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Greetings!
The Service Committee has been diligent in discerning how the Holy
Spirit is leading St. James forward into God’s will. We have had
some heart-felt conversations and made some difficult decisions over
the last several months. The end result, we believe, is a more
concentrated focus for St. James on a few projects that we will
uphold as ministry from our congregation. This in no way means that
other projects and ministry cannot happen; it just means that the
resources we are aware of will be focused on a smaller scope of
outreach. These projects are:
1.
Clintonville Resource Center (CRC) – time, energy, donations and
talents will be directed towards the CRC to assist them in carrying
out services in their Family & Neighborhood, Children & Youth,
Senior Supportive and Kinship Care programs. Look for more
information to come on how you can get involved with the various
programs above.
2.
Iftar –
continuing to serve our Muslim neighbors through this yearly
hospitality event was an important service for the committee. By
opening our doors and helping to end a days fast, we demonstrate
interfaith dialogue and understand better how much we share with
Muslim friends.
3.
Episcopal
Relief and Development Fund – the service committee will continue
investigate ways to assist the ERDF to meet the needs of others
outside of our own community. This will be St. James’ way of having
a more global impact.
In regards
to the feeding ministries we have traditionally done in the past (In
The Garden and His Place), the service committee is slowing those
ministries down so that we can concentrate on the above outreach.
Again, this does not mean that you cannot be involved with these if
you choose. There are plenty of opportunities for individual service
in a myriad of different ways – you are encouraged to let your light
shine in whatever way God calls you!
There is no
reason that other service projects cannot happen. If you are so
inclined to take on a project outside of the above areas, go for it!
The service committee will do what it can with the energy and
resources it has to assist you – at the very least we will pray with
and for your ministry. Remember, God’s call comes in all kinds of
different and wonderful ways!
Lastly,
feel free to come to a service committee meeting and get involved
with us. Our next meeting is scheduled for July 22nd at
7.30 p.m. at Saint James in the Lamborne Room.
Please
contact Deacon Douglas for additional information.
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