gentner served as a Delta Councillor from 1999 to 2005. As chair of the Delta Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission, Guy re-organized the department to include a significant capitalization program for parks, recreation and the arts.

Guy’s efforts as chair of the commission were instrumental in the delivery of an enhanced Sun God Aquatic Centre, Mackie Park Artificial Turf Field, improvements to the Watershed Park and the new Fire Hall Centre for the Arts.

Guy also chaired Delta’s Planning and Environment Committee and Traffic and Safety Committee and served on many municipal committees including Finance, Foreshore and Harbours, Tour de Delta, and the GVRD’s Parks Committee. Guy’s community involvement consists of Delta’s Heritage Advisory Commission, Delta’s Board of Variance and the Delta Arts Council.

Guy helped form the North Delta/Newton Public Hospital Society, and is also a past president of the North Delta Ratepayers Association and former vice-president of the Burns Bog Conservation Society.

Through the mayor’s bog task force, Guy contributed to the negotiating process that helped public purchase of Burns Bog.

Guy graduated from Simon Fraser University, drove a bus for many years, fly fishes and is an advocate for outdoor recreation.

MLA: Scott Fraser - Alberni-Pacific Rim

2011-10-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father, we thank You and ask that You would bless MLA: Scott Fraser. We ask that You would open new doors of opportunity for him and that he would walk with a mighty vision of change that will impact not only his constituency but also the province of British Columbia for the good. We ask that he would walk in peace and abundance in all things and that You would richly bless him in all that he does. In Jesus name, we pray.

Scott Fraser was elected as the MLA for Alberni-Pacific Rim on May 12, 2009. He served as MLA for Alberni-Qualicum from May 17, 2005 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.

Scott serves as opposition critic for Aboriginal Relations.

From 1996 to 1999 Scott served as the mayor of the District of Tofino and was involved in the creation of the first UNESCO World Biosphere designation in British Columbia.

Scott has also served on many organizations, including Alberni Clayoquot Regional District Board, Vancouver Island Regional Library Board, Clayoquot Sound Central Region Board, Tourism British Columbia, Vancouver Island Health Board, Tofino/Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, treaty advisory committees, fisheries committees and the Family Court Committee.

Scott was born in Ottawa, Ontario and has been a resident of BC since 1980. His background includes small business, labour, harbour management, fisheries and shellfish aquaculture.

Scott lived in Tofino with his wife and daughter for over 12 years. They now live in the Qualicum Beach area.

MLA: Eric Foster - Vernon-Monashee

2011-10-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

We thank You Lord for the care and concern MLA: Eric Foster has for his community, province and nation. We ask that You would lead him into initiatives that are unique and continue making British Columbia a great place to raise a family, work, build relationships and retire in. We ask that You arrange by Your Grace divine meetings with individuals and groups that would give him even more understanding of the needs of his constituents and ultimately positively effecting many in our province. We Bless Him in Jesus name.

Eric Foster was elected on May 12, 2009 as MLA for Vernon-Monashee in the general provincial election.

Eric is the Deputy Whip and currently a member of the Environment and Land Use Committee. He served previously on the Select Standing Committees on Legislative Initiatives, Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders, and Private Bills. Eric was also a member of the Agenda and Priorities Committee.

Serving as the Mayor of the Village of Lumby for four years prior to his election as MLA, Eric also served as councilor for the Village of Lumby for 12 years and as a director of the North Okanagan Regional District.

He is a registered forest technician and a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Auxiliary, as well as a director of the North Okanagan Community Futures Development Corporation.

Eric and his wife Janice have been volunteering, working and living in the North Okanagan for more than 20 years.

Eric is a great supporter of sports, the outdoors, his community, arts and culture.

MLA: Rob Fleming - Victoria-Swan Lake

2011-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father, We thank You for MLA: Rob Fleming and ask that You would enable him to find supernatural time to accomplish all that comes across his desk. As he continues to carry out his vision, we ask that he would be filled with wisdom and that all of the details that he needs will be clear with complete understanding. As this is a busy time for him we pray that there would be opportunity and connection in relationships that will result in rest. We ask that you bless him in your abundance. Amen

Rob Fleming was elected on May 17, 2005 as the MLA for Victoria-Hillside, and re-elected on May 12, 2009 as the MLA for the re-configured constituency of Victoria-Swan Lake.

Rob serves as opposition critic for Environment.

Rob has served as critic for the environment and post-secondary and sat as chair of the legislature’s Public Accounts committee.

Rob served two terms as a Victoria City Councilor before his election to the legislature. He chaired the city’s finance committee and represented Victoria at the Capital Regional District, the Victoria Regional Transit Commission, the Capital Housing Corporation and Tourism Victoria.

Rob has been involved in a number of community organizations, including the Work Place, the Veins of Life Watershed Society, and the Victoria Cool Aid Society Foundation.

Rob received a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Victoria and has worked in research and communications.

Rob lives in Victoria with his wife Maura, daughter Rory and son Jack. He is a dedicated soccer fan and player, and an avid user of Victoria's parks and beaches.

