Every Story Matters . . . including Yours
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Krystal Wawrzyniak, Jody Dickson, Emily Bell, and Pat Bird
On September 15–17, 2023, Indian Life Ministries held their 2023 conference in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Cliff Bird provided keynote addresses, while Kene and Milly Jackson provided music.
This particular conference was the first of its kind. The theme of the conference was "Every Story Matters . . . including Yours." Indigenous and non-Indigenous brothers and sisters in Christ shared their stories of hope and healing throughout the weekend.
"The theme for the conference was born from Indian Life being a ministry that publishes books and a newspaper," said Krystal Wawrzyniak of the ILM director team. "We report events and share people's stories. That got us thinking about what the Lord says in Revelation 12:11 (KJV): 'And they overcame him [the enemy] by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.' We also see this in Psalm 107:2 'Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story.'
"You see, our stories matter. What the Lord is doing in your life, what He has done in your life, matters. We have personally experienced incredible freedom and healing in sharing our own stories. And when we testify about what the Lord has done, we not only encourage ourselves, but others as well. With this conference, we sought to create space for people to share their stories and for people to hear others' stories. The Lord moved in incredible ways at the conference."
Krystal Wawrzyniak, Jody Dickson, Emily Bell, and Pat Bird
Approximately 170 people from various cities in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Yukon attended the conference throughout the weekend.
"It was good to hear other people share their stories," said musician and participant Milly Jackson. "When others spoke, they really helped me to realize that I wasn't the only one to go through hard times."
Participant Florence Flett also expressed how the weekend ministered to her. "Sharing my testimony helps me to see how God has brought me through the trials of refining in my life," said Flett. "As I look back over my life, I am reminded of where I came from and to where I am heading if I don't heed God's Word! When I tell my story, hopefully, I will encourage someone else."
