A CHRISTMAS PRAYER

Dear Lord,

We pray that this Christmas, once again our eyes would be turned to the babe born in a manger. The miracle of your birth is that you God, took on human form and came and lived among us. As we look at the events of that first Christmas, may we also be reminded that your short journey on earth culminated in your death, the most significant event in history, so that people everywhere could have the opportunity to be forgiven and receive eternity. May our prayer be, that the Savior of the world would find a place of residence in all our hearts.

Our prayers for all our MLA’s, that during this Christmas season, they would experience your presence and peace and be refreshed and renewed as they spend time with family and friends.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The Leading Influence Team and the many that join us from across the province to pray for our MLA’s, want to wish you a Happy and Blessed New Year.

Prayer News

From December 25^th through January 1^st, 2016 Pray Alberta will be taking a break. We will resume publishing prayers for our MLA’s on January 4^th 2016. While we are not doing business as usual, we are still praying for our province and our elected leaders.

Mr. Ric McIver - MLA for Calgary-Hays

Heavenly Father, bless MLA Ric McIver in his service representing the constituents of Calgary – Hays.  May he experience renewed vision and creativity that will continue to lead him to success in the important role and responsibilities that he fills in our government.  We are grateful for his years of leadership and pray that he will know that the work he does is appreciated.  Amen. 

Ric McIver was elected to his second term as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-Hays on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Special Standing Committee on Members' Services.

During his first term he served as Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour. He also served as a member of the Treasury Board and as a member of the Government’s committee on Operations.

As well he had served as Minister of Infrastructure and Minister of Transportation.

Mr. McIver served the residents of Calgary-Hays as the alderman on Calgary city council for ward 12 from 2001 to 2010, a span of three terms. In that time he served on the board of the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association, the Calgary Police Commission and the Metropolitan Calgary Foundation. He also served as chair of the Calgary Housing Company.

Mr. McIver became an Albertan on July 26, 1981. He has worked in the food industry in many different roles, including national sales manager and sales and marketing manager of different organizations. He has also owned and operated a food distribution and marketing wholesale business.

He is married to Christine, the founder and CEO of the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta. Between them they have four children and two grandchildren, all living in Calgary.

Honourable Margaret McCuaig-Boyd - MLA for Dunvegan-Central Peace-Notley

Dear Jesus, we thank You for Honourable Ms. Margaret McCuaig-Boyd, serving the constituency of Dunvegan – Central.  It is our prayer that she be blessed in all she puts her hand to, today as she fulfills her many tasks and responsibilities.  Grant her insight and understanding when she needs to deal with difficult situations and we ask You for creative solutions.  In Christ’s Name, Amen.  

Minister of Energy

Margaret McCuaig-Boyd was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Dunvegan-Central Peace-Notley on May 5, 2015. She was appointed to serve as Minister of Energy on May 24, 2015.

Ms. McCuaig-Boyd holds a bachelor's degree in education from the University of Alberta and a master's degree in administration and leadership from San Diego State University.

Following 20 years as a teacher and administrator with the Peace River School Division, Ms. McCuaig-Boyd took on the role of vice president of the Fairview Campus with Grande Prairie Regional College. Prior to her election to the Legislative Assembly, Ms. McCuaig-Boyd owned and operated a consulting company offering services to small and medium businesses.

In 2005, Ms. McCuaig-Boyd was the recipient of the Robert H. Routledge Award from the Alberta Schools Athletic Association for outstanding service to Alberta students and for the promotion and operation of an athletic program.

She is an active member of the community serving as a member and president of the Fairview Rotary Club and as a board member of the Fairview Chamber of Commerce.

Ms. McCuaig-Boyd lives in Fairview with her husband Dan and they have two adult children, Jocelyn and Tyson. She enjoys travelling, golfing, curling and skiing.

Honourable Brian Mason - MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood

Heavenly Father, may Your blessing be upon our Honourable MLA representing the people of Edmonton – Highlands – Norwood, Mr. Brian Mason.  Thank You for his faithful service in our Alberta Government and we pray that You would continue to surround him with those who will assist him effectively carrying out his role.  May he and those close to him experience Your peace and kindness and we request this in Your Name, Father God, Amen.

Minister of Infrastructure

Minister of Transportation

Brian Mason was sworn in as the Minister of Infrastructure and as the Minister of Transportation on May 24, 2015.