MLA: Mike Farnworth - Port Coquitlam

2011-10-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Heavenly Father, Your desire for us is that we would serve each other as neighbors as demonstrated in the parable of the good Samaritan. We thank You for MLA: Mike Farnsworth and his desire to serve locally, provincially and internationally and the wisdom and understanding he has acquired while serving. Lord we ask that You would continue to give him fresh vision, insights, wisdom and direction as He serves the constituents of Port Coquitlam and as opposition critic for Health. In Jesus' name we pray.

Mike Farnworth was elected as MLA for Port Coquitlam on May 12, 2009. He was first elected as the MLA for Port Coquitlam-Burke Mountain in 1991, and re-elected in 1996. Mike was re-elected again as MLA for this constituency on May 17, 2005.

Mike serves as opposition critic for Health.

Mike also served the people of Port Coquitlam as a three term City Councillor.

During his time as the MLA for Port Coquitlam he served in numerous Cabinet positions, including Minister of Health and Minister of Social Development and Economic Security.

From 2001 to 2004, Mike worked in Bulgaria, the Balkans and most recently Iraq on democratic governance programs to help build multiparty democracies in former one-party states.

Mike was raised in Port Coquitlam and has lived there for over 30 years.

MLA: Hon. Kevin Falcon - Surrey-Cloverdale - Minister of Finance and Deputy Premier

2011-10-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Father, You are an awesome God who knows what we need even better than we do. We ask that You would provide for all the needs of MLA: Hon. Kevin Falcon as he fulfills his vitally important roles as Minister of Finance and Deputy Premier. Give him key insights, strategies and plans as he guides our province through these turbulent economic times. Lord, also arrange times of relaxation and rest with family and friends for him in the midst of his busy schedule. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Kevin Falcon was appointed to serve as Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance on March 14, 2011. He also serves as Chair of the Treasury Board.

MLA Falcon was first elected in 2001 to represent the riding of Surrey-Cloverdale, and was re-elected in 2005 and 2009. He previously served as the Minister of Health Services and as Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, initially serving as Minister of State for De-regulation.

As well, Minister Falcon has previously overseen a capital program that includes the Kicking Horse Canyon, the Sea to Sky Highway and the William Bennett Bridge, among many others.

Minister Falcon's leadership earned him recognition in Vancouver Magazine's annual ranking of the city's 50 most influential leaders in 2008.

Before his election to the Legislative Assembly in 2001, Kevin Falcon was president of Access Group, a corporate communications firm he founded in 1998. He has also worked in the real estate development industry and was vice-president of Northwest Investment Properties. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Simon Fraser University, and his real estate education at the University of British Columbia.

Kevin has been active with his local Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club. He is a past director of the Vancouver Sea Festival, past-president of the Vancouver Junior Chamber of Commerce and a former volunteer with the Cloverdale RCMP Bike Patrol.

MLA: Mable Elmore - Vancouver-Kensington

2011-10-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Lord, we give thanks for all the government leaders You have overseeing this magnificent and awesome province that you created. We ask a special blessing now on MLA: Mable Elmore. Your word says in Psalm 16:11 that You will make known the path of life to us and that in Your presence there will be fullness of joy. May You give her an extra portion of both this wisdom and joy during this next season of her life as she fulfills the mandate of her office as MLA for Vancouver-Kensington. May you also bless her with good health and fulfilling relationships with both family and friends. We pray, Amen.

Mable Elmore was elected MLA for Vancouver-Kensington on May 12, 2009.

Mable serves as opposition critic for Multiculturalism, Child Care and Early Learning.

Mable has been a transit operator for 10 years, driving a bus in Metro Vancouver while taking a role in her union, the Canadian Auto Workers Local 111, where she coordinated the "More Buses Now" campaign to improve public bus transit.

Mable is a second generation Filipino-Canadian who has also been active in the peace movement and on immigrant, social justice, women's and gay, lesbian and transgendered issues.

MLA: Doug Donaldson - Stikine

2011-10-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Thank You, Lord, for MLA: Doug Donaldson’s service to the people of Stikine. Bless him as he works in Victoria; make him aware of those who genuinely need his help and enable him to contribute to their well-being. Give him the strength and endurance he needs, and let him know that his efforts are appreciated. Bless his family with health and wholeness we pray.

Doug Donaldson was elected as MLA for Stikine on May 12, 2009 after four terms as a municipal councillor in Hazelton.

Doug serves as deputy opposition critic Finance, and Energy and serves as Chair of the caucus committee on Sustainable Economic Development.

Doug’s previous work in the Stikine included jobs in forestry, tourism, education, communications and journalism. He has been active on many local and provincial boards.

Doug lived in Smithers and Telkwa before settling in Hazelton. He has traveled extensively through the new Stikine riding, with many trips to the northern part of the constituency featuring a recent visit to Iskut to participate in a community coalbed methane forum organized by the Tahltan. Doug is married and has two adult children. He enjoys skiing, hiking, squash and tending to his chickens, turkeys, sheep and llamas. His formal education includes an undergraduate degree in biology and a graduate degree in journalism.

