Milestones

Health Update -- February 2008

2008-02-05T09:49:00.000-05:00

With one month of 2008 already behind us, here’s a quick health update to let you know how things have been going for us during my treatment for colon cancer.

How Is It Going? There have been some encouraging signs of progress. In the last month, I’ve remained pain free and have been able to continue my bi-weekly treatments of chemo-therapy. A CT scan on January 25 reported no new tumors and a reduction in one spot under my right rib. Blood tests show a decline in cancer cell activity (CA125) from 154 in October to 64 in December to 14 in January. I am enjoying participation in the “Well Fit” exercise program for cancer patients at the University of Waterloo (http://www.uwfitness.uwaterloo.ca/wellfit/). However, the side-effects (nausea, fatigue) of treatment have become more severe and post-treatment recovery has been more difficult this month.

January Activities. In January, Dianne returned to work relief, doing a number of 3 or 4 hour evening shifts at Christian Horizons. We were also able to travel to Ottawa for six days to visit our daughter, Rebecca; son-in-law, Max; and our grand-daughter, Emilie. We’ve also had a parade of welcome visitors who have encouraged us during these snowy winter months.

Employment/Ministry Update. At the time of my diagnosis, I was about to make a job or ministry transition. With the news of my illness, Outreach Canada, the mission agency with which we were serving, extended their employment commitment to us, helping us through a very difficult time. This past month, Dianne and I decided we want to remain with Outreach Canada long term. At present, I am on “leave of absence” due to the present course of treatments. Our disability benefits care for our financial needs and our small part of the OC ministry budget has already been fully pledged by donors for 2008! Dianne and I are very grateful for the pastoral care provided by OC. If you want to know more about our relationship with Outreach Canada, you can visit our blog at http://ggibson.blogspot.com or the OC web-site at http://en.outreach.ca.

Looking Ahead. According to my oncologist, treatments will continue every two weeks as long as I can handle them and they are making progress against the cancer. Although the future is unclear, we’re keeping an optimistic short term outlook. We’re planning something special every month so that we have something to look forward to.

Glenn A. Gibson

Renewing Our Commitment with Outreach Canada

2008-02-02T11:27:00.000-05:00

13 January 2008

Dear Friends and Ministry Partners,

We are thankful for the years of ministry that we have had with Outreach Canada. The Lord has been working in our hearts and we have come to the conclusion together with Outreach Canada’s leadership that this is where we belong for the ministry to which God has called us. We are writing at this time to let you know of our commitment to Outreach Canada and theirs to us and want to communicate with you as our partners regarding our ongoing support needs for the 2008 ministry year.

Changing Course in 2007. As you may know, we had originally planned to make a move to a new ministry with another organization on September 1, 2007. Glenn’s cancer diagnosis and surgery in early August postponed that change. Outreach Canada graciously agreed to retain us to provide pastoral care as well as medical benefits for the months to follow. Many of you also responded to an appeal from OC with a generous gift or continued financial support in the final months of 2007 for which we are grateful.

Renewing Our Commitment. As we begin 2008, we have concluded that God is leading us to remain with Outreach Canada. We are grateful that OC have renewed their commitment to provide ongoing care for us. In the months ahead, Glenn will not have ministry responsibilities and will continue to receive treatment for colon cancer through the Grand River Regional Cancer Centre in Kitchener, ON. If chemo therapy is successful, there is the possibility of a return to active ministry sometime in the future.

Our 2008 Support Need. Disability benefits will be fully caring for our salary needs in the months ahead. However, we will still need about $900.00 per month in support to cover three primary costs: our medical benefits, our share of mission overhead, and our communication budget. To date, half of this amount has been pledged. We would really like to take this concern off our minds by raising the balance in cash gifts and pledges by the end of February. If you haven’t already done so, would you help us with the other half? A response card and envelope is included to assist you.

Our Challenge to You. If God’s healing touch enables Glenn to return to active service, we will definitely be in touch with you about ministry support needs. But, in the meantime, our OC Ontario teammates are still in need of ministry partners. If our remaining 2008 need is met in the weeks ahead, consider the possibility of redirecting your gift toward the ministry of Brian and Linda Baxter, Alison Johnson, or James and Cathi Watson. I appreciate so much the extra work load that they have picked up due to Glenn’s illness.

We plan to keep in touch in the months ahead. Thanks for your faithful support and care. Since the beginning of November, Glenn has completed six sessions of chemo-therapy. On January 25, he is scheduled for a CT scan on January 25 to assess developments. Bi-monthly treatments are expected to continue into the spring at which time we hope a clearer picture of his health and prospects will emerge. Pray for us as we move forward in 2008.

Sincerely in Christ

Glenn and Dianne Gibson

December Health Update from Glenn

2007-12-23T17:30:00.000-05:00

With Christmas coming, it’s time for a year end update on developments in my health and treatment for colon cancer.

How’s It Going? The last four weeks have gone well. Treatments have proceeded on schedule. I’ve had minimal side-effects. I was able on November 30 to attend the graduation of our son, Paul, from the Training Academy of the Toronto Fire Service as well as the Wilsher (Dianne’s) Family Christmas on December 15 in London, Ontario. I’ve enrolled in a “Well-Fit” exercise class for cancer patients (an hour on Wednesday and Friday) at the University of Waterloo. Dianne and I also walk a couple of mornings per week at the indoor track at the Waterloo Recreation Centre. I’ve had a lot of visitors and thoroughly enjoyed some deep conversations with many of my best friends. After the last chemo treatment (my 4th), I had my first bout of nausea and spent a night in various shades of green. But I’m feeling better now thanks to some effective medication.

Adjustment of Outlook. My attitude has been quite aggressive toward my illness. This has led to some times of private frustration toward my cancer symptoms and treatment side effects. Recently, a colleague dropped by our place with his daughter. She gave me a stuffed animal. Later that day, I started a series of e-mails with her Dad to come up with a name for my new cuddly polar bear. I suggested the names of a couple of hockey players renowned for their fighting who would remind me to fight the cancer. My friend’s daughter suggested “Snowy” in a message that crossed with mine in the mail. My first reaction was that I needed something more aggressive. But, as I sat in my rocking chair looking out at the snow, I adjusted my outlook from “aggression” to “acceptance”. So, while it’s “snowy”, I will rest, accept treatment, and stop struggling. Thanks to a 10 year old Christmas angel with a message that has to help me deal with frustration.

Looking Ahead. We happy to have our daughter, Rebecca, and family here for a four day visit from Ottawa. The Gibson family Christmas on December 24 will be hosted by our son, Paul, and his wife, Heather, in their new home in Baden, Ontario. I’ll spend the last day of the year at my fifth chemo treatment and will then be assessed for progress following session #6 on January 14. Glenn Gibson

Motivation -- A Slice from a Cancer Experience

2007-12-07T11:48:00.000-05:00

In a recent e-mail exchange with my friend, Jay Pinney, he asked the question: "How do you keep yourself going?"

After writing a reply entitled, "Motivation", Jay wrote back: "I would encourage you to send it out with one of your health reports. It seems to be a spiritual health report of some kind which might be encouraging for those who haven’t gotten it right from the horse’s mouth."

So, here it is in edited form:

I'm a natural optimist. In addition, I've been feeling well during the last three weeks and have a fair bit of energy. I'm walking at an indoor track a couple of times a week and have just joined an exercise class at the University of Waterloo for cancer patients. The side-effects from chemo have been minimal and my oncologist is surprised and impressed with the progress I'm making with treatment. There are hundreds of people that are praying for me regularly. I have enough insurance. My family and church have provided incredible support all during this illness. I am having a surprising ministry influence from a place of confinement -- e-mail, phone calls, people coming to see me.

Life is precious and is meant to be lived regardless. That's one of the big learnings of the present time. During my chemo treatment on Tuesday, my daughter asked me if I had a list of things I would like to do before life is done. I listed a half dozen small things (two small trips and a few little one day experiences), but realized that I don't have a lot of frustrations or regrets. My life is good. I've left a substantial ministry legacy over 30 years. I could do another productive chapter of ministry if the Lord restores my health, but I could finish sooner. I feel like my life has been well lived. An illness like this has a way of sorting what matters and what doesn't. Most of what I've invested in has been in the first category and that feels good.

Last year, I read Rick Warren's book, "The Purpose Driven Life" and worked through the journal tool that goes with it. Just a few weeks ago, I re-read what I journalled then. It was gratifying to reflect again on how God is in control and is working in the circumstances of my present life. What I read and wrote is all still true now that cancer is here. Whether God glorifies Himself through delivering me from cancer or preserving me while suffering through it remains to be seen. Running the race to the end ...

Glenn A. Gibson

Treatment Update -- Doing Okay

2007-11-25T16:10:00.000-05:00

In the month since my last update, there have been some new developments in my health and treatment for colon cancer.

Viral Infection? In the last two weeks of October, I battled a fever daily, unrelated to the colon cancer. What now appears to have been a viral infection caused what was diagnosed on October 30 as a severe cardiomegaly (heart enlargement). However, one week later, testing showed a remarkable recovery (“I don’t know how to explain this”) allowing me to resume normal activities and to commence chemo-therapy the following day.

Chemo-Therapy. It was snowing outside on November 6 as I took my first chemo-therapy session. Our daughter, Rebecca, a resident in family medicine, sat with me through almost five hours of treatment, providing companionship and coaching for a “treatment rookie”. I took home a little pump to help me finish the session over the next 48 hours. Although I have had some severe fatigue, a few digestion issues, and some upper body pain, the 12 days of recovery were relatively side-effect free – no severe nausea, no hair loss, no mouth sores, no skin irritations, or other challenges. The medication provided has made my treatment bearable. Dianne accompanied me on November 20 for the second chemo-therapy session and I’m doing pretty well in handling the second recovery period.

Next? The next meeting with the oncologist is scheduled for December 3. Rebecca will accompany me to this appointment to review progress as well as make any modifications needed. My chemo-therapy sessions in December are currently scheduled for the 4th and 18th, assuming all goes well. A thorough assessment of my condition will probably occur after the completion of the sixth cycle of treatment.

Activities. Life is “home focused” right now. It’s great to have visitors to the house and be receiving so many calls and pieces of mail. We are looking forward to attending the graduation of our son, Paul, from his training program with the Toronto Fire Service on November 30. At Paul’s request, I will co-present to him (with the metro fire chief) his badge as a certified City of Toronto firefighter. We are very proud of him!

Perseverance. And speaking of perseverance (4.5 years from acceptance to badge for Paul!), we are finding we will need some of the same stuff. Our support team people keep encouraging us. The care we are receiving is excellent. Thanks for your prayers and contact. You can reach us at
ggibson@outeach.ca. GG

End of October Cancer Treatment Update

2007-10-28T17:54:00.000-04:00

Health Update. On October 3, we met with my oncologist at Grand River Regional Cancer Centre (GRRCC) in Kitchener to finalize the plan for chemo-therapy. On the 11th, a “porta-cath” was inserted in my chest as an outpatient procedure – it has healed well and is ready to go. Treatment was to commence on Monday October 22. The weekend of October 12 to 14, I felt great. However, the next day, I began to run a fever. Tests ruled out a surgical infection or a respiratory illness. It took five days of antibiotics and lots of bed rest to finally turn the corner. As a result, the start of treatment was delayed one week.

