New website to help Vancouver Catholics build community

A new face of evangelism in Vancouver will launch online this Pentecost Sunday.

With social isolation more of a concern than ever during the current time of pandemic, the Archdiocese of Vancouver is unveiling a new website to emphasize community and build up connections – for Vancouver Catholics as well as those who want to connect with them.

The new site, called Behold, marks a major shift in direction for the archdiocese’s evangelism and communication work as it concentrates on weaving faith and culture in an online format.

Brett Powell, the archbishop’s delegate for development and ministries, said the archdiocese’s current catch-all website rcav.org no longer served its purpose.

“We have been trying to accomplish too much with just one tool,” he said. “Through Behold we will better accompany those still on the journey of coming to faith in God or deeper relationship with Christ.”

Behold will include articles, videos, and other media on subjects ranging from the sacraments to faith, culture and hearing God’s voice. Information and links to local events and services such as marriage preparation, counselling, and faith studies will also be included.

Meanwhile, other information about the archdiocese including history, media statements, and contact information will be available on a different, corporate site that is still in the works.

In addition, the B.C. Catholic website will continue to offer local, national, and international news and comment, updated daily.

Powell said he is excited with the possibilities as the new evangelism tool goes live. 

“It will take some time; we still need to grow into the website and into our ability to maximize its functionality, but once we do, even more amazing ministry will be happening throughout the Lower Mainland.”

Behold, created in partnership with Langley-based design company Glass Canvas, officially goes online May 31 at beholdvancouver.org.

Last year, the archdiocese also launched Proclaim, an online resource for active Catholic evangelizers to help them invite others to a deeper encounter with Jesus.