This May, Soma Blue Mountains celebrates its 14th anniversary. What began in 2012 as a small seed planted by Dave Miles and a dedicated team has grown into a vibrant family of Gospel Communities stretching from the Lower to the Upper Mountains.
As we look back, we aren’t just celebrating a decade and a half of “services”—we are celebrating 14 years of being a family on mission.
Our Identity: Family and Mission to the Mountains
Our vision has always been Gospel Saturation: to see every woman, man, and child in the Blue Mountains encounter the love of Jesus through His people. Whether it’s through the Millennial Falcons supporting local artists, the On Belay community rock climbing in Springwood, or families sharing meals in Yellow Rock, the mission happens where life happens.
The Soma Distinctives: What Shapes Us?
For those who have joined us recently with our move into Faulconbridge Public School, or those who have been here since the early days as we left Winmalee Night church, our journey is anchored by a 10 “Soma Distinctives”, such as:
- Gospel Centrality: The Good News isn’t just the “ABC” of Christianity; it’s the “A to Z.” It shapes everything—from how we parent to how we work.
- Story-Formed: We believe the Bible is the true story of the whole world, and we are finding our place within it.
- Being Before Doing: We root our lives in our identity as children of God before we “do” anything for Him.
- Shared Leadership: We believe leadership is a team sport.
A New Chapter: Welcoming Four New Elders
As we celebrate 14 years, we also celebrate the health and growth of our leadership. This year marks a significant milestone as we officially added four new elders to the team: Chris McEwan, Dan Jackson, Liam Denny, and Toby Dedden. Working alongside Dave Miles and Stuart Brooking, these men represent the heart of Soma: a commitment to shepherding the flock and equipping the saints for the work of ministry. Their diverse gifts—from teaching and pastoring to organizing and dreaming—are a gift to our community as we look toward the next 14 years.
The Story Continues
Reflection Questions for the Soma Family
As we celebrate this anniversary, take some time in your DNA groups or Gospel Communities to reflect on your own journey:
- Looking Back: When you think about your time at Soma, what is one specific moment where you experienced the “family” aspect of the church most deeply?
- Identity: How has your understanding of being a “child of God” (Identity) changed the way you approach your daily “doing” (Mission)?
- Growth: In what ways have you seen the Gospel change your heart or your habits since you became part of this community?
- Looking Forward: Who is one person in your everyday of life (neighbour, co-worker, friend) that you are praying will encounter the story of Jesus this year?
Happy 14th Anniversary, Soma Blue Mountains. To God be the glory!