Crown Point Community

Nothing like God’s timing to put things in perspective and affirm He is still active in our world and continues to orchestrate great things in Hamilton. Had you asked me a year ago what’s so great about Hamilton, I would have probably first mentioned the host of natural and creational beauty all around the city (seen in the escarpment, waterfalls and green spaces). Now I would talk about how the city of Hamilton has begun to momentously address the effects of poverty. One strategy that is catching fire is the introduction of community “launch pads” in different neighbourhoods across the city. New Hope has been able to be a part of such a ‘grass roots’ initiative of organizing the community in the area that our church finds itself located in – Crown Point Neighbourhood. The 2 meetings we have had so far included a cross-sector of service providers, businesses and residents. The focus of these meetings was to share the positive assets that already make this a great community and what things we would like to change. The main goal is to build on a large representation of local residents who are already aware of the strengths of this community as well as the needs that are within this community. These residents will not only voice but work towards addressing these issues in a way that uses their strengths and using the help of resources within Hamilton where necessary. The number of people who have attended has been more than we expected, and the positive momentum that has filled the room when we have met just proves that God is shaping and leading Hamilton and particularly our community towards some healthy efforts of community development and capacity building. We are so excited that as one church (among several others represented at the table) we can be an example of what God calls our churches to be and do, and that is to seek the peace of the city. Jeremiah 29