He was first elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood in a 2000 by-election.

He was re-elected in the provincial general election of March 12, 2001, and was subsequently appointed House Leader of the New Democrat caucus and critic responsible for human resources, finance and agriculture.

On September 18, 2004, Mr. Mason became leader of the New Democrats, a position he retired in 2014. Mr. Mason was elected to his third term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood on November 22, 2004, his fourth term on March 3, 2008, and his fifth term on April 23, 2012.

Mr. Mason previously served as a member of the Special Standing Committee on Members’ Services, the Standing Committee on Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund, the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship, the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, the Standing Committee on Resources and Environment, the Standing Committee on Government Services and the Standing Committee on the Economy.

Before his election to the Alberta Legislature, Mr. Mason served as city of Edmonton councillor for ward 3. He was first elected in October 1989 and won three subsequent civic elections. As a member of city council for 11 years Mr. Mason gained a reputation as a tough and effective voice for his constituents. During this time Mr. Mason chaired the non-profit Housing Board and served on the Taxi Commission, Library board and Northlands board.

Following his political science studies at the University of Alberta he became politically active, serving as the executive director of the Alberta Federation of Students from 1977 to 1979.

Mr. Mason has lived in Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood for over 20 years with his wife, Karin, and their two sons, Peter and Alex.

Mr. Brian Malkinson - MLA for Calgary-Currie

Thank You Lord, for Calgary – Currie MLA Mr. Brian Malkinson and his passion as he represents the people of his constituency.  We pray for him to experience renewed strength and joy as he serves in his many responsibilities as seeks to meet the various needs of Albertans.  Give him wisdom and insight to know what he should attend to today to be most effective.  May he find opportunity to spend time doing the recreational sports he enjoys.  Amen. 

Brian Malkinson was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta as the Member for the constituency of Calgary-Currie on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. He previously served as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund.

Mr. Malkinson is originally from British Columbia. He obtained a degree in science from Simon Fraser University, where he was, for a time, the president of the Interactive Arts and Technology Student Union.

He is employed in the heavy-equipment industry as a salesman at a heavy-duty engine supplier since making a career change from working as a designer/analyst for Internet start-ups.

Mr. Malkinson currently resides in Calgary, where he enjoys car restoration, music, art and recreational sports.

Mr. Don MacIntyre - MLA for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake

We are thankful today for MLA Don MacIntyre and the role he has in our legislature as he serves the constituents of Innisfrail – Sylvan Lake.  We ask for Your wisdom Lord as he sits on the various committees and also meets with Albertans.  We pray also for good health and many opportunities to be with friends and family.  In Your Name Lord,  Amen.

 

Don MacIntyre was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Innisfail-Sylvan Lake, on May 5, 2015.

Mr. MacIntyre is a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, he spent five years as a part-time instructor/curriculum developer for the alternative energy program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), and between 2010 and 2012 he worked as the chief technical officer for a private overseas geothermal company. As well, he has over a decade of experience in the field of marketing.

He also has extensive committee experience to his credit, including three years as a technical subcommittee member for the Canadian Standards Association and four years for the Alberta Geothermal Energy Association, of which he is a cofounder. During his time with the Alberta Geothermal Energy Association he served in the roles of vice-chair and chair.

Mr. MacIntyre holds accreditation as an instructor, installer and certified geoexchange designer from the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association.

Originally from North Battleford, Saskatchewan, he, along with his wife, Megan, now calls Sylvan Lake home.

Ms. Robyn Luff - MLA for Calgary-East

Heavenly Father, we are thankful for Ms. Robyn Luff and her involvement on the committee on families and communities.  May her active involvement as well with the Alberta Teacher’s association be an asset to solving complex community and family issues.  We pray for refreshment for her and joy in her service to our province.  Bless her family in Jesus Name.  Amen.

Robyn Luff was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-East on May 5, 2015.

Ms. Luff serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Families and Communities and the Special Standing Committee on Members' Services.

Prior to her election Ms. Luff was a teacher with the Calgary board of education.

Ms. Luff earned a bachelor of science with a major in biology from the University of Victoria and a bachelor of education (master of teaching) from the University of Calgary. She also took part in Next Up, a progressive leadership program for university alumni from all across Canada.

Ms. Luff was an active member of the Alberta Teachers' Association and has also volunteered as an educator for a number of nature conservation organizations in Calgary.

