Canada has often been described as the melting pot for the world’s many cultures; a global village of varied traditions and faiths; a nation created by immigration from all around the world.
What we see today in our cities and towns is a kaleidoscope of the world’s people meeting together within our vast and diverse nation. The culmination has been a rich and textured array of cultures spanning from sea-to-sea.
In British Columbia we continue to nurture, foster and develop our ministry to all those who call British Columbia their home.
We also continue to be a beacon of hope for those that have called this land their home for thousands of years. In particular, the First Nations people have become an important and endearing part of The Salvation Army ministry. Over two-thirds of First Nations people live in the western part of Canada, with over 200 Bands in British Columbia alone. Many First Nations people still face a number of socio-economic problems, often living in impoverished situations.
The ramifications of public policy and social stigmas have forced First Nations into this situation where there is rampant abuse of alcohol, low literacy rates and a depressingly low morale. In response to these ongoing issues, The Salvation Army ordained and appointed Nisga First Nations Leaders Auxillary-Captains Oliver and Debbie McNeil to the town of Gitwinksihlw, a community of approximately 400 people in northern British Columbia.
Aux. Captain Oliver and Debbie know the language and the people of this community, making them a perfect fit for the continued ministry. They preside over weddings and funerals, through good times and hard times, counseling people in issues such as drug and alcohol abuse and bringing spiritual guidance to those in need.
The work of this unique First Nations village is to bring salvation and unity to people. It is to bring a purpose to the residents. The ministry belongs not only to The Salvation Army, but to the people of Gitwinksihlw and is replicated in communities throughout Northern British Columbia.
In Vancouver, The Salvation Army has addressed the growing Korean population in Vancouver. The Korean Corps Ministry unit, which is due in part to the Army’s strong presence in Korea, showcases our work and values this ethnic minority.
A Salvationist from Korea has been retained by the division to provide leadership. And much like the Gitwinksihlw unit, the Korean Corps brings its culture and traditions into its ministry, bridging the gap between the traditional Anglo European roots of the Army and its modern-day international ministry. Through social services and ministry to people of the downtown eastside, this ministry has become an important part of the multicultural fabric of the British Columbia division.
The result has been an enrichment of the ministries of The Salvation Army in British Columbia, breaking down social and cultural barriers and bridging awareness to the many people who have never been exposed to The Salvation Army.
This awareness has been enhanced by a strategic partnership with Channel M - Multi-vision Television - and allied media partner and the largest multi-ethic television station in Western Canada. By developing in-language television commercials in Mandarin, Cantonese and Punjabi The Army’s message of help and hope is reaching thousands of new Canadians in the BC Lower Mainland.
Our ministries continue to foster emotional and spiritual care to all those that need our assistance and we will reach out to everyone with caring, support and compassion-no matter what their cultural or ethnic background may be.
by Lt. Donald J. Copple
Former Divisional Commander
British Columbia Division