Seasonal outreach events are incredible opportunities for churches to minister to both their church body and the surrounding community. One of the most effective ways to reach people with the message of Jesus is through meeting real and relevant physical needs in their lives. Opportunities are everywhere to share God’s grace in the midst of real need. When we play a part, people see and hear God’s grace at work in their world. 

This year we partnered with others in our community to give Thanksgiving meal boxes to families in need. Those we served were connected though our local elementary schools. Through the generosity of many, we assembled around 1,000 uncooked, complete Thanksgiving Meal Boxes for local families. Jimmy Johns & Maggiano’s also partnered to provide meals throughout the day as families came to pick up their boxes. As we pool resources and work with partnering businesses, the blessing is multiplied – together we can make the maximum impact!

Service to others is one of the best ways I know to help us live with a thankful heart. It keeps things in perspective and truly helps us understand what’s really important. When we’re able to get outside of our bubble and see outside of ourselves, entitlement is decreased and gratefulness is increased.

Through our Thanksgiving Serve Day, we were able to meet many new families and have many gospel conversations! At our core we strive to not only display Christ to our community, but to declare that it is He who ultimately loves them like no other.

In this Christmas season, we will continue looking for ways to establish relationships in our community and tell the true story of the meaning of the season. On December 9, we will host a Community Christmas Party for our neighborhood. This party will have food, games, Christmas crafts, and live music geared toward building relationships with our community families.

We ask you to join us in praying for our city and these great opportunities we have in this season. We don’t take your prayers and partnership lightly. Your commitment to this work is opening doors for Awakening Church to plant the gospel in the lives of many as we live to multiply disciples. We are incredibly thankful!