“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10)
As I write this Piper article I am reflecting on Rev. Ben’s sermon this past Sunday when he spoke of the church’s focus on those that are on the margin, in the shadow of society. As Christians, we are called to help those very people and help bring them into the light. A consistent theme across the Parish Survey responses was the pride that St. Andrew’s members take in our Outreach activities and if anything, there were comments to expand our Outreach efforts!
I would love to see that, but in order for us to expand and reach even more of our neighbors we need many more hands. In order to do this, we are changing the way that Outreach operates. Each ministry within Outreach will have a dedicated team which will coordinate and communicate the program. Teams are currently being created for our monthly Atkinson dinners, Coventry Food Pantry and Bridge of Hope holiday dinners. If you are interested in helping out with one of these programs, or have a suggestion for a new Outreach initiative please reach out to Rev. Ben or me.
Our programs for February include:
Atkinson Men’s Shelter dinner - Saturday, February 19th
“Souper Bowl of Caring” - Sunday, February 20th
Separate communications will be sent out for both programs so please help out, if able. It has been my honor to serve St. Andrew’s and our wonderful community by representing Outreach on the Vestry these past three years. I am so proud of everything we have been able to do and the number of people we have been able to support. Even when the pandemic struck, we pivoted and figured out different ways to continue helping those in need. Thank you all for your commitment to Outreach and our church!
~ Christine Whaley at hchwhaley@verizon.net or 215-901-9458
Comments