Dear Parish Family,
Ms. Sharon Hines from Winstead Elementary recently told Fr. Greer about some of the children that are receiving food from our new BackPack ministry. Some of their stories are heart wrenching but there isn’t a child that receives aid from us who doesn’t fear hunger. These children, many of whom have known only uncertainty in their daily lives, including whether or not they will have food to eat, are anxious now that they are receiving the weekend Back Packs. However, Ms. Hines tells me these precious children ask her if they will receive a bag of food next week too. They are fearful of facing one more uncertainty in their young lives. We here at St. A’s are truly blessed. We don’t wonder if we will eat; we know we have the luxury of choosing our food. It will be there.
Since mid-September, following the 8a.m. and 10:30a.m. worship services, we have packaged food for 25 children each week. By the time you receive this letter, we will have packaged over 200 bags of food. Each bag contains enough food for a child to have six meals. That’s 1200 meals thus far. These numbers, impressive alone, do not include our Food Pantry outreach programs.
Our food pantry has gone from helping roughly 60 families a month to feeding over 100 a month. Last year we gave away over $800.00 in turkeys during the holiday season and this year, we have ordered over $1300.00 worth of turkeys so that families can receive a little extra help during the holiday season.
Through our food ministries alone, we are Bearing Spiritual Fruit in our community by making a difference in the lives of countless children and families in Nash and Edgecombe Counties. A portion of this outreach is funded through our local United Way but the vast majority of this ministry is supported through your contributions. Jesus said,
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you,
you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” John 15:5
When we abide in Jesus, it follows that we as individuals and as a parish community will live our lives bearing fruit. Fruit characterizes the life of a Christian. God prepares each of us for His glory. As we use and share the gifts that He has given us, folks see God at work in our community. May we as faithful disciples grow stronger in our commitment to serve Him as we continue to enjoy and share the blessings He has provided us.
You may donate now by clicking on the “Donate” button at the top of the page. Your response to our annual appeal helps our parish meet its financial needs as well as plan its ministries. I would ask that, as you approach your commitment decisions, you seek God’s guidance in prayer. Alternatively, you may return your pledge card by Sunday, December 1. May love guide you in your decision as we serve and work together in Christ.
Sincerely,
Your Finance Committee,
Wes Strandberg
Steve Thurkill
Blake Tharin
Tim Knapp
Elizabeth Mosley