FROM THE RECTOR – May 1, 2020
To the community of Saint Paul’s,
Throughout our history Saint Paul’s has stood as a beacon of hope as the parish has actively reached out into the community serving those in need; not just spiritual need but physical need as well. We have gathered our resources and made a significant difference in the lives of those around us.
On Maundy Thursday we were reminded in the words of Jesus, “So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.”
Golden Harvest Food Bank has been serving those in need for the past 38 years. Saint Paul’s has supported this ministry through outreach funds and working with them in our Manna Pantry ministry as well through their involvement with Downtown Cooperative Church Ministries. As we all know, the need is even more pressing today and it will most likely continue for months to come.
In conversation with a number of parishioners, the Outreach Committee and Vestry, I would like to challenge us, as a parish, to provide 30,000 meals ($10,000) for those in need at this time. The need is NOW so I hope, as you are able, you will either mail your check to Saint Paul’s for Golden Harvest or go to saintpauls.org/giving/ choose Outr each from the drop-down menu under “FUND;” add an amount; add GOLDEN HARVEST to the comments and complete payment method and billing address information. Click Submit at the bottom of the page to offer your gift.
I have no doubt we have the capability to offer this transformational gift that will respond to the need of so many.
As we open ourselves to the reality of these times and our need to serve others as we would serve Jesus himself, let us pray:
Almighty God, you have given us your command to love you and love our neighbor: as we see the abundance of need around us give us strength and courage to respond in ways that make a life changing difference; as we share from our abundance let our hearts be grateful for your abiding care and love, and empower us to be your people in new and more meaningful ways; through the one who came as a servant, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
George
