Late Summer 2024

PEOPLE STORIES - EMAILS FROM VIKKI, RE: OUR ENCOUNTER 10 YEARS AGO
Here's a story that illustrates that every good word and deed that you and I do could have a long-lasting effect on someone.... so keep up the good work, eh?

Hi Chaplain Kirkley,
     As I head to my daughter’s 40th birthday party (she lives in London UK), I recall a time 10 years ago when my mother and I were heading from New Zealand to her 30th via Vancouver airport.
     I have never forgotten your kindness that day when I lost my passport, and I have found your business card and wonder if perchance you are still the airport chaplain!
    Warm regards, Vikki   
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Greetings Vikki,
     Thank you for your kind message, and yes, I very much remember that day and our encounter.  You were so intent on getting to your daughter’s 30th birthday, so it was not hard to get enthused about your situation and pray for God‘s grace and mercy to help us.
      As I recall, we had to chase down your passport from the hotel where you were staying, and then we waited anxiously at the curb for a taxi to bring it to the terminal.  But it arrived just in time for you to get through security and make your flight, right?  
       That was quite a day for both of us!  I have had many interesting encounters over my years as chaplain, but our situation was one of the most remarkable examples of God’s interventions to “save the day”! 
 
Vikki:
     I am amazed you still recall the incident so clearly. Yes, my passport arrived just in time, with that delightful Indian taxi driver who greeted me with a beaming smile and the words “Madam, I have your passport”! 
      And he still would not have been on time, but just when the situation looked lost again, the airline announced that the flight had been delayed! You never gave up hope and I’m sure your faith and some divine intervention saved the day. 
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      Indeed, my Mum and I had a lovely trip and it was so nice to spend time with my beautiful daughters who were both living in London at the time.