Service and Outreach is about meeting the need in our community, reaching out to our neighbors and actively engaging in God’s Word. We are reminded to be faithful to God’s call and God will provide what we need to accomplish God’s mission.
During the year, we focus on one program or ministry opportunity each month. The focus may be for a specific need locally, nationally or world-wide. A craft fair each year helps with the fundraising for these ministries. We look forward to seeing how these different opportunities might open up our eyes to God’s mission in the world. Check the calendar for this month’s ministry opportunity.
In 2006, Redeemer Lutheran Church realized that food stamps cannot be used to buy diapers, toilet paper or laundry detergent. Redeemer is located in an area that has a high percentage of refugees and other needy families. How could they stay healthy without basic hygienic products?
So the WWW program was created…wash, wipe and wear. On the third Saturday of each month, church volunteers show up to help with the set up and distribution to over a hundred families.
What says love and God’s grace more than a warm quilt? Colorful quilts are sent out in the world each fall to become a shelter, a comfort and a solace to people who are so in need of these things. Tuesday mornings at 9:30 the quilters meet to enjoy their craft and each other’s company knowing they are creating comfort for so many.
Then each fall, before the quilts are sent out into the world, they grace our sanctuary draped cheerfully over each pew in a riot of patterns, colors and textures. Many say it is their favorite Sunday because the rich colors and the loving thoughts that accompany each quilt into the world warms our souls, too. We send them off with a blessing modified from “Worship Boldly” (2005 Women of the ELCA). Our blessing says, in part:
We dedicate these quilts to your service Lord, trusting that your love will go wherever each item is sent making it more than just a piece of material, a collection of items–making each piece an expression of love.
There is now way for us to imagine the power and effect an act of love can have on a person’s life–how you can use something as small as a quilt, to radiate your love from us to the world.
May these quilts be used in your service and become blessings for all who receive them. Amen.
When our Redeemer members and friends cannot come to church for worship and fellowship, the Visitation Ministry brings worship and fellowship home.
Each month, trained volunteers visit the homebound with the Lord’s Supper, news of the church and the joy and warmth of friendship.
We share our stories, we share our prayers. We pray for the Church and for each other and when we can be together, we always finish by holding hands and praying the Lord’s prayer.
Our prayer group is digital now and still just as powerful. You may be added to this list by contacting the church office.
Everyone has a gift whether it is providing snacks for coffee hour, hiding eggs for the children on Easter Sunday morning or serving on the Stewardship Committee. Redeemer members and friends find a way to serve each other and God.
