Upper Room Mission and Soul’s Harbour partner to serve the community

The sanctuary of the building at 130 King Street is now home to the Upper Room Mission Church of the Nazarene, and Pastor Terry Dryden feels it’s a great fit.

Dryden has been doing a lot of work in the community with Steve Lumsden, who is leading the Soul’s Harbour Rescue Mission work from the basement of the building.

“I’ve been handing out lunches on the street with Steve, and he’s got a big heart,” said Dryden. “My wife, daughter and I have all been on the streets with him.

“Christ is about more than sitting in church and worshipping.”

Before moving into the King Street building on Aug. 15, the congregation met in Dryden’s garage, at the Bible Hill Village Hall, and in other churches.

“We’ve been a church for about seven years,” said Dryden. “I’ve connected back to my Nazarene roots, so now there are two Nazarene churches in Truro. Ours is called a mission because our heart is in social gospel, and our mandate if to help others when we see a need.”

He said being involved in community efforts allows people with a variety of skills to get involved.

“Some people can’t teach Sunday school or sing in the choir, but they enjoy cooking or serving food. A lot of people are really excited about what’s happening. It breathes life into a church.”

About 50 people usually attend Sunday afternoon services, which are almost always followed by a meal. The church also offers Bible study and youth group.