Branches

John 15:5 ~ I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, then you will produce much fruit.

It’s spring! The days are getting longer, the tulips are blooming, and seeing new growth is exciting after a long (and kind of weird) winter. I know I’m not the only one who gets a little spring in my step when things feel fresh and new. Our gardens aren’t the only thing waking up right now, either. There’s new life sprouting up at SCC too. Our leadership teams have been talking about how to capitalize on SCC’s strengths and resources to be more effective sharers of Good News in our congregation and the Sunnyland community.

To that end, I have been in conversation with folks from a few other churches in the Washington area who want to make a real and lasting difference for students who live at or near the poverty level. So I am proud to introduce you to Branches of Washington, an ecumenical group of Washington churches dedicated to empowering children & youth in Washington through resources that help them succeed in school and life.

There are many groups doing great work already, powered by SCC members: Weekend Snackpac, Moms Who Care, and food pantries, to name a few. But there are still many gaps left which keep some kids from getting to school each morning ready to learn. By helping fill those gaps, our kids can make the most of their school years and grow into successful adults, breaking the cycle of generational poverty.

Here’s where you come in. We need a few SCC folks who are passionate about supporting the youth of our community, to join this new team. If you’re intrigued and open to building this ministry, please call or text me at 309-863-5713, or go to https://bit.ly/branches-wash to take the next step. There are opportunities for people of all ages, fitness levels, and skill sets. With your help we can truly bear good fruit, in Christ Jesus’ name.

In recent weeks I have begun meeting with some of our friends at The Bridge UMC and St Marks Lutheran (ELCA), hoping to combine efforts to minister to the youth of Washington. Speaking also with people in our congregations, we feel compelled to new action. We have begun the work of identifying the gaps left by other programs and stepping in with love and resources to fill those voids. However, identifying these gaps is just the start. The real work includes our response. I have begun talking with the SCC Board, Elders, and other leaders, considering the incredible resources we already have at our fingertips: SCC’s location in the heart of District 50, and our parsonage house. These are not just assets; they are tools God has given us to serve our community.

I invite you to join me in prayer for this mission. Consider how our spaces can be transformed from underutilized resources into vibrant hubs of support and community care. Imagine our parking lot hosting a back-to-school fair, with physicals, immunizations, or other services that Washington youth need to start their school year strong. Or envision the parsonage house as a community center where families can learn about the other resources available to them. The possibilities are as numerous as they are needed.

I again invite you to be in prayer for this effort, a testament to what we stand for – a community united in faith, hope, and love, extending our hands and hearts beyond our walls, reaching into the world that God has called us to love. SCC was built in 1938 out of a need for a hub in our community, and that need is as strong as ever in 2024. If you are interested in knowing more, or being part of this response, please contact me.

Thank you for your prayers and your continued commitment to being the hands and feet of Christ for the families of Washington and Sunnyland. With God’s help we will be here for 85 more.