A local church is spreading the Christmas spirit by giving back to the community
"Wanting is to wish for something, and needs are essential. The initial want- the wishing of acceptance and love has been given to us in the gift of Jesus."
NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY)–Many churches across The Cape Fear region held Christmas Eve services Tuesday night. In Downtown Wilmington, Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church held two services. This Christmas Eve, the church is hosting two special services with a big goal: to raise $6,000 for a local warming shelter.
This Christmas, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church offers more than worship but an opportunity to give back. Meet Pastor Jonathan Conrad, and to make sure no one is left out this Christmas, he’s leading the charge for something extra special.
“We’re having a special offering, where people, as they come and worship with us, they have the option to designate their offering to a warming shelter,” Conrad said.
It’s an effort that stretches beyond the pulpit.
“It usually costs about 500 to 600 dollars a day to stay open and to do something like that. Last Summer, one of the goals that we had was that if we had a good year financially, we wanted to do something that was an outreach for the community,” Conrad explained.
The goal is to raise $6,000. During the service, attendees are treated to traditional church hymns and a powerful message of ‘wants and needs.’
“Wanting is to wish for something, and needs are essential. The initial want- the wishing of acceptance and love has been given to us in the gift of Jesus,” Conrad explained.
“We want to show God’s love to this community, and as many ways as possible by working with the different partners in the community,” Deacon Susan Jackson shared.
It’s a heartwarming example of holiday giving- reminding us all of the spirit of generosity that defines the season.
“When we have put a need out, usually our people are generous and have met it,” Jackson said.
“We’re just not a building. We’re people, and we are a community. It’s a community that wants to throw their arms around people,” Conrad said.
Pastor Jonathan also says he expects to exceed the $6,000. They plan to stop accepting offerings by the end of December and present a check by January 5th. If anyone is interested in donating, click here.
