HOW CAN WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

This is the 21st century.  How can we minister to folks in downtown Steubenville and surrounding areas?  This is the question.  We have just read in the newspaper that the Urban Mission is closing their shelters by the end of the month.  This is due to lack of funding.  Where will these people go?  Is there some way we can help in this dire situation?  These are the questions we should be addressing.  Jesus said " whatever you do to the least of these, you do to me." 

The Urban Mission has been helping less fortunate folks for many years.  And this church has supported them in a limited role.  Maybe it’s time for us to step up and do more.  We can't imagine the helpless feeling of those forced to live on the street.  They are downtrodden and don't know where to turn.  May it's of their own doing or maybe because of something beyond their control.  In any case should we step in and provide something to bring some stability to their lives?  Today there was a homeless man storing his possession in the space between our church building and Bordens store.  Our friend from the Washington Square apartment told me he has seen him there different times.  I did not see him today.  One thing for sure he needs to find someplace to move his things and remove them from our property ASAP.

This has been an ongoing problem this summer on our church property.  What are your thoughts on the subject.  Let us ask ourselves "What would Jesus do?"

Any thought or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Blessings to all,

John Diekmann, President