Social Ministries
“When you did it to the least of these, you did it to me,” Says our Lord.
There are many opportunities to serve at Saint Luke, both within the congregation an in the larger community beyond the red doors. We encourage everyone to become part of the rich heritage of Saint Luke’s social ministries and to make a difference in the lives of others and in God’s world. For information about any of the social ministry programs contact Parish Nurse/Director of Caring Ministries Ruth Manchester rmanchester@saintluke.us
Ongoing Opportunities
Fisherman’s Net
“The Fisherman’s Net is stocked with warm winter clothing to give to those who visit Saint Luke at Sunday Hospitality Drop-In. Clothing is collected during our Fall Clothing Drive held in October. “
Floral Express
This outreach, twice a year, invites members to deliver a plant and a card to our homebound members (Christmas/Easter).
Food Pantry
This is a very busy outreach. Saint Luke receives referrals from social service agencies and assists with food bags for individuals and families. Contributions of non-perishable food items are desperately needed. They can be placed in the cart need the Glass Porch Hallway at church, to be put toward the food bags that are given out to community members in need.
Seasonal
Gifts of Hope
As a Christmas gift, why not donate a Gift of Hope in the name of the person you would like to honor?
Holiday Food Baskets
Special Thanksgiving and Christmas “baskets” (food preparations for a holiday meal) are given to those referred by social service agencies to Saint Luke.
“Souper” Bowl Sunday
Support ELCA hunger programs (January or February).
Clothing Drive
Come and contribute or even help sort clothes at our drive in October. The Fisherman’s Net, Sunday Hospitality, and the Interfaith Clothing Closet receive the donations.
Community Ministries
Advocacy
We are called to assist and speak out on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves, the poor and victims of war and unrest.
MUSST
is a partner in ministry with social needs – Ministries United of Silver Spring/Takoma Park. Emergency financial assistance for those who qualify.
Meals on Wheels
Can you help deliver meals or prepare food at one of the several church kitchens. This usually is a weekly commitment. Also, do you know anyone who would like to receive this ministry?
Shepherd’s Table
This is the food outreach in Silver Spring. Saint Luke is a founding member. Can you wash and set tables, serve meals and clean up; help for any length of time between 4:00 and 8:00 p.m. (1st Wed. of every month or other day, as convenient).
Sunday Afternoon Hospitality Ministry to Homeless
This incredible outreach sees an average of 80-100 guests come to Saint Luke’s Great Hall during the winter months, December through March. Sundays from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. volunteers receive these guests, care and feed them, showing the love of Jesus Christ.