William James Pearson penned this very famous Salvation Army hymn in the late 1800’s, shortly after the organization was founded. But early Salvationists knew then what they know now; ‘joy’ is not the same thing as ‘happiness’. The world is full of pain and suffering and it touches us both personally and professionally.
Now that it’s February, we switch our attention to the missional theme of the month; LOVE. We chose ‘love’ for February because Valentine’s Day falls on February 14th. It’s a time where we intentionally express our love and appreciation for our partners, families and our friends.
This is that weekend when we find ourselves both reflecting on how fast the summer blew by and also planning for new fall season beginnings (school, church, work, etc). For me, this Labour Day weekend of reflection and preparation seems multiplied by a gazillion. There’s so much that I’m leaving behind and there’s also so much to prepare for.
Ron Mainse catches up with Dion Oxford of Gateway Ministry at the Street Level Conference.
Usually when summer arrives and winter is officially behind us, it’s a symbol of a time to come up for air, take a deep breath, and enjoy the slower pace of life and work for a couple of months. But when you’re homeless, there’s no such thing as summer holidays. There are no cottage plans.No …
Well it’s pretty clear I can’t seem to find a regular blogging rhythm. The last time I was here it was the middle of winter. Now it’s late spring, the snow is all gone (knock on wood), the flowers are blooming, and summer is imminent. (Though I’m still wearing a sweater lest I freeze. But …
Three minute video on debates about the definition of homelessness. Watch Video
Gateway Linens, a ministry of the Salvation Army, is a job training centre in Toronto that helps homeless men find meaningful work by teaching them the tools of the laundry and linen industry. After the men graduate, they are guaranteed full time work at K-Bro Linen Systems, a local linen company that’s teamed up with the Salvation Army to help fight homelessness.
Created for the Street Level 2009 conference. Please contact me if you wish to use this video. Watch Video
Created for Street Level 2009. Please contact me if you wish to use this video. Watch Video