“How does it feel to be on your own, with no direction home, like a complete
unknown, like a rolling stone?” Bob Dylan
“Love thy neighbor as thyself.” Matthew 22 vs 39
“Thank you, most people treat us like animals.” Food pantry friend/patron
Speaking on behalf of the team, the best part of stocking our free food pantry has been the interactions we have with those who use it. It starts with acceptance/acknowledgement, simply saying hello and being friendly. We might chat to let the person know that somebody cares. The responses have been an education and often the person just spent the previous night outdoors.
We have witnessed true need and moments of grace. There seems to be an overall gain in the process, some magic that didn’t previously exist. And “Amazing Grace” comes to mind, “I was blind but now I see.” We have seen our church staff treat so many people warmly, exceptionally. So it is about much more than providing a bit of food. It is witnessing part of our community that should not be ignored. And without a doubt it has enriched our lives.
Any church member or friend can park in front of the Parish House, observe the food
pantry for a while around 9AM, and see. It is a place where the New Testament assumes new meaning. Sometimes love is just showing up. Let a member know if you are interested in volunteering.
The food pantry team, Brad, Diane, John, Gran, John
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