Who is Wesley?
I still live on a farm in Bognor, ON (near Owen Sound) where I grew up. I farmed for several years then worked at an awning manufacturing company which I ended up managing the last six years of my tenure with them. I am actively involved in and supported by my small, local country church. There I do occasional children's stories, regular Sunday School classes, serve as a deacon, and have occasionally preached. I am also a long-time participant in "big brothers."
I accepted Christ at summer camp when I was 12 years old. I then coasted along for many years, but at about 28 years of age, I realized how broken I was. My heart was so hard from denying my feelings for most of my life. I began to really seek God and to be changed. Through that, I became burdened for the many others who need Him right where I live -- those who go through life's hurdles and the effects of sin, not knowing Christ or the hope that knowing Him gives. That was the beginning of God's call to go out and tell and show people Jesus!
What do I do as a Missionary?
It was then I got the idea of using a horse and buggy (more comfortable than saddle) to travel around talking to people and giving out literature that talks of Christ's love for them. The Lordship of Jesus Christ is paramount for everyone. He is the way. He is the answer. I want to see people change their misconceptions and preconceptions about God! I've always thought that people should, for the most part, feel blessed, like they have received something after I visit them in Jesus' name. I am not there to put another notch in my leather Bible case. God has done so much for me, for all of us, that I just want people to sense His love and mercy.
When?
I have been with SCA International since 2003 initially part-time, and in 2005 transitioned to full-time ministry. I heard about this Mission through another SCA Missionary -- Allen Hilgendorf, whom I knew. He spoke at our church about the Mission he had joined. After that service, our pastor's wife pointed out that what Allen was sharing was what she had heard me say was my desire. I agreed and began the application process. The rest is history.
Where?
I currently work in an area that is roughly 100 miles square around my own property. I utilize both a car and a horse and buggy. The people I contact are not so much geographically 'isolated' as they are socially and emotionally isolated (often by choice), and most importantly 'spiritually' isolated.
How?
I like to work alongside people at whatever they are doing, be it haying, carpentry, repairing machinery or farm buildings, etc., and thus build relationships. I also give out strawberries around the neighbourhood annually in the name of Jesus so people may know they are loved even before I talk to them about the Lord. I often ask them if there is anything I can pray about on their behalf, and if they are open to the idea, I will pray for them on-the-spot. I visit individuals on a one-to-one basis at a nursing home, volunteer as chaplain at our regional hospital, share the gospel with another Christian organization for a week annually at the International Plowing Match, help with a youth group (of primarily church non-attenders), pick up hitch-hikers when I feel the Lord wants me to, volunteer in the local community centre, lead Alpha studies, and take funeral services when requested -- all in order to present the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Why?
Why do I do it? The answer is simple -- "God wants me to and He has changed my heart and priorities in life so that I can, by His grace, for people need to know the Saviour!"
.JPG)
