Outreach
Being the hands and feet of Christ in our community takes many shapes throughout St. John’s, and our Outreach Ministry puts those words in motion. Members of St. John’s generously support the many outreach programs both financially and with their talents and time.
For many years, St. John’s has shown leadership in outreach. The Honduras Medical Mission, now fully embraced and led by the Mississippi Diocese, was begun in 1982 by the late Dr. Robert L. Donald, Jr. a parishioner of St. John’s, and staffed by many members of the church.
Today, we’re continuing our outreach programs and adding new ministries to address emerging needs. In addition, we financially support individuals and families with pressing needs, when possible. Key ministries include our food pantry, disaster relief, blessing bags, and Backpack Buddies.
-
Food Pantry
For more than 30 years, St. John’s Food Pantry has been a staple in the community offering assistance to those struggling. Over the years, we have given out nearly 145,000 pounds of food to almost 28,000 struggling people. We’ve seen generations of families coming through for support and love knowing we’re making a difference each week. Our church has been a beacon of hope where families can get help they need in a loving environment.
-
Disaster Relief
Having personally experienced the love and caring of churches across the country after Hurricane Katrina, St. John’s members are passionate about supporting others. St. John’s disaster relief trailer filled with equipment for clean-up and recovery efforts has traveled across the south providing help to those suffering after storms.
-
Blessing Bag Ministry
Starting one year ago, St. John’s began offering Blessing Bags to homeless individuals in our community. These bags include items to support their nutrition, hygiene, and comfort needs as well as information about available services in the area.
-
Backpack Buddies
St. John’s works with the local Backpack Buddies program to ensure public school students have nutritious snacks/meals when other resources aren’t available. Providing backpacks, easy-to-prepare food and other supplies, St. John’s members rally around the youth of our community.