Update from Denman Island United Church and Gathering Place
One day in March of 2020 I had an errand at Denman Island United Church. There was a sign on the door that said: CLOSED! DO NOT ENTER! Covid regulations were upon us. I remember thinking and especially feeling, “What? You can’t ‘close’ what’s alive in this place!” Since that time there has been somewhat of a spiritual renaissance and an opening of the Space to the broader Denman Island Community. This was largely due to our air filtration and circulation system (forsight of teammate Wendy Pope) providing a safe environment during ever changing Covid restrictions. Word got out that DIUC was a safe and welcoming place. Someone looking for a meeting place for Mom’s and Tots commented, “This is a great space to gather.” For me, that was the birth of the Gathering Place. And 5 years later the indoor and outdoor Space have housed concerts, community events, workshops and many amazing DI community groups.
The growth of the Gathering Place happened at a time when the well of a very generous legacy from Zella Clark (dating from 2014), was running dry. Her gift helped to keep DIUC afloat through several years of deficit financing. Maintenance, minister fees, a new metal roof, and so much more were looked after even though Sunday attendance had significantly declined. Sunday offerings no longer covered expenses. The decline in Church attendance has resulted in the closure of many United Churches across Cananda. Especially small rural churches. I see it as nothing short of the best of “Denman Island Community Spirit” that has kept our doors open.
Thank you Denman Islanders for your support. You have trusted us to provide an accessable, affordable and nurturing place to gather both on Sunday mornings and throughout the week. Thank you to the Community Auction, DenmanWorks, CV Recreation Grant and United Church grants for recognizing our vital role in the community and awarding us much needed financial support. For me, the well maintained Space, and its open doors speak to that deep sense I experienced in March 2020. “You can’t shut the door on what’s evolving here.” And now in 2025 Denman Islanders are filling the Space with music, community planning, healing, support, rituals, laughter, physical practices. So many people engaged in helping to build a more resilient, sustainable and loving community.
As to the future of DIUC and Gathering Place??
DIUC and Gathering Place does not receive funding from the United Church of Cananda. We are looking to broaden our base of support in helping to keep the doors open. Please join us on Wed, October 22nd, 10-12, for an update and Q&A. This will be followed by a short break (with refreshments), and our 2025 AGM for those who wish to stay.
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