Many Gifts, One Mission
by Angela Holstege
Serving Through Provision, Preparation, and Presence
At Church of the Good Shepherd (Charlottesville, VA), our partnership with PACEM (People And Congregations Engaging in Ministry) is always more than community service—it is a joyful response to Christ’s command to love our neighbors.
This year as we opened our doors and hearts to unhoused women, the mission team was aware that the demographics of our congregation required us to be creative with how we asked for volunteers. So, we invited members of our body to participate in this ministry according to their season of life and the gifts God had given them. We provided three avenues to serve: provision, preparation, and presence.
Provision
Those with less time due to work or parenting obligations needed a practical way to participate. A separate sign-up was created for donating needed items such as snacks, toiletries, or warm clothing. Children could participate by making welcome cards, shopping for favorite snacks, and packing toiletries into bags. This behind-the-scenes service ensured that the women experienced God’s care through the hands of His people.
Preparation
For those who had both time and talent, preparing a homecooked meal was a tangible expression of love. Nourishing food ministers to body and spirit. Food preparation allowed community groups or families to come together around a menu to prepare a meal from favorite recipes.
Presence
For those with more time, we offered the gift of simply being present with the women. Our hosts would converse over a meal or help the women find what they needed in the clothing closet. Relationships were built that enable us to put names and stories to the problems of housing and transportation in our community.
Each contribution helped create a sanctuary of welcome and hope for the unhoused women of Charlottesville. Each part functioning in its own capacity as an indispensable part of the body of Christ.
The Rev. Angela Holstege serves as Pastor of Mercy for Church of the Good Shepherd and is the Diocesan Director of Safe Churches.