Who we are
Our Story & Methodology
Sanctuary is a spiritually progressive ecumenical platform and program that works to foster local, regional, and non-geographic connections within existing faith communities. The program was created in 2024 in collaboration between Christ Church Cathedral and Shaughnessy Heights United Church. Since its inception, the program has expanded to support communities across British Columbia and Alberta.
Sanctuary is a hub that connects spiritual communities that share common values of belonging, justice, and faith.
Our methodology
Find the unmet need, then build what meets it
The Sanctuary program is founded on a methodology that discerns unmet community needs and responds by building a community structure to meet these needs. The goal is to design a community framework that is sustained by volunteer community members to ensure program longevity.
Sanctuary’s two primary goals are to teach and model community leadership, and to bring regional and aligned ecumenical partners into a shared communications ecosystem.
Three lanes
How the methodology becomes a programme
Lane A — Training & Infrastructure
Create training frameworks to recruit volunteer community leaders from existing members and increase program capacity without funding limitations.
Lane B — Partnerships & Communications Ecosystem
Gather diverse community partners on a shared communications platform to share resources, encourage fellowship, and offer a safe space for members from marginalized communities and identities.
Lane C — The Lab
Provide evidence-based, active programming that supports the vision of Sanctuary, including our goals of community leadership, queer inclusion, accessibility for underserved communities, and faith-based programming.