VERSE Week at Living Hope CRC
For churches seeking ways to rebuild connections and make a tangible difference, Living Hope CRC in Peterborough, Ont., has found a compelling answer: VERSE Week. This innovative annual event draws inspiration from the weeklong summertime SERVE trips sponsored by Therefore Go Ministries for engaging young people in service missions in North America. VERSE Week, by contrast, engages people of all ages in a week of dedicated service, fellowship, and community outreach.
Born from a desire to intentionally reconnect after the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, VERSE Week at Living Hope CRC is designed to embody faith in action. "VERSE Week is all about putting our faith into action," explained Pastor John VanderWindt. "For a few afternoons, we head out into the community, partnering with organizations like Youth for Christ, the Pregnancy Centre, and local shelters. We also connect directly with our neighbors, simply asking, 'How can we help?'"
Throughout the week, participants of all ages roll up their sleeves for a variety of projects – from home repairs and yard work for neighbors to assisting local ministries. Yet, as church members point out, the focus extends beyond tasks; it's about cultivating relationships and witnessing the transformative power of God at work within the community.
Each busy afternoon of service culminates in a shared dinner back at the church. These meals are a highlight of the week, offering a vital opportunity for participants to connect, share stories, and strengthen their sense of communal belonging. Following dinner, an hour of worship and teaching provides a space for reflection on the day's experiences, exploring weekly themes typically centered on mission or service.
"It's a time to share what we've experienced and see where God's hand has been," noted VanderWindt.
The week builds to a vibrant crescendo on Saturday with a free family-fun fair held on the church property. This highly anticipated event transforms the church grounds into a lively hub, featuring carnival games, popcorn, hotdogs, and themed basket draws organized by the church’s small groups. Promoted through door-to-door outreach and the event's prominent visibility on a main road, the fun fair attracts hundreds of community members. It's a powerful opportunity to connect with the wider Peterborough community, offering a day of joy and tangibly demonstrating the love of Christ.
The profound impact of VERSE Week, say organizers, lies in the deep sense of community it cultivates – through collaborative work projects, over shared meals, and during the joyous fun fair. Living Hope CRC has seen remarkable connections formed during VERSE Week, with some participants even finding their church home through this initiative.
