A Parish Story from the Downtown Eastside | Vancouver, BC

After living in the Downtown Eastside neighborhood of Vancouver, BC for 14 years, Stephen Rathjen couldn't help but notice the disconnection within the body of Christ. This 16-block neighborhood, recognized as one of the poorest in all of Canada, harbors a variety of churches, Christian ministries, and residents, yet Stephen knew that many of them existed in isolation.

Stephen saw the urgent need for unity among the churches and charities that had sprung up in response to the neighborhood's difficulties. He dreamed of a shared journey, one that reflects the liberating story of God—a narrative of unity, purpose, and care for the land and its people, where people truly get to know their neighbors.

Armed with his technological skills and an unwavering vision, Stephen decided to breathe life into this dream. He envisioned a platform that would serve as a virtual hub, a conduit through which stories, resources, prayers, and laments could flow. With this in mind, he began to work on a project called Family In My Backyard (FIMBY).

In February of 2023, FIMBY was launched as a test pilot–a virtual space where the inhabitants of the Downtown Eastside can share their lives, joys, and struggles. The platform aims to stitch the fabric of the neighborhood together through open dinner invitations, a lending library, and a place to post prayer requests and physical needs. Remarkably, in the short time FIMBY has existed, neighbors who had lived side by side for years stepped into each other's homes for the first time. 

In the heart of one of Canada's poorest neighborhoods, a story of unity, purpose, and transformation is continuing to unfold. Through FIMBY, the people of the Downtown Eastside are joining the liberating narrative of God that is unfolding in, with, and for their place and their neighbors.

If you're inspired by this initiative and would like to see a system like FIMBY set up in your neighborhood, Stephen invites you to reach out to him at fimby@strathconavineyard.com or connect on IG @fimby.family. To learn more, visit fimby.ca.