Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

After years of working in the hospitality industry, I found myself in full-time ministry at Saanich Baptist Church in ’07 as the Executive Pastor. Fortunately for me, God uses imperfect people for the sake of His mission to bring Hope to the world. During this time, I was blessed to see His hand at work through me in the local church, community and world.

Following my 14 years of service at the church, I’ve had the joy of being back in the marketplace working alongside my son in a local cabinet shop. Although I have enjoyed the learning experience, I found my passions lie elsewhere. I have yearned to return to ministry. I’ve prayed fervently and sought God’s direction while learning to wait on His timing, confident that He would reveal His plan. And then a call came from YFC Victoria to join their team as the Director of Operations.

I often think back on my youth and how a connection with a Godly friend, whose own life had been influenced by strong Christian parents and youth leaders, helped shape my path. Today’s youth are facing challenges I couldn’t even comprehend when I was a teen. I am eager to work with our leaders by encouraging, resourcing and equipping them to be the type of leader that impacted my life: a champion of youth and Kingdom builder. God’s plans are always good.

I joined YFC Victoria in 2013, taking the position as Executive Director with a vision to bring God’s message of Hope to every young person in this city. I inherited a small staff of 2 at that time, however, in the following years our staff team has grown substantially. I’m thrilled to have Rick Boomer bring his leadership and administrative gifts to assist us in reaching more young people with the Gospel.

Rick comes to us with many years of experience in the hospitality industry as well as, more recently, a decade and a half as an Executive Pastor. His skills with people, his work ethic and drive to serve and see others come to know Christ will help us expand the platform of support that our youth workers need. This will allow us to grow our team and enable us to spread the Gospel into more communities.

In order for this missionary leadership role to be possible, Rick will need your support. Please hear his story and be stirred by his passion. You can become a part of Rick’s ministry by committing to pray for him daily and by becoming a monthly financial partner. It will be a blessing to you as well, as you become a part of changing lives among the at-risk young people on Vancouver Island.

Would you consider coming alongside Rick as a prayer and financial partner by investing in his leadership as he takes a step of faith to join us? The YFC model requires all YFC staff to raise their own salary as youth missionaries, so your partnership is vital.

Lindsay Hodges,
Executive Director – YFC Victoria