I trust that you are doing well today, and that you are encouraged in the Lord these days.
hmibc
I ask myself this question today: Why am I driven to stay in the hockey world starting my 17th season as a chaplain and missionary? My answer: because I am convinced that Jesus is the answer for everyone, for their hurts, their heartaches and their self-indulgences. This underlying theme has been the foundation for this ministry since my very first chapel back in September of 2000. I trust as we read this that perhaps it will ring true for all of us. (My mini-sermon is now over…!)
hmibc
Here are some of the things that have been going on in the past while.
CHAMPIONSHIP BANNER NIGHT: In early September, I had the privilege of singing the National Anthem at the West Kelowna Warriors Opening Night game where the Canadian National Championship Banner was raised to the rafters. What a fabulous night it was, with an arena filled with happy fans! It was such an honour to be a part of an opportunity like this. The place was absolutely electric that evening! After the opening weekend, the Warriors went to the BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack, where I was pleased to help out with the colour commentary on the Warriors game broadcast.
hmibc
CHAPEL NEWS: I have already had a number of chapels with both the Kelowna Chiefs Jr. B club and the West Kelowna Warriors Jr. A club. To have prayer with the entire team and to have their ears as I lead them is an amazing gift from the Lord. One other chapel note: I am trusting the Lord to help me with a potential new chapel program in 100 Mile House, plus a re-start of chapel programs in Nelson and Kamloops. Would you add these to your prayer list please?
hmibc
TRAVEL STUFF: In my travels, I had an opportunity to speak to a men’s breakfast group in Chilliwack, where I was hosted wonderfully by Dell Rempel, a good brother in the Lord.
I’ve have also had a chance to meet up with a few chaplains along the way…. such as Nanaimo and VIctoria chaplains Travis Barbour and Tony Janzen, as well as Prince George chaplain Jim Brown Jr. Also, I thought that I would include a great shot of ex- West Kelowna Warrior now Calgary Hitmen goaltender Cody Porter, who I had the privilege of spending a bit of time with this past summer. One more thing; Wayne Lamb, a good friend of mine recently passed through Kelowna, and we had a wonderful breakfast together. Wayne served the Lord as the chaplain in Edmonton for the Oilers up until a few years ago.
hmibc
Recently, I have spent much time visiting players here in Kelowna and encouraging them. Usually I will have 3 or 4 coffee appointments every week, just listening to the guys tell me their stories…. and then of course we end with a prayer. I call that ‘J and J’, which stands for Java and Jesus. The guys will often ask me if I have time for a little J & J, and of course I always do.
hmibc
WRAPPING UP THE MONTH: In the last few days of October, I will be on a four day road trip with the Warriors, and I would ask your prayers for this. I will be allowed to lead a chapel in the hotel at some point during that trip. Just how awesome is that?
hmibc
Thank you for your support as I travel around BC every hockey season. The winter makes the road conditions not always ideal, so your prayers are always appreciated and needed. I am always encouraged to know this: that the Lord is more than able; that we can and will take steps of faith and move forward. I am convinced that nothing is accomplished without His power and strength.
hmibc
Prayer Points:
– 100 Mile House potential chaplaincy
– Nelson chaplaincy
– Kamloops Jr. B chaplaincy
– speaking engagements in November
– Christmas Hamper Night in West Kelowna
– my road trip with the Warriors
– for the many chapels taking place weekly
– safety in my winter travels
hmibc
Only Jesus,
Don Richmond
Hockey Ministries International
Pacific Region
News from the crazy world of hockey ministry here in BC