Dear Friends of Asian and Multicultural Ministries in Canada (AMMiC),
The Lord said to Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9a ESV
AMMiC’s Conviction during the Pandemic
As we all know, since the start of this year, the COVID-19 pandemic has seriously impacted almost every sector of life, be it personal, family, education, economy, political or social interactions. Churches and mission organizations are not exempt. The majority of church worship and fellowship activities have gone online for health and safety reasons. However, as we stay “virtual” for a longer time without in-person interactions, we come to realize that “in-person” relation cannot be replaced by “virtual” exchange. Just as parents cannot satisfy children’s need for love by mere audio-visual communication, nor can lovers sustain their relationship in a virtual manner. “Togetherness” is simply irreplaceable. This is because in God’s creation of the world and humankind, life’s meaning and fulfilment come from in-person relatedness and togetherness; even as God himself dwells among us through the incarnated Jesus Christ, “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14b). The good news of the Christian faith is “togetherness,” “God with us.”
For this conviction, although an annual fundraising dinner cannot be held (as the BC health officer advises against mass banquets), the AMMiC Board of Directors resolved to hold an in-person and livestream fundraising gathering this year, on Saturday, October 3, at 11:00 am to 12:00 noon Pacific Time (2:00-3:00 pm Eastern Time). AMMiC will give thanks for God’s grace over the 10 years that have passed, with ministry sharing of our online children’s outreach during the pandemic, the steady development of Mandarin mission, and perseverant ministering to the visible minorities in Canada.
We host the gathering both in-person and livestream because we want to manifest the duality of Jesus’ gospel: his incarnation (in-person) and transcendence over time and space (after his resurrection), which expresses the human and divine nature of the gospel. Since May, Good Shepherd Vancouver (now holding 3 in-person Sunday services each week) have experienced first-hand the revival of the Christian community through serving together in collaboration and mutual support, which brings much joy and enthusiasm. I named this mode of ministry during the pandemic “walking on two legs” that brings about synergistic fellowship life.
How do I give?
Financially speaking, as in previous years, AMMiC has just had enough for our needs last year. Although some church plants are brought down during the pandemic, the majority of AMMiC churches have positive outlook. Nona and I are hopeful yet watching, because we trust God has his will and special mission for us in these challenging times, and we decide to increase our yearly donation to $12,000. The AMMiC fundraising target stays at CAD $150,000 (that provides for AMMiC staff remuneration, leadership training, and funding for new church planting).
The October 3rd in-person ministry sharing and fundraising event will be held at the Anglican Network Church of the Good Shepherd Vancouver, 189 West 11th Avenue, Vancouver, BC. Please RSVP to our invitation by email to fundraising@ammic.ca or by phone to 604-303-1135 (maximum seating is 50). If you are not available to attend in-person, you are very welcome to watch the streaming on AMMiC’s YouTube channel or you can find the link on our website, www.ammic.ca.
Please send your donation by cheque made out to AMMiC, mailed to 160-4611 No. 6 Road, Richmond, BC, V6V 2L3. We are in the process of setting up Interac e-Transfer, please contact AMMiC staff members or check the www.ammic.ca/donate for details.
Thank you for your partnership in the gospel.
With every blessing in Christ,
The Rt. Rev. Stephen Leung
Area Bishop (Asian and Multicultural Ministries), Anglican Network in Canada
President, Asian and Multicultural Ministries in Canada
Rector, Anglican Network Church of the Good Shepherd