by Brenda Lilly
For most churches, outreach is not an option; it is simply the will of God. We read it in the Word; we see it in the actions of Jesus. The poor, the homeless, the ill, the destitute and forgotten – all call to our hearts and as Christians we are compelled to address their needs as best we can. In our baptismal vows we are called to “strive for justice and peace among all persons… respecting the dignity of all human beings.” It is our calling to reach out into our community and beyond to address the tribulations that face so many around us.
As a first year member of the Vestry assigned to liaise with our outreach programs directors I’ve been inspired by the dedication and drive of those involved, specifically, with All Souls’ projects. Not only do they discern where the needs are greatest and consider how best we can serve, but they challenge us to do even more whenever they see an opportunity or lack of resources. We are blessed to have within our congregation so many who choose to volunteer their time, funds and skills to a daunting variety of needs.
Grants from the proceeds of the All Souls Food Booth, which sells items during the annual Biltmore Village Arts and Crafts Fair, are distributed each year to a different group of applicants. A Food Booth discernment committee reviews and selects these organizations based upon specific guidelines.
Room in the Inn has recently celebrated its tenth anniversary. All Souls hosts a dozen or so women throughout the year in Zabriskie Hall, providing meals, accommodations, support—and sometimes haircuts—during their week long stay with us.
Church of the Advocate continues to be a much needed presence in our community and its members give back, participating during Katrina relief trips and assisting with the building of Habitat homes. Children First, Loving Food Resources and Katrina Relief are also among the nearly dozen outreach programs we support.
Included within our outreach funding is our contribution to the Western North Carolina Diocese, which supports the needs and programs of smaller churches throughout our diocese.
This past year, proceeds from a generous gift to All Souls provided additional offerings that extended from our local food banks to the homeless in Western North Carolina, those left homeless and with medical needs by the earthquake in Haiti as well as those still homeless and in need from Hurricane Katrina. It enabled us to aid in literacy programs, provide art supplies for seriously ill children, educate those serving as primary care givers for family members suffering debilitating memory loss, seniors requiring home repairs and much more. It also included outreach to our companion diocese of Durgapur, India.
We are undoubtedly blessed here at All Souls by the generosity of so many. In these photos from some of our outreach events you can see that in our giving, we truly receive.