Hello friends,

We often talk about serving others - giving our time, energy, or resources to those in need. But what happens when we find ourselves suddenly on the receiving end of that kindness?

Earlier this summer, while traveling abroad, I was unexpectedly injured at the beach. What was meant to be a fun day of exploration turned into a whirlwind of chaos, and challenging logistics. I couldn’t contact my husband. I was alone with our toddler. And I certainly didn’t plan on needing help from strangers.

But help came. A guy renting out kayaks called for medical aid. A young mom waited with me, helped to get my daughter warm and fed. A stranger offered to call my husband. These people didn’t owe me anything. They didn’t hesitate. They simply showed up.

In those hours of vulnerability, I learned something profound about service: it is not always something we choose - it often chooses us. These strangers weren’t looking for a mission project or signing up for a shift. They were simply present, willing to respond with compassion in the moment.

As I’ve healed, I’ve carried this experience with me, feeling both immense gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose. Service isn’t just a duty; it’s a way of being. A posture of openness. A willingness to say “yes” to another’s need.

This month, as we highlight opportunities for service in our church and community, I invite you to consider not just how you might serve, but who you’re becoming in the process. Let’s not wait for the perfect opportunity. Let’s simply be people who show up - with presence, humility, and grace.

You never know whose life you might change. Or when someone else might change yours.

Peace,

Pastor Lauren

love does: Backpacks of Hope - Thank you & Recap

Thank you to everyone who joined us recently on July 20 for our love does - Backpacks of Hope service project supporting Hope Solutions! It was a fun and joy-filled afternoon after worship, where we gathered in community, heard from Hope Solutions Development Director Carrie Veurink, and rolled up our sleeves to pack backpacks full of school supplies for children in need - with plenty of yummy donuts to keep us going! We captured the energy and teamwork in this time-lapse video of the packing party, click below to watch!

But that’s not all! On August 1, our wonderful volunteer team delivered over 120 backpacks to students at Los Medanos Village, bringing smiles, excitement, and a boost of encouragement for the new school year.

Hope Solutions is incredibly grateful for your support. This year’s drive collected over 500 backpacks, a milestone that will have a lasting impact on the academic journeys of students throughout our community. Check out a highlight from the drive and help Hope Solutions spread the joy by sharing on your social networks: Hope Solutions Instagram Post

Food Bank Update: Celebrating 50 Years and Fighting Hunger Together

LOPC is proud to have partnered with the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano for over 40 years. Earlier this year, we were honored to receive their Hunger Action Hero Award, recognizing our long-standing commitment to fighting food insecurity in our community. We also join in celebrating the Food Bank’s 50th anniversary, a truly remarkable milestone of service and impact!

A heartfelt thank you to the incredible volunteers who joined us for our LOPC Work Day at the Food Bank on August 3. Together, we sorted thousands of pounds of food, shared laughter and connection, and helped ensure local families have access to the nourishment they need. While our August 30 event is now full, we are accepting waitlist names (email Michelle to be added).

In advocacy news, we’re sharing an important update from the Food Bank: Congress recently passed H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which includes the largest cuts to SNAP and Medicaid in U.S. history. The bill slashes $211 billion from SNAP (CalFresh in California) and imposes stricter work requirements, threatening access to food for millions, including right here in California, where the state may be required to absorb up to $2.5 billion in SNAP costs annually by 2027.

As food insecurity reaches historic levels, these federal cuts come at a deeply challenging time. Yet there is hope: thanks to advocacy from organizations and individuals across the state, including many of you, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed critical hunger-fighting legislation into law, including $60M for CalFood, continued expansion of Food4All, support for universal school meals, and new investments in SUN Bucks, diaper banks, and CalWORKs. These wins support not only families in need but also California farmers and our local economy.

Still, the fight is far from over. With reduced federal support, the Food Bank anticipates growing demand in the months ahead. At LOPC, we remain committed to being part of the solution through service, partnership, and faithful advocacy. To learn more or discover how you can get involved, reach out to our Partner Liaison Sandy Ducey.

Help Bridge the Gap: Food Donations + Know Your Rights Card Delivery

As many of you know, the Food Bank and related non-profits have experienced significant cuts in government support. In response, many East Bay churches are stepping up by operating local food pantries to help meet the growing needs of their congregations and communities.

Here’s where you come in! We’re looking for a few wonderful volunteers (just 5 or 6!) to help with a simple, one-time delivery project:

• Take a few bags of already-donated food (like rice or canned goods)
• Deliver them to a designated East Bay food pantry
• Include a bundle of Know Your Rights cards to distribute to clients

That’s it—easy, impactful, and one-and-done!

We’ll provide:



• A list of local pantries
• Contact names and open hours
• Clear instructions for your delivery

All you need to do is make a quick call to the pantry to schedule a convenient time, then drop off the goods and cards. It’s a meaningful way to show up for our community in this time of increased need.

Can we count on you? Send a quick note to Michelle to get everything you need to get started.

Let’s work together to get food - and critical information - into the hands of those who need it most. For additional information and other ways to get involved, go to lopc.org/serve.

Biksika Joins Children of Faith Staff as New Resident Advisor

Children of Faith is excited to introduce their newest team member, Biksika, who recently joined as a Resident Advisor. With a strong background in education and child care, along with a heart deeply rooted in service, she’s already making a big impact in the lives of the children she supports. Originally from Kalimpong, West Bengal, Biksika brings valuable experience as a primary school teacher, having worked with children ages 5–10. She has also completed Bible training to further her personal and spiritual growth, a reflection of her dedication to both faith and care. Fluent in Nepali, Hindi, and English, Biksika’s warm personality and natural ability to connect with children make her a wonderful addition to the Children of Faith family.

COF asked the children what they think of Biksika and here’s what they had to say…

“Biksika cares for us when we are sick or sad. She eats with us and shares good memories of her life and also jokes with us. She helps us with our studies. We are happy to have her with us.” Ramya, 10^th grade

“She leads our morning and evening devotion with good messages, she is fun too!” Milka, 10^th grade

Click HERE to read more about Biksika, including, in her own words, how God called her to Children of Faith.

A Weekend Well Spent: Fotokids Improves Spaces Without Missing a Beat

This past March, the Fotokids team at Santiago Atitlán tackled two long-standing needs - a worn-out pergola roof and a lack of desks for teachers. After receiving expensive repair quotes, the team took matters into their own hands with a hands-on, cost-saving solution. By working over one weekend, they completed the upgrades themselves without disrupting any programs! The result: safer, improved facilities and better workspaces for staff, completed on time and under budget. Click HERE to read more about and see photos of this successful project.

To contribute information to this monthly newsletter, please email Michelle Browning.

LOPC's Mission Ministry welcomes your financial support! Donations help fund hands-on service projects like assembling backpacks, clothing, and food kits for those in need. Click HERE to contribute and select the “love does” fund. Thank you in advance for your donation!