Treatment Plan. In a nut shell, here is what the treatment plan looks like:
The regime is “FOLFIRI” – a standard first line of treatment for colon cancer with the addition of “avastin”, a drug which reduces new blood vessel development to keep cancer cells from growing,
The cycle is a 14 day period of therapy and recovery – one half day visit to GRRCC before heading home with a portable pump to finish the drug treatment over the next two days; then 12 days of recovery at home,
The schedule, at present, has treatment visits to GRRCC on Monday October 29, Tuesday November 12, Monday November 26, and Monday December 10 – the total length of treatment is yet to be determined.

How Are We Doing? Thursday October 18 was a low point for us both. Not only was it a day of rain and pain for me, but also was my 55th birthday (now I can get the senior’s discount!). What a blessing, though, to have dinner that evening with our son and his wife and then to web-cam with our daughter and her husband. My family gave me a digital picture frame which brings their (and your) faces before me regularly.

Keep In Touch! We’re happy to hear from you anytime by calling at 519-576-4463 (home) or dropping us an e-mail at ggibson@outreach.ca or diannergibson@msn.com. Or you could leave a comment on his blog entry! GG

Thanksgiving in Kitchener

2007-10-08T19:50:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, our family gathered for a thanksgiving dinner in Kitchener. Here's a picture of the gang taken at the time (for a closer look, click on the photo). GG

Getting Ready for Chemotherapy

2007-09-25T10:08:00.000-04:00

Health update. The first appointment with the medical oncologist (cancer doctor) is Wednesday October 3. Chemotherapy will take place at Grand River Cancer Centre in Kitchener afterwards. The incision from surgery is now completely healed. I have been able to increase the length of my daily walks. The “Care Partners” nursing care visits at our home will soon be discontinued.

What are we doing? Both of us have been off work since the surgery. I am still on staff with Outreach Canada and am officially on medical leave of absence. Dianne has not been taking shifts at Christian Horizons during the last six weeks. Convalescence kept us at home for awhile, but we resumed attending worship at our home church on September 16. We are now able to respond again to our e-mail and phone calls. It’s been really great to have some visitors in the last couple of weeks. I actually hit some golf balls at the driving range this past weekend. A recent visit with our grand-daughter, Emilie, has been most therapeutic for us both!

Our outlook? The first few weeks of this experience were a time of shock, numbness, and coping. Dianne and I have now reached a stage of adjusting to “plan B” (a path we didn’t envision or expect). There are moments when we do wrestle with feelings of loss and anxiety. But there are two dominant ideas we are thinking in the typical day:

“Every moment matters.” – they are precious opportunities to be enjoyed, savored or utilized.

“It’s early!” (a favorite saying of our son, Paul) – it’s too soon to be certain of what will happen in the future.

Being realistic, but hopeful is the way in which we are approaching the coming months. Your amazing support as our family, friends, and supporters has made it easier to see the bright side of the road ahead. And speaking of that, I’m climbing back onto the treadmill today. It will be my first little “jog” since this whole adventure began!

Planning for Treatment

2007-09-09T09:25:00.001-04:00

Recent Progress. Since my surgery for colon cancer on August 12, my focus has been on recovery. The goal has been restoration of health and strength in order to proceed with subsequent cancer treatment. I’ve gained back part of the weight I’ve lost and have been able to do a couple of short walks each day to get some exercise. My appetite and level of stamina has improved. But I still need a lot of rest.

Report on the Cancer. On Tuesday, Dianne and I met with the surgeon who removed the tumor from my colon. We received the news that the cancer is “stage 4”, or spread outside the colon. We also reviewed the lab report which showed that, fortunately, the cancer cells are of a slower growing type. I am now in the process of referral to an oncologist (a cancer doctor) at the Grand River Cancer Centre in Kitchener where I will begin chemotherapy in the near future. I am facing a serious fight to beat this, but am hopeful to someday be a cancer survivor!

Cultivating Hope. In the last couple of weeks, there have been a number of things that have nourished a positive outlook toward the future …

Reading Lance Armstrong’s biography, “It’s Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life.”
A continuing deluge of cards, e-mails, calls, meals, and short visits that have expressed love, best wishes, and prayers for recovery.
Opportunity to take a couple of walks per day with family members and close friends in the sunshine and fresh air.
Help with many practical matters medical, financial, and logistical from family, our home church, and our ministry colleagues from both Outreach Canada and Christian Horizons.

I admitted yesterday to my family doctor that my emotional “default setting” is optimism and joked that, like a lot of guys, I usually think that I’m invincible. She humorously agreed, “Some types of delusional thinking are not harmful.” As a small act of defiance against the illness, I took the next of a series of travel shots that I had started earlier in the year. After all, I may be well enough to travel internationally in 2008 …

What’s Next? I’m looking forward to …

Continuing to get stronger for the treatments ahead.
A special gathering (September 10) to pray for me planned by the leadership of our home church.
Meeting with the oncologist within the next two weeks to make decisions about the treatment plan.
Getting started on chemotherapy.

Contact? I still don’t have the energy to respond to all the voice mail or other messages. Thanks for your patience while I’m getting back on my feet. I still need lots of rest. But I am starting to make contacts and hope to talk with many of you in the weeks ahead. In the meantime, you can always drop me a line at ggibson@outreach.ca.

A Health Update -- Post Cancer Surgery

2007-08-29T19:02:00.000-04:00

I’m home and it’s so good to be here! After emergency surgery on August 12 to remove a cancerous tumor from my colon, I spent about a week of recovery time at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener before being sent home. In less than 48 hours later, I was readmitted for a few more days to be treated for infection and tested for blood clots (thankfully, there were none!). I’ve now been home since Saturday (August 25). I am appreciating the home care nursing visits and the support of family and friends.

How am I? I’m very weak. About two or three short visits per day is about all that I can handle. I’m slowly regaining an appetite and can eat solid food. I estimate that I’ve lost probably about 15 pounds through this ordeal. My incision is now healing well and I’m learning how to manage with a colostomy. My pain is minimal if I am careful not to overdo it.

What’s next? The priority is to gain some strength for what is to come in September. Initially, we’ll get the oncology (an analysis of the tumor) report and then go to the Kitchener Cancer Centre where I’ll commence chemotherapy to address the cancer that remains. We don’t know what the treatments will look like and how long they will take until we have the oncology report.

Our Support Team. We’ve got a good support team in place beyond the nursing services provided by the health system.
Dianne has taken time away from her relief work with Christian Horizons.
Our daughter, Rebecca, a family medicine physician based in Ottawa in her final year of her residency program, has taken a leave of absence and came to help during the surgery and early recovery. She will return to Kitchener for a week or so in September to help us as treatment starts.
Our son, Paul, who lives in Kitchener, has been incredibly helpful in a variety of practical and encouragement ways including helping to set things up at home for me.
Our home church, Wilmot Centre, is providing meals three days/week.
We’ve had lots of pastoral support from our church as well as both Outreach Canada and Christian Horizons.
The mountain of cards, e-mails, gifts, and flowers have been a huge morale boost.

A helpful thought. Today, we met with our dear friend, Ron Willis, who manages our insurance and investment portfolio. In talking about the recent trends in the financial markets, he made this comment:

“People tend to think when things are bad, that they will always be bad. And when things are good, they will always be good. The truth is that neither one is the case.”

In pondering this with Dianne during an afternoon walk around the block, it occurred to me that the same type of thinking is common concerning health and illness.

In the meantime? This is the first update I’ll send to try to keep you posted. I’ve been advised on several fronts to request that access be limited to me during this critical time of surgical recovery and preparation for chemo. Thanks for understanding my need for rest. But please drop me a line at ggibson@outreach.ca or glenn.gibson@sympatico.ca. And please pray for strength and courage for Dianne and I as the time arrives to start treatment.

A Transition in Our Ministry with Outreach Canada

2007-07-26T19:50:00.000-04:00

The following message is being mailed today to our prayer partners and ministry supporters about an upcoming ministry transition for us.

July 29, 2007

Dear Ministry Partners:

We are writing at this time to share with you about an upcoming change of status for Glenn and Dianne Gibson in their ministry with Outreach Canada. This communiqué seeks to honour the Lord through a joint statement about God’s leading for future ministry.

In the months ahead, Glenn and Dianne will move from full time employment to an associate relationship and to a more limited involvement. But their commitment will remain the same to the Outreach Canada’s mission and their teammates.

Over the past year, consultation with mission leadership and exploration into new ministry opportunities has been undertaken. In recent days, a door has opened to Glenn to serve Director of Leadership Development for Christian Horizons, a ministry serving developmentally disabled people both in Ontario and internationally.

Glenn will be concluding his full time employment with OC at the end of August, 2007 to assume his new responsibilities with Christian Horizons. But he has also agreed to continue to serve as the interim Ontario Team leader on a volunteer basis for up to the next twelve months. Some continued support in the final months of 2007 will be needed to close out the Gibson’s support account in the black and to cover any expenses related to his volunteer interim role.

The appreciation is deep for the faithful prayer and financial support of those who have supported the ministry of the Gibson’s over the past nine years. Going forward, Outreach Canada continues to carry on its important ministry within Canada and beyond through other members of their team. The financial needs related to the ongoing work of the mission and the support of the team will continue. In the weeks ahead, additional information about the need and opportunity for continued support of the ministry of Outreach Canada.

Sincerely in Christ

Gerry Kraft,
Executive Director

Glenn Gibson,
Ontario Team Leader

“I want to thank you for your personal support for the Gibson’s. They have made an outstanding contribution to the kingdom ministry in which Outreach Canada is involved. I look forward to an ongoing relationship that will bless the Gibson’s and the church in Canada.” Gerry Kraft

“Thank you, friends and supporters, for your faithful prayer and financial partnership over the past nine years. It is a work we have shared together. Would you continue to stand with us and our team during this transition? We look forward to talking to you soon to convey our appreciation for you personally.” Glenn Gibson

Father's Day at the Dairy Queen

2007-06-17T10:52:00.000-04:00

With Dianne doing "nanny duty" in Parry Sound, Ontario, I found the idea of spending Father's Day alone unappealing and drove up for a weekend visit.

Here's Grandma and, Emilie, our grand daughter, enjoying a Father's Day outing at the Dairy Queen.

Much better than being on my own on a Daddy's special day! GG

Catch the Memories ... Four Generations!

2007-05-17T07:59:00.000-04:00

Last weekend, our family was together for the wedding of Dianne's niece, Sarah. It provided the opportunity to capture four generations digitally (click on the picture itself for a closer look). On the right is Ruth Wilsher, Dianne's mom with Dianne herself on the opposite side. In the middle is our daughter, Rebecca, holding her daughter, Emilie.

