Canada’s largest seaport, Vancouver is filled with surprises. A vertical city, it contains a concentrated group of high rises at the foot of the mountains and the edge of the Salish Sea. You can surf and sail in the morning, snow ski in the afternoon and end the day with a five-star meal—all in the most diversity-dense city in North America.

More than a century old, it is still considered a young city by global standards. But it is growing into every available space and garnering a reputation for international magnetism. Some 200 language groups are represented among its residents.

Discovered by the Squamish, explored by the Spanish, established by the English and heavily settled by the Chinese following the Gold Rush years, it’s as much West Coast North American as it is Asian and European. With its winning hockey team, it’s also thoroughly Canadian.

Vancouver is the third largest metropolitan area in Canada, with a population of more than 3 million. It’s a city of several cities, including Richmond, Steveston, New Westminster, Burnaby, Surrey and Pitt Meadows. Dozens of communities can be found along the transit line, each with its own personality and spiritual typography. Successfully reaching the people who live in Vancouver will take churches that reflect the ethnic makeup and culture of the communities in which they are planted.

“Vancouver is a testimony to the power of partnership and a persevering sense of purpose among our partner churches,” says Ray Woodard, Church Planting Catalyst for Vancouver. “I’ve been here over 30 years, and I’ve seen what can happen when churches take the call to this city seriously.”

From planting a church to partnering with those already on mission in Vancouver, you and your church can make a difference; connect with us to learn how.