Arnold - Canada

Nickname: Arnie

I was blessed to be born to parents who loved the Lord, exposed their children to sound Christian teaching and set an example for us in their lives. From Sunday school and its devoted teachers of children and various children’s organizations, the teachings of the faith were presented consistently.

Our family of nine children was not blessed financially, but we were rich spiritually. I cannot remember a time when I did not believe that God loved me and that Jesus died for my sins and I received Christ as my personal Savior as a young child.

Through my teens, group and personal Bible study helped me develop a deeper relationship with the Lord.

When I went away to university, my walk with the Lord grew cool as I devoted myself to my studies but I always felt His guiding hand on my life. Upon finishing school, I felt the need to recommit my life to serving Him in whatever way He would lead me,
however that did not mean that He made my way smooth. Sometimes when things go well, we can become complacent and not rely on Him. Sometimes it is during times of adversity when the presence of the Lord becomes most felt. I have never felt His presence more closely than when, in difficult situations professionally and while serving overseas, I saw immediate answers to prayers for help and knew He was walking with me and that I was in His will.

My professional training gave me an in-depth understanding of the intricacy of the human body and the optics of vision, drawing me to optics and photography. I had a passing interest in photography when I was younger but once out of school, I became serious about becoming more skilled at it.

Over the years, I have served in our church as deacon and director of missions. I have been privileged to travel extensively for pleasure and also for missions trips for humanitarian aid. From recording my travels for pleasure to recording missions trips to trying to give others a feel for the places and situations, I have enjoyed taking all kinds of images.

All aspects of life provide opportunities for ministry, and photography has become an important part in sharing ministry with others.