MLA: Adrian Dix - Vancouver-Kingsway

2011-10-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Lord, surround MLA:Adrian Dix today, and in the days to come, with Your wisdom and guidance. May his thoughts and plans, as well as those of his advisers, be established by You. Give him good judgment and the ability to discern what is of real value. We pray he will advocate for what is just, fair and good for the people of our province. In Jesus' name, 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.

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

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

Lord, we thank Youfor the MLA:Hon. Michael de Jong’s many years of dedication and contribution toour province. We pray that You willcontinue to bless his work and enlighten and inspire him with plans that areestablished by You. Give him anunderstanding of people’s real needs and help him to make decisions with compassionand fairness. Guide him with Your wordswhich bring life and health to our bodies. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Michael de Jong was named Minister of Health on March 14, 2011. He was re-elected in 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 by-election.

The five-term MLA previously served as 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. In addition he also served as Government House Leader.

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. 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.

MLA: Marc Dalton - Maple Ridge-Mission

2011-10-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

Dearest Heavenly Father, we pray for Marc Dalton, MLA for MapleRidge-Mission, and ask Your hand to be upon him to guide him and bring aboutYour purposes through him. Give him clear direction and wisdom as he strives toserve his constituents. May he be open to hear Your voice and to follow Yourleading that Your will can be accomplished through him. Bless him with renewedenergy and joy in his work and may he know that he is valued and appreciated.We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Marc Daltonwas 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 boththe elementary and high school levels. He has a Bachelors Degree in French andHistory and a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership, both from Simon FraserUniversity. Raised in a military family he lived in bases across the countryand served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves after graduating. He is amember of the Royal Canadian Legion in Maple Ridge.
Mr. Daltonis Aboriginal (Metis) and speaks French. He has led student exchanges to Quebecto promote unity, French language fluency and an appreciation of Canadianculture. He has attended the Teachers Institute of Parliamentary Democracy inOttawa and has been active in politics at all different levels over the past 25years.

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 severalyears, Mr. Dalton worked as a volunteer with youth and reaching out to theneedy. Currently, he and Marlene are involved with feeding the homeless indowntown Maple Ridge.

MLA: Kathy Corrigan - Burnaby-Deer Lake

2011-10-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

Dearest Heavenly Father, thank Youfor your wisdom in using Kathy Corrigan, MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake, OfficialOpposition Deputy Caucus Chair and critic for Public Safety and SolicitorGeneral, and Women, at such a timeas this. Thank You for the intelligence and work ethic that you have giftedKathy with. May she be a ready vessel to carry out Your purposes in ourgovernment at this time. Bless her with a refreshed spirit and energy toperform all that she is called upon to do. We ask this in Jesus’ name.

KathyCorrigan was elected MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake in 2009 and serves as OfficialOpposition Deputy Caucus Chair and critic for Public Safety and SolicitorGeneral, and Women.

Astrong advocate for public education, Kathy served three terms on the BurnabyBoard of Education (1999-2008) and was board chair in 2007 and 2008. She servedon 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 alsoedited a legal journal and has written about privatization and tradeagreements.

Asa long-time community volunteer, Kathy spent many years serving on parentadvisory committees, the Burnaby Minor Hockey Association, the Burnaby &New Westminster Ringette Association, the Lakeside Advisory Board, and otherorganizations

Sheand husband Derek Corrigan have lived in Burnaby since 1977. They have fourgrown children.

MLA: Gary Coons - North Coast

2011-10-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Dearest Heavenly Father, we lift up Gary Coons, MLA for the North Coastand Opposition Critic for BC Ferries and Coastal Communities, to You in prayer.We ask that You guide him as he serves in government. Help him to stay focusedin his position and give him the wisdom and insight he needs to do his jobwell. Keep his spirits high and help him to find great joy and satisfaction inhis work. Bless Gary and his family with good health. We ask this in Jesus’name.

Gary Coonswas re-elected as the MLA for the North Coast on May 12, 2009. He was firstelected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.

Gary servesas opposition critic for B.C. Ferries and Coastal Communities.

During hisfirst term Gary served on the Special Committee for Sustainable Aquaculture andthe Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. He currently is a memberof the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations.

Beforeentering politics Gary was an educator in the Prince Rupert School District for27 years. He taught Mathematics/Special Education. It was during his time as ateacher and union activist that Gary first start down the path to politicalinvolvement.

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

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

MLA: Katrine Conroy - Kootenay West

2011-10-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

We thank YouLord for Katrine Conroy and her service to the people of the Kootenay West riding. Thank You also for hercommitment to this area using her skills to the best of her ability. Prepareher for challenges she may be facing and give her wisdom throughout this nextseason of her life. We ask that Yourhand of provision and protection will rest on her and her family as she servesthe people of British Columbia. In Jesus' name we pray. 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.