May Updates
Leading in Atlantic Canada
"I sense God releasing fresh hope and expectation for what he wants to do in the region, an openness to partnership and a desire for missional engagement." (Curtis Peters - DS, Eastern District)
The Eastern District of The Alliance Canada encompasses east Toronto all the way across the country to Atlantic Canada (with the Saint Lawrence District covering Quebec). Atlantic Canada is a rich environment, not only to live but also as a place of ministry. Seeing this as a unique setting for leaders and ministry the Eastern District organizes Converge, an annual gathering of Alliance leaders, including those leading New Ventures, every April. The prayer each year is that this event would provide mutual encouragement, and look to strengthen the shared mission in the region. This year's theme was "Stories for His Glory: On mission together."
Dave Enns, Director of Church Multiplication, shared stories from across Canada that highlighted the movement of God that is being witnessed in new places, and with new people. He brought a message that beautifully laid out a biblical framework for the expectation and anticipation of new beginnings.
If you are passionate about this region of Canada and would like to start a conversation about something that might be stirring in your heart, we would love to hear from you.
Reflections & Learnings in Morden
LIGHTS manitoba launched as a new venture in the summer of 2022 under the leadership of Henry Dueck and through a partnership with Morden Alliance Church (MAC) and the Midwest District. For many years Henry has been drawn towards the authenticity and accessibility offered through intimate worship settings. It was a dream of his to initiate these types of gatherings in homes, cafes, and open community venues. This dream became a prayer, and the vision for this new venture began to take shape.
Over the course of 2.5 years, this new venture initiated City Lights - worship circles (open/community worship experience), house LIGHTS (house group/church), and party LIGHTS (larger gatherings of multiple house groups). The Mosaic Young Adults Collective was also initiated by the young adults from within these various communities.
In 2024, Henry stepped in to fill a part-time term position for Worship & Life Groups at Morden Alliance Church, the lead partner of "LIGHTS manitoba new venture," as they went through the search process for a new Lead Pastor. During this time he continued to lead LIGHTS, and was able to integrate many of the aspects of music and small group ministries to apply both to "big" and "little" church settings. Once a new lead pastor was identified, Henry was then offered a permanent role as Pastor of Worship & Outreach, and LIGHTS became an official ministry of MAC and an integral part of Henry's new role. We are thankful for this example of partnership and for the leadership that Henry gave to this new venture. We are excited to see how this ministry will continue to grow and impact the community of Morden, MB and surrounding areas.
How have you felt encouraged or inspired through the journey of this new venture? What gifts has God given you that you could bring to your local community? How do you sense the spirit leading you to step out? Let's get you connected to have a conversation!!
Reflections & Learnings in Newmarket
Yeonjun Kim reflects,
"This journey has been incredibly meaningful. Over the past year I’ve come to understand more deeply who I am, not only as a videographer or a pastor, but as a disciple of Jesus, navigating His unique call on my life…
I’ve learned more about the heart of God, the needs of the community I serve, and the complexity—and beauty—of my calling. I truly appreciate the space New Ventures provided to explore, ask hard questions, and sit with uncertainty.
I still wrestle with how my pastoral and media callings intersect, but I now feel more equipped and encouraged to keep discerning and living into both.
I carry with me clarity, gratitude, and a renewed vision for both the church and the media ministry that God may still be shaping in me. I'm stepping into this next season with peace, knowing that the journey is still unfolding—and trusting that God will continue to guide."
As you read Yeonjun's reflection, how do you hear God speaking to you about your own journey? How may the the Holy Spirit be inviting you into a season of discovery & discernment in order to reach new people in new places here in Canada?