The Strathcona outreach is a new church plant in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. We are a diverse community of people that re- flects the reality of what it will be when the King returns and people from every tongue, tribe and nation, every age, class and gender will be gathered around the throne of God in worship.

While many people are familiar with the notorious Downtown Eastside, the hidden popu- lation here takes on two shapes. First, are children who are caught in generational poverty. Secondly, new immigrant families who are of- ten placed in the abundant social housing that is concentrated in this neighbourhood. These groups often remain isolated and in need of relational connections. So far our church has taken on the shape of our neighbourhood, comprised of First Nations families, recent immigrants, and Canadians from a variety of socio/economic backgrounds.

December 12, 2009

We mourn the tragic loss of Melvin Hansen, 21, who was found dead this past weekend. Melvin was the nephew of pastor Richard Sanders, pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Edmonton, and his wife, Kathy. Richard and Kathy raised Melvin from a young age, along with his siblings in their home along with their own children.

We ask that you pray that God will comfort the entire Sanders family and bring comfort to them and the community in this time of grief and loss. Please pray that the family is able to remain strong and united.

The funeral is planned for Friday, December 18 at Shiloh Baptist Church, Edmonton at 1 pm. The church is located at 10727 114 St. NW, Edmonton. For more information, contact the church at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or 780.424.4565