Prayer, love, presence: Lessons from a summer in Melita, Manitoba
In the summer of 2025, Hanvit Lee, joined the Student Rural Ministry Program to gain experience leading worship in English and to better understand the realities of Canadian churches. His background in theology from Busan Presbyterian College in South Korea had already instilled in him a conviction that theology must remain grounded in real-life ministry, making this placement a vital part of his formation.
Arriving in Winnipeg, Hanvit was warmly welcomed by Pastor Henry and his wife, who provided rest and guidance before he traveled to Melita. There, he found a small rural church built in 1892, struggling with low attendance, aging membership, and the possibility of closure. This reality initially left him discouraged, but daily prayer and reflection renewed his hope and reminded him of God’s call to love and serve each soul with faithfulness.
Hanvit immersed himself in the life of Melita. He built relationships by cycling through town, chatting at the laundromat, volunteering at school events, and visiting local shops. He encouraged townspeople to remain connected to Christian community, even if the Presbyterian congregation closed. Through these encounters, he sensed God opening doors for ministry beyond the church walls.
Without [Pastor] Henry’s help, I would have faced many difficulties in serving in rural ministry. Through our meetings and conversations, I was able to learn from his humility and his spirit of service. As I spent time with him, I found myself hoping that when I reach his age, I too will be overflowing with the same passion and love for God’s kingdom that I see in him. — Hanvit Lee
Hanvit also established connections with local institutions. At the Personal Care Home and the Senior Lodge, he began leading worship, often with guitar accompaniment—something new and challenging for him. Despite language and musical hurdles, these services deeply touched residents, some of whom said they had never before experienced church in this way. Hanvit cherished these moments, aware that for some, each service could be their last.
Collaboration with other ministers, especially Pastor Elvan of the local Pentecostal church, broadened Hanvit’s understanding of rural ministry. Pastor Elvan emphasized the importance of ministers living within and serving consistently among the people. Their conversations reinforced Hanvit’s conviction that rural churches need faithful, present leadership.
Though the future of Melita Presbyterian was uncertain, the annual meeting brought unexpected hope: instead of closing, members discussed the possibility of calling a full-time minister and exploring shared ministry with the Uniting Church. This shift encouraged Hanvit and gave him joy to share with his wife back in Korea.
Looking back, Hanvit described his 14–15 weeks in Melita as transformative. He grew in his English preaching and worship leadership, gained a vision for rural ministry, and experienced firsthand the challenges and resilience of Canadian churches. Most importantly, he deepened his understanding that the true calling of a minister is not simply knowledge or talent, but faithfulness: to remain where God calls, to love people deeply, and to embody God’s heart for souls.
Hanvit concluded his reflection with gratitude—for the hospitality of Melita’s people, for the encouragement of fellow pastors, and for God’s sustaining love that carried him through moments of weakness and renewed his hope for ministry.
… through my experience in rural ministry, I came to realize something deeper: no matter the hardships or the crossroads that lie ahead, the most precious ability of a minister is to remain in the place where God says a minister is needed…