retreat facilitators Joe and Becky Canal

Joe and Becky Canal raised five boys, Joshua, Caleb, Gabriel, Joey, and Jesse, two of whom are now in heaven. Their oldest, Joshua, was born with a serious heart defect which he lived with for 17 years until he received a heart transplant in 1998. Josh lived 13 years after his transplant. During that time, he graduated from high school and college, got married, and landed his dream job of being an EMT and leading an ambulance team. However, Josh passed away in 2011 after suffering an episode of rejection. Then, 10 years later in 2022, their youngest son Jesse died in a car accident. The Canal’s faith has been severely tested through these tragedies but they have found hope in God’s faithfulness through the dark times and comfort from the love and support of their families, friends, and church family. Through While We’re Waiting they have come to know other bereaved parents who have also lost children and have found an opportunity to reach out with compassion to other hurting parents who are on a similar journey. Joe is the senior pastor of Tyler Christian Fellowship in Tyler, Texas, and together Joe and Becky have 6 grandchildren. They enjoy making music together as well as bicycling and hiking. Being a part of While We’re Waiting has been a source of hope and healing for them and their family.