In God’s timing, God will provide.
This is what Oak Park Church of Christ in Calgary, AB is learning and rejoicing in.
For a few years now, Oak Park Church of Christ had been wondering about expansion.
Probably a bigger sanctuary.
However, it didn’t seem to come together and Pastor Lane Scruggs noticed a lack of conviction and enthusiasm about the possibility.
Meanwhile, the question that caught the church’s attention was centred around the mission of God: How can we be a church for this neighbourhood?
So they grew a food bank from nothing.
Started a weekly tutoring program.
Partnered with Calgary Housing and various social service agencies.
Over time, it became clear that it wasn’t sanctuary space they needed.
It was resource and meeting space.
Space that could flex according to the current need.
They got plans drawn up, bids came in – and the cost was overwhelming.
Impossible, actually.
In fact, Pastor Lane stood up in front of the congregation last May and said they would not be able to move ahead.
It seemed like the end of the story.
However, that was only the middle of the story.
Through a number of miracles including a successful capital campaign and a million dollar grant, Oak Park Church of Christ is in the midst of massive renovations in order to serve their community better.
Motivated by love for their neighbour and the Great Commission and empowered by the Spirit, they shine the light of Jesus in their little corner in Calgary.
To God be the glory!