Mr. Rod Loyola - MLA for Edmonton-Ellerslie

We give thanks today for MLA Rod Loyola Father God and his commitment to the constituents of Edmonton – Ellerslie.  We pray for diligence to see what he has in mind to accomplish for his constituents and the people of Alberta.  We pray for strength and health for him as well as protection for him, his wife, Johanna and children Daniel and Alonso. Amen.

Rod Loyola was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta as the Member for the constituency of Edmonton-Ellerslie on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing and as a member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. Mr. Loyola is also a member of the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Loyola had been heavily involved with the University of Alberta, first having completed a bachelor of arts in 1999, later becoming employed as an academic program coordinator and student adviser for University of Alberta International. He was then elected President of the Non-Academic Staff Association, the union that represents support staff that work at the University of Alberta.

His volunteer and community involvement includes serving in various roles for the Knottwood Community League, as well as on the Post-Secondary Education Task Force for Public Interest Alberta, and on the board of Friends of Medicare.

Mr. Loyola has lived in Edmonton for over 35 years and currently resides in Millwoods with his wife, Johanna, and their children, Daniel and Alonso.

Mr. Todd Loewen - MLA for Grande Prairie-Smoky

Lord God, today we pray for MLA Todd Loewen.  We pray for health, strength and Your wisdom as he serves the residents of Grande Prairie – Smoky Lake and works with colleagues in the legislature.  We pray also for a balance in his busy schedule and persona life.  Protect him and his family.  Amen. 

Todd Loewen was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Grande Prairie-Smoky, on May 5, 2015.

Mr. Loewen serves as deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Loewen owned a small outfitting business and an operational farm.

Born and raised in rural Alberta, Mr. Loewen grew up in a farming family. He graduated from Hillside junior senior high school with an advanced high school diploma, and after five years in the workforce he went on to become self-employed as an entrepreneur and farmer.

Mr. Loewen and his wife, Teena, have five children: Travis, Ty, Taylor Tianna and Tenea. They reside in the constituency of Grande Prairie-Smoky, where Mr. Loewen has been an active volunteer for the Rotary Club of Grande Prairie, the Chamber of Commerce, their local church, a number of business organizations and many other community activities.

Mrs. Jessica Littlewood - MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville

Thank You Father in Heaven for MLA Jessica Littlewood.  We pray that You will inspire her with creative solutions for the many challenges that she faces on a daily basis.  As she meets with the constituents of Fort Saskatchewan – Vegreville may she be filled with compassion and wisdom to meet the diverse needs of both urban and rural settings.  Bless her with good health and daily strength.  Amen. 

Jessica Littlewood was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves chair of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing and as a member of the Standing Committee on Private Bills and the Standing Committee on Families and Communities.

Prior to her election, Mrs. Littlewood was employed as an executive assistant with the accounting firm Ernst and Young. She previously worked at Goodwill Industries of Alberta as a supervisor, then as assistant manager, while also working as a nursing attendant at the Good Samaritan Society.

Mrs. Littlewood has been a volunteer with a number of charitable organizations in the community, including Edmonton's Food Bank.

Honourable Danielle Larivee - MLA for Lesser Slave Lake

Heavenly Father, our prayer is for Hon. Danielle Larivee serving the people of Lesser Slave Lake.  May she sense Your direction as she makes plans for an economy that continues to grow in strength and towards a promising future.  Bless her with health and well-being as she carries out her role in our legislature.  Amen. 

Minister of Municipal Affairs

Minister of Service Alberta

Danielle Larivee was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta as the Member for the constituency of Lesser Slave Lake on May 5, 2015. She was appointed Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister of Service Alberta on October 22, 2015.

She previously served as a member of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing and as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, Ms. Larivee worked for over 17 years as a registered nurse with Alberta Health Services. During this time she also spent two years working in home care for the Driftpile First Nation and two years as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) instructor with Northern Lakes College.

An active member of her community, she served as treasurer for her local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) from 2013 to 2015, as chair of the Lesser Slave Lake Regional Wellness Advisory Committee from 2014 to 2015 and as president of local 315 of the United Nurses of Alberta from 2011 to 2015.

Ms. Larivee holds a bachelor of science in midwifery from the Midwives College of Utah and a Bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Alberta. She also is an alumnus of the TUXIS Parliament of Alberta.

