Legacy Offering Next Steps
Between November 20 and December 31, 2022 our community gave generously and sacrificially, over and above our tithes, towards the Legacy Offering. The Legacy Offering was introduced during our “God + Money” series that look place in November and it served as a challenge for our community to put into practice all that we had learned.
As of February 9, 2023 over 135 people have contributed a total of $149,789.03 towards our $150,000 goal, allowing us to work towards the fulfillment of all our initiatives! We are both humbled and excited by how our community came together and gave to the offering, and we are confident that the funds donated will serve to make a difference in the lives of many in the Soul community and beyond.
In keeping with our desire to be a transparent and accountable community, here is an update (as of January 17) on our Legacy Offering initiatives.
1. Hiring of a Children’s Pastor
We are continuing our search for a Children’s Pastor to join our staff team. While we’ve received many applications for the position, we’ve yet to find the right candidate. Since the pandemic, church staffing across Canada has become increasingly difficult with many experienced pastors moving away from Christian ministry and with fewer young people choosing to enter into vocational ministry. Despite this, we remain confident that God will provide the right fit. Our Family Ministry team is continuing to ensure that ministry to our children and families remains a priority during this search period.
2. Production equipment upgrades
We are currently working with a local company to restructure our stage lighting in the gym/auditorium. Much of our video production and lighting gear dates back to the start of Soul Sanctuary in 2004 and our time at 1111 Chevrier Blvd. Our lighting upgrades will allow us to ensure a pleasant lighting environment in our gym/auditorium and will enhance the viewership experience of those watching online.
We are also working to upgrade the computer that presents our Sunday media. This computer upgrade will simplify processes for our Production teams and will replace an aging unit.
3. Atrium Renewal
Our atrium is a natural gathering space that serves our local south Winnipeg community through various events. We are currently in the initial stages of redevelopment, having just had our first vision casting meeting for the project. At this time, our renovation plans include the addition of a cafe with seating arrangements that promote opportunities for connection for the various community and ministry groups that use our space. We’re also planning on writing a series of grant applications to help offset the overall cost of the project.
Throughout the year we’ll continue to provide updates on these projects as we work towards actualizing our vision of being a place of refuge, repair, and rejuvenation for all people.