EI Jubilee Celebration

This year Emmanuel International celebrates 50 years. On Saturday June 21, 2025, staff, alumni and friends gathered at the EI Canada offices in celebration of this glorious event.

“Oh how good it is
When the family of God
Dwells together in spirit
In faith and unity.
Where the bonds of peace,
Of acceptance and love
Are the fruit of His presence
Here among us.”

Based on Psalm 133:1, the words of this song by Keith and Kristyn Getty resonant the memory of Saturday’s celebration.  The smiles, the hugs, the joy of seeing friends from years past, friends with shared memories, friends who are all a part of the family of God.  One person remarked, “EI is a family and if you have worked with EI, you are a part of this family, no matter how long it has been.”

Sixty-six people gathered at the EI Canada office in Stouffville for this event, alumni, current staff, supporters and friends of EI. The purpose of our celebration was to praise God, to thank God for His goodness through the 50 years He has given EI.  Hannah and Melody Maxson led us in songs of praise. Terry Ratcliff shared a fascinating history of the Ratcliff brothers who opened their hearts and doors to this building we were in which has housed the EI Canada office for over 45 years.

Mark Middleton, past Director of EI, reminded us that Jesus’ final words to His disciples were “Go Ye.”  Starting with your neighbors, then your province, then other nations, the message to us remains the same: “Go Ye.”  Mark reminded us that times change. Generations see things differently.  While the missionaries before us were a part of the industrial age, we are a part of the technology age.  Methods and approaches adapt to the times.  But the message that Jesus died so that we might live is the message we are to share.  Jesus said, “Go Ye.” 

We thank God for the privilege of sharing His love.  We thank Him for the years he has given us as EI.  We look forward to whatever He has for us going forward.
  
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!!!