Urban and Suburban Outreach
Urban Churches are comprised of people from many different backgrounds, cultures and languages. Their diversity in our day is an opportunity to expand ministry and mission. Just as there are various instruments of an orchestra, or sections and voices in a choir, so the harmony and melody of song and symphony represents both the diversity and the unity of such presentations.
Various ministries may also be undertaken within the rich diversity of the city where there are needs, challenges and opportunities of every kind. While no one person and on single church can do all things, each can do something. Wonderful stories of God's compassion, justice and gracious intervention and care through His People inspire us all to find what God is up to in our neighbourhood, community and city - and to join with Him at His bidding in those ministries.
One such story is the work of Frontlines, a ministry of Weston Park Baptist Church in Toronto. This is a community drop-in centre that offers much needed services and programs to needy youth and other groups in the neighbourhood of Weston, in the northwest corner of Toronto.Through club initiatives, special events and drop-in times, the Frontlines staff of trained workers and volunteers provide a friendly environment where people feel both cared for and safe. It is a place where they are encouraged to choose constructive alternatives that will further their growth and development. Beyond working with the physical, mental and social needs of youth, Frontlines also strives to address their spiritual needs.
A common theme of our programs is bringing people together of different income levels, ages, and cultural backgrounds to promote mutual understand and co-operation. All of our programs provide practical, tangible services that meet real needs and add value to groups within our community. Frontlines' Mission Statement: Frontlines addresses the pressing needs of Weston’s children and youth, engaging them with a Christian Presence. We foster and restore wellness and respect among our diverse neighbours by building relationships and providing programs that address the whole child.
Some Books To Consider -
A Clarified Vision for Urban Mission, Harvie Conn, published by Zondervan
Center City Churches, Lyle Schaller, published by Abingdon
The Expanded Mission of 'Old First' Churches, Ray Bakke and Samuel Roberts, published by Judson Press
Liberating New: A Theology of Contextual Evangelization, Orlando E. Costas, Wipf and Stock Publishers
The Urban Christian, Ray Bakke, published by MARC Europe
Transforming Congregations for the Future, Loren B. Mead, published by the Alban Institute