Ms. Larivee, together with her three children, resides in Slave Lake, a place that she has called home for over 35 years, and community abundant with rivers and lakes that she enjoys kayaking whenever she has the opportunity.

Mr. Jamie Kleinsteuber - MLA for Calgary-Northern Hills

Dear God, our prayer is for MLA Jamie Kleinsteuber of the constituency of Calgary – Northern Hills.  Give him strength today for his busy schedule and guide him as he sits on the committee for resource Stewardship.  We pray that You would order his day and bring to him the people and the resources that are needed to put plans in motion.  May he have joy in serving.  Amen. 

Jamie Kleinsteuber was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-Northern Hills on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Private Bills and is a member of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices as well as the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship. He previously served as deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Private Bills.

Mr. Kleinsteuber attended the University of Ottawa and received a baccalaureate in arts: concentration History/ concentration public policy and public management, which included studies in public policy and analysis and public administration.

Prior to being elected, Mr. Kleinsteuber worked in the aviation industry for 18 years. During his employment with an airline he worked as ground staff based at airports in Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto and Calgary.

Ms. Anam Kazim - MLA for Calgary-Glenmore

Dear God, we are grateful for MLA Ms. Anam Kazim as she serves the people of Calgary – Glenmore.  We are grateful for the invaluable insight she has gained into the importance of diversity and multiculturalism through her travels.  Continue to give her wisdom as she seeks to meet the needs of people from diverse backgrounds.  May she experience Your peace and calm in all the busyness of her day.  Amen.

Anam Kazim was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Calgary-Glenmore, on May 5, 2015.

She is a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship and is a member of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing. Previously she served as chair of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, she spent two years as an applications engineer for an industrial pump manufacturer. Before that, she worked for two years as the director of training programs for an education and training centre that specialized in project management.

She also spent close to five years working with Western University, where she obtained her post-secondary education, first as a teaching assistant and later as a research assistant.

Ms. Kazim holds a master's degree in biochemical/environmental engineering, a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering and is certified in conflict resolution. While a student, she was involved in the investment club and the chemical engineering club. Ms. Kazim is also certified in Six Sigma Green Belt and in Lean Management.

As well, she has donated her time to fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society and mentoring for Engineers Canada as part of its women in engineering program.

An avid traveler, Ms. Kazim has lived on four continents and has visited more than 16 countries. Through these experiences she has gained invaluable insight into the importance of diversity and multiculturalism.

Mr. Brian Michael Jean - MLA for Fort McMurray-Conklin

Father, we lift up Mr. Brian Jean to you as we ask that you would be with him and guide him as he represents the people as MLA for Fort McMurray-Conklin.  We recognize the work he’s done in the last year as a member of the opposition and are thankful for the tireless work that was done to keep our government accountable to Albertans.  May he walk every day in a place of blessing and grant him wisdom and insight into the issues he faces each day.  Renew his strength and vision for the work you have called him to do and as he goes about the day may he sense that you walk with him.  We pray for strength and a strong heart to run the race that you have placed before him.  Watch over and protect both he and his family, give him times of rest, relaxation and rejuvenation with his family and friends. In the precious name of Jesus.  Amen.

Biographical information for individual Members will be posted as soon as it is available.

Ms. Sandra Jansen - MLA for Calgary-North West

Father God, thank you for Ms. Sandra Jansen and the commitment, she has made to the people of her riding in Calgary-North West. Lord, we pray that you would give her new vision, new revelation and new strategies to help her accomplish much for her constituents and the province of Alberta.  As she looks into the issues that come before her, we pray that you would bring clarity and understanding and unique solutions.  Walk with her, give her wisdom and guide her decisions for our province daily.  Bless her in all that she does for her people.  Cover and protect her as she travels and meets with others.  May her constituency be blessed by her leadership Lord and may your will be done by the tireless work of our MLA’s across Alberta. We pray this in the precious name of Jesus.  Amen.

Sandra Jansen was elected to her second term as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-North West on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future and the Standing Committee on Families and Communities. She is also a member of the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee.

She currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future and the Standing Committee on Families and Communities.

She previously served as Associate Minister of Family and Community Safety and also served as a member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing and the Standing Committee on Families and Communities. She also served as Deputy Government Whip, chair of the Calgary caucus and co-chair of the Alberta Film Advisory Council.

