Urban Mission

Building bridges is at the heart of everything we do. We are seeking to connect new communities with the love of Christ, and in doing so, we have developed a concept of Urban Mission.

Sometimes, the best way to reach out to a new community is by starting a church in that community. We have done this with EPIC, a church and student group on the University of Alberta Campus led by U of A Chaplain Matthew Glombick. Granted, the approach of EPIC is non-traditional, and may be revolutionary to some. But sometimes starting a church is not the best first step. Sometimes we must simply immerse ourselves in an existing community, taking part in their rituals and community life, learning to love them as we get to know them. Missionaries have been doing this type of thing for centuries, but usually the concept of missionary is tied to a foreign, exotic locale. What would a missionary look like on our own soil. In our own backyard? These questions have led us towards Urban Mission.

This fall 2009 we will recognize two such missionaries, representing unique approaches tied to a unifying heartbeat of Christ. We are excited for the launch of iloveartists, and Project Benedict.

iloveartists

iloveartists an Urban Mission pioneered by Dave Von Bieker, a member of our community. Dave’s heart beats for the artists of the Alberta Avenue (118th) community, and for artists in general. He desires to see their awesome creativity find a home in the Creator of all, and believes that through discipleship in Christ, artists will become the best artists, and the best people, they can be. This ministry is highly relational, and involves plugging into a community transformation that was well under long before Urban Bridge got involved. The artists of Alberta Avenue have a heart for their community, and we as a church want to support that, and to love them as best we can. We can do so by volunteering at the many events held by Arts On The Ave, or at The Carrot Community Arts Coffeehouse. We can do that by buying a coffee for an artist, or by buying some of their art. We will even endeavor to support some artists by building websites for them, helping them exhibit their works and more. In these practical ways, we hope to be the hands and feet of a Christ who deeply loves artists.

Project Benedict

Project Benedict is a group of individuals who would like to plant a church that integrates hospitality, faith and their everyday life. The Project Benedict vision is not so much new as it is ancient enough to be forgotten. Project Benedict is an exciting opportunity to show the creativity, excellence and hospitality of the Church to a broken world.