Showing Up Matters
How Valley Church stepped into a community opportunity and made an impact!
Nine days before a city wide Christmas event downtown, the Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area (DDBIA) realized they were short on volunteers. Wanting the evening to run smoothly, they reached out to Valley Church to see if the church could help. The initial hope was for 20–30 volunteers. But as details came together, the DDBIA realized even more support would make a difference. Sunday before the event, Valley Church extended one final invitation to the congregation and then, in faith, assured the organizers, “Go ahead. We’ll cover the volunteer needs.” While the volunteer count was still uncertain, Pastor Wes responded with enthusiasm and trust that Valley Church would meet the need. Anticipating the opportunity, he summed it up beautifully:
“Pretty fun space to be in as a church! They will say ‘yay Valley,’ but we will be saying ‘Yay Jesus’ for making this happen.”
A Church That Shows Up
On Friday night, Valley Church arrived with 45 volunteers, more than enough to fill every role. Their presence helped make the event a warm, welcoming evening for the community.
More than 1,000 people came downtown, and thanks to the volunteers, they enjoyed:
Carollers singing throughout the streets
Crossing guards keeping families safe
Chestnut roasters adding festive charm
A vendor coordinator for all the food vendors
Friendly greeters handing out candy canes and glow sticks
The event ran smoothly, had a great atmosphere, and was considered a huge success. The organizers have already asked Valley Church to return next year.
Conversations That Opened Doors
Throughout the evening, people noticed how many volunteers seemed connected. They asked, “So… what group are you all part of?”
Volunteers were proud to respond, “We’re from Valley Church!”
This simple answer sparked natural conversations about the church, its heart for the community, and where it’s located. These interactions weren’t forced, they flowed naturally from presence, kindness, and service.
Being Present Makes a Difference
One theme stood out from the night: There’s no way to be the physical presence of Jesus in a town if we aren’t physically present.
Valley Church didn’t show up to promote themselves; they showed up to love their neighbours. They served wholeheartedly, cared and loved people like they were family, and contributed to something meaningful in the community. And the community noticed.
This wasn’t just about filling volunteer slots. It was about being present, being helpful, and being a light - together.
Wes Linde, MACS (ACTS Seminaries) is the Lead Pastor of Valley Church in Duncan, BC, which he and his wife Christy planted on January 8th, 2023.
Read Pastor Wes’ recent article for Northwest Institute for Ministery Education Research on the visible and physical presence of believers in a community: The Difference the Presence of Jesus Makes.
