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Client Success Story

Bridging Tradition and Inclusivity: St. Andrew’s-Wesley’s Journey to Reconnection

St. Andrew’s Wesley Church, a historic cathedral in Vancouver’s West End, had faced two major challenges: a two-year closure for renovations and the disconnect that followed during the pandemic. Feeling out of touch with their community, they turned to us for help. For Parker and Jarren, this project carried personal significance. As West End residents who walked past the cathedral daily—and as creatives who’ve navigated complex relationships with religious institutions—they knew this project needed heart and intentionality.

We began by deeply listening to congregants, newcomers, and community organizations to understand how the church could bridge its past and future. Through these conversations, a clear vision emerged: the church needed to be a space where everyone felt seen and welcomed, no matter their background or identity. This became our north star for the work ahead.

One of the most transformative moments came when we helped the church leadership reimagine the physical space itself. St. Andrew’s Wesley is a grand, hundred-year-old cathedral, and from the street, it can feel imposing. We saw an opportunity to turn the building’s architecture into an invitation rather than a barrier. The result? A vibrant rainbow-coloured wrap-around on the grand staircase, boldly bearing the church’s new brand promise: “No matter who you are, no matter who you love, all of you is welcome here.” This simple yet powerful message was a visual representation of the church’s renewed commitment to inclusivity.

Inside the church, we guided leadership through workshops and coaching sessions that encouraged cohesive decision-making and fostered trust. These sessions were critical in aligning their values with their actions, helping them reconnect with their community in authentic, meaningful ways. As Diane, the Executive Director, shared:

Harc didn’t come with a ‘solution in a box’—they guided us to find our own solutions, making sure we stayed true to who we are.

The result was a community transformation that extended far beyond aesthetics. St. Andrew’s Wesley is now a space where people of all backgrounds—2SLGBTQIA+ folks, those of other faiths, and even those who’ve felt alienated by religion—feel a sense of belonging. It’s a space that not only honors its history but also boldly steps into the future with open arms. For us, watching the church rediscover its place in the community has been an incredibly rewarding journey.

Harc didn’t offer a ‘solution in a box’—they helped us focus and come to our own realizations.

  • Diane Mitchell

  • Executive Director
  • St. Andrew’s-Wesley United

Harc will inspire you to think and dream, and the end result will be better than you imagined.

  • Stash Bylicki

  • Executive Director
  • Chor Leoni Choir

Harc brought forward beautiful, well-researched ideas, resulting in a brand I’m proud to share with the world.

  • Marsha d’Angelo

  • Founder & Principal
  • Apostrophe Communications

Harc is a great partner for organizations who not only want to be understood, but also to better understand themselves.

  • John Stevens

  • CEO
  • Ontario Veterinary Med. Assc.

The Harc team is intuitive, creative, and strategic while infusing magic and delight into everything they do.

  • Zena Sharman

  • Writer, Consultant, LGBTQ+ health advocate

Parker and Jarren became part of our team, showing up in a meaningful way and bringing our story to life through deep understanding.

  • Heather Vause

  • Director, Community Engagement
  • ARC Foundation

 

Working with Harc was like going on a guided journey into understanding and expressing who we are as a company.

  • Ted Phillips

  • Owner & Principal
  • Home Island Coffee Partners

Harc’s coaching has helped me see and design my own methods and practices to be successful with a clearer, more confident approach. As a result, I am engaging both my business and my life at a higher level.

  • XETS’EMITS’A

  • Candace Campo
  • Founder & Indigenous Tour Operator
  • Talaysay Tours

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