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A song writer once wrote, “a house is not a home until someone lives there and a chair is just a chair until someone sits there.” A great song and lovely melody but as I thought about the words, I was struck by the comparison of form and function. Until one puts it into use or begins to occupy these objects, their function does not become realized. God has designed and gifted His church to be a city on a hill, to give light and hope. Not only are we to operate in such a way as to draw people to us, but we are called to go and be an influence in our community, city, and world. The church in action outside the walls of this building will let people know where we are geographically, but it will also make known that we are agents of change.
It is through our service to others that we make known the love of God in Jesus Christ and His power to transform their lives. When the needs of a community, intersects with God’s desires for the community, and the members of the church take action, transformation of lives will begin. This happens as we develop and engage in meaningful relationships with others and are prepared to accept opportunities to serve them.
The face of our communities and the hearts of organizations and systems will change as intentional loving service is given. In 2009, the Outreach Ministries will service people and places of need as well as, people and places of influence. Our service and presence will be known from shelters, to the state capitol as we seek “Shalom” for God’s people.
To ensure all eligible persons are registered to vote and exercise their right to, we will continue voter registration drives throughout the year both at church and in the community. Our adoption of and support to Dunaire Elementary school will continue as we help to shape the lives of our young people. In addition, the work we began in 2008 at the local juvenile correctional facility will be built upon to keep hope alive.
I am delighted to share with you three new ministries that will share in our transformative community work in 2009.
The Social Justice Ministry will focus on education, advocacy, and activism.
The Prison Ministry will focus on re-entry assistance for adults being release back to the community.
Evangelism Ministry will focus on reaching out to the lost in our community to help introduce them to Jesus Christ and become members of the local church.
The Hope Through Health Clinic has sojourned among communities in need of health care and hope in both rural Georgia, and Africa. It is with great joy, that I announce the location of the 2009 clinic to be Decatur, Georgia. We will serve the Ray of Hope family and those in the community with hope and health care.
Monthly congregational outreach opportunities will provide you with places to serve and make a difference.
There is much work to be done and together, we can do it!
Helen P. Branch
Minister of Outreach & Pastoral Care
“…And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9: 8
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 children of Dunaire Elementary School as well as, Ray of Hope families 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. 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 and food items are accepted during the hours of operation (Wednesdays 9:30a.m.-12:00p.m.; 2nd & 4th Saturday mornings, 9a.m.-12p.m.).
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 cardiovascular disease prevention, and cancer screening. We also sponsor health screenings, HIV/AIDS testing, and blood drives.
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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 Ray of Hope family and surrounding community August 29, 2009.
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Reconnection Ministry
In partnership with CrossRoad Ministries, and Atlanta Union Mission, we provide services to assist homeless men and women in reconnecting with the community and God. This is accomplished through the following means:
• One-to-One mentoring
• Bi-monthly Bible studies
• Transportation assistance to worship services
• Employment search assistance
• Toiletries and Clothing
• Onsite meals and fellowship at CrossRoads Ministries and the Ray of Hope Church
• Clothing and housing assistance
Keys of Hope Counseling Ministry
This ministry provides opportunities for emotional, mental, and spiritual growth with Christian insight. All counselors are certified biblical counselors offering short term counseling to unlock the doors to wholeness. The Keys of Hope ministry provides:
• Individual Counseling
• Biblical Counseling Course
• Couples Counseling
• Family Counseling
• Referral Information
• Seminars & Workshops
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