This Saturday, we will be celebrating Emilie's first birthday at her home in Ottawa. I hope it will present a few moments in which to record four generations on Dad's side of the family tree.

Time together and camera moments ... strategies for helping to create a sense of family identity and a tribal history! GG

Convention Season Is Here Again!

2007-05-16T18:51:00.000-04:00

The months of May and June are the season when ministry conferences and denominational assemblies are scheduled. Yesterday, I did a first workshop presentation entitled, "Mission Possible" at the "Refresh!" Conference underway at Wycliffe College in Toronto, ON. On June 6, I'm looking forward to presenting an introductory seminar on "coaching" at the Central Canada District Conference of the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Mississauga, ON. Then, right after (June 7 to 9), my colleague, Brian Baxter (pictured to the left) and I will be presenting three different workshops (Church Revitalization by Brian, Community Impact and Small Church Ministry by me) at the annual assembly of the Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec in Toronto. Then, Brian and I will be presenting Vision Renewal Coaches Training on June 13 to 15 at Willowdale Baptist Church in Toronto. For more information, click on the hyperlinks in this story. Thank you for your prayer support as we serve in this way. GG

Learning to Walk

2007-04-29T15:52:00.000-04:00

During meetings in Ottawa this past week, I stayed with our daughter, Rebecca, and enjoyed a bit of grandpa time with our granddaughter, Emilie. She can now stand alone (with something to hold) and is eager to be walking unassisted as soon as possible! Hearing approval from those around her as well as something to grasp while practising is a real help as she works on balance and confidence. Someday soon, the goal will be reached and a whole new chapter will begin. A new independence will arrive for her and an exhausting season of parenting will commence. Go, Emilie, go! GG

Finishing Well -- April 21 in Waterloo

2007-04-29T07:54:00.000-04:00

Last weekend was my first warm weather race outing of the season -- the EnduRace 8 K run at 6:00 PM on Saturday. The weather was clear skies with a balmy temperature -- an ideal Ontario spring day. In the busyness of this season, I had not done enough training to go for a personal best (47:10 at that distance). And springtime allergies had left me unsure whether I should even be trying. But I hoped to have a good training run and break the 50 minute barrier. I felt unprepared and more anxious at the start than I had ever been for a race.

Once we got underway, I actually felt pretty good and discovered that what training I had done was carrying me along. My pace was not as fast as I could, but as others faded around me, I continued to feel strong and passed four runners in the final half kilometre before the finish line. The clock read 49:10 as my race chip beeped at the end.

I am convinced that the miles that I had run in training were the difference in the final stages. Perhaps it's an illustration for life -- preparation and discipline more than talent are often what carries you through at the end. GG

Paying Attention to Small Stuff!

2007-04-09T07:17:00.000-04:00

"What is the kingdom of God like? ... A mustard seed ... Yeast." (Luke 13:18, 19, 21)

After reading these words in the One Year Bible, this morning, I wrote the following reflection in my journal:

"That which is small and insignificant can become dominant and pervasive. I should not be misled by what first appears to be of no account or discouraged by things that seem weak and feeble. What God does is frequently unpromising or hidden in its ultimate form. Look in the unlikely places for God to be at work!"

GG

California Dreamin' ...

2007-04-07T09:04:00.000-04:00

It's Easter weekend and there's snow on the ground in Kitchener. The forecast high for today is minus 2 degrees Celsius. The words of the Mamas and Papas song, "California Dreamin'" are running through my mind. I'm thinking about my trip last week to Pasadena to visit my Outreach Canada team mates, James and Cathi Watson, along with their four boys, Isaac, Micah, Joshua, and Benjamin (pictured here).

My primary trip objective was research on organizational spiritual leadership development for Christian Horizons, a ministry to developmentally disabled people (I am doing start-up facilitation for a new initiative for them on contract). Fuller Seminary, where James Watson is doing PhD studies at present, was a perfect environment to meet some leadership development experts and gather resources. Key contacts included Scott Cormode and Betsy Glanville from the Fuller faculty as well as Paul Jensen, a PhD student and head of The Leadership Institute.

Personal highlights from the trip included

going for a morning run in the bright sunshine in South Pasadena,
an old time malt shop outing with the Watson's at Fair Oaks Pharmacy,
a drive by of the Rose Bowl, home of the New Year's Day US college football extravaganza,
family fun with the Watson family!

But it's cold today here. I'm "California dreamin' on such a winter's day ..." GG

Cool Runnings in Waterloo -- February 18, 2007

2007-02-26T06:38:00.000-05:00

I recently ran my first race of the 2007 season -- the Refridgie-Eighter 8 K Run in Waterloo. I considered it a "spring training run" and was not shooting for a personal best. It was just a start to the season and a first winter racing experience for me. A time to learn.

It was cold (-11 degrees Celsius) and windy with a light fall of snow! The road was slippery, but it was fun. I was actually overdressed -- too many layers -- and felt a bit overcooked at the end! Dianne was present to shoot the photos as well as a finish line video. For the results, click here.

Next race? The St. Patrick's Day 5 K Race in Burlington, ON is penciled onto the schedule with my friend, Dave McCann -- nothing like a March 17 outing with an Irishman! The big target on the running horizon? Half marathon in Ottawa in May. GG

Less Than $4,000 to Go -- Special Appeal Update!

2006-11-15T10:14:00.000-05:00

With just two weeks to go in our 60 day $25,000 Special Appeal Campaign, the total stands at $21,113.34. Total pledges and donations at present stand at $15,790.08. The additional ministry income total is $5,323.26.

One of the things that running in local races has taught me in the last two years is now important it is to finish strongly! Help us cross the finish line. To those who have already responded, THANKS for your help. Keep cheering us on. If you are still considering your response, give us a call at 519-576-1659 or at ggibson@outreach.ca. Thanks for helping us make it to our goal!

A "Matching Dollars Challenge" from a Ministry Partner!

2006-11-12T09:32:00.000-05:00

Beyond our $25,000 'special appeal' goal toward our 2006 shortfall, we are also in great need of new monthly donation commitments to help fund our ministry in 2007. So far, only $70.00 per month in new commitments has been received so far during this campaign.

On October 31, we received this "matching dollar challenge" from one of our long time ministry partners:

"We'll match any new monthly commitments you get between today and November 30 to an aggregate maximum $200 contribution by us."

What does that mean? If you make a new monthly donation commitment for 2007 before the end of November, someone will match it with another dollar (until $200 in new monthly giving has been pledged)! For information, on how to make a 2007 monthly donor commitment, contact us at ggibson@outreach.ca or 519-576-1659. This offer expires on November 30! Thanks for considering the "matching dollar challenge!" GG

Future Visioning with the United Brethren

2006-11-06T09:47:00.000-05:00

On Saturday November 3, it was a privilege to provide three plenary sessions on "Future Visioning" for the annual conference of the United Brethren in Canada. The meetings were held in Kitchener, Ontario.

My three session were entitled "The Church (and Denominational) Life Cycle", "Canadian Trends in Congregational and Denominational Life", and "The Church You've Always Dreamed About ..." Each presentation involved small group discussion and report back time to the whole body.

At the end of the conference, their Bishop, Brian Magnus, scheduled two regional church cluster consultations in Ontario in early 2007. On January 13, I'm looking forward to meeting in Guelph with their leaders from the Waterloo-Wellington region and on January 27, we'll confer with their Niagara region churches.

For more information on the "Future Visioning" sessions on November 4, click here or contact me at ggibson@outreach.ca or at 519-576-1659. GG

Celebrating the Big 3-0!

2006-11-01T18:28:00.000-05:00

On October 23, Dianne and I were in Ottawa to celebrate the 30th birthday of our daughter, Rebecca. Here's a photo taken during that weekend showing her family along with Mom and Dad.

Congratulations, Rebecca, upon reaching this age milestone!

Horror Hill Race Report -- Scarey!!!

2006-10-28T13:52:00.000-04:00

"Due to the bad weather, today's race has been cancelled!" joked the race director to the group huddled up to the starting line. It wasn't a nice day -- steel gray skies, a damp and chilly wind, flecks of wet snow, mud everywhere. It seemed like the Horror Hill 5 K Trail Race north of Waterloo had been well named.

I knew two of the other four geezer guys (50-59 year old age group) -- Dave McCann, the oldest registrant at a "crotchety" 59, and last minute registrant, Ron Bonar, a dignified, but elderly 56 year old.

Though only 5 kilometres (3.1 miles), the race was two circuits of a 2.5 K loop trail with wet grassy slopes, muddy slides, ankle twisting forest paths, and cardiac stressing gravel slopes. It was truly the toughest run I have ever done. My time of 31:35 was far from a personal best on the distance, but I was proud of my 28th place finish (out of 48 runners) as one of the oldest entrants and of my 3rd place finish in my age category.

Better yet, it was really fun to finish early and to welcome Ron Bonar at the finish line at a time of 32:48 (yes, I finally beat Ron in a race!) and Dave McCann crossing strongly at 39:15 in 37th place (not bad, old boy!). We were covered with mud and glory!

A great, but not a nice day! Click here for more pictures. GG

The Best Gift a Mom Can Get!

2006-10-26T11:35:00.000-04:00

We are now back from the celebration of our daughter's big decadal birthday on Monday in Ottawa. Congratulations, Rebecca, upon reaching the big 3-0!

As mentioned in a recent blog item, my Mom always used to say on my birthday, "You should give presents to the mother of the person celebrating their birthday." While looking yesterday at this picture from the weekend, I realized that our granddaughter, Emilie, is the best gift that Dianne has received in some time! GG

One Last Race of the Season -- October 28

2006-10-19T09:24:00.000-04:00

"Horror Hill ..." A name like that should bring terror to any runners heart. But for aging maniacs like Dave McCann (that's him on the far left) and me (guy in the middle), it is a signal to sign up.

Yes, on October 28, we are running in the Horror Hill 5 K Trail Run near Heidelberg, ON. It's just two laps around a 2.5 K trail in the beautiful hardwood forests north of Waterloo. My understanding is that the Horror Hill is not actually on the course we will run but is a steep section of nearby sideroad. I hope that is true.

As guys in their 50's, Dave and I primarily run for fitness. However, when fragile senior male egos get mixed in, such small feats of athletic competition escalate in importance to those involved. For a report with photos on this event of geezer exertion, check back at this site after 6:00 PM on the 28th. GG

Celebrating for the 54th Time ...

2006-10-18T08:41:00.000-04:00

October 18, 1952 was one of the big days in my life -- my birth date! Arriving around 4:00 in the afternoon at St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto, I was the first child of Muriel and Harold Gibson.

Today is the 54th time I have commemorated that day. On many of those occasions, my mother liked to say, "You should give presents to the mother rather than the child on a birthday!" In recent years, I have been inclined to agree. She was 54 when she passed away from a brain aneurism. I would loved to have been with her today to give her a great big thanks!

