"Chaplains of Compassion"
Join us for three meaningful days of encouragement, spiritual care, fellowship, and learning as chaplains and first responders gather in Mission, British Columbia for the 2026 BCAFC Annual Conference.
A moving account of how a near tragedy unfolded into a far better outcome than anticipated, and the role that CISM and chaplaincy played when compassion was needed most.
A reflection on how emergency services and fire personnel came together to provide support during a devastating flood event.
Conference attendees will take a group tour of the powerhouse at Stave Lake.
Jim Caruso is a Certified Trauma Stress Specialist with extensive experience in trauma support, compassion fatigue, PTSD, conflict resolution, spiritual care, and CISM debriefing.
Over the last 50 years, Jim has served as a volunteer chaplain for the RCMP, a volunteer firefighter, and a volunteer paramedic in the many communities where he lived and pastored.
Jim and his wife Elaine live in Langley, BC and enjoy serving on mission trips whenever possible. He teaches at Simon Fraser University Online on First Responder Trauma & Recovery and also teaches with Trinity Western University’s Global Leadership Program.
Jim has written two books: Spiritual Sinkholes, dealing with compassion fatigue, and Random Stories With Your Coffee, finding humour in everyday situations.
Jim will also offer a special time of ministry and prayer for those desiring further support.
Chaplain conversations designed to build one another up through shared wisdom, encouragement, and mutual support.
A session focused on strengthening regional chaplain relationships and collaboration.
The conference concludes with the BCAFC Annual General Meeting and brunch.
Thank you for praying for this conference, the planning details, and one another as we gather to strengthen the ministry of compassion among first responders.
Conference wraps up by approximately noon on Wednesday.