Bringing Hope Ministries

This week, I had the privilege of sitting down with Jonny Pragashpathy from The Table Intercultural Church at Fanshawe college, TTI.Church . Jonny is doing incredible work on the front lines of campus ministry, reaching students via alpha and red frogs with a focus on genuine “place at the table” ministry. We talked about the unique challenges of intercultural ministry and what it looks like to build a community where turnover is constant year after year!

It’s campfire season again. As I scroll through social media, I see friends celebrating their first fires of the year, while others are enjoying quiet evenings around a fire table. For me, these images trigger fond memories of times spent at the family cottage—singing,laughing, sharing stories, and of course, eating s’mores. More than the food or the warmth, it was about the bonding. That sense of connection is exactly what happened in John chapter 21 (and Luke 24) when the disciples encountered Jesus around a campfire on the shore. Before that moment, they were struggling. They were devastated, discouraged,and honestly, a bit hopeless. But when they encountered Jesus over a meal by the fire, their eyes were opened. They declared, “It is the Lord!” That revelation changed everything. It brought joy, encouragement, and a renewed hope for the future. Around that fire,they ate breakfast, shared stories, and simply enjoyed the presence of Jesus. Why Gathering Matters This is why coming together as the people of God is so vital. Jesus gave us a promise in Matthew 18:20: “Whenever two or three of you come together in my name, I am there with you.” Whether it’s around a campfire, over coffee, or in a living room, when we meet in His name, He is there. But community isn't just about feeling His presence; it’s about ministering to one another. In community, we study: We let the Word of Christ dwell in us richly as we teach and admonish one another (Colossians 3:16). In community, we pray: We confess our struggles and pray for each other so that we may be healed (James 5:16). In community, we encourage: We build each other up, just as the early church did (1 Thessalonians 5:11). I see this in action every day. I see it in our WhatsApp groups where leaders share scriptures and prayer requests across the miles. I’ve seen it in my own life through deep friendships—like my friend Don Mann—who have walked beside me through thick and thin. Faith was never meant to be a solo journey. Clothed With Power A fire needs fuel to keep burning. Before Jesus ascended, He gave the disciples a specific instruction: “Stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). He knew that to be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth," they couldn't rely on their own strength. They needed the fire of the Holy Spirit. Today, I want to encourage you: Keep the fire burning. Don’t isolate yourself. Find your community, gather around the "fire" of fellowship, and wait on the Holy Spirit to empower you for everything He has called you to do. — Garry Fess

The Question That Changed Everything Recently, I led a mission team to Colombia. Every evening, we gathered together, and I would ask the team: “Where did you see Jesus today?” At first, there was silence. I think they were looking for the "big things"—miraculous signs or massive events. But as the week went on and they began to look closer, they saw Him everywhere: in a smile, a kind word, or a simple answer to prayer. The Emmaus Blindness It’s so easy to miss what God is doing. In Luke 24, two disciples were walking the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus, heartbroken and discouraged. Jesus Himself drew near and walked with them, but "their eyes were kept from recognizing him." They were so preoccupied with their grief and the pressures of life that they didn't realize the very person they were mourning was walking right beside them. You Are Not Alone We live in a culture where loneliness is "off the charts." In Canada alone, 13% of people say they feel lonely always or often. But for those who walk with Christ, the promise is clear: "And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20) Recognizing His Presence When the disciples finally invited Jesus in and broke bread with Him, their eyes were opened. They realized their hearts had been burning the whole time. If you are feeling discouraged, disillusioned, or lonely today—don't give up. Jesus is with you to bring comfort, encouragement, and strength. He is the Way Maker, the Miracle Worker, and the Promise Keeper. Even when you don't feel it, He is working on your behalf. Ask yourself today: Where did I see Jesus in the small things?

Recently, someone asked me a question that has been weighing heavily on the hearts of the next generation: "With everything going on in the world, is there actually any hope left for the future?" It’s a fair question. We look at the global stage and see chaos: wars, famine, and natural disasters. We look at our own backyards and see the rising cost of living, a lack of housing, and a culture that feels more divided than ever. For many young people, the future doesn't look like a promise; it looks like a threat. My response is an emphatic YES. I believe there is always hope in Jesus. There is hope for you, hope for me, and there is a vibrant, unshakable hope for the next generation. We have all felt the sting of hopelessness—whether from situations beyond our control like sickness and loss, or from our own failures and addictions. But the Great News of the Gospel is this: The Resurrection of Jesus Christ changes everything. ### 1. The Hope of New Life We all struggle with our own nature—broken relationships, depression, or habits that trap us. But the Resurrection means we aren't stuck in our "trespasses." Colossians 2:13 tells us that He has made us alive together with Him. Through Jesus, we are "born again to a living hope" (1 Peter 1:3). When you walk with Him, the old is gone and the new begins. 2. Hope for Everyday Life Let’s be honest: life is tough. Daily pressures can drain the hope right out of us. Jesus acknowledged this, noting that "the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy," but He countered it with a promise: "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly" (John 10:10). That abundant life isn't about everything going perfectly; it’s about: Knowing who you are: You are a chosen person, a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Walking in the Spirit: Being strengthened with power in your inner being (Ephesians 3:16). When you know your identity in Christ and walk in the fullness of the Holy Spirit, hope becomes your "everyday" reality. 3. The Hope of Eternal Life We know that our earthly bodies have an expiration date. Memories fade, and strength wanes. But for the follower of Christ, death is not the end—it is the beginning. Jesus said, "I go to prepare a place for you" (John 14:2). We have the promise of a New Heaven and a New Earth where God will wipe away every tear. No more pain, no more death, and no more mourning. Our eternal hope is to live and reign with Him forever. The Mission of Hope Is there hope for the future? Absolutely. At Bringing Hope Ministries, this is exactly why we do what we do. We are committed to raising up the next generation of Christian leaders through coaching, teaching, and leadership development. We want to see young men and women lead with the confidence that comes from a Resurrection Hope. If you are looking for direction, or if you want to partner with us as we equip leaders around the world, we would be delighted to connect with you at bringinghope.ca. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13 God Bless you, and have a Happy Easter! Garry & Judy Fess