Thankfully, the government shutdown ended this week, with Congress agreeing to fully fund the SNAP food benefits for millions of Americans.
At the same time, with upheaval in food aid over the past few weeks, as well as rising food prices, the ongoing need of people in our community remains.
Thankfully, this weekend, our Deacons are sending out 147 Market Basket Gift Cards to households in need, including the New Hampshire National Guard, local schools, and Child and Family Services. 147 households will have just a little extra help this month to put food on the table.
At the same time, there are still ongoing needs at the Bedford Community Food Pantry (BCFP) and Families in Transition (FIT).
Thankfully, over the next few weeks, our Mission Committee is collecting specific items for both the BCFP and FIT.
THIS SUNDAY is CELEBRATION SUNDAY, the day that we celebrate God’s generosity to us by responding with our own generosity.
In addition to 1) receiving our usual offering and 2) the 2026 Estimate of Giving Cards that many of you have received in the mail, we are also 3) collecting the following items and will be placing them on and around the Communion Table during the worship service:
High-demand food items:
Coffee (caffeinated)
Milk (shelf-stable)
Baby formula
Grains (rice, pasta, oatmeal)
Cereal
Canned food (tuna, beans, soups)
Healthy, nonperishable, individually wrapped snacks.
Toiletry items:
Shampoo
Conditioner
Bar Soap
Body Wash
Disposable Razors
Deodorant
Toothpaste
Tooth Brushes
Laundry Soap
Dish Detergent
As I wrote last week, what we are able to offer might seem like a drop in the bucket when it comes to the great needs that are out there in our community, BUT every gift will make a difference in the life of at least one person, which is a gift, in and of itself.
Thanks be to God that our congregation is in a position to be helpful and that the Holy Spirit is at work through God’s people. Thanks be to God for you!
See you in church.
Grace and Peace,
John
Prepare for Worship
This Week: “With Gratitude. . . And Be Thankful – Week 5”
Read Colossians 3:15-17
Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Make a list of all of the things and people that make you thankful and fill you with joy.
Read or sing Hymn # 611 – “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee”
Attachments area
Preview YouTube video ODE TO JOY-JOYFUL, JOYFUL, WE ADORE THEE at ROYAL ALBERT HALL,LONDONPreview YouTube video ODE TO JOY-JOYFUL, JOYFUL, WE ADORE THEE at ROYAL ALBERT HALL,LONDON