Two decades ago a handful of pastors gathered to pray together weekly in Burien. They have continued this every Thursday morning now for nearly 20 years. For 18 of those years, the pastors have also committed to a 2-day retreat of stories, scripture, and prayer out at Lake Retreat. The number of pastors has grown, and three of the original pastors are still active in the group. Results of this fellowship and prayer is a multitude of activities, partnerships, and programs that have come to be known collectively as Transform Burien.

 

This group of pastors desired to be salt and light in the community—so the first step was a partnership with a local school, and eventually an outreach center opened that provides a Wednesday lunch, a Tuesday morning Bible Study, a mobile shower facility through Union Gospel Mission, a Crisis Pregnancy location for Care Net, and King County’s largest medical/dental van site. Several different congregations have met in the Community Center, and the site hosts a food bank, and a phenomenal clothing bank that, “Rivals a department store!” says Burien pastor Patrick Foutz. Anyone in Burien can volunteer at the center, which the group sees as another opportunity to share the gospel with the community. Participating congregations also host rotating Sunday Supper for those in need. 

 

Finally, to celebrate their shared faith in Jesus, Transform Burien churches share a Thanksgiving Eve service together, along with a fall multi-church baptism picnic at Seahurst park. With an occasional prayer and worship gathering throughout the year, the church of Burien is committed to having a shared mission and a shared faith.

 

If you would like to connect with Transform Burien, contact: Patrick Foutz – ptfoutz@hotmail.com