About 2 months ago, a request to help with unmet needs in Spartanburg was made to Lutheran Church Charities and Lutheran Servants for Christ. As a result, we are hosting a Market event from 9-3 on Saturday, May 30 at Northwest Community Center, 701 Saxton Ave, Spartanburg, SC 29303
The Market experience has grown beyond what we first imagined. Oscillating fans and heaters have been donated from across the county. Samaritans Feet is providing us with 250 shoes that have been requested and sized for the event. The National Director for Samaritan’s Feet will be on-site. Lutheran Church Charities is covering the cost of the shoes. Orphan Grain Train is contributing items, and Mid-Atlantic Lutheran in Mission has provided a grant to support publicity. Comfort Dogs and Spiritual Care folks will be available. Hope Lutheran’s Mobile Food Ministry team will be on site serving food throughout the day. A number of public/local agencies will be available to help fill out grant forms and connect people with additional resources. It is an exciting moment. One of the best aspects of this Gospel Outreach is that we will have 500 bags bearing the Mission Church’s name and contact information going out into the city to those receiving resources.
The Carolinas LWML District collected quilts for us. St. Peter’s, Conover, delivered them. Resurrection Mission will offer a quilt to each family that passes through. Our goal is that everyone who comes through, regardless of their faith and life journey, will receive a "Lutheran" quilt, knowing that they are wrapped in the arms of God’s grace. We have enough flood buckets for each household to replenish their pantries. And there will be book bags filled with items and activities to keep children busy throughout the summer. LCC and their contacts have collected enough items to abundantly fill the bags!
As we go into the final prep for this event, I am aware of the many hands throughout the LCMS congregations across the country who have come together to provide resources and aid. We are thankful for the partnership that makes us stronger together as we serve in times of crisis, disaster, and great need.
Thank you.
