Acts 20:35 says, “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Given this admonition from Paul, coupled with the COVID-19 global pandemic that has taken the lives of thousands, particularly senior adults and those with pre-existing medical conditions, Oakwood University Church has sought to assist this susceptible group by providing them with weekly grocery food bags, reducing their need to visit local supermarkets and minimizing their potential exposure to COVID-19. Additionally, the grocery gifts aid in lowering recipients’ weekly grocery bills.
Carlton P. Byrd, D.Min., senior pastor of Oakwood University Church, stated, “As unfortunate and devastating as the Coronavirus outbreak is, it doesn’t absolve us of the responsibility to care for our most vulnerable church and community members. If anything, it underscores that responsibility. We’re committed to ensuring that our seniors and families in need are cared for.”
Under the auspices of the church’s “Heaven’s Storehouse” food distribution ministry, 50 to 75 grocery food bags are prepared and delivered weekly to needy individuals, with the goal of providing this gift service during the current crisis. Many who have received the grocery bags have expressed their sincere thanks and shared warm smiles. One recipient said, “You can keep them coming.”
The church looks to God to ensure the grocery bags will continue to be delivered to those in need.
South Central | May 2020
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