Restoring the Lantern

Inspired by Matthew 5:15–16 and the idea that our building is the lantern through which we shine Christ’s light.

Why We Need Your Help

The roof of St. Thomas Anglican Church is now in critical condition. If we do not address it soon, the building — the place that shelters our worship, our ministries, and the many outreach programs we offer — will be placed in jeopardy. 

While the ministry of St. Thomas will always continue, with or without a building, the truth is that our space makes possible much of what we do:

• Relationship and community building
• Weekly meals and grocery sharing
• Clothing and hygiene support
• Countless volunteer‑driven outreach programs

We have secured grants and generous sponsors for many program expenses — but the roof is our immediate and essential need.

The existing roof is failing, with risks including leaks, damage to interior spaces, program disruption, and long‑term structural harm. To ensure safety and preserve our mission, the roof must be replaced as soon as possible.

Campaign Goal: $50,000

Funds will cover:

• Roofing materials
• Labor
• Contingency for structural or hidden issues

All donors are thanked — with special recognition for larger gifts.

Light Bearer – $25 Helps protect a small section of the roof. Your name listed on a Social Media Thank You.

Lantern Keeper – $100 Supports roofing materials and skilled labour. Listed on our Roof Supporters page of our website.

Beacon Builder – $500 Buy a Section! Invitation to a special celebration event

Cornerstone Supporter – $1,000+ Name added to a permanent plaque inside the building. 

Your support will:

• Preserve a historic community landmark
• Protect programs that help thousands
• Ensure St. Thomas continues its 80‑year legacy of service

This campaign will raise the funds required to repair the roof so the building can continue serving as:

• A sanctuary
• A refuge
• A beacon of hope

What Will Be Done If More Than Enough or Not Enough Is Raised 

If More Than Enough Is Raised 

While the roof is our primary focus at this time, there will always be building maintenance and improvements that will need to be tackled. Any funds raised from this campaign would be allocated towards the building until the time there is no longer any that needs to be completed, or we are no longer able to remain in our space. If we reach the point where we are no longer able to remain in our space the same options for what we would do if we were not able to raise enough funds will apply. 

If Not enough Funds Are Raised

If we cannot raise enough funds to repair the roof, or reach the point where we can no longer remain in our space, we intend to use the funds in the following manner and order of preference/priority

1.      Relocate to a space that can accommodate our needs (worship and outreach) and allow us to still serve our neighbours, specifically within our parish boundaries, and any beyond that we can 

2.      Seek the ability to utilize another commercial kitchen and secure a food truck for our Table Fellowship Ministry and seek other location/outlet(s) for worship and other Kreative Outreach activities 

3.      Provide the funds to other organizations, preferably within our parish boundaries, that are meeting similar needs to what we have been doing, with particular attention to indigenous led and/or serving organizations. If not within our parish, then radiating out from there until the funds could be appropriately allocated 

Our Impact

According to the 2023 Halo Study, St. Thomas Anglican Church contributes nearly $2.1 million per year to Winnipeg’s social economy. For every dollar spent, the church generates $43.92 in community impact — more than ten times the national average. We facilitate over 10,000 volunteer hours annually, worth more than $250,000 in direct impact.

This is who we are — a small but mighty missional parish of 38 people, guided by the pillars of Welcome, Dynamic Worship, Good Works, Table Fellowship, and Servant Leadership.

We call our way of life Christiaction: living out our baptismal covenants actively, consciously, and thoughtfully. Our building is the lantern that allows us to shine that light.