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As you look back over your life, you can probably identify one or more persons who played an important role in helping you to overcome some of life obstacles. He or she was at the right place and at the right time, to speak a word of encouragement to you. Unfortunately, not everyone experiences life challenges in this way. Life for some is like a puzzle with missing pieces, which causes one to stumble and be unable to see clearly ahead. More now than ever, our community and world needs a vision of justice and equality for all. A place where the least among us is cared for and empowered to be all that God desires for them to be.
Each of us has been called, gifted, and placed within the Body of Christ to serve others. Through the Outreach Council, the outreach ministries will take up the charge in the words of the prophet Isaiah to, “build up, build up, prepare the road! Remove the obstacles out of the way of my people.” The work of this ministry is to help all of us match our faith and work, to be a people of compassion and action. Where will we go and what will we do?
2008 is a critical election year and our voices must be heard. Throughout the year we will offer opportunities for persons to register to vote as well as, become knowledgeable of the issues and candidates. We must make a conscious effort to be both intellectually and physically fit for Kingdom building. I encourage you to avail yourself of the health education and social justice classes so that every member can do their part to remove obstacles out of the way of God’s people.
We will continue to reach out into our community through the adoption of Dunaire Elementary School. Come join your hands and heart with us, in providing students, their families, and school personnel with support, and resources that will characterize this as a school of excellence.
The Hope Through Health Clinic will continue to sojourner among communities in need of health care and hope. We go to live out the Gospel through the provision of health care and other tangible services to the poor.
I look forward to serving you and working along side you in 2008!
Helen P. Branch
Minister of Outreach & Pastoral Care
“…May Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.” John 5: 17
Benevolence Ministry
 To assist persons experiencing potential loss of housing, shelter, and/or discontinuation of utility services. Financial assistance is made available to tithing members and non-members through this ministry. Applicants are seen by appointment only, on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, and must provide documentation of need at the time of the appointment. Appointments may be requested through the Receptionist, Monday through Thursday during the business hours of the church. (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.).
Blessings From The Harvest
During the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season, as a congregation, we will adopt the children and families of Dunaire Elementary School to provide not only material support, but hope and an extension of Christ’s love to others.
Food Pantry and Hope Clothes Closet
As a part of the Benevolence Ministry, food and clothing assistance are available for persons in need. This ministry operates out of the Stephen Ministry Building. Appointments for personalized service may be requested through the Receptionist, Monday through Thursday during the business hours of the church (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.). Donations of gently used clean clothing are accepted during the hours of operation (Wednesdays 9:30a.m.-1:00p.m.; 2nd & 4th Saturdays mornings).
Health and Wholeness Ministry
We are committed to providing you with information about relevant health issues impacting the African-American community. This year we will focus on diabetes and cardiovascular disease prevention.
 We also sponsor health screenings, HIV/AIDS testing, and blood drives with the American Red Cross. Look for monthly health nuggets in the bulletin as you journey to wholeness.
Hope through Health Clinic
This is a free comprehensive mobile clinic that provides health care and support services (e.g. food, clothing, prayer) to medically under-served communities in Georgia. As an outreach mission of the church, your giving, time, and talents help to provide a circle of caring and hope to others in need. The clinic will serve the community of Americus, Georgia, August 22-24, 2008.
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Sessions are held by appointment only on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., other times may be available depending on counselor availability. To schedule an appointment, contact the Keys of Hope Counseling Ministry at ext. 216.
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Outreach Ministry