It all began in 1978. I graduated from WCVM with a deep sense of gratitude and indebtedness to God. My entry into veterinary college was a direct result of His miraculous intervention, so as a new graduate and a young Christian I felt the best way to ‘repay my debt’ would be to use my professional skills on the mission field.

Fortunately, wise counsellors helped me recognize that my exuberance, although honourable, was misdirected. Rookie grads need seasoning in practice to hone their  skills, and God wasn’t looking for a ‘payback.’ My Heavenly Father has a reputation for giving good gifts to his children!                       Dr. Bruce & Donna Thiessen

The next stop in our journey was Fort St. John, BC, where the Lord blessed us with four children and godly spiritual mentors. I enjoyed mixed practice, but my real passion was people. Veterinary medicine was a good blend, because every animal came with a ‘people.’ But I was looking for opportunities to make deeper investments in the kingdom of God.

We returned to Saskatchewan in 2000 so that I could nurture my people passion by pursuing a Master of Divinity at Briercrest Seminary. With graduation completed, we are at a new hinge point in our journey. As empty nesters, Donna and I have been asking the Lord to clarify whether our future will be in full time veterinary practice, pastoral ministry or cross-cultural missions. 

The answer has been a blend of all three. We are moving to a BC community where I will practice part time, contribute to the local church and raise support for our mission trip in 2008. We will join CVM’s VetNet team in Mongolia to explore whether our gift set can make a contribution as short or long term workers. We would covet your prayers as we enter this next phase in our journey. Confident that God is leading us, we are choosing to be thankful and rejoice in the midst of the challenges associated with relocating our home across two provinces! “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matt 6:33).

Please pray with Bruce and Donna Thiessen as they are developing a team of prayer and financial supporters.