Compassion in Action

Compassion in Action:  a new name, an expanded vision

What once was known as the Homeless Ministry has now changed its name in order to give a better description of the essence of this ministry.  The vision is derived from the scripture out of 1 John 3:16-19 (New Living Translation).

“We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.  If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.  Our actions will show that we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when we stand before God.”

Compassion in Action displays “real love” by sacrificial giving of ourselves. Our goal is to show compassion as we see the needs of others. We do not merely want to talk about the love of Christ, but instead we put the love of Christ into action as we serve others. In that way we can make Christ look good and give Him the glory.

Compassion in Action now goes beyond serving the poor as we walk out our love by serving those in need.  This means that we continue to serve the Homeless Ministry’s prior objectives, but now includes other additional ministry opportunities such as the “Men(and women) with Trucks” ministry that centers around repair jobs. One of the greatest blessings from last summer’s Saints in Action event was completing outside repairs for a recent widow.  Her home was in a fairly nice neighborhood.  Her need was huge during a difficult time in her life. It felt great to be an extension of Christ’s love and compassion. 

Future newsletters will help the congregation discover at least one component (ministry focus) in this large ministry.  All Saints Church has an outstanding committee of folks that will need the rest of the congregation to get on board as we reach out the love of Christ into our community. 

For upcoming Compassion in Action Events, you may also check the church calendar. 

May 10, 2010      Eat at Cici's Pizza--   When your family eats at Cici's Pizza in Woodbridge on May 10th, the proceeds go to help those in need at local homeless shelters.  Join others in the congregation to help out while having a meal together!

July 17-25, 2010   Saints In Action