Attended by everyone that could be there.
Marilyn Potter started by remining us that we are all creators in our own way. Whether we are artists, writers, quilters, singers, cooks, bakers, or a plethora of different abilities. Creating brings joy, but giving away your creations brings even greater joy. Then she asked us to write a list of our Outreach Programs at our churches or ones that we are involved in.
Marilyn told us about all the work Many Helping Hands does to feed and provide support for the homeless in Irving, Texas. There were so many things that Good Shepard Lutheran Church provides; even with having a membership of only 35 people. This reminded us that you don’t have to belong to a mega church to make a huge difference.
Donna Blalock attends Grace Lutheran Church in downtown San Antonio, Texas. She spoke about Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) and Corizon. Both programs help service the homeless in that area.
Both Donna and Marilyn encouraged us to take some of their ideas to our church community. Such as:
sack lunches for the homeless
shower trucks so the homeless can have a shower
free hair cuts
Blessing bags (bottles of water, food, list of services available to the homeless, socks, gloves, ect).
Backpacks with school supplies
Christmas stores
Clothing Closets
Food Pantry
Thanksgiving Community Dinner
Fundraisers for the homeless
Hot weekly meals (Like what many helping hands does).
We learned of many different ways to be able to give back to our local communities. If a church of just 35 members can accomplish all that Good Shepard does; just imagine what your 4th Day or church community could do!
Reported by RoxAnne Knauss
