DEACON’S CORNER - March 2024

In Galatians 6:2 Paul implores Christians to, “Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

The members of this congregation took those words to heart in February, stepping up in a big way to support the Deacons' bake sale fundraiser to benefit the Open Door/Code Blue. How big? How does record setting sound? Thanks to your response and generosity the sale raised $733.75, more than any other bake sale we have ever held. In the spirit of “carrying each other's burdens” those funds will assist Code Blue in providing warmth and shelter to the homeless, the needy and the struggling during what has turned into a brutally frigid late winter in the North Country.

This spiritual synergy between the Church and the Deacons is an example that reaching out to those in need is not only a responsibility of a Deacon...it is a responsibility of a Christian.  In Philippians 2:5 Paul implores us to “... have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.”; which is an attitude that brings joy from serving others.

There are many opportunities for us, as congregants, to “serve others.” In early Spring there will be new sign-ups for volunteers to serve meals at the Open Door soup kitchen.  Openings will exist for Tuesday or Wednesday lunch or Thursday dinner. If those days don't work for you there are other days available. Check with a Deacon or Bryan if you feel moved to peruse this ministry.

In April the Deacons will begin decorating our annual Christmas coin jars; be sure to take one for your loose change when they become available. This is an excellent and convenient opportunity to serve and can provide some financial help to those members who could use a hand during the holidays. We have also discussed the possibility of holding a food drive to benefit our own food pantry.

There are many ways that we, as Christians, can reach out and help when we see a brother or sister in need; not in response to some “event” but simply because one of God's children is in need.

Have a blessed and joyous Easter!

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2: 3-4)

Respectfully and in His name, Tom Genovese

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