How did I celebrate? Going out for breakfast with Dianne and our son, Paul, with wife, Heather. Then playing golf with two friends and ministry supporters -- Bill Kaethler from Stratford and Urias Weber from St. Jacobs. A little afternoon nap. Fish and chips for supper with Dianne before a quiet evening at home. A perfect personal day!

The party will actually continue this coming weekend when we visit with your daughter, Rebecca, and family. On Monday, we'll also celebrate Rebecca's 30th birthday and give presents to her mother who will be there for the party. GG

Special Appeal Campaign -- Mid October Update

2006-10-17T08:42:00.000-04:00

In the week following (Canadian) Thanksgiving, I am happy to report that we received $5,800.00 in cash donations and pledges toward our goal of $25,000.00 in October and November. This included gifts ranging in size from $200.00 to $2,000.00 from seven different donors! Special thanks to those who have responded in the early days of the campaign.

In addition, we were encouraged by a couple who indicated interest in becoming a regular monthly supporter and another who are planning to increase their monthly support in the near future!

If you would like to make a contribution during the special appeal campaign, you can make it on-line by clicking on the link in the upper left of this page or by contacting us either at 519-576-1659 or at ggibson@outreach.ca. Thanks for your support during this time of financial challenge! GG

57 Minutes 53 Seconds -- The Great Oktoberfest Road Race!

2006-10-15T15:12:00.000-04:00

This morning, I ran in my second Oktoberfest 10 Kilometre race with my good friend, Ron Bonar (pictured with me). My 'chip' time of 57:53 (the interval between crossing the electronic start and finish lines) was a personal best! It was a glorious autumn day in Waterloo and there were over 1,000 people running.

Although my race time was just a little more that 30 seconds faster than last year's effort, I felt a lot stronger all through the race and was not looking for an ambulance as I crossed the finish line.

One of my long term running goals has been to beat Ron, who is also the District Superintendent for the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination in central Canada. Today, I caught up to him just after the 5 K race marker, but was unable to go by him at the end of the race. He's still the champ by about 10 seconds. Maybe next time!

We enjoyed a victory brunch afterward with two beautiful race fans -- my wife, Dianne, who cheered me on from the car just after the 4 K marker this year, and Ron's wife, Jennifer, who is a new grandma just like Dianne. A perfect end to a great time of exercise and fellowship! GG

Crossing Paths at the CHI "Walk and Roll"

2006-10-07T06:52:00.000-04:00

The Gibsons cross paths with Neil Cudney many times in the course of a year. Dianne sees him at work where he serves as Director of Pastoral Services at Christian Horizons. He is part of the church planting team at Mill Crossings Church in Cambridge, ON (they attended some seminars I held). Neil is a conference official with the United Brethren in Christ (one of my leadership resourcing projects this fall). He is also an active volunteer with Children's Homes International (where I serve as vice chair of the board).

Last Saturday, Neil and I literally crossed running paths in the CHI "Walk and Roll" at RIM Park in Waterloo, ON. Neil, a "Clydesdale" (a jogger in the heavyweight division), contacted me to sponsor him to run 10 kilometres to raise funds for CHI's ministry to children at risk in Guatemala, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, and India. I offered, instead, to run with him to verify for his sponsors that he had really completed the commitment!

When I arrived at RIM Park at 10:00 AM on October 1, it was raining and I discovered Neil had already started his run! So I took off on the "out and back" trail along the Grand River, map in hand. Out near the end of the trail, I found him. He had already made the turn and was on his way back. The photo (staged after the fact) shows the completion of the 6 mile odyssey. We tried to imitate (unsuccessfully, I think) the Olympic scene in the movie, "Chariots of Fire."

The following week, I received a copy of Neil's e-mail to his sponsors, reporting that he had completed the 10 K and that it was time for them to cough up their money. I sent a follow-up message to his distribution list verifying that he had indeed done the distance and signing off with the words, "Surprised and impressed ..." The best reply was: "Hey Glen I have my suspicions. I think he rode his motorcycle. I'm in South Carolina but I guess I will have to believe you guys."

Way to go, Neil! It's an honour to associate with great guys and to help you make a difference in so many different places. I hope our paths continue to cross! GG

Four Ways to Help in Our "Special Appeal" Campaign

2006-10-03T04:47:00.000-04:00

This fall, we have undertaken a 60 day (October 1 to November 29) "special appeal" campaign with our family, friends, and ministry partners. Our goal is to raise at least $25,000.00 in donations and contract fees to ensure meeting our support budget by year end.

Here are four ways you may participate in that campaign:

One-Time Cash Gift. Consider writing a cheque (payable to "Outreach Canada" and marked "Gibson Special Appeal") before the end of November. Donations may also be made using major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or on-line on the link in the top left hand cover of your screen. Gifts from both Canadian and US donors qualify for an income tax receipt (US donors should contact us for more information).
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2006 Year End Pledge. If you are not currently in a position to respond, you may make a pledge toward our special appeal to be paid by the end of the calendar year. We will include pledges in calculating campaign progress.

Monthly Support. To help us move forward with our ministry, consider becoming a monthly supporter or, if you are already, increasing your monthly support to reflect changes in the cost of living or renewed support for our work. We would be happy to send you information about “OC Express”, a way to give through automatic banking withdrawal or credit card transaction.

Partner Referrals and Introductions. Perhaps you know people who might have a natural interest in the ministry we do? Your contribution at this time might be to arrange for us to meet them over coffee, a lunch appointment, or hosting a dessert party. Contact us if you would like to help us expand our network of prayer partners and financial supporters.

Here's how to get in touch. Contact us at ggibson@outreach.ca or at 519-576-1659.

We will be posting an update on progress toward our $25,000 goal on October 15, October 30, November 15, and November 30. GG

Next Big Race ... Oktoberfest 10 K Run in Waterloo

2006-10-01T16:38:00.000-04:00

I'm training for my next running race -- the Oktoberfest 10 kilometre race on October 15 in Waterloo, Ontario. I am looking forward to having several "racing buddies" to run with -- Ron Bonar has already registered; our son, Paul, is just about to sign up on-line; and a couple of other friends and family members are considering it.

Last week, it was fun to do training runs in three interesting locations. On two warm and sunny afternoons (Tuesday and Thursday), I ran with my friend, Dave McCann, along the Bow River in downtown Calgary. Wednesday morning, I watched the sun rise over the Calgary skyline while running in Nose Hill Park on the north side of the city. Saturday morning, I ran along a section of the Grand River Trail in Waterloo with my friend, Neil Cudney, during the "Walk and Roll" fundraiser of Children's Homes International.

My hope in the upcoming race is a sub 58:00 which would be a personal best time at this distance. For results and a photo, check back here on October 16. GG

Tribute to a Great Leader!

2006-09-29T09:06:00.000-04:00

I participated last night in a farewell dinner in Calgary for Dr. Murray Moerman, outgoing national coordinator for the Church Planting Canada movement. It has been a privilege to work with Murray who has served as founding leader for this significant movement within Canada. An evening of remembering and tributes came at the conclusion of the meetings of the CPC national executive.

Murray founded CPC as a national network of church planting leaders in 1996. I joined the venture as the leader of the Ontario regional leader at the end of 1997 following the first national CPC congress in Bramalea. Murray (and his wife, Carol) are moving to England to become the European area director for OC International. Rev. Cam Roxburgh, pastor of Southside Community Church in Vancouver, is assuming leadership as CPC moves through its first major leadership transition and updates its ministry to churches and leaders across our country.

Murray has become a dear and close friend as well as a ministry colleague. His life and example has left a deep mark on me as well as thousands of others over the last ten years. Thank you, Murray, for your contribution to the cause of disciplining our nation in accordance with the words of Jesus, "make disciples of all peoples" (Matthew 28:19)! GG

Here's How We Do It ...

2006-09-28T08:25:00.000-04:00

In case you may have wondered how we fund our ministry with Outreach Canada, here's how!

Some of the work we do is what would be called, 'contract ministry'. A church, denomination, or ministry ask us to serve in some way and agree to pay for the ministry we provide. The money is then sent to Outreach Canada, the mission organization with which we serve. In our eight full years of ministry with OC, as much as half of our support and ministry budget funds have come from this source.

However, much of our work is 'donor funded' -- churches and individuals provide missionary support through monthly, annual, or one-time gifts to Outreach Canada designed for the ministry of "Glenn and Dianne Gibson". How grateful we are to both our contract ministry partners and our missionary support partners!

If you would like to know more about contract ministry services or becoming a missionary support partner, contact us at ggibson@outreach.ca. GG

Our Missionary Calling -- Why We Do What We Do

2006-09-21T05:18:00.000-04:00

In 1983, I started to dream about someday working with congregations, denominations, and Christian leaders right across the country of Canada. Fourteen years later, both Dianne and I heard God’s clear call that it was time to get started! At first, I mistakenly assumed it would be happen on a business model where leadership training, coaching, and organizational consulting were provided on a fee-for-service basis. However, while sharing my plans with Murray Moerman in 1998, he made the wise and perceptive statement:

“If you do it as a business, the only groups and people you will be able to help are the ones with money. But, as a missionary, you can also serve those need help, but don’t always have the means to pay.”

In time, we joined Outreach Canada, the same Canadian mission organization where Murray serves. This summer, we started our ninth year of missionary service in obedience to that call.

This fall, we are facing a financial challenge and are communicating with our family, friends, and ministry partners to meet our budget goal for 2006. If you would like to know more and about ways to help us reach our annual target, drop us a note at ggibson@outreach.ca. GG

Jumping to Ottawa!

2006-09-02T09:06:00.000-04:00

Emilie is jumping to Ottawa for this school year! (CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO ENLARGE)

When Dianne and I left Sudbury on August 24, our grand-daughter, Emilie, was being packed up for a trip to Ottawa where Daddy (Max Hamel) had an interview for a teaching job at Embrun Separate Secondary School. On the 28th, we got the call -- he got the job and was starting the next day! He will be teaching history and social sciences. A lease for a semi-detached house in Ottawa has now been signed and they can move in as soon as they can get packed in Sudbury.

This week, the Hamel family stayed at Max's aunt's in the Ottawa area. But this morning, they are driving back to Sudbury where the packing will commence. Next week, Dianne and I will drive to Sudbury to help them pack for the big move later in September. GG

The Blessing of "Old" Friends

2006-08-31T05:59:00.000-04:00

I recently updated my cell phone and can now take pictures as well as make calls (not to mention listening to music!). While sitting in Swiss Chalet yesterday with Terry Wiseman, I thought to myself, "How often do I get to have lunch with someone on the eve of their 40th birthday?" So I took a photo to commemorate this upcoming milestone in Terry's life!

Terry serves at the Director of Church Extension for the Ontario Conference of the Mennonite Brethren and has recently agreed to become my replacement as the Ontario Provincial Coordinator for Church Planting Canada. We have done a lot of work together toward the cause of seeing a church established for every 2,000 Canadians in their own community, language, and culture group. Terry is one of those people who always gladdens my heart whenever he calls or I am able to meet with him face to face.

