ChristianWeek

CHEMAINUS, BC—For those involved in the ministry of Coastal Missions (CM), obeying the command of Christ to go into the entire world includes navigating the shores and inlets of Canada’s West Coast.

From Alaska to Tacoma with dozens of stops in between, crew members of the “Coastal Messenger” bring friendship and encouragement wherever they tie up. The coffee pot is always on hand, and if requested, a Bible study is always at the ready.

For approximately 40 years the Vancouver Island Branch of Shantymen Christian Association operated missionary vessels. As times changed and logging and public roads opened up areas long accessible only by boat, the organization decided to discontinue that particular aspect of their ministry. In 1968 the “Messenger III” was sold to private owners and a truck and camper purchased for use in its place.

Exploring possibilities

But some, including CM founder Roy Getman, weren’t convinced the need for such a unique ministry was complete.

After determining the continued need to reach those living in villages, light stations, logging operations, fishing camps, work sites and on board other vessels, he and a group of like-minded colleagues began exploring other possibilities.

In December 1979 they determined to continue visiting these coastal communities as a new organization. In 1980, Coastal Missions became a registered charity in Canada.

Evidence of God’s blessing on the project came quickly and without solicitation. Private donations funded the purchase of a boat as well as a suitable “base camp” accommodation in Chemainus, B.C. The christening of the Coastal Messenger took place in Victoria in June 1980.

Now, more than a quarter century later, a new vessel has been designed, constructed and launched, crew members travel 11 months of the year (March is set aside for maintenance), continuing to provide coffee, friendship and practical help wherever they go.

One crew member cites an annual visit to the home of a gentleman near Bella Bella as an example.

“Last time we put solar panels on his roof, and we’ve dug a ditch for him. It’s called relationship building,” says Chet McArthur.

It’s also a response to the old hymn: “There’s a call comes ringing o’er the restless waves. Send the light!”