We weren’t sure what to expect when we started down the long road of partnering with churches willing to use their properties to address chronic homelessness. Like any adventurer, we had our bags packed and an idea of what we would encounter.

We expected other sojourners along the trail. You all have joined us on this grand ascent.

Now, as we stand among foothills, looking up at the mountain of work in front of us, we want to reflect. In turning our heads, we see beautiful, fragrant flowers in bloom. We hear birds joining in creation’s song. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other pioneers and explorers on this adventure, ready to scale the switchbacks with linked arms and collective courage.

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Eyes lifted to the hills.

The work ahead of us – all of us – includes ensuring Sacred Settlement Open Door continues receiving the support it deserves. Nine of its 12 homes are funded – with building continuing through the summer and into next spring — and efforts are underway to renovate the church building to use as a common area.

Even Maple Grove neighbors who were once adamantly opposed to the church’s efforts are becoming part of the movement. We are awestruck.

Open Door isn’t alone. Two other congregations in the Twin Cities are discerning what it would take to live in Full Community with formerly homeless people and plant their own Sacred Settlements. We are eager to tell you more in the weeks ahead.

Another church in an Upper Midwest state has positioned itself as the first planned Sacred Settlement outside Minnesota. They have inspired us already.

Still another group of God’s people in the Pacific Northwest are entering into our discernment stage, as they believe tiny homes on church property belong in every corner of this country. Let it be His will!

The mountains in front of us are beautiful. They’re filled with life and new beginnings. We are anticipating God’s guidance as we climb together.

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Gratitude for days past.

We’re also grateful for the rugged terrain we’ve already traversed. We collected some blisters along the way, but we also slept soundly at night, knowing that this movement of God’s people cannot be stopped.

A proposal at the Minnesota State Capitol designed to upend the Sacred Communities law quietly died after heaven heard our cries: Many of you joined us in prayer and fasting for seven weeks, pastors across our network rallied their congregations, and legal experts told lawmakers about the far-reaching civil rights problems with giving local governments too much power over the church. Let his Kingdom come!

We’ve witnessed people joining our efforts by contributing their skills and expertise. Architects. Builders. Lawyers. Foragers. All offering and sacrificing their best for the good of others.

And we proudly testify to the strength of Full Community and the love of God.

One of our current Sacred Settlement neighbors took a stand against a previous life of violence, bloodshed, and drugs by being baptized into the Christian faith. After he rejected his past experience of the streets, we gladly and proudly welcomed him into “the Jesus gang.”

The ascent ahead.

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When we first started down this road, we were drawing the map as we walked along. Now, because of you and so many others in our network, we have a better idea of where we’re going. We desire churches across the country and people who make up these communities cultivate homes in a homeless world.

You’re an integral part of this story, of our shared adventure. Every encouraging word, every dollar given, every prayer offered, every hour extended, is bringing this vision to life.

Take a breath, reflect, and take our hand. We’re headed to the summit.  

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