IMMIGRANTS INFUSE DIVERSITY

Naim Choi, RockPointe Intercultural Site Pastor

Calgary is the fourth largest city in Canada with a vibrant population of approximately 1.6 million residents calling this city their home. Our dynamic urban center has become a popular destination for immigrant families, attracted by its abundant opportunities and welcoming atmosphere. A diverse tapestry of cultures is visible throughout the city, with minorities making up an impressive 41% of the population.

The official City of Calgary website indicates the existence of undeniable diversity. However, many churches are still struggling to engage even 5% of these diverse voices in their worship spaces. As our society evolves into a mosaic of multicultural and multiethnic identities—largely influenced by immigration—a pressing question arises: How will our churches adapt to embrace the diversity that is essentially at our doorstep?

The scriptures illuminate God's passion for all nations, as seen in Genesis 12:3 and Matthew 28:19-20. While churches are diligently sending missionaries to the farthest reaches of the globe, we must ask: who will extend the hand of fellowship and reach out to the newcomers arriving in our own city? What vision and action will lead us to see a significant portion of that 41% of visible minorities actively participating in our weekly services/ congregations?

In Calgary, several vibrant mega-churches have stepped up to offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and warmly embrace families as they adjust to their new lives in Canada. These churches are not only providing practical support, but also financially sponsoring families to ease their journey. In a society that is diverse and constantly evolving, these congregations embody the essence of compassion—a modern reflection of the "Good Samaritan" from Luke 10:25-37—shining brightly in a world that often prioritizes self-interest over community.

However, a pressing question remains: Why do many newcomers leave and fail to return to church after a few years of settling in Canada? Have we unintentionally forgotten to integrate them into the fabric of our church community? Are we neglecting our calling to share the Gospel with them, as urged in Acts 1:8? While we excel at breaking down ethnic barriers and dismantling social walls, we must consider the words of Jesus, who asks, “Who is my neighbour?” (Luke 10:36). It is essential that we not only welcome these families, but also encourage them to become engaged, ensuring they find a true sense of belonging within our church community.

In Acts 13, we encounter a significant moment where God opens the door for Paul to share the transformative message of the Gospel with the Gentiles. This pivotal event prompts us to reflect on our own circumstances in the 21st century. If God is indeed creating opportunities for us to engage with diverse nations right in our own neighbourhoods—without the need to travel far or cross oceans—are we adequately preparing our church to embrace this calling?

This is a crucial moment in church history for us to move beyond mono-racial congregations and actively seek the rich diversity emphasized in Revelation 7:9. It’s time for RockPointe to broaden its engagement with the vibrant mosaic of cultures surrounding us, reflecting the beautiful vision of God's Kingdom. Seeking the Lord’s guidance, we can establish and create a legacy for generations of the faithful that will follow in our footsteps.