By Frances Hammond
I have been involved with Lighthouse Week – and before that, its predecessor, SOS Week – across three different churches for almost 30 years. For me, it has become a rich service opportunity. It is a place where we see the face of Jesus.
Over the years, being part of a community that helps support some of our most vulnerable brothers and sisters has changed me. I started out fearful of having direct contact with guests, preferring instead to donate from a distance. Now I look forward to meeting them and the opportunity to bring a little joy and good news into a difficult day.
I am moved by our guests’ joy and gratitude in the face of great challenge. And I do not want to hide from the difficulty of life for some of God’s people.
For the last few years, I have delivered dinners to Lighthouse. It is especially rewarding to do that on the first day, a Sunday, because many of the families are in their apartments. This is my DoorDash moment. I knock on the door and call, “Christ Church Cranbrook with dinner!” If I am lucky, the whole family comes to the door, and we talk about their day, what is for dinner that night, and maybe what is coming tomorrow. Last year, talking about Taco Tuesday with a four-year-old was a highlight for me.
Christ Church puts on an excellent ministry throughout this week. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are taken care of for the whole week. It is like a well-oiled machine. Truly, you are missing out if you are not involved in some capacity. Our team leaders are amazing, and it is such a gift to serve alongside others.
The bags of homemade meals – all packaged beautifully -are prepared by a fabulous crew at the church every afternoon. We are talking seriously delicious, home-cooked meals. Last year, I was so taken with the faithful cooking team led by the wonderful Tim Miller that I have signed up to help with meal prep as well as delivery this year.
No matter whether you are bold or shy, there is an opportunity for you to be part of – and be changed by – this wonderful ministry.