Introduction: The Christian Call Beyond Church Walls

In a world increasingly divided by inequality and exclusion, Christians are called to bring their faith into the public square—not through political power, but through compassion, advocacy, and solidarity with the marginalized. The heart of the gospel is found in our words and actions of blessing, support, and love for those in need. Reflecting on my ministry, I have seen the profound and transformative power of living out this call to justice, inclusivity, and community in real and tangible ways. This power is especially evident in our work with homelessness, mental health, addiction, LGBTQ+ inclusion, overcoming stigma, multiculturalism, and racism.

1: Embodying Christ’s Compassion Through Social Justice and Homeless Outreach

The Bible calls us to care for the “least of these,” and nowhere is this more evident than in our response to social justice. One of the most humbling experiences was participating in the Coldest Night of the Year walk alongside the mayor of Richmond. This event, which focused on raising awareness of homelessness, reminded me of the importance of addressing the needs of those who are often invisible to society​.

In my regular visits to those experiencing homelessness, I have witnessed the harsh realities they face daily. One man, “M,” had experienced repeated attacks while living on the street and was hesitant to accept room-sharing offers from social workers. Yet, after months of fear and uncertainty, I saw God working in his heart as he slowly began to reconsider these options, moving toward a more hopeful path​. Another individual, referred to as MH, had been waiting for BC Housing while struggling with the dangers of street life. His story reflects the profound challenges many homeless people face in regaining stability, and our Christian response must be one of consistent support, compassion, and advocacy for systemic change​.

Serving the homeless also involves understanding their humanity. During my visits, I have seen how small gestures—a bowl of soup, a sandwich, or just listening to their concerns—can offer dignity and hope to those in desperate situations. These encounters remind me that social justice is not an abstract ideal , but a concrete expression of the gospel, rooted in Christ’s love for the poor​. It also underscores the power of each individual to make a significant impact, no matter how small the act may seem.

2: Overcoming Stigma Surrounding Mental Health, Addiction, LGBTQ+ Identity, and Racism

One of the most significant challenges in ministering to those facing homelessness, mental health issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ exclusion, and racism is overcoming the stigma that society attaches to these conditions. People are often quick to judge, assuming those in these situations are to blame for their circumstances. Yet, as Christians, we are called to see each person as a child of God, worthy of love, dignity, and respect.

In my ministry, I have encountered many individuals who face the challenges of their condition and the added burden of societal judgment. For example, MH, the homeless individual waiting for housing, shared with me how people often perceive the homeless as lazy or addicted without understanding the complex factors that contribute to their situation. This stigma creates barriers to receiving help and support, making it even harder for individuals like MH to reintegrate into society.

Mental health and addiction are areas where stigma is particularly damaging. During a meeting with the Richmond Poverty Reduction Coalition, I learned from Vancouver Coastal Health staff about the harm caused by defining individuals solely by their substance use. Overcoming this stigma requires a shift in how we view people, treating them with respect and compassion regardless of their struggles​.

LGBTQ+ individuals face similar stigmatization, particularly within religious communities. During my involvement with Chinatown Together, I encountered young people whom their churches had rejected due to their sexual orientation. Despite this rejection, many continued to hold onto their faith, believing in God’s unconditional love​. The 360 Community was created to challenge these harmful narratives, providing a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to experience God’s love and acceptance. At the Richmond Pride Walk, I publicly affirmed that LGBTQ+ individuals are cherished by God, encouraging others to extend that same love and affirmation​.

Racism is another form of stigma that we must actively combat as Christians. One of the most meaningful experiences in my ministry has been participating in the Richmond Anti-Racism Committee, where we work alongside diverse community members to break down barriers and foster understanding across cultural and racial divides​. Racism, like other forms of stigma, isolates and dehumanizes people. Overcoming it requires us to challenge stereotypes and engage in meaningful dialogue, recognizing the inherent worth of every individual.

3. Building Inclusive Communities of Faith for Mental Health, LGBTQ+, and Multicultural Support

Inclusivity is at the heart of Christ’s message, and in my work with the 360 Community, we strive to create a space where everyone is welcome, especially those marginalized. Many people in our community face mental health challenges, and our ministry has placed a particular emphasis on promoting mental health awareness and support.

One example is my participation in a push-up challenge to raise funds for the Canadian Mental Health Association. This effort aimed to promote positive mental health and provide support to those facing mental illness in Canada​. This small act was a way to stand in solidarity with those struggling with mental health issues, reminding them that they are not alone and that the church is a place of care and understanding.

