Editor’s Note: This is a pastoral letter that Pastor Derek sent to the congregation on March 29th regarding the acute needs of those in our community.
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Jesus Christ,
These are challenging times both spiritually and materially. Yet as we hunker down to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and others, the work of the church in proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ continues even expands to meet new and pressing needs. I am happy to share with you that the freezer ministry, which began at East Hills and spread in the past few years to all Bethlehem Area Moravian congregations, has been asked to provide 400 meals to persons living in Moravian Towers 1 and 2 in downtown Bethlehem. Feeding the hungry is certainly a Biblical way of making Christ known.
Previously the county was able to provide these meals. Yet the weekly influx of non-residents into a senior living community, coupled with high rates of occupancy in the dining area became too risking as the transmission of Covid 19 in the Lehigh Valley accelerated and the meals were canceled.
Fortunately, the BAM Freezer Ministry was there to step in and fill an acute need. Recent cooking events at East Hills Moravian Church had filled two industrial freezers with quarts of soup, rice and sausage dishes, macaroni and cheese, etc. just waiting to be distributed and warmed up. Who would have thought that a kitchen facility mainly used as a staging area for church dinners would become a vital asset to the surrounding community and a source of hope for those facing food insecurity?
Sadly I expect the need to increase as many persons are out of work without unemployment benefits. Early this week I, therefore, sent a grant request to Bethlehem Area Moravians for $8000 to support this ministry. They approved it and we should soon receive the funding. Should any member of the congregation, or a neighbor of a member, or a friend, etc. find themselves running short of food, please reach out to the church.
Thank you to all who have made this ministry possible. Even if we can’t include you in cooking at the present time due to limits on how many persons can be gathered in one space, know that your volunteerism in the past has filled the freezers for moments such as this. The contributions of congregation members to the annual budget has provided funds for the gas, electricity, and facilities to make this outreach possible.
Of course, as followers of Jesus, we don’t live by bread alone. Your congregational lay leaders and I are trying to provide opportunities for us to worship, learn remotely, and continue to connect with one another. We know that spiritual connection becomes more important during times of physical isolation. Please make note of such opportunities in the weekly emails and share them with others who may not have heard of them.
Our Board will be contacting members of the congregation to check on their well being. We ask that all members help us care for each other. If you or someone you are aware of has physical, emotional, or spiritual needs during this time of social distancing and quarantine please contact me or one of our elected lay leaders.
Peace, grace, and good health to you and your loved ones,
Pastor Derek