WE WELCOME THREE CHAPLAINS TO MENNO PLACE THIS SUMMER!
Menno Home
Ann Thakkar – Menno Home Chaplain
Ann was raised in Ontario with parents whose lives were heart-set on following God. Ann’s experience in chaplaincy comes from both the giving and receiving end. As Ann has walked in trust with Jesus, she has found Him to be the One who guides her and gives her joy. A unique combination of tender care and academic interest, Ann holds a Doctorate in Ministry from Carey Theological College. It was during these studies that she found her focus on both suffering and the spiritual practices that facilitate faith during difficult times. Her findings are lived out in her day-to-day life. Ann is joyful, knowledgeable, a wonderful conduit of God’s love, a great listener and a kind soul.
Ann joined the Menno Place Chaplain team in June when we said good-bye to Ingrid Schultz.
The Apartments
Kevin Downey – Apartments Chaplain
Kevin has spent his life dedicated to the ministry of God’s love for others through pastoring and, most recently, through his work as a supervisor in Hospital Transfers here in Abbotsford. Kevin is a family man who finds great joy in his time with his family, despite difficulties that they have faced – most recently as their home was caught up in the Sumas Prairie flood. These difficulties have given Kevin great empathy, understanding and trust in God to provide in every way. Kevin has a huge heart for seniors and is looking forward to getting to know each and every one who calls our Apartments their home.
Kevin is joining the Chaplain team on July 21st as we say good-bye to John Dyck (retiring July 27).
Menno Hospital
Alison Cumming – Menno Hospital Chaplain
Alison is coming “home” to Abbotsford, having lived here in the early 2000’s and worked as a sessional faculty in Theatre Arts at Columbia Bible College at that time. She is certified with the Canadian Association for Spiritual Care with her CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education). For the past three and a half years, she has been the lead in setting up a Provincial Spiritual Health Program for BC Cancer as a spiritual Health Practioner. During this time, Alison provided educational opportunities for staff and physicians on Spiritual Health. Alison is full of creativity, innovation and compassion. We look forward to gaining from her experience, her compassion and her input in training others to come alongside in pastoral care at Menno Place.
Alison is joining the Chaplain team on August 2nd as we say good-bye to Ingrid Stahl (retiring August 10).
