I have had many of you comment in recent weeks as you have observed the devastation from the hurricanes how you are much more aware of even the smallest blessings in your life.
Food, shelter and clothing are three of those daily items we often take for granted. Each year at this time we pull our resources together and replenish our food pantry with nonperishable items to assist those within our church family who experience a “bump” in the road and need assistance with food.
This past year, with many experiencing unforeseen hardships due to layoffs, loss of income, illness, etc. we have been able to provide food for these families due to your generous giving.
Ross Lamp, who oversees our benevolence ministry, recently told me that our food pantry is almost depleted and donations are needed earlier this year than ever!
This past month we have been looking at the area of SERVE in our walk as believers and we have all been challenged to find a place where we can be involved. I believe we are going to see our church accomplish even more for the kingdom as we become more “in tune” with our spiritual gifts and utilize those gifts.
Tuna | Canned Soup | Juice | Shampoo | Baby Wipes | Diapers | Canned Meat | Dry Soups | Coffee | Sugar | Canned Fruits & Vegetables | Boxed Jell-O | Noodles | Boxed Dinners | Pasta | Hot Chocolate | Toilet Paper |
Paper Towels | Laundry Soap | Bar Soap | Dryer Sheets | Etc. |
The need I am sharing with you now requires nothing more than for you to love others as Christ does, to put others before self and to share your blessings with those in need.
I am asking you to take the step this month to help replenish our food pantry. Consider making it a family project or one your small group, Bible Study or SS class could do together.
All donations for our pantry should be brought to the lobby and placed on our “mountain” which we will begin building this week! You may bring your gift any time during the week, or with you when you come to worship.
In past years we have made this an annual project, but with the increased need it is apparent to me we should do this at least twice a year! The holidays will soon be upon us which means if the need is greater this year, we could easily deplete our inventory once again before year end!
Please be as generous as you can in providing canned foods, boxed foods, personal hygiene items, diapers, soap, canned meats...the list is endless! When we are presented with a need, especially from within our church body, we want to be ready; and for our benevolence ministry, this is only possible through the loving, caring hearts of our precious church body!
Each and every day I praise God for the INCREDIBLE blessing you are not only to me, personally, but to so many others. May God richly bless you!
I love you,
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