So, Happy 40th Birthday, Terry! Consider yourself to be one of my "old friends!" GG

Time to Think

2006-08-28T08:21:00.000-04:00

From time to time, it's important to stop what you are doing to do an audit of your life and work. Are you focusing on the right things? What are the underlying assumptions of your current activities? What are your motives? And so on ... That belief has led me to do a personal "philosophy of ministry" review exercise in the last half of 2006.

Last week, I canoed into Killarney Provincial Park with my son-in-law, Max Hamil, to find a place of quiet reflection for a couple of days (looks like I found it, doesn't it?). During the day, we canoed and hiked within this pristine wilderness place. In the quiet, I was able to think deeply about the last 30 years of ministry as well as bounce some thoughts off Max at the other end of the canoe. Early in the mornings, I sat with a cup of coffee by the lake at our campsite on Lake George to jot down my conclusions in a little scratch pad -- my main ministry themes, favourite sayings in working with others, and key stories/lessons from experience.

As a bonus, I came away with a renewed love for our planet and its fragile eco-systems as well as my daughter's husband, the high school geography teacher, who was my travel companion and guide! I saw some amazing scenery -- the northern starry sky untouched by city light, miles of wilderness from the heights of the Canadian Shield. The wildlife was great -- a black bear (200 yards away), a beaver (within 100 feet of my morning coffee spot) plus a loon (only 8 feet away on Lake Killarney). Cooking on a camp stove and sitting by the campfire were very grounding experiences for a guy dealing with computers and the internet all the time.

This week, I'm consolidating my notes on the scratch pad toward the writing of a personal philosophy of ministry. Then I'll have a few close people -- friends, family, colleagues -- provide some "360" feedback before finalizing something that may help me with the next chapter of serving Christ.

I'm glad that I took the time to think! GG

Bio-Feedback: Listening to Your Body

2006-08-20T11:17:00.000-04:00

At the start of this morning's EnduRace 8 K Run in Waterloo, I stood poised with my wrist watch timer ready to time each kilometre toward a personal best race! The formula was simple: if I run each kilometre in 6 minutes, I'll finish with a time of 48:00 (which would better last year's result of 49:46)! But things went wrong as soon as the gun sounded. As I pushed what I thought was the start button on my chronometer, the time of 9:00 AM popped up rather than the flashing number of the stop watch. In the midst of the stampede of 120 other racers, I tried unsuccessfully to reset it. "Oh, well," I said to myself. "I'll just have to listen to my body rather than letting the clock set my pace today."

Paying attention to body signals has often been a problem for me (and a lot of other men, I suspect). Ignoring pain and fatigue, being inattentive to stress, and being unconscious of warning signs has been a tendency most of my life. I wasn't sure that I could trust myself to run as fast as my body said I could, but hear when it was telling me where the "red line" was.

It turned out surprisingly well! I pushed, but listened to the bio-feedback. As the finish line and the big digital time clock came into view, it had just passed 46:40 and I was ahead of where I would have been had I allowed my wrist clock to dictate! My official finishing time was 47:10, almost two and a half minutes faster than last year! And I wasn't last in my age category either. To check the race results visit http://www.roadraceresults.com/display-race-results.php?racename=2006-endurrace-8k.

Doing better by listening to my body rather than ignoring it? A novel thought to go with a personal best! GG

Bon Voyage to the Watson's!

2006-08-19T18:52:00.000-04:00

The party before the trip to California held at the Waterloo Dairy Queen (left to right): Isaac Watson, Dianne, Micah Watson, and Joshua Watson.

Yesterday, our teammates, James and Cathi Watson (with their four sons), left Kitchener for doctoral studies at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. While we won't be able to get together for ice cream for one full year, we will visit with them regularly on the webcam. James and I will continue to work in a "virtual office environment" and his studies in inter-cultural ministry will complement the ministry he will continue to do part-time with Outreach Canada.

So we went out for ice cream on Wednesday night this past week! I told the kids whenever they miss home to eat ice cream for dessert at supper, go to bed early, and dream of playing hockey and tobogganing in the snow. The Watson's will return to Kitchener in July 2007. To meet the Watson's electronically, go to www.outreach.ca and click on the staff link to them.

If our support account can afford it, we hope to make a "supervisory" visit to see the Watson's in Pasadena in early 2007 (when it's snowing in Kitchener). I don't know if we can make it for a whole year without an ice cream party with the Watson boys! GG

Relationships -- The Ultimate Investment

2006-08-16T13:09:00.000-04:00

One of the many highlights from our family vacation this summer was the week I spent with our new grand daughter, Emilie Hamel (to enlarge the picture, click on it). Almost three months old, she's becoming very interactive and being with her is becoming one of my favourite activities. Getting down on the floor or the odd dirty diaper is no problem to me. We are always glad to see each other and we are quickly learning how to communicate. We are making a deep investment in our new family relationship and there are dividends that we are both receiving already!

Last night, I was reading once again in Roy Oswald's book, "Clergy Care." This time, the chapter was about how healthy ministry leaders usually have developed a "support system." These are relationships with people who re-energize them in the midst of serving Christ. Those who do it well are intentional and they expend time and effort to invest in those relationships to make them strong. The pay off comes when ministry is draining or a crisis come. Those who create their own "umbrella" tend to "stay dry when it rains."

I plan to be there for Emilie whenever she needs what a grandpa can give and I hope she will always be there for me. GG

Managing Stress and Avoiding Burn-Out -- A Resource

2006-08-14T12:30:00.000-04:00

During my summer vacation, I've read with interest a book entitled, "Clergy Self-Care: Finding a Balance for Effective Ministry", by Roy Oswald. It has challenged me to deal more realistically and proactively with two real dangers for all of us who work with people: managing stress and avoiding burnout.

According to Oswald, stress is stimulation that comes from challenge and change in our lives. In moderation, it can help us to be more productive. However, improperly managed, it can become chronic and destructive. The Stress Self-Assessment Tool in the book helps one to know whether the levels are appropriately low or up in the danger zone. As I read this section of the book, I recalled Dianne's comment, "Glenn doesn't get stress -- he gives it." To those whom I have pushed over the edge at times, I am truly sorry!

The other issue addressed in the book -- avoiding burnout -- was a timely topic for me. Oswald describes burnout as a loss of energy, confidence, idealism, and optimism as a result of fatigue, depletion, and disappointment. After scanning the book's Burnout Self-Assessment Tool, I realized that I need to pay attention to this issue in the remaining months of 2006.

How does Oswald recommend avoiding burnout? Maintaining the right balance between ministry engagement and personal self-care. Health-giving self care addresses all facets of life: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. It's what Stephen Covey calls, "sharpening the saw" -- looking after yourself so that you can be more effective in the long term. Oswald takes his reader through 11 different self care areas to help a person think through a comprehensive plan that will help them find and maintain that balance point. So I'm working on that these days now that I'm back from vacation.

For more about this book or this issue, drop me a note! GG

Four Generations of Power Women

2006-07-30T21:47:00.000-04:00

Left to Right: Rebecca Gibson (3rd generation); Ruth Wilsher (1st generation); Emilie Hamel (4th generation); Dianne Gibson (2nd generation).

On Saturday July 29, 2006, our grand daughter, Emilie, met her great grandmother, Ruth Wilsher, for the first time. It was the perfect opportunity to take a picture of four generations of 'power women.' (click on the picture for a closer look) GG

On the Value (and Limits) of Goal Setting

2006-07-20T06:20:00.000-04:00

When you set a goal and then don't reach it, was it a mistake to set the goal?

I don't think so.

At the start of this year, one of my three fitness goals was to "slalom" water ski before the end of the year. After strength training from January to June, we went to Williams Lake last week with our son, Paul, and his wife, Heather. It was time to reach the goal. As the boat took off, I popped up out of the water and was on my skis. I was delighted (my workouts had paid off!). But the excitement was short lived. I lost my balance and fell awkwardly, hurting my lower back. There would be no chance that week to "drop a ski" and reach the goal. Disappointing.

What do I tell those who knew about my goal? Possibilities I have considered. The "old age" excuse? (At 53, don't try something this difficult.) The "there's still time" rationalization? (Six more weeks of summer to go!) The "blame game"? (It was the boat ... the waves ... the equipment ... the weather ... that's why I fell.) The "victim" syndrome? (In 2006, there seems to be a black cloud hovering over me.)

No. I'm going to be honest. I may not reach my goal this year. But having that goal has given me focus for losing some weight and increasing my strength. I have made great progress so far! I'm doing things I couldn't do one year ago and the improvement in both health and outlook are substantial. The goal was the motivating force that made all that possible.

And don't forget, there are still six weeks to go in the summer of 2006. Check back at this URL by Labour Day Weekend! It may still happen. GG

Ever Have A Bad Hair Day?

2006-07-08T08:16:00.000-04:00

During a recent trip to our daughter's home in Sudbury, Ontario, Dianne, snapped this picture at the breakfast table. It looks like Emilie and her grandpa are both enjoying a bad hair day!

The summertime provides a different pace for our ministry. The requests for meetings drop off and we can work ahead on ministry projects as well as spend some time with family. Today, Dianne and I will make a day visit to her parents at their cottage at Maple Grove Retreat near Thamesford, Ontario. Next week, we are looking forward to three days at William's Lake with our son, Paul and his wife, Heather. At the end of July, Emilie will bring her parents for her first visit at Grandma's house in Kitchener!

If she forgets to bring her comb, Grandpa will either lend her one or do his hair the same way as in the picture. GG

Hangin' Out With Some Cool People at the Wycliffe Associates Conference in Toronto

2006-06-20T17:14:00.000-04:00

Sitting on the patio outside Hart House at the University of Toronto. Back: (L to R) John Van Sloten, John Bowen, Judy Paulsen. Front: (L to R) Nicole Poitras, GG, Wendy Moore, David Reed.

Last Thursday, I was off by train to the Institute of Evangelism Associates Conference at Wycliffe College in Toronto. It was a time of learning and planning as four of us new "associates" received an orientation and were able to critique each other's sample presentations to hone our skills as specialty resource people working with the Wycliffe College constituency. Going first of the four new team members, I did a workshop Friday morning on "coaching leaders" and got some very supportive feedback!

Friday night was a real highlight as the team attended the theatrical production of "Lord of the Rings" at the Princess Alexandria Theatre. Wow! A great experience for any fan of J. R. R. Tolkien. Definitely a night to remember.

On Saturday morning, Dianne also took the train to Toronto. We met at the conference conclusion so that she could catch a ride with Nicole Poitras to Sudbury. Dianne is now on "grandma" duty with Emilie for the week. It was my lot to return to Kitchener on the train. "Grandpa" will travel north to join them on the upcoming weekend.

