MOTHERS DAY 2017
The Journey
As a result of the fasting and prayer this past lent and with an increased awareness of just how comfortable we all are and how much we all have, we feel a renewed conviction in terms of reaching out to the poor and needy in our region.
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen; to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free? break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter- when you see the naked, to clothe him and not to turn away form your own flesh and blood? then your light will break forth like the dawn and your healing will quickly appear…”
– Isaiah 58:6-8
The Need
On May 14th we have a great opportunity to make a difference in our community by looking outside of ourselves to those who may not see Mothers Day as a happy day.
We contacted some Women’s shelters in Durham and they are extremely receptive to + grateful for any generosity shown on our part. These shelters are designed as temporary safe houses for women and children who are at risk and vulnerable to abuse, poverty, etc. Even though these places are designed to be places of shelter, there is still fear, instability and a sense of hopelessness. What a great opportunity to live out the Gospel!
The women are generally in need of toilet items, slippers, pyjamas, gift cards, etc. which we could easily put together as gift bags for distribution.
The Plan
Wouldn’t it be great if each #CityGater family could donate at least 1 gift bag to the value of $10-$15? We will also need volunteers to shop for the items this coming week, and others to drop off our bags at the locations on Mothers Day.
Our DropZone children will also be helping to put these packages together. What a great opportunity to teach our kids to serve others and look outwards!
A special offering towards this cause will be received at our 10h30 service THIS Sunday May 7th, so do come prepared and please mark your additional giving as “Mothers Day”.
