StayChurch Launches Online Platform to Connect Churches with Community Needs

The initiative of Stay Church, launched by Hong Kong Awana church worker Deng Yingqiu, represents a new approach to church community engagement. The platform, currently in development, aims to connect churches with both believers and non-believers by sharing information through a web application. This digital tool is designed to expand church services and facilitate matching between churches and users based on their needs.

Stay Church is not a church itself but an idea of sharing between churches and the public. Deng Yingqiu emphasized that the initiative is rooted in the belief that different churches are located in different areas and that sharing between churches and people is part of Christ’s spiritual mission. The platform is expected to launch early next year, offering a range of services to the community.

In response to public demand for open spaces, Stay Church also plans to introduce the “Sit and Rest” platform. This initiative allows citizens to find nearby churches willing to open their spaces for rest, reading, or other activities. The platform enables users to search for suitable locations and encourages churches to serve the community by opening their facilities to the public.

On June 10, Stay Church held an online introduction session, co-organized by Hong Kong Awana, to explain the concept of “Sit and Rest.” Deng Yingqiu reiterated that Stay Church is not a church but a means of fostering connection between churches and people. The initiative reflects a broader reflection on how churches can help the community during challenging times, especially in the post-pandemic era.

The “Sit and Rest” platform is designed to allow people to find places to rest, gather, study, or even have quiet areas for private tutoring. By opening their hours to the public, churches can build relationships with citizens and express their care. This initiative also helps people learn about the characteristics of different churches, promoting greater community engagement.

Through these platforms, Stay Church seeks to bridge the gap between churches and the public, offering practical support and fostering a sense of belonging. The initiative aligns with the biblical call to serve others and show mercy, reflecting the values of justice, mercy, and humble service.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Mandarin Chinese)