It is exciting that the Institute of Evangelism sees value in what Outreach Canada can offer and will partner to serve its evangelical mainline church supporters. It's an honour to work with them. To learn more about Wycliffe College and their associates, you can visit www.wycliffecollege.ca. GG

1 Hour, 4 Minutes, 12 Seconds ... Waterloo 10K Classic

2006-06-18T12:21:00.000-04:00

It was definitely not a good result in today's Father's Day race in Waterloo! But, it was probably what I deserved. Why? I didn't stay on track sufficiently for the whole preparation schedule (travel and conferences can really interfere with one's training regime!). A few too many restaurant meals were still stuffed into my running shorts! It's the kind of wake up call that I needed at this point in the season. Get more focused and make it happen!

But I can't help feeling good about the outing! Everybody's times were slower because of the extreme heat and humidity. While a number of runners were being treated for heat stroke, I ran within my limits and had the sense to walk at several points in the middle of the race to avoid overheating. I ran the first kilometre at my target pace. The last 3 K were my fastest ever in a 10 K run. I was able to move up over 20 places in the final stage of the race! No pictures this time -- my usual photo team was away for this one.

Sometimes the positives of an experience are in the pieces rather than the whole, in the learning rather than the result, and in what it will produce later instead of what happened now. So ... in my mind, today was an excellent day! GG

Team Mate Appears on "Celebration 2006" Telecast

2006-06-12T10:10:00.000-04:00

Dianne (right) with Alison Johnson over coffee and dessert following the studio session.

Last night, Dianne and I traveled to Burlington, ON to be in the studio audience for the "Celebration 2006" telecast sponsored by the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. This one hour TV program profiled efforts in various regions across Canada where Christians have been working together to share the love of Jesus Christ with people in their community. Our team mate, Alison Johnson, was part of the "Love Ottawa" effort and was interviewed on the air to describe the effort in our national capital. It was fun to meet with her after the program in a nearby coffee pub for some conversation and prayer. To watch a rerun of the "Celebration 2006" program in your area of Canada, check your local lists for the CTS Network. GG

Racing for Father's Day ...

2006-06-11T16:06:00.000-04:00

After taking a bit of a racing break following the Waterloo Half Marathon in April, I'm getting ready to race again one week from today (Father's Day) in the Waterloo 10 K Classic. It's not only the first anniversary of my first comeback race, but is an outing to prepare for the Oktoberfest 10 K race this fall in which I hope to break 54 minutes over that distance -- one of my personal fitness goals for the year. At present, my personal best over that distance is 58:39 -- so getting under 58 minutes would be good progress this time around. With all my family away for the weekend, I won't have a personal photographer for this event. But I'll post my result next Sunday afternoon as soon as I've recovered and staggered to the keyboard. GG

A New Grandmother

2006-05-20T18:03:00.000-04:00

Dianne with new grand-daughter, Emilie, earlier today. Both found that their first day went well. GG

Emilie Nicole Hamel -- First Day Photo

2006-05-20T17:36:00.000-04:00

Dianne and I have spent much of Emilie's first day with her and her parents at St. Joseph's Hospital in Sudbury. She's doing well and the plan is to come home tomorrow (Sunday). We hope to spend a few more days here before heading back to Kitchener. GG

La Famille Hamel

2006-05-20T00:00:00.000-04:00

Here's a picture of Max and Rebecca with their newborn daughter, Emilie, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Sudbury, Ontario. We are thankful for her safe arrival and for both the prayers and best wishes of so many of our friends! GG

She's Here!

2006-05-19T21:21:00.000-04:00

The waiting is over! Emilie Nicole Hamel, our new grand-daughter, arrived safely tonight at 7:35 PM EDST at St. Joseph's Hospital in Sudbury. She tips the scales at 7 lb. 1 oz. and is 20 inches long. According to her grandmother, she looks a lot like her mom did when she made her start. Emilie's dad, Max, and Dianne were there as part of "Team Hamel"! Grandpa is heading to the hospital as soon as he posts this, eager to meet the newest family member. GG

Waiting for Emilie

2006-05-10T23:27:00.000-04:00

Last fall, our daughter, Rebecca, informed us that she was pregnant and that her due date would be May 10. Well, with less than 30 minutes left on the 10th of May, it looks like this baby will soon be officially overdue.

During the pregnancy, further tests were ordered and we were happy to learn, not only that some potential genetic problems were not present, but that this grandchild would be a girl. For some time now, we've known that her name will be Emilie (French spelling)!

While our Outreach Canada teammates are meeting this week in spring retreat at The Firs Conference Centre in Bellingham Washington, Dianne and I are in Sudbury with Rebecca and her husband, Max. As a part of "Team Hamel", we are all set to swing into action as soon as Emilie indicates that she's ready.

So what is a "grandfather-to-be" doing as the due date passes? Watching an NHL playoff game and blogging away. Waiting for Emilie -- we can hardly wait to welcome her into our family! GG

The Paradoxical Commandments

2006-05-04T07:46:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I read the following piece in "The 8th Habit" by Stephen R. Covey (page 80). I thought it was worth sharing here:

People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered. Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway.
If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies. Succeed anway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway.
The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds. Think big anyway.
People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs. Fight for a few underdogs anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you do help them. Help people anway.
Give the world the best you have and you’ll get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway.

That's what I want to do! GG

Half Marathon Pics

2006-04-30T17:34:00.000-04:00

The film is still in the camera, but there are some action shots from the Waterloo Half Marathon viewable online from Creative Ambience. Enjoy!

Glenn Shot 1

Glenn Shot 2

Randall Rehkopf Shot

First Half Marathon Completed ... In the Rain!

2006-04-23T17:19:00.000-04:00

Running a 13.1 mile (22.1 kilometre) race is a first for me. Doing it at 53 years old had one family member unsure about my sanity. When I laced on my shoes this morning, my hope was simply to complete the course. It was pouring rain when the gun went off at 10:00 AM in the Waterloo Half Marathon.

It went better than I expected. Despite the steady rain, the hilly course, and the cool temperatures, I felt good through the race and passed a bunch of younger runners in the last 5 K. I was able to give a good "kick" at the end and finished with a respectable chip time of 2 hours, 12 minutes, and 2 seconds.

Dianne and my friend, Randall Rehkopf, (who finished in 1 hour and 49 minutes!) were waiting in the rain at the finish line to congratulate me. The pictures taken aren't digital -- so it will be a couple of days before they are posted here.

I would love to do it again, but definitely need some recovery time! I would like to try it on a sunny day next time. GG

Three EBC Alumni Recognized at Today's Graduation

2006-04-22T22:16:00.000-04:00

Each year, the Honour Society of the Association of Biblical High Education allows its member schools to elect alumni members to the membership. This afternoon, three graduates from Emmanuel Bible College in Kitchener were recognized with this honour. Here's a post ceremony shot of one of the award certificates from the kitchen at our home in Kitchener. GG

2nd Annual Ontario Church Planting Catalyzers Symposium - May 29, 2006

2006-04-19T20:53:00.000-04:00

It was many years ago that my mom told me the joke, "What do you call a piece of paper with the words, 'holstein', 'angus', and 'jersey' written on it?" "A 'catalyst!'" was the answer that she gave.

Years later, 'catalyzer' is a word I use on almost a daily basis. It's "church planting" talk for a strategist who is responsible for starting new congregations. That's the kind of people I spend a lot of time helping in my ministry with Outreach Canada.

Last year, I brought over 70 such people together from across the province of Ontario for a one day symposium. It was so well received that I've accepted the task of organizing a second one and, just today, sent out the invitation to the "second annual symposium" on Monday May 29, 2006 to be held at the World Vision Canada conference centre in Mississauga. To learn more about this event, click here and then on "Ontario events" on the web page that pops up.

Thanks for praying for this important event aimed to stimulate the launch of more new congregations across the province! GG

Getting Ready to Run My First "Half"

2006-04-12T05:20:00.000-04:00

In late 2004, I set a personal goal of completing a 10 kilometre race in under an hour before the end of the following year. It happened (see the October 2005 blog archive!) and one goal tends to lead to another -- doing a half marathon (22.1 kilometres) in under 2 hours.

After training indoors through the winter, it's great to be outside once again to prepare for my first half marathon race on April 23 in Waterloo. The goal for this first "half" is just to finish. A picture (finish line, ambulance, or hearse) will be posted by the end of the day on April 23.

Going far enough comes first; getting faster comes later (along with staying injury free, if possible!). Doing one in under 2 hours will have to wait until later in the year. My target event for reaching the goal will be the Scotia Bank Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon on September 24. At that race, I will be seeking to raise at least $200.00 per kilometre for the Kitchener-Waterloo Gateway Communities Research Project (more information about that project to come). GG

OC Team Member Heading to Fuller Seminary!!

2006-04-06T04:43:00.000-04:00

We are rejoicing with our teammates, James and Cathi Watson, about an exceptional learning opportunity that has come their way -- James has recently been accepted into a PhD program in inter-cultural studies at Fuller Seminary, School of World Missions!

So, James and Cathi, with their four sons (Isaac, Micah, Joshus, and Benjamin) will be heading this summer to Pasadena, California to commence one year of resident studies. James will continue to serve with Outreach Canada on a half time basis as a part of our Ontario Team. They will return to Kitchener in the summer of 2007 and complete both his research and thesis in connection with his missionary portfolio at OC during the three years to follow.

His research focus will be "gateway communities" (entry places for immigrants and refugees) and the role of the church in providing welcome and ministry there. A preparatory study will be undertaken this year in the Waterloo region and then expand to focus on Toronto and Los Angeles.

Dianne and I are agreed that a supervisory visit from the team leader and spouse (Dianne and me) will be required during this time of study at Fuller. We think the ideal time would be February 2007 when Kitchener is in the grip of Canadian winter. What do you think? Leave us a comment! GG

Recognition Planned at Spring Convocation

2006-04-02T08:31:00.000-04:00

This past week, I received a letter from the Alumni President at Emmanuel Bible College (where I graduated in 1975 and now am adjunct faculty) containing the following news:

"We want to extend an invitation for you and your wife, Dianne, to be our guest at the Graduation to be held on Saturday April 22, 2006 ... We look forward to this day and the privilege of joining the College and Alumni to honor you with the Delta Epsilon Chi Award. We want to recognize your outstanding work and leadership in Church Health and Revitalization here in Canada along with work accomplished over these past years in advancing the cause of Christ."

Upon reading this letter, one of my close associates responded with a quote from the comedian, Groucho Marx:

"I would refuse to join a club that would have me as a member!"

It's a privilege to be honored and is, perhaps, a sign of the troubled times in which we live ... GG

"Key Contributor" Notebook Campaign Fully Subscribed!

