Generous Hearts & Changing Lives
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Recently I visited Carnegie Church of Christ for their Sunday service and 3 year anniversary of their “Open Hands” community meals program. Open Hands runs at the church each Wednesday lunch time providing a meal for 40+ people. Food parcels are also available. Seated around tables, coffee and tea available throughout, a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere has been created for Sunday worship services, relevant for the community that gathers. Several participants from Open Hands are regularly attending Church and many more attended this day. It was a celebration of what the program was achieving and to invite participants to church, as well as to give thanks to the many people and organisations that support them. |
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Seated around tables, coffee and tea available throughout, a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere has been created for Sunday worship services, relevant for the community that gathers. Several participants from Open Hands are regularly attending Church and many more attended this day. It was a celebration of what the program was achieving and to invite participants to church, as well as to give thanks to the many people and organisations that support them. |
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The visitors included Rafi and his family. Rafi owns a local restaurant and last year sought out a group to support, when he discovered the Open Hands project. Through his business Rafi provides a hearty soup for the meal each week. His “tips” jar at the restaurant is donated to Open Hands each month. Last Christmas Rafi gave the church 10 X $50 to give to individuals and families in need as well as provide a 4 course luncheon for their Christmas party. It was great to have Rafi and his family, join in the service after their regular service at the synagogue, so everyone could thank him. As the service was followed by lunch, Rafi came prepared with enough soup and couscous for all. Carnegie Church of Christ gives thanks for the generosity of Rafi and all the other individuals, businesses and groups who support the Open Hands project. We also give thanks and pray for participants of Open Hands, who have started to attend the informal style of Sunday church as they explore faith. Monique ten Hoopen |
