Exploring New Opportunities for Gospel Outreach in Northwest British Columbia

KITIMAT, B.C. – Toward the end of 2025, Rev. Jacob Quast, Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC)’s Director of Domestic Missions, travelled to Kitimat, B.C., to meet with Rev. Daniel Cunningham of Redeemer Lutheran Church, whose parish is actively seeking new ways to reach surrounding communities with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The visit focused on understanding the mission work already underway in Northwest British Columbia and discerning opportunities for expanded outreach, particularly among First Nations communities.

Terrace, a regional hub in Northwest B.C. and a local mission of the Kitimat congregation, provides a strong foundation for outreach in the wider community and serves as a key platform for further mission efforts, including First Nations ministry.

“The opportunity in Northwest B.C. is significant,” Rev. Quast shared. “There is both an openness and a desire for long-term pastoral presence and support, and the congregation in Kitimat is uniquely positioned to serve in that role.”

Building and sustaining relationships is central to this work. Lutheran organizations such as LAMP (Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots), along with previous pastors and vicars in Kitimat, have served and supported these communities for years. Rev. Cunningham is continuing this work through:

• Community outreach, identifying needs and providing support;

• Fellowship and Bible study, offering many opportunities for gathering and the study of God’s Word;

• Pastoral care, especially among First Nations communities.

A particularly encouraging development is Rev. Cunningham’s close relationship with a local First Nations man who shares a strong desire to see sound Christian teaching brought into Indigenous communities. He functions in many ways as a local evangelist and partner in mission. Together, he and Rev. Cunningham are working to provide introductions and opportunities for the Gospel to be shared more broadly across the region.

This mission work is already taking shape in tangible ways. Rev. Cunningham has expressed a strong commitment to expanding pastoral care throughout the region.

“Pastor Cunningham and his congregation are an integral part of Lutheran Church–Canada’s growing First Nations missions and ministries,” Rev. Quast noted. “We pray that this work will bear much fruit as the Gospel continues to be shared in Northwest B.C.”

Lutheran Church–Canada gives thanks for the relationships already established and for the faithful work being done to bring Christ’s saving Word to the people of Northwest British Columbia.

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