2006-03-31T23:01:00.000-05:00

As of today (March 31), our "Key Contributor" Notebook Campaign Challenge has received full sponsorship. Here's the final list of sponsors and the letter(s) they have funded at $100.00 per keyboard letter:

A - Wayne and Anne Koebel
B - Ken and Suzanne Brockelbank
C - Larry and Joyce Cole
D - Nelson and Ruth Wilsher
E - Maxime Hamel and Rebecca Gibson
F - John Hewgill
G - Greg Shantz
H - Winds of Hope (Salvation Army Church Plant)
I - John Huber
J - Dan and Julie Venhuizen
K - Doug and Katy Holst
L - Norman and Carol Buhr
M - Darlene Hewgill
N - Kevin and Norma Cooper
O - Winds of Hope
P - James and Cathi Watson
Q - Anonymous Donor
R - Frank and Joanna Braun
S - Matt and Kristy Sawatzky
T - Anonymous Donor
V - Art and Jenny Versteeg
W - Winds of Hope
X - Anonymous Donor
Y - Chris and Mel Koebel
Z - Glenn and Shirley Fretz

A big thanks to all who have followed this project and helped us reach our goal. A picture of the new "notebook" will be published shortly! GG

Thanks to my "Key Contributors"!

2006-03-31T15:33:00.000-05:00

Because of the generosity of those who responded to our "Key Contributor" Campaign in the last 60 days, Glenn now has a new Dell Inspiron 6000 notebook computer for use in his ministry with Outreach Canada. One unforeseen expense connected with obtaining this new tool was having to install seatbelts on his office chair. "This computer is FAST!!" was his comment after using it for the first time. Thanks to all who made this wonderful gift possible!

Five Runners After 5 K

2006-03-18T21:27:00.000-05:00

Here's the intrepid "Team Gibson" that ran the St. Patrick's Day 5 K Run in Burlington, ON. From left to right, they include David McCann (Brossard, QC), Jared Siebert (Guelph, ON), Glenn Gibson (Kitchener, ON), Paul Gibson (Kitchener, ON), and Maxime Hamel (Sudbury, ON). The finishing order was PG, MH, GG, JS, DM. For post race comments, click on the following names: Paul Gibson, Jared Siebert, Dave McCann, and Glenn Gibson.

Today's St. Patrick's 5 K Race Results

2006-03-18T21:06:00.000-05:00

It was sunny and cold. But I made it -- 5 kilometres in 28 minutes and 28 seconds (the picture of my time was taken 10 second after crossing the finish line). To view the finish, click here. My dream goal was to go under 28 minutes even. But that's a good outcome for the first race of the season -- click here for the full race results. GG

Running Together -- Saturday March 18, 2006

2006-03-15T07:09:00.000-05:00

What's green and runs? No. It's not a new St. Patrick's Day tee shirt in the washing machine. It's five guys going to Burlington on Saturday morning for the St. Patrick's 5 K Race!

Three of us are Gibson tribesmen -- Paul Gibson, Maxime Hamel (Rebecca Gibson's husband), and me. The other two are novice racers -- Dave McCann, the hope of glory for Brossard, QC and Jared Siebert, a bright and shiny star from Guelph, ON -- who have been attracted to this insane hobby by yours truly and plan to bust the finish line tape for the first time sometime beween 10:00 and 11:00 AM.

The on-line promo (http://www.events.runningroom.com/site/?raceId=1828) promises Irish dancers and green beer! But we'll just be happy to get our finishing time and a St. Patrick's Day tee shirt which, I expect, will run in the washing machine. Hopefully, we will run better than the tee shirt!

The results with photo will be posted on Sunday. GG

More on Stephanie After Her Accident

2006-03-11T02:50:00.000-05:00

Stephanie's dad sent me this picture of the car after the accident. Here's the note that came with it.

"This is the car in which Stephanie was riding. Considering that she was in the left rear, it is nothing short of amazing that she got out alive. The car had just passed a transport truck in a snowstorm when her girl friend, Priscilla, lost control. As the car started to spin counter-clockwise, it was broadsided by the transport it had just passed. The third girl, Karina, was in the right rear. Priscilla had nary a scratch and Karina was black and blue, but otherwise okay."

Keep praying for Stephanie and her family during her time of recovery in hospital from multiple fractures and internal injuries. GG

Pray for Stephanie

2006-02-27T13:06:00.000-05:00

The following item just came in from one of our ministry partners (Stephanie's dad) and is passed on for prayer:

Stephanie was in a serious car accident late Friday night. She and two girl friends were returning home after going out to celebrate her 19th birthday. Stephanie was a back seat passenger, sitting behind the driver. The weather was near-blizzard conditions. The car hit an icy or snowy patch and went out of control. As it spun, the car was broadsided by a transport truck. The left rear door and quarter panel took the brunt of the collision. Stephanie suffered a lot of internal injuries. Many of her ribs are broken (I think 18 in all). Her lungs collapsed but the paramedics were able to get them reflated before any apparent collateral damage occurred. She has two cracked vertebrae, a fractured pelvis and damage to her liver, right kidney and right ureter. Horrific as it was, the situation could have been worse. There is no apparent head or spinal damage and her motor functions appear to be normal. There is a better than 50/50 chance at this point that the other injuries will mend without medical intervention, i.e. no surgery is planned at this point. She is in a lot of pain but the nurses are helping her cope with that.

Thanks for your prayers on her behalf as well as for her parents and siblings at home! GG

Prayer for Our Pastor

2006-02-12T15:41:00.000-05:00

Back in 1998, our pastor, Don Mills, faced a battle with cancer and came through. His courage and how our congregation supported him with prayer and care was truly amazing. The church has continued to grow and, in 2003, invited me to lead it through Outreach Canada's Vision Renewal process. Expanding our facilities was one of the outcomes planned as a result. On January 22, 2006, a $3 million dollar expansion received congregational approval.

I was just a few days later that the return of our pastor's cancer was diagnosed. Once again, Don has stated, "I will not give up." Last Wednesday night, 150 people gathered for an evening of prayer on his behalf. Those weekly meetings for prayer will continue despite the dire medical prognosis.

Would you join us in praying for Don at this time? For more info, check the church web-site at www.wilmotcentremc.ca. GG

"Key Contributor" Notebook Challenge

2006-02-11T11:20:00.000-05:00

With all the travel involved in missionary work, they have to be portable. Notebook computers have become an essential piece of equipment! This year, two team members, Alison Johnson (needing her first) and I (replacement for a five year old unit) are raising the needed funds through the "Key Contributor" Notebook Challenge!

How does it work? Sponsor a "key" on a new notebook for 3 years for $100.00. So far, here is a list of those who responded to the challenge along with the letter, they have chosen:

B - Suzanne and Ken Brocklebank
D - Nelson and Ruth Wilsher
E - Max Hamel and Rebecca Gibson
J - Daniel and Julie Venhuizen
K - Doug and Katie Holst

21 letter to go! Wanna respond to the "notebook challenge"? A Canadian or US tax receipt is available. Donations can be made by a cheque made payable to "Outreach Canada" and marked "KC Notebook Challenge" or by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discovery accepted.) Call us at 519-576-1659 or e-mail to ggibson@outreach.ca. GG

This Week On the West Coast

2006-02-09T23:31:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since my last posting. In fact, this is the first one of 2006. January was full of activity other than blogging!

Anyway, this first entry of the year is being made from Tsawwassen (I hope I spelled it right) in British Columbia. I've been here for meetings with the Church Planting Canada national executive as well as team conferences with my Outreach Canada colleagues.

Today was a beautiful, sunny, warm day in the lower mainland. It's nice to be out of the Ontario cold for a short time!

After one more day of meetings here, it's back to Toronto on a Friday night flight. I'm looking forward to an weekend at home. I hope the welcome will be warm even though the weather isn't. Maybe I shouldn't have rubbed it in during my phone calls from here about the weather ... GG

Home for Christmas 2005

2005-12-25T21:22:00.000-05:00

Here's the gang on Christmas Eve at home. Front row (left to right) our daughter Rebecca; Dianne; our daughter-in-law, Heather. Back row (left to right) our son-in-law, Max; Glenn; our son, Paul.

This Week -- December 19 to 25

2005-12-20T16:54:00.000-05:00

Home for the Holidays. We are enjoying having our daughter, Rebecca, home for the holidays. She flew in from Sudbury, ON on Saturday in time for Dianne's family Christmas gathering in London, Rebecca is enjoying some time with us before her husband, Max, arrives on Christmas Eve. He is currently teaching French at a French public high school in Sudbury. I suspect he will be ready for the Christmas break by Friday!

This Week. Dianne, Rebecca, and I are heading out this evening to see the movie, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe". The whole Chronicles of Narnia series was read several times through during the growing up years in our home. I've heard it's a good movie and look forward to a fun night together. Last bits of Christmas shopping, year end chores, and visiting with our ministry partners are all on the schedule for the last three days of this week.

Our Family Christmas. We are excited that our son, Paul, and his wife, Heather, will also be joining us on the weekend to make the family complete! Family fun on both Saturday and Sunday along with church together and a big turkey dinner are things we are all excited about.

Last Posting for 2005. Barring some type of unusual developments, I expect this to be the last blog posting for 2005. We are looking forward to what God has in store in 2006 and trust that it includes contact with you! GG

Gibson Christmas Greetings for 2005!

2005-12-16T06:58:00.000-05:00

It's snowing hard this morning in Kitchener. My trip today to Toronto to visit with my mom's two sisters has been cancelled because more than a foot of new snow lies everywhere. Inside by the fireplace, there's a feeling of Christmas in the air. We just finished our Christmas letter to our supporters and have e-mailed it away. Weather permitting, Dianne's clan will be coming together tomorrow in London, Ontario for their annual Christmas celebration. May God's richest blessings be yours during this season of reflection on Christ's coming to earth. GG

A Wee Bit of Good News!

2005-12-12T06:20:00.000-05:00

Originally e-mailed to team mates and key ministry supporters on December 8:

When Silence is Golden ... I didn't get a phone call and that's good news!

Some Background. I came to the OC staff retreat in BC last week with a concern -- a Saturday night Christmas party blood sugar test administered by my sister, a diabetic, was through the roof. As Dianne and I talked about it on the Sunday morning drive to the airport, we agreed that checking the possibility of diabetes should not be postponed. So I was able to change my return flight and come home on Wednesday night.

The Doctor and the Lab. Last Thursday afternoon, our physician, Corrine Dixon, was quite reassuring -- no alarms raised. Keep running! was one of her first comments. She said that I should visit the lab for tests and that she would only call me if there was a problem. I did the blood tests the next morning and was told the results would be in the doctor's hands by Tuesday. Impatiently, I called the doctor's office Tuesday, was told that the results would be reviewed the next day (Wednesday), and reminded of the silence is golden policy of their office.

Staring Happily at My Silent Phone. Anyway, I'm a happy little guy as lunch time approaches on Thursday. I am sitting here with my phone in hand. No ring, no vibration. It's a loud shout of good news made noiselessly. I'm not sure why the blood sugar test at the party was so high. But I have full confidence in my doctor and am reinforced by the absence of any of the typical symptoms of diabetes at this time.

Thanks for Your Prayers. Thanks to those who were in our circle of confidence this past week. I got a lot of care and encouragement from you.

What Have I Learned? 1. Take care of business, 2. you can count on those around you, 3. be patient, 4. fitness matters.

