Tag Archives: BC Division

HMIBC SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 NEWLETTER

Many hello’s to all of you from one of me,
2015 Opening Night puck drop
2015 Opening Night puck drop

I trust that you are doing well during this hectic fall season.  Lorraine and I are certainly busy; our days are packed full.  This is a fabulous time of year for me, with hockey in full swing, and ministry spilling all over the place!  Ready to read about what’s going on?  Okay, here goes…..

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Coffee with two Kelowna Chiefs players
Coffee with two Kelowna Chiefs players

September began for Lorraine and I with a rush, as it usually does with most people.  I was asked to take part in the West Kelowna Warriors opening home game ceremonial faceoff which was a great way to start the hockey season.  In mid September, after attending the BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack, my chapels began with both the Kelowna Chiefs and the West Kelowna Warriors hockey clubs.  These chapels are held every two weeks, and almost all the players attend.  It is so wonderful to discuss ‘God Stuff’ with the guys and end with a prayer!

West Kelowna Coach Rylan Ferster
West Kelowna Coach Rylan Ferster

Besides the chapels, I try to get together for coffee (as you can see with these two Kelowna Chiefs) or sometimes host players for an evening in my home.  Lorraine and I had a great evening recently as four Warriors boys came over to our house.  (We watched the Blue Jays win an game vs. the Royals, followed by a good talk and then ended the evening with prayer.)  I have also become a good friend of Warriors Head Coach Rylan Ferster, and we have J & J and chat often.  (J & J is our slang term for Java and Jesus; we never have coffee without prayer. It’s my rule!)

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At home with 4 West Kelowna Warriors
At home with 4 West Kelowna Warriors

As I mentioned in my last newsletter, there were numerous changes in chaplaincy personnel this past summer.  I thought I would introduce two of the new chaplains to you here. Dave Funk serves as chaplain of the Penticton Vees and Terry Dyer serves the Powell River Kings. Terry is also the team trainer and athletic therapist.  I am so very glad to have these two join the family of HMI BC chaplains.

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Penticton Vees Chaplain Dave Funk
Penticton Vees Chaplain Dave Funk

In early October, I made a quick trip up the road to Vernon, where I met chaplains Joel Olson (Revelstoke Grizzlies) and Michael Fox (North Okanagan Knights).  Just a few days later, I was honoured to connect for a visit with Murray Fairweather who has been a great long time friend and HMI BC supporter.  In mid-October I was privileged to sing the National Anthem for the Kelowna Rockets, something that I never tire of.  I find that it is a wonderful opportunity for visibility and influence in the world of hockey.

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Powell River chaplain Terry Dyer
Powell River chaplain Terry Dyer

In the next few weeks I will be traveling to the north part of Vancouver Island and then I’ll head out to the East Kootenay’s (Invermere, Cranbrook/ Kimberley/ Creston and the Nelson/ Trail area).  I have many appointments during these trips, and I would appreciate it if you could remember me in prayer during these times.  Of course, safety on the roads is a big factor as well praying for good meaningful connections.

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Chaplains Josiah Olson and Michael Fox
Chaplains Josiah Olson and Michael Fox

Thank you for believing in this ministry and for supporting what we are doing here.  I am so grateful to the Lord for His provision and grace and to you for your assistance.  May the Lord bless and strengthen you, and reward you for your Kingdom faithfulness.
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All for Jesus,
Don Richmond
Hockey Ministries International
Pacific Region

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Great HMI friend Murray Fairweather
Great HMI friend Murray Fairweather
Prayer Points:
  • For safe travels on our BC winter roads.
  • For the 40 chaplains across BC.
  • For the players attending chapels.
  • For my trips with a few teams this winter.
  • For added support for this HMI BC ministry.
  • For new opportunities to minister.
  • Thanksgiving for many good ministry moments.
  • Upcoming HMI trips to North Vancouver Island and the Kootenays