London Urban Network is a program that equips congregations to live out their faith in their neighbourhoods for the benefit of the church and the transformation of the city.
Congregations become stronger as they serve, participate, and advocate on behalf of the marginalized. Refugees and low-income families are also strengthened as they build relationships and find their place and their voice in the city.
London Urban Network looks for opportunities for churches to engage their neighbourhoods such as participation in sports programs, Bible studies, community gardens, mentoring, English classes, after school tutoring, a multi-cultural market and the Ride for Refugees.
"I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home." Matthew 25:35 NLT
Background: London
In 2008, International Teams initiated a program that creates opportunities to equip churches to "get out of the salt shaker" and into the world. An International Teams Partnership Developer began by building relationships with local congregations and introducing them to some of the refugee and low-income programs in which he was already participating.
International Teams' Involvement
London Urban Network led some small group training classes in missional living. Participants were encouraged to get involved in their neighbourhoods.
International Teams organized the Huron Street Cultural Market in partnership with LUSO (the London Urban Services Organization) at the end of August 2009. Fourteen vendors representing Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Vietnam and other countries sold crafts, art and food.
London hosted its first Ride for Refugees on October 3, 2009. Fifty volunteers ensured that all 200 participants enjoyed a great day of family fun. Approximately $40,000 was raised in London. Some of this money will be used to support refugee work in London, to sponsor the Huron Street Cultural Market 2010, to support Youth programs, one-day community events and training.