Glenn A. Gibson
II Timothy 4:17
But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength

Outreach Canada Fall Retreat -- Highlights

2005-12-05T09:46:00.000-05:00

It was a privilege for me once again to attend last week Outreach Canada's Fall Staff Retreat at Sumas, Washington (Glenn pictured with Lorne Hunter on the left and Bruce Mitchell on the right). We all missed Dianne, who had responsibilities back in Ontario. In addition to finalizing our 2006 strategic plan and budget, we enjoyed time to pray and play together in the snow that fell all the time I was there (we must have swapped weather with Ontario that week!). Click here to have a look at my staff devotional entitled, "Sources of Encouragement" based on II Timothy 4. GG

Outreach Canada Teammates at Mosaic Conference in Toronto

2005-11-23T23:44:00.000-05:00

May I introduce some of my Outreach Canada team mates by sharing this picture taken at our mission's exhibit at the national "Mosaic" church planting conference last week in Toronto? Left to right: Alison Johnson, Alan Simpson, Diane Boyle, Lorne Hunter, James Watson, Murray Moerman, and Bob Rasmussen. For a closer look at this handsome group, click on the picture to expand it. GG

Vision Renewal Coach's Training November 1 to 3, 2005

2005-11-06T22:12:00.000-05:00

Here's the group we trained as coaches for "Vision Renewal" this past week in Delta, BC. Back row (left to right) Richard Roberts, Ben Lin, Bob Kennedy, Alan Simpson (co-instructor), Brent Edwards, Phil Cox. Front row (left to right) Don Porter, Rob Stewart, Glenn Gibson, Jack Wagner.

The Running Guys -- Glenn and Paul

2005-10-16T20:30:00.000-04:00

Here we are (Glenn on left, Paul on right) after your 10 K race today in Waterloo. This outing was the result of a suggestion from Paul made in October last year that we run together in a race. It was a lot of fun -- we are talking about doing it again in February 2006! GG

Reaching the Goal -- 10 Kilometres in 58:39!

2005-10-16T19:36:00.000-04:00

The picture is from this past weekend's Oktoberfest 10 Kilometre Run in Waterloo. The whole Gibson gang was there as witnesses to watch our son, Paul, and me do something we talked about just one year ago -- a 10 K race together. 10 second after the old guy (I'm turning 53 on Tuesday) crossed the finish line, our son-in-law, Max, took this shot. Yes, it's now official. I finally met my fitness goal for 2005 of "running 10 K in under an hour". But the star of the day was Paul who did his very first 10 K in 51:16! Our friend, Ron Bonar, ran with me again and bested me with a time of 56:54. Dianne, our daughter, Rebecca, and our daughter-in-law, Heather were cheering us on. To see the full race results go to www.roadraceresults.com and click on Oktoberfest 2005 10 K "Race Results". To see the finish line video, click here (be patient). Glenn

2005-10-09T20:35:00.000-04:00

We went hiking on the Thanksgiving Weekend! (left to right) Max, Rebecca, Glenn, and Dianne.

2005-10-09T20:32:00.000-04:00

Rebecca (left) and Dianne at Thanksgiving 2005

News and Plans - October 2 to 11

2005-10-01T20:55:00.000-04:00

We're Going to Be Grandparents?! It was a nice surprise to learn last Saturday that our daughter, Rebecca, is expecting a baby in May. We are very happy for her and Max who were married in June. She's coping with the nausea as she begins a pediatrics segment in her residency program. But the work she's doing this month has a whole new relevance!

A Busy Sunday! I'm posting this while watching a Saturday night CFL football game (Calgary and Montreal) on TV before heading to bed. Dianne is doing an evening shift at Christian Horizons. It's an early start for me tomorrow to drive to Peterborough, ON where I'll preach in the morning service and then lead their congregation through a "Dream Session" to help them develop their ministry vision for the future. Then it's back to Mississauga, ON to do a presentation to a group of Chinese church leaders before returning home at the end of the day!

Vacation Coming. Monday and Tuesday are filled with appointments and meetings on the phone. Then it's off to London where Dianne will take her mom to an appointment to an orthopedic surgeon which we hope will result in the scheduling of hip replacement surgery. We will then travel to Sudbury for the Thanksgiving Weekend with Rebecca and Max. Items on the agenda include enjoying the Ontario fall colours, talking about babies, doing some final training runs before the big race, and a nice turkey dinner and pumpkin pie. GG

The Big 2005 Goal -- 10 K in under 60:00!

2005-09-28T06:02:00.000-04:00

October 16, 2005 is a big day on my calendar: the Oktoberfest 10 Kilometer Run in Waterloo, ON! It's when I hope to reach my goal of completing 10 K in less than an hour. It will be fun to be racing this time with my son, Paul. To that end, I've been running over 25 miles/week during the month of September and am heading to the fitness club as soon as I've posted this note. It's been a big reminder that major objectives aren't reached without a long and relentless investment. I hope to be able to report here in just 18 days that my fitness goal has been reached! Check back here to find out. GG

Surgery Update on Dianne's Dad

2005-09-27T04:35:00.000-04:00

We are encouraged! Dianne's Dad, Nelson Wilsher, came through cancer surgery on his remaining kidney yesterday afternoon and was resting well last night in hospital in London, ON when I talked to Dianne last night. The procedure took 90 minutes and successfully removed three tumours. He came out of the anaesthetic without difficulties. He was able to sit up in the evening and sip some tea! A tube into his back will remain for a time to allow drainage and additional treatment. Dianne will remain in London for much of the week to provide support and care. Thanks for your prayers during this time. GG

Update on Dianne's Dad's Health

2005-09-19T08:33:00.000-04:00

We visited with Dianne's parents yesterday in London, ON. At present, he is scheduled for Monday September 26 (one week from now) for a surgical procedure that will laser the three tumours that have been discovered in his remaining kidney. A three day hospital stay is expected. However, he will be having a CT scan on Thursday of this week to determine if the cancer has spread to other organs. If it is discovered to have spread, the surgery will be cancelled and other treatments will be considered instead. We plan to visit him again on Friday once the scan has been completed. Continue to pray for God's guidance for the doctors as they provide treatment at this time. GG

2005-09-04T10:26:00.000-04:00

Group Shot -- Salvation Army Coaching Network Training Event -- August 29 to 30 at Roblin Lake Camp near Belleville, ON.

Cancer Testing Update on Dianne's Dad

2005-09-01T10:02:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, Dianne's dad, Nelson Wilsher, had his remaining kidney scoped for signs of cancer. Three spots were found and a CAT scan is now planned to determine its extent. He is now resting at home. Then he will meet with the doctor next week to decide what next steps are to be taken. At time of writing, Dianne is still with him in London, Ontario, but expects to travel home to Kitchener later today. Pray for God's peace during this time of uncertainty as well as wisdom for the treatment decisions upcoming. GG

2005-09-01T09:59:00.000-04:00

Trainer Team at Salvation Army Coaching Conference, August 29 to 31, at Roblin Lake Camp -- (left to right) Alison Johnson (Outreach Canada); David McCann (Salvation Army - Quebec); Stan Folkins (Salvation Army - Eastern Ontario); Glenn Gibson (Outreach Canada).

Helping Young Leaders -- Jared Siebert

2005-08-25T09:24:00.000-04:00

I met Jared Siebert a few years ago while teaching Church Growth at Emmanuel Bible College in Kitchener. He went on to plant "Next", a new congregation in Kingston, Ontario. We reconnected when I began to work last year with his denomination, the Free Methodist Church in Canada. Following his appointment as their new national Director of Growth Ministries, they asked me to serve as Jared's mentor/coach for the balance of 2005. It's been a great pleasure to spend several days together this month. Pray for Jared as he gives national leadership to FMCiC church growth and planting initiatives and for me as I resource him in his work!

2005-08-22T19:04:00.000-04:00

Race recovery time with running buddy, Ron Bonar. Ron crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 45:15. The bronze medalist in the next age category up from mine. Not bad for an old guy!

2005-08-22T19:02:00.000-04:00

Here's proof that I made it! With just seconds to go (click on the picture to see the time clock). Feeling the pain, but lovin' it. Next goal? 10 K in under an hour ... October 16, 2005.

Progress Goal Reached!

2005-08-21T13:42:00.000-04:00

This morning, I ran the EnduRace 8 K Run in Waterloo, Ontario. This was an important race to prepare for reaching my seasonal big goal in October of breaking the 60 minute barrier over 10 kilometres (6.2 miles). I had established a "progress goal" of running the 8 kilometres (5 miles) in under 50 minutes and was able to finish in a time of 49:46! On a hot day and a tough, hilly course, I was very pleased! For all the results of the race click here. Pictures to be posted shortly! GG

E-Zine Planned for September Release

2005-07-25T10:28:00.000-04:00

During the spring, the Church Health/Revitalization Department of Outreach Canada has been making plans to launch a new electronic magazine (e-zine!) called "Keep Fit -- Your Personal Trainer for Church Health". The articles will provide stories, resources, and insights for church leaders and ministry coaches to help churches "keep fit" in their community life and ministry. To receive a complimentary subscription, send your name and e-mail address to ggibson@outreach.ca or call either our Delta office at 604-952-0050 or Kitchener office at 519-576-1659.

Celebrating 30 Years of Ministry

2005-07-03T13:21:00.000-04:00

As of July 20, 2005, we will have been in full time ministry for 30 years! Rather than have a party, we’ve decided instead to challenge our friends and supporters to make an investment in an important project that we believe in – the Ontario Church Planting Mapping Project (click on the title or see the link on the left). We are hoping that during this summer the remaining $8,000 will be found for the research, expenses, and publishing of a province wide map to guide denominations and leaders in establishing new congregations. Donations should be made payable to Outreach Canada and designated for the Ontario Mapping Project? Published acknowledge of contributions and income tax receipts will be given for all gifts of $10.00 or more. You can make your contribution on-line (see the link to the left). GG

2005-06-28T07:02:00.000-04:00

The Newlyweds in Springbank Park, London, Ontario (June 28, 1975)

30 Years Ago Today!

2005-06-28T06:43:00.000-04:00

If you were born before 1976, how would you answer the question, "What were you doing exactly 30 years ago today?" Our answer? It was a hot summer Saturday in London, Ontario. The London Free Methodist Church was full. One of the groomsmen keeled over during the ceremony. The letters, "H-E-L-P" were written on the bottoms of my (Glenn's) shoes as we knelt for prayer. We posed for seemed like a million photographs. We took off in our 1968 Chevy Impala convertible to begin our lives together. That's right, it's our 30th wedding anniversary today. GG

Crossing the Finish Line ...

2005-06-20T08:05:00.000-04:00

Just one more posting about yesterday's 10 K race. If you want to see the "Crossing the Finish Line", click on the hyperlink for a very short video clip. Be patient while the file comes into your media player. Almost like being there ... GG

http://preview.outreach.ca/OC7-Service/gibson/Crossing.MPG

2005-06-19T19:59:00.000-04:00

(left to right) Ron Bonar, Max Hamel, Rebecca Gibson, and Glenn Gibson after the Waterloo 10K Classic Race today.