LGBTQ+ inclusion has also been central to building an inclusive community. In one instance, I met with representatives from a Chinese grassroots queer group who were surprised to learn that the Anglican Church of Canada affirms all people, regardless of sexual orientation. These encounters are a reminder that our faith communities must not only welcome but actively affirm the dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals. Doing so offers a space for healing and reconciliation for those hurt by religious rejection.

Similarly, fostering intercultural and racial inclusivity has been a significant part of my ministry. Working with the Richmond Multicultural Community Services, I have seen the importance of creating spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can share their stories and connect across cultures. At an event focused on strengthening intercultural and interfaith connections, I was moved by the powerful stories of newcomers and refugees and how these dialogues helped bridge divides within our community​.

4: Proclaiming the Gospel Through Addiction Support, Harm Reduction, LGBTQ+ Advocacy, and Anti-Racism Work

Addiction is another area where the church’s presence in the public sphere is crucial. My work with Richmond Addiction Services Society (RASS) has shown me that addiction prevention is not just about stopping harmful behaviors but about fostering meaningful relationships and connections. During a presentation on addiction prevention, I learned that addressing the root causes of addiction requires a holistic approach—considering physical, mental, social, spiritual, and environmental factors​. This perspective resonates deeply with the Christian understanding of healing and restoration, where each person’s well-being is interconnected with their community and environment.

As I attended the weekly meeting of the Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users (VANDU), I was struck by the importance of sitting with those who are often marginalized and misunderstood. These drug users, usually labeled and shunned by society, are people made in the image of God, and my time with them reminded me of Jesus’ ministry, where He dined with sinners and extended compassion to those the world had rejected​.

LGBTQ+ advocacy is another essential part of proclaiming the gospel today. By standing up for the inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in the church and public spaces, we demonstrate the radical love and acceptance that Jesus preached. During the Richmond Pride Walk, I spoke about how LGBTQ+ individuals deserve to feel proud of who they are and affirmed that our faith community, 360 Community, is a safe and inclusive space for them to thrive​.

Anti-racism work is also a vital part of gospel proclamation. Through my involvement with the Richmond Anti-Racism Committee, I have seen firsthand the importance of challenging racial stereotypes and advocating for equity and justice within our community. Our work includes organizing events that break down silos and encourage genuine connections across racial and cultural lines​. This work reflects the gospel’s call to love and inclusion, challenging us to stand against racism and build a more just society.

5: Serving the Marginalized as Gospel Proclamation

Service to the marginalized is not just an act of charity—it is a form of gospel proclamation. One of the most moving experiences was distributing sandwiches with Ziggy in Vancouver’s Main and Hastings areas. The gratitude in the eyes of those receiving food, many of whom struggle with addiction, mental health challenges, and stigma, was a powerful reminder of Christ’s call to serve the poor and outcast​.

Another poignant moment I occurred during a Truth and Reconciliation public dialogue event, where I heard from an Indigenous leader about the need for healing and reconciliation. Engaging in these public discussions and being part of these efforts reflects the broader Christian mission to bring justice, healing, and unity to a divided world​.

In addition to these more significant events, the everyday interactions I’ve had with homeless individuals, those dealing with mental health challenges, those battling addiction, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people from diverse cultural backgrounds have taught me that faithful ministry happens when we are present with people in their pain. Whether walking alongside them in their recovery journey, advocating for systemic changes to reduce homelessness, addiction, and exclusion, or fostering intercultural understanding, we proclaim the gospel through our actions of love and care.

Conclusion: Living the Gospel in Action and Inviting Others to Join

As Christians, our faith calls us to be more than passive observers—we are called active participants in the world’s healing. Through acts of blessing, support, and advocacy for those on the margins, we proclaim the gospel not only with our words but with our lives. The gospel’s message is one of love, justice, and inclusion; through our actions, we truly live out this calling.

At 360 Community, we are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive space for everyone, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance. We believe that joining together can build a more compassionate world that reflects Christ’s radical love. Whether you are passionate about advocating for the homeless, standing with those struggling with mental health and addiction, supporting LGBTQ+ inclusion, or working to dismantle racism, we invite you to join us on this journey.

We can be Christ’s hands and feet in the world, bringing healing, justice, and love to those who need it most. We welcome you to join 360 Community and walk with us as we follow Christ’s example of serving and loving all people.