As I sit in our coffee house today in downtown Hamilton taking advantage of the free wireless internet access, while enjoying the best cup of fair trade coffee on the planet, I can't help but notice the diversity of the crowd who has gathered here today [not untypical of other days], and wonder if we are not "on to something" in our effort to be part of Christ's Kingdom on earth in this little corner of The Hammer.

There are a few developmentally challenged adults [a couple of whom are employed at the coffee house], a discussion group of twelve individuals with various mental health issues, four university students using the wireless internet - likely enjoying the remaining days before classes start up again, two retired widows enjoying coffee and cookies together, an elderly lady in a wheelchair, a guy who is clearly on some narcotic which has altered his thinking quite significantly, a young rock star wannabe who has performed on our stage in the past but today is simply enjoying conversation with an elderly gentleman who happens to be a retired University professor from McMaster, two kids playing in our children's area while their mom interacts with adults and takes a break while enjoying a "frosty coffee".

The barista today is my wife, Margie, who works for children's aid society, is a mom to our three young children, has adopted many of the folks from our church community and befriends them by offering an open house and meals whenever they want... and they often do... yet still finds the time to serve coffee and hang out with those who frequent this third place in our neighbourhood.

There is hustle and bustle and yet a great sense of calm, peace and home here today. I guess I am just taken aback once again with how significant what we are doing is.

Similar stories I have shared:
Coffee House As Community Commons, Music & Art Space, Funky Cafe
Coffee House Barista Duty, & A Home Away From Home

Labels: community, the freeway, writing