Please, Help Care for the Homeless and Those in Need

My friends,

I invite you to pray, to meditate, to light a candle or send positive energy to the outreach programs of the Imperial Beach United Methodist Church.  This is needed right now.

Sometimes it can feel as though we are being tested.  I don't know about you, but I have been there in my life.  Some might point to God, or the Devil or the Universe as the originator of these tests.  But regardless, obstacles and challenges get thrown into our path that either make us shrink away or rise up with all our creative forces to meet the occasion head on.   These challenging moments reveal our inner strength and our utter determination.  These “tests” get us to prioritize the things of our lives.  We take notice of what really is important.  So, in the end much benefit comes from these life tests.

I am the pastor of a church facing challenges and obstacles.  These challenges and obstacles can most certainly feel like a "dead end" at times or they can come as a wonderful opportunity for new unexpected growth.  Personally, I prefer to see the possibilities for greater advancement.

In the life of the Imperial Beach United Methodist Church, we are dedicated to our brothers and sisters in need.  We offer care for those dealing with homeless and food issues.  Now, we cannot solve the "big" problems, but we are dedicated to a ministry of compassion to those with no home and food shortage. 

Consider what this church at 455 Palm Avenue offers to the Imperial Beach community:

Every Saturday, we offer a free breakfast, clothing and showers mainly to our homeless population.  With dignity, our brothers and sisters are welcomed into the church’s fellowship hall for food, an opportunity to have a shower and maybe pick up some newer clothes.   In December, we distributed backpacks filled with toiletry items and blankets to many who attend this Saturday program.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, we offer a food distribution program whereby individuals can receive some food to help them out.  With our limited food resource, we are can only help an individual out every 90 days.  But we can see how a little can mean so very much.

On the second Friday of every month, we host a food commodity at the church in cooperation with the San Diego Food Bank where a box of free food is given out.  In December, we welcomed over 300 individuals to the church coming for assistance.

And every year, the church provides a free Thanksgiving Day Meal that is open to the community.  And usually around Christmas, the church hosts the Interfaith Shelter Network where homeless individuals and families eat and sleep at the church for two weeks.

Many in Imperial Beach (maybe including you) may not be aware of all this small membership church at 455 Palm Avenue does for our brothers and sisters.  For nearly two decades, this church has provided these ministries.  The church offers these programs because Jesus commanded his followers to care for the least of these, for the poor and those who are hungry.

These ministries are a priority with this church.

The challenge the church now faces involves the need for greater support from the larger community.  With limited funds and volunteers, I reach out to you, my friends throughout this city for assistance.   These programs must continue.  So many have come to rely on this compassion.  But these programs will continue and will thrive only through the assistance of the good and kindhearted people of this city.

How can you help?

First, pray for these programs that help those in need.  We are a Christian church so we believe in the power of prayer.  In all we do, we strive to keep our hearts and minds centered on God.  From Jesus, we learn the necessity to love another another and to help those in need.  Helping someone in need is a spiritual act.

Second, volunteer to help.  There are several things you can do.  We need individuals, groups or businesses willing to provide a Saturday morning breakfast.  You might do it once, or once a month.  If you enjoy cooking, this might be just for you.  Also, we need donation of canned food items for the food pantry.  And we need individuals who want to be present and lend a hand.

Third, make a financial contribution to make the breakfast and shower outreach possible or to make sure a family receives much needed food. Every cent given makes this world brighter for someone in need.

However you help--in whatever way-- it makes all the difference in the lives of others.

If you want to learn more about these caring programs of the Imperial Beach United Methodist Church, I would be delighted to talk with you.  I would be thrilled to show you around the church.  But it all begins by you emailing me at JonEdwin@aol.com.

Now, I am aware some people have issues with organized religion.  Some have steered clear of the church for various reasons.  I have had a number of people say they are convinced the church will fall in on them if they enter the church building.  (For the record: they did and it didn't.)  Maybe even meeting a minister or priest or pastor makes some nervous.  I really do understand all this.

I am not your typical pastor.

And as for you, you may be religious or maybe you are not.  You might be a Christian or of another faith, or maybe you are spiritual.  Then again, maybe you do not have a particular faith at all.  This is all cool with me.  Whatever label works for you is great.  I respect that.  Honestly, the label I look for is one of a “compassionate” individual who care for those in great need.  And I personally believe you are out there!

So, if you want to be part of this caring outreach, please be in touch with me.

Thank you.

Pastor John

Imperial Beach United Methodist Church

455 Palm Avenue

www.IBMethodist.com

Sunday Worship

9am—30 minute worship service with Holy Communion celebrated weekly.

10:30am- worship with Holy Communion on the first Sunday of the month.

(child care provided at 10:30am)

9:30am—Sunday School for Elementary age children

A church where our hearts, our minds and our doors are always open.