Ms. Jansen earned a broadcasting diploma from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and later studied French at McGill University. She also holds a master’s degree in professional communications from Royal Roads University. Ms. Jansen is an experienced journalist, having spent 23 years in the field, including 10 years as a national news anchor at CTV News Channel in Toronto. She also hosted the City TV Calgary show Your City from 2007 to 2010. Ms. Jansen later served as Premier Alison Redford’s southern Alberta communications manager from October 2011 to March 2012.

A passionate advocate and dedicated volunteer, over the years she has been a spokesperson and a volunteer for the United Way, Calgary Health Trust, and Ronald McDonald House and a board member at the Calgary Girls’ School. Ms. Jansen is an acrylic artist and has donated more than 50 paintings to various charities in the Calgary area.

Ms. Debbie Jabbour - MLA for Peace River

Father God, we thank you for Ms. Debbie Jabbour, MP for Peace River.  We pray that you will give her your discernment, strength and wisdom to be the voice of the people in her constituency.  Grant her favour with the many people she represents in her riding and give her a clear vision for how to make a positive difference for those who genuinely need her help.  May she walk every day in a place of your blessing.  May your wisdom guide her so that she may accomplish even more for our Province.  Grant her safety in her travels. In the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Amen

Biographical information for individual Members will be posted as soon as it is available.

Mr. Grant Hunter - MLA for Cardston-Taber-Warner

Father in Heaven we ask You to bless MLA Mr. Grant Hunter as he serves in our legislature representing the people of Cardston – Taber – Warner.  We are grateful for the experience he brings to the position he holds and for past achievements.  We pray Lord that You would direct his thoughts and plans as he works with his colleagues.  Refresh him with new strength as he carries out his role.  Amen.

Grant Hunter was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cardston-Taber-Warner on May 5, 2015. He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future and the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

Mr. Hunter holds a bachelor of science degree from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and a master's degree from Northcentral University in Prescott Valley, Arizona.

Prior to his election Mr. Hunter operated Hunter Construction, a residential and commercial construction company. He has also worked in the import and export business, in the media industry and as a former teacher in Alberta.

Mr. Hunter has served as a board member for several political and community organizations, including the Cardston Lions Club.

He resides in Cardston with his wife, Angie, and their five children.

Mr. Trevor Horne - MLA for Spruce Grove-St. Albert

Dear Lord, we are grateful for MLA Trevor Horne as he serves in our legislature.  We pray for his involvement on boards and committees and that he would be directed to make plans so Alberta may continue to grow in strength and towards a promising future.  Bless and refresh him today we pray and may he know he is appreciated.  In Jesus Name,  Amen.  

Trevor Horne was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Spruce Grove-St. Albert, on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future and as a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Horne's focus centred primarily on involvement in his community. He volunteered during Alberta's 2012 general provincial election and 2013 municipal election. He was also previously involved in Scouts Canada.

More recently and while studying political science at MacEwan University, he served as chair of a post-secondary political association, beginning in 2012, and as policy chair for a political youth association, beginning in 2014.

He holds a graphic communications certificate from NAIT and attended MacEwan University from 2011 to 2015.

Mr. Horne was born in Edmonton and resides in St. Albert.

Honourable Sarah Hoffman - MLA for Edmonton-Glenora

Dear Heavenly Father we thank You for Honourable Sarah Hoffman, Edmonton – Glenora.  We ask that You would give her wisdom as she serves as Minister of Health and Minister to Seniors.  We pray that she would know what steps to take and when as she works to serve the best interests and needs of Seniors and all requiring health services.  May she be blessing with strength and vitality as she fulfills her role in the legislature.  In Jesus Name,  Amen.

Minister of Health

Minister of Seniors

Sarah Hoffman was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Edmonton-Glenora on May 5, 2015. She was appointed to serve as Minister of Health and Minister of Seniors on May 24, 2015.

Ms. Hoffman holds a master of education (educational policy studies) and a bachelor of education (secondary math) from the University of Alberta. She also has a bachelor of science (math) and a bachelor of arts (religion) from Concordia University College of Alberta.

Ms. Hoffman worked as a researcher prior to becoming a trustee for the Edmonton public school board. During her first term as a school trustee, from 2010 to 2012, she served as vice-chair and was then acclaimed as board chair in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

An active community member, Ms. Hoffman has volunteered her time and skills to numerous organizations over the years, including the Alberta Association for Multicultural Education and the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association.