Parish Stories

Here you’ll find stories of neighbors becoming friends, blocks becoming communities, and ordinary places becoming sacred. Each one reminds us that God’s story is already unfolding right where we are.

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A Parish Story from Cliff Cannon | Spokane, WA

Could deconstruction become the soil for deeper belonging? In Spokane’s Cliff Cannon neighborhood, Common Well began with living room conversations and grew into a small ecumenical community. Led by Lauren Goldbloom, they now gather for meals, prayer, and communion, while block parties, women’s nights, and “Oaktober” celebrations root them in a story of hope and presence.

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A Parish Story from Morningside | Auckland, NZ

Is it possible for a café to spark a neighborhood movement? In Morningside, a small 20-seat gathering place grew into Crave, KIND, and Morningcider—New Zealand’s first cider bar. Along the way, Nigel Cottle and Tim Shallard planted apple trees, brewed community cider, and dreamed of co-housing, making Morningside not just a place to sleep, but a place to truly live.

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A Parish Story from Islandview | Detroit, MI

How might church look when it becomes a hub for justice and innovation? In Detroit’s Island view neighborhood, Pastor Barry Randolph and Church of the Messiah incubate businesses, create affordable housing, and even provide internet. From youth marching bands to food distribution, bike repair, and after-school programs, their presence brings tangible change rooted in love for neighbors.

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