Change 

Change isn’t too far “out of the picture” for all of us given the current situation. We’ve all been forced to change, at least in some way, from the norm that we were accustomed to. But what happens when God moves us even further, like to another province and district.

We moved from a small town in British Columbia called Logan Lake, which is right in the middle between Merritt and Kamloops. It’s located at the top of the mountain, population 2000, and its main source of income is the Highland Valley Copper mine. 

Here’s some things we’ve learned since moving to Barrhead in May 2020: 

District 

Keep in mind that the District in B.C is fantastic. There is a sense of family there amongst the pastors and its leadership that I absolutely miss. Maybe the sense of loss is because we came to another Province and District in the midst of a time that we aren’t allowed to really get to know people. The culture of family is something my wife and I really loved about the BCYD PAOC.

But, as we made our way into the ABNWT District of the PAOC, we’ve had a great welcome from many pastors in this District. Our District leaders have set out an amazing coaching plan for not just us but the entire District through cohort groups and coaching. As our former church was our first as Lead Pastors, this support is invaluable and something that we have cherished this past year. It truly helped and will continue to help us not only feel supported in our vision and mission but also helping us grow as ministers. 

People 

The people in Alberta are definitely different from B.C, and no, not because here in Alberta there is a more of a “right wing” feel. The difference is mainly because Christianity hasn’t fully been pushed aside. I spoke to a woman the other day about how she felt this Province was losing its Christian values. I told her, don’t get me wrong, in this world things will change, but visit Vancouver. The population is 3% Christian. She would understand why I’m so grateful for how people view the gospel here, or at least in our small town of Barrhead. If I could describe the people here by one phrase, it would be: “Salt of the earth.” 

Management 

In moving to Barrhead, I noted that our church has more staff members and many more volunteers. Managing ministry time is something that I’m learning and will continue to have to get better at. I’ve always looked at ministry in this order: God. Family. Church. As much as some days I find myself at work until God knows when, just because there is more to do doesn’t mean that it’s my family’s burden. Even with the increased work time, I am grateful. 

Letting Go 

I’m the kind of person that will stick through a project and see it completed even if I’m in quicksand while animals are trying to peck at me. Needless to say, I am learning to deal with the “macro” of things rather than the “micro”. Things like letting my team have authority when making decisions. This may be scary to many reading this but trust me, without their confidence that you believe in them and are there helping them grow, chances are they won’t. Plus, if you didn’t get what you expected, try it a different way next week. Jesus only taught his disciples for three years before handing over the “reins” to carry on the work of His Great Commission. This is the time for us follow his example. 

Anyway, I’m sure this was nothing new to many but I hope to encourage some of you. Don’t get in the way of what God is doing; constantly let Him change you because the world never stays the same. We have been called to His people, not our comfort. God bless you and keep you, always. I look forward to meeting you in person. 

Guest Author, Rev Mauricio Rabino

Lead Pastor, Bethel Church, Barrhead
Rev. Mauricio Rabino is the Lead Pastor at Bethel Church in Barrhead. He and his wife Crystal and their 6 children took up the charge in May 2020.

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