The faith community of St Augustine’s, Marpole and priest-in-charge the Reverend Andrew Halladay are demonstrating their commitment to their neighbourhood through some intentional hospitality.
In December of 2013, Marpole Place Neighbourhood House located at 1305 West 70th Avenue, just a few blocks from St. Augustine’s at 8680 Hudson, were forced to shut down due to a devastating flood caused by burst plumbing pipes in the ageing converted fire station. The repairs were estimated to take at least 6 months. St. Augustine’s stepped forward and offered to be a venue for some of the Marpole Place programs, including the Thursday night dinner, the Friday night breakfast, drop-in computer time and various other program activities. St. Augustine’s made some office space available for Executive Director, Cindy McMillan so that the administration of Marpole Place could continue.
Marpole Place facilitated the printing of information brochures so that the community would be aware of the change in address of the popular neighbourhood gathering place.On the very rainy evening of April 3rd, 2014, diners attending the Thursday night meal between 6 and 8 pm were treated to delicious Butternut squash soup, roasted Loin of Pork, potatoes, dressing, asparagus and banana upsidedown cake. The cook and event supervisor, April Pringle was supported by more than a half dozen volunteers who served, bussed tables, and washed dishes. All the food was prepared in the St. Augustine’s kitchen. April who has a full-time job in addition to her work with Marpole Place had not heard any news about when their building once again be ready to welcome folks who participate in the Marpole Place programs.
In addition to the current Marpole Place residency, on the first Wednesday of the month from September to June, St. Augustine's hosts a sit-down community meal for 50-80 prepared by the Eburne Society with the assistance of a number of community volunteersThe Vancouver Food Bank also uses the St. Augustine’s Parish Centre to distribute food every Thursday morning except for the Thursday following the distribution of government support cheques.
Images: Top, April Pringle carves the pork. Right, volunteers in the ktichen. Lower left, Dessert!. Below and hompage, The Thursday night meal sign on Hudson Street welcomes the neighbourhood.