Yesterday’s Friday Community Lunch at St. Alban Anglican Church was a reminder of the delicate balance between compassion and responsibility that we strive to uphold every day.

Before the lunch began, our volunteers discovered an unexpected situation: a person experiencing homelessness had been residing in our church shed, likely for several days. The shed, which stores many of our supplies and materials for ministry, had quietly become a temporary refuge.

At St. Alban, we are deeply committed to caring for our community—including those who are unhoused. We believe in dignity, dialogue, and support. However, the shed is not a safe or appropriate place for anyone to reside, and we had to address the situation with care and clarity.

After speaking with the individual, we contacted the local police, who assisted us in respectfully relocating their belongings. Several of our volunteers recognized the person from the neighborhood and shared that they’ve been waiting for placement through BC Housing and access to a detox center. Their story is one of many in our city—marked by resilience, hardship, and the long wait for support services.

Despite the disruption, our Friday lunch went ahead, filled with warmth, shared meals, and meaningful conversations. It was a powerful reminder that community is not just about celebration—it’s also about showing up in moments of discomfort and choosing compassion even when the path isn’t easy.

We continue to pray for this individual and for all those navigating homelessness and recovery. May they find shelter, healing, and hope. And may we, as a church, keep our hearts open and our hands ready to serve.