Partnering for Renewal: Investing in the Future of the Church
After decades of local church ministry, Durwin and Angel Gray know firsthand the weight that pastors carry. As pastors of Hillside Church in Coquitlam, BC, they’ve experienced the moments of joy, seasons of challenge, and the quiet, unseen struggles that come with shepherding a flock. This intimate understanding has shaped their deep conviction that pastors need to be supported if they are to lead with strength and resilience. Hillside Church’s partnership with The Pastorate reflects this belief and underscores their unwavering commitment to strengthening church leaders across Canada.
“I haven’t seen anyone doing what The Pastorate is doing– quite like they’re doing it,” Durwin shares. “Their care for pastors—through encouragement, skill development, and simply reminding pastors that they’re not alone—has been transformative. It’s the kind of work that helps pastors persevere and remain faithful to their calling, even in the hardest moments.”
Having attended two retreats hosted by The Pastorate, Durwin speaks with firsthand knowledge of their impact on pastors. He recalls the generous hospitality and the way these retreats provided space for restoration: “It’s not over-programmed; it’s just exceptionally thoughtful and targeted care. You can feel the fact that there’s no other agenda except to bless and encourage. That feels unique, and it’s exactly what pastors need today.”
For Durwin and Angel, supporting The Pastorate’s work isn’t just about their own care—it’s about being part of something much bigger. As Durwin reflects, “supporting The Pastorate has given our church a sense that we’re investing in the most important mission in Canada: the future of the Church Herself. It’s a reminder that we’re part of a community of churches from coast to coast, helping pastors in big cities and in small rural, often unseen, communities. That’s deeply encouraging.”
“Supporting The Pastorate has given our church a sense that we’re investing in the most important mission in Canada: the future of the Church Herself. It’s a reminder that we’re part of a community of churches from coast to coast, helping pastors in big cities and in small rural, often unseen, communities. That’s deeply encouraging.”
Hillside Church, Coquitlam, BC
This perspective resonates with Hillside Church as a whole. Through their partnership, the Grays and their congregation have found ways to invest in the long-term health of pastors across the country. “When pastors are flourishing, churches flourish too,” Durwin explains. “And when churches flourish, communities are transformed. It’s a ripple effect that starts with caring for those who lead.”
The Grays’ story is one of generosity and a shared vision for the future of the Church in Canada. Their partnership with The Pastorate is a testament to the power of collective investment in pastoral health and resilience.
“Being a part of this work has been a privilege. While our staff has benefited directly from the podcast, retreats, and cohorts, we’ve also been able to see the fruit of The Pastorate in the lives of other pastors and churches across Canada. We’re a part of something so much bigger than ourselves– we’re a part of caring for Christ’s Church in Canada, and we’re humbled to participate in what He is doing,” Durwin says.
Durwin and Angel’s story is an invitation to join a movement that is strengthening the Church in Canada, one pastor at a time. Through The Pastorate, individuals and churches have the opportunity to invest in the health, resilience, and flourishing of pastors who are shaping their communities for the Kingdom. By partnering in this work you are contributing to a legacy of renewal that will continue to ripple through churches and communities for generations to come.
Partner with The Pastorate
Join the mission to strengthen pastors and renew the Church in Canada. By partnering with The Pastorate, your church can invest directly in the health and resilience of pastors—ensuring they have the support needed to thrive in their calling. Together, we can create a ripple effect of renewal that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and impacts the future of the Church.
Each month, The Pastorate serves over 4,000 pastors across Canada. In 2024, nine Canadian churches partnered with us to make this ministry possible. In 2025, we’re inviting 25 churches from coast to coast to join us in this vital work.
How You Can Partner:
Make a One-Time Financial Gift: Help us sustain and expand our reach to pastors across the nation.
Include The Pastorate in Your Church’s Vision for National Outreach: Make a regular commitment to support our work.
To learn more about partnering with us, contact Josh, our Operations Director.
