“We’re Here!” celebration launches new church in Winnipeg

The announcement appeared in over 7,000 homes and apartments. It invited everyone to attend a Community Party September 13 celebrating the presence, in the River Heights area of Winnipeg, of a new church called FaithWorks.

It said that FaithWorks is an intergenerational group committed to being a gift to the community and to meeting needs through acts of service and opportunities for spiritual formation. It promised great entertainment for the kids, a lively concert by Winnipeg’s best Ska band (the Afterbeat), and food – a roast beef barbecue on a bun, veggie burgers, donuts and Tim Horton’s coffee. And it would all be free!

The highlight of the day, an outdoor worship service, would introduce the FaithWorks flavour – relaxed, friendly and passionate!

Cal Bergen

Early on the day of the party, the cooks were in place, co-pastors Cal Bergen and Mary Reimer were on-site and ready for action, and the stage, chairs and inflatable shapes for bouncing were delivered.

It was a wonderful day, full of laughter and fun. The FaithWorks people, in blue t-shirts and hats, worked tirelessly, directing visitors, supervising children’s activities, serving meals, cleaning washrooms and handing out information and invitations to join the Alpha Course, the MOMS program, the Book Club, Men’s Group and the Run For Your Life group. At the end of the worship service, all were invited to a square dance for all ages at the end of September.

Mary Reimer

As the site cleared and sun gave way to darkness, a tired FaithWorks crew reviewed the day. They agreed the teamwork had been amazing, with young people from two churches and friends and family pitching in. Community relationships had been built or strengthened.

They shared quotes picked up during the day:

• It’s about time someone brought some life to this community!
• I heard the band and couldn’t resist coming to see.
• You mean it’s free?
• What’s Alpha?
• Church meets on Saturday? Cool!
• Are you going to do this again next year?
• What’s a Ska band?
• It’s really free?
• Can anyone come to your church?

“We’re Here!” celebrated one year of planning, training, dreaming and praying. We felt God’s presence in so many ways and continue to see Him at work in people who call about FaithWorks or talk to us in the mall where our offices are. We are moving ahead now, believing that people are attracted to programs and courses because they see the light of Jesus shining in the faces of FaithWorks people.

—Mary Reimer

FaithWorks meets Saturday nights with 60–75 currently attending. Pray that they find a more suitable meeting space.