A pandemic doesn't keep hunger at bay, and that's why St. Martin's has continued to do what it can to help the hungry among us. Last Saturday, after receiving approval from Bishop Waldo, a very small, social-distancing-safe group gathered in the Parish Hall to package meals that were then delivered to St. Luke's Episcopal Church to feed homeless people living in our community as part of our ongoing partnership with St. Luke's. Below are a few thoughts shared by some of those who took part:

Frances Burns, parishioner & St. Luke's ministry leader:

"A huge thank-you to the group who met at St. Martin’s Saturday morning to box to-go meals to distribute at St. Luke’s. After all meals were packaged, 90 lunches of fried chicken, green beans, mac and cheese and a cookie were handed out to those in need in the community. In keeping the health and safety of the committee in mind, it was decided to use volunteers in the younger age group who are less at risk. We also did not ask for volunteers to help bake and prepare food to reduce the number of touchpoints. All went well with balancing the safety of the committee with the needs of the community."

Robyn Holt, SMIF staff member:

"It felt nice to be doing something positive for someone else rather than feeling negative about the current situation. It was wonderful to do something to help others."

Drew Bozard, choir member:

"Helping with the feeding ministry was very enriching for me. I know that this kind of work has to go on even in the midst of our circumstances, and I felt very blessed to be healthy and able to serve in this way."

Amanda Hines, choir member:

"Sharing the words of the Bible through song is how I can best share God's Word and Love, but, when Caitlyn presented the feeding ministry opportunity this past Saturday, it was a great way to reach out, help someone, and share God's Love in another way, even if from a distance."

Lydia Mignogna, parishioner:

"This pandemic has had effects so far-reaching that I don't know about most of them, but this was the perfect opportunity to help carry out God's mission in the Columbia community during this particular time of need. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to more in the future."

Let's continue to show our love for Harvest Hope

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This Sunday is Good Shepherd Sunday. It's a Gospel that I remember learning about in nursery school. Learning that Jesus knows us all by name was as powerful a learning for me then as it is now. Jesus knows us each by name. Jesus calls us, protects us, loves us, and connects us. The Good Shepherd promises we will have life and have it abundantly. He promises us that "all shall be well."

We are living in a time where our connections to each other seem to be far apart and fragile. If you add to this the fatigue that is being felt from living in the midst of such national anxiety, you end up with a very volatile mix. It is during this sort of time that it is extremely important to remember that Jesus is ever present and always calling us by our names.

This week was supposed to be a big Sunday for St. Martin's as this was supposed to be the week of Bishop Waldo's visitation. Bishop Waldo will join us on our YouTube page on Friday with a special meditation. On Sunday, he will join our weekly vestry meeting.

If you have not seen our YouTube page, I encourage you to take a look at it, "subscribe to it" and "share it" with a friend. We are doing our best to use the technology available to us to stay connected. Sure it's not quite the same as in-person meetings and sit downs, but it is the best we can do.

If you have enjoyed our content, let us know in the comments. I don't think anyone on staff ever thought our ministries would ever take this turn.

Secondly, next Tuesday (May 5) is giving Tuesday. St. Martin's is working to serve, to worship, to give. On Giving Tuesday, next Tuesday, consider making an offering to St. Martin's by using our online giving link.

In Christ,

Mitch+

Thank you in advance for keeping your pledge current during this time of uncertainty. You may pay your pledge in these ways: