Living Springs Church on South Hill held an open house recently to welcome residents to its newly renovated location and remind people that joining a caring community can help conquer loneliness.
More than 50 people attended the get-together at 303 Coteau Street West on March 30, which featured a chili supper, a short video promoting the Alpha course — an introduction to Christianity — and the lead pastor talking about his back-story, the importance of connection and how God’s love can fill people’s deep longings.
This supper was the organization’s first event in its newly renovated basement/hall.
The church took possession of the building last November and began renovations, including painting the walls and installing new flooring, electrical and lighting. The church then opened its doors on Feb. 12 and began holding services.
Before this location, Living Springs Church had met at Mosaic Place — now the Events Centre/Multiplex — for more than a year.
Pastor Rob Reimer — who played for the WHL Warriors from 1987-88 to 1990-91 and was captain in his last year — told the Express that hosting the event was “a real treat.”
“I really believe the Bible teaches very clearly (that) God loves everybody equally, whether they believe in Him or not,” he said. “And so for people just to come and feel this is an opportunity for them to come and have a meal and share some fellowship, it’s wonderful.”
While socializing, Reimer — who has been a pastor for nearly 20 years — met some people he hadn’t seen in many years and interacted with someone who saw him play nearly 40 years ago. He also became acquainted with residents for the first time, which he enjoyed.
It’s important to speak and journey with people because many feel isolated and need opportunities to attend these types of events, chat with others and leave their comfort zones, Reimer said.
“As a pastor, I talk a lot with people just one on one. And you hear and see what people are going through when they feel safe enough to share with you,” he continued. “A lot of times, even on the outside, people look like they’re doing OK … (but) inside, a lot of people really feel alone. It doesn’t need to be that way.
“So I’m really glad that tonight, the people that were here know the doors are open,” Reimer added. “So I think tonight was a real success if that’s all that happens, that people know they’re cared about in an increased way.”
Having church at Mosaic Place was a good experience because it’s a great venue — “The folks at Mosaic were amazing” — but there are activities and events that a church can do more economically in its own location, said Reimer.
For example, Living Springs intends to run a grief-share program for the community because, the pastor pointed out, many people are mourning dead loved ones and don’t know how to grieve properly.
The Coteau Street West location is great since it has allowed the congregation to meet nearby residents, some of whom attended the open house, said Reimer. Moreover, coming from a farm near Swift Current, he appreciates South Hill’s tree-lined streets.
The group jumped at the chance to purchase the building — a former Anglican church for nearly six decades — since it was inexpensive, he added. City hall was also helpful in rezoning the building to a house of worship since it had been a business for the last few years.
Visit www.livingsprings.life for more information.
