The Lord’s Supper is an act of communion that represents our unity with Christ and one another. With thankfulness we accept this gift of open communion; as a result of that thankfulness, we can be a blessing to those in need. This Sunday Emmanuel will observe the Lord’s Supper during our morning worship, and we will receive an offering for the Benevolence Fund as we depart from morning worship.
Emmanuel’s Benevolence Fund is our way to spread the Grace of God to those who have need in our community. This Benevolence ministry is funded solely through designated offerings and donations from church members and friends. Gifts to the fund are accepted at any time during the year, and offerings are received following worship services that include the Lord’s Supper. Currently the fund is depleted.
Each request for assistance begins with completion of a Benevolence Request Form and a personal contact with a minister. We recognize that every request is unique and personal contact is necessary. The use of the fund is focused on the key areas of utility assistance, rental assistance, and both gas vouchers and local ATRANS bus passes for medical or job search needs, but there are always individual situations that merit assistance for other reasons.
Emmanuel partners with local churches and congregations, such as St. James Episcopal and Main Street Mission. We also partner with local agencies, such as Shepherd Center, Volunteers of America, Homeless Coalition and the Food Bank of Central Louisiana. By partnering with these churches and agencies we can refer those in need to the correct agency with the resources to help. Many times local churches and agencies are already providing the service or product that is being requested.
