Urban Mission Dynamics (UMD)

As part of the Church and Mission course, UMD is a four day urban plunge into the heart of the city of Vancouver, designed to expose students to the joys and challenges of urban ministry. Growing a heart for the city is our focus.

Vancouver offers many diverse experiences and cultures. During UMD students spend an afternoon or evening exploring the downtown core. Here we find diversity between neighbourhoods and ethnicities, livelihoods and ministry. Students are encouraged to take this time and prayerfully seek God's heart for the beauty and diversity found in the city.

Dr. Sun Yat Sen Garden demonstrates both beauty and diversity found in the heart of the downtown.

All first year students participate in UMD which is part of the Church in Mission course.  Leadership on UMD consists of faculty, staff, alumni and senior students. It is a great bonding and learning opportunity for all students, and graduating students have often described it as being their most memorable and life-changing experience while at CBC.

Team members get to experience all types of cuisine - here's one UMD team enjoying their Ethiopian dinner!

UMD students will engage in a number of activities over their four days. Exploring the downtown and trying various ethnic dishes, as previously mentioned, are two highlights. Other components include service projects at various mission and non-profit organizations, specifically serving the downtown eastside of Vancouver, along with involvement in local churches.

Two UMD students help clean up at the Dodson Rooms on East Hastings.

Teams learn about life on the Downtown East side through observation and interaction with those they meet on an Urban Plunge.

Our goal for UMD is for students to grow in their worldview in their own backyard. We hope and pray that through UMD we help our students gain a greater perspective of what is happening in our world and begin both dialogue and action in connecting with people in the everyday. The first step to world change is a change in ourselves.

Any questions?
Contact Donna Mayer (Intercultural Studies Associate and UMD Coordinator) for more information.

Are you requesting exemption from UMD?
Please print, read carefully, and complete the following form: UMD Exemption Application