If one were to pass by St. Andrew's Anglican Church on a Monday or Friday afternoon between 1 pm and 4 pm, they would see a magnetic sign hanging on the main entrance entitled The Purple Door. Upon entering the main hall, they would find a café-style setup with groups of people engaged in uplifting conversation.
Every now and then, attendees find themselves nibbling on sweet treats such as cookies and cakes and those who crave a cooler beverage enjoy a refreshing glass of juice. All refreshments are free and as delicious as they may taste, but the sweetest part of The Purple Door is the fellowship. Regular attendees tell me that they love the camaraderie and family-like atmosphere.
The Purple Door was created by James Folster, whose belief in Jesus impressed him to start this ministry. Voluntarily, he drives to Humboldt from his home in St. Gregor twice a week to provide a safe space where people from our community can fellowship while enjoying various kinds of warm beverages.
“Because I know first hand that life can and does get hard...” he says, “… and people need a place to go where they feel safe and welcomed no matter who they are. This is what we are trying to achieve.”
This organization is run completely on donations by a caring team who willingly volunteer their free time. There are people in our community struggling with addictions, marital and family problems, depression and anxiety or sometimes in need of companionship. This ministry provides a place for them to either express themselves or to find help.
In a joint effort between both the St. Andrew’s Anglican Church and the Humboldt Seventh Day Adventist Church, James was able to create an environment where these needs could be met. Professional counsellors from Partners Family Services often attend making themselves available to anyone who may need them.
The Purple Door is open to everyone regardless of their religious or non-religious beliefs. Jesus never discriminated when He shared His love with others and neither do the volunteers of this ministry. I found myself surrounded by people of multiple Christian denominations as well as those who didn’t believe in Christ.
This ministry was called The Purple Door in loving memory of Audrey Struct, a former attendee of the Soup Kitchen who passed away, whose house once had a purple door on it. It also operates in loving memory of the late Brody Hinz, a young victim in the Humboldt Broncos bus crash.
I would like to commend those working at The Purple Door for using Christ's method in reaching out to and helping people in our community. I believe that they are following His example by showing sympathy for people and ministering to their needs. If you need someone to talk to or just want to enjoy good fellowship, I encourage you to pass by. The Purple Door has a warm cup of friendliness and compassion waiting for you!
