On the road with 100 Huntley Street in Nova Scotia

This past February, I had the pleasure of joining 100 Huntley Street in Halifax for a week of special programming. As a Partner Relations Representative, I spend much of my time fostering meaningful connections with our donors. But this trip, sponsored by a generous donor, offered me the possibility to learn more about what makes the people of Nova Scotia so special, the complexity behind television production, and the importance of giving.

EAST COASTERS ARE NOTABLY RESILIENT

The sponsor of our trip invited us to take part in Halifax’s Teen Challenge Sleep Out, allowing us the opportunity to shine a light on the work of drug and alcohol treatment programs that are restoring the health of individuals and families. With the weather in Halifax quickly transitioning from snowy-mild to bitter cold, there was still a fantastic turnout of people who were brave enough to set up camp overnight.

TV PRODUCTION IS TIRELESS WORK

From early morning until late in the evening, Cheryl Weber and Greg Musselman, along with our camera crew, braved the cold and interviewed one inspirational guest after another. I was impressed that even when the days were long, and the locations were sometimes uncomfortably cold, both our team and our guests never lost sight of the goal to share Jesus with our viewers. They never lost their joy, enthusiasm and purpose. I was truly moved by our team and our memorable guests.

IT IS MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE (ACTS 20:35)

We got to know the founders of Souls Harbour in Halifax. Ken and Michelle Porter sold all their possessions to start this ministry to the homeless, which offers emergency help such as food, clothing, life-changing programs and the Gospel message of hope. We joined nearly 100 homeless or struggling people for a hot, nutritious lunch, and witnessed the joy of giving care and dignity in a warm, welcoming place.

In the wake of the Nova Scotia shooting, these events have since taken on more meaning. I didn’t know it then, but filming in Nova Scotia served a bigger purpose for Christ. It would serve as a reminder of how Christian love brings healing to the hurting and the lost, and would also give Canadians from coast-to-coast a window into the heart of the people of Nova Scotia. As Cheryl Weber wrote, “Evil had its day, but it’s not the end of the story.” Nova Scotia, we stand with you. We pray with you. And we look forward to visiting with you again soon.

If you have a story from Eastern Canada for us to tell, or would like to sponsor our next trip/show, please contact Sarah at [email protected]