Sr. Chita reflects: “As I walk through the streets of Vancouver” “Bring them here to me,” Jesus said. He then asked the people to sit on the grass, took the five loaves and two fish, looked up to heaven, gave thanks, and broke the bread. He gave it to the disciples, Read more
In Luke 6:32, Jesus says, “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you?” Jesus goes on to issue this challenge to his followers: “But love your enemies, do good to them” (Luke 6:35). It is not enough for us to love the people that are easy Read more
Ten years, a mixture of laughter and sadness, tears and joy. An experience of being loved and accepted, and being cursed and rejected. When I have reflected more deeply on each of the situations I experienced, I could not help but smile and say, “what a loving God I have, Read more
It is obviously an understatement to suggest that a great deal has changed in the lives of many, many people across the world since the Covid-19 pandemic was declared just over twelve months ago. For the people of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside that has meant, among other things, less opportunity to Read more
In April of this year, I mentioned in a previous submission that I was feeling fortunate to be able to continue to assist in the efforts at The Door is Open during the pandemic. More that six months later, I continue to feel fortunate to have been able to participate, Read more
It has been so very heart-warming over the last few weeks to witness the level of support that we have been receiving at The Door is Open from many supporters with respect to the supply of sandwiches and sweets. Volunteers and staff are most grateful for the assistance and our Read more
I feel fortunate to have been able to continue, as part of a small group of staff and volunteers, to assist in the efforts at the Door is Open during this most challenging time. We want everyone to know that we have been, and will continue to, take many precautions Read more
It does not matter if you are serving indoors or outdoors because when you are called to serve in the Downtown Eastside you cannot completely sever the ties with those whom you serve. A warm welcoming smile still accompanies the “Hi” and “Hello”, answering an invitation to help old men Read more
Carrie Underwood’s 2005 hit “Jesus Take the Wheel” immediately came to mind when I was asked to write a Reflection on my experience as a volunteer at The Door is Open. I’ve been working in the kitchen for almost eight years, organizing, prepping and serving meals to our women’s program Read more
When I first started volunteering at the Door is Open, my regular Wednesday mornings quickly became something I looked forward to. The community that was created in the art room was strong and flavoured with everyone’s unique styles. Something I particularly enjoyed was when I would bring in a project for that day Read more