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Outreach

June 23, 2025
in Church, Discipleship, HCC, Local, Outreach, packapack, Serve Teams
by cefiggins
0 Comments

June 2025 Newsletter

Hello!
It’s been a hot minute!  The first part of this month’s newsletter will be a rapid-fire bulleted list of updates.

  • We wrapped up May with all kinds of end-of-the-year celebrations from teacher appreciation luncheons to handing out lemonade in the parent pick up line at Harvest Ridge.
  • I have been meeting with so many new people, trying to get plugged into serving at Harvester and joining groups. Keep your head on a swivel for new faces and ask our age-old question, “How long have you been attending Harvester?”
  • I also had many of our Local Outreach Crew Leaders over to my house for a time to connect with each other and lean into the idea of honoring Sabbath, Silence, and Solitude. We talked about the need to lead from a position of rest rather than weariness. I encourage you to explore what God’s word says about creating rhythms of rest. I personally really get a lot of studies created by John Mark Comer. Here is a free one through your Right Now Media account called The Sabbath Practice.
  • The Sharing Shed hosted an open house for Harvester on June 21. It was incredible to walk in and see our Harvester folks being the hands and feet of Jesus, meeting the physical needs of our neighbors. You can see some of the pictures of the event down below.

You will remember that Harvester participated in the EWR network this past winter, offering an overnight warming center for our unhoused neighbors. This summer, we are a part of a Cooling Center pilot program. HCC will be on call the weeks of July 6-12, July 27-August 2, August 17-23 and August 24-30 from 12 – 6 p.m. We will be mobilized if the temperature is expected to be over 100 degrees for 2 days in a row. Volunteers will be needed during the day to offer cold drinks, light refreshments, and extend a hospitable hand to our neighbors should they need a cool spot to come to get out of the heat. If you would like to be added to the Cooling Center group to have access to schedule please email me at cfiggins@harvester.cc

Our big push for the summer is to engage as many people as possible with the Good Neighbor Challenge. This is a serving opportunity for the entire church across all campuses to Love God and Love Our Neighbors as a concerted effort of unity, as mentioned in John 17. I encourage you to sign up for the daily texts and join in reading the same scripture, praying the same prayer, and taking on the same daily neighboring challenge as hundreds of other Harvester Christians. Don’t delay signing up to serve with your neighbor, family, co-workers, or small group in at least one of the serving opportunities between July 24 and August 12th.

Included in the Good Neighbor Challenge are all of our Pack A Pack projects. We need to fill 900 backpacks between now and July 27. You can purchase directly from our Amazon Wish List and have items shipped directly to Harvester, or print off this list or pick up one in the worship lobby. Drop off your items in the worship lobby any Sunday between now and July 20. When you scroll through all the serving options at the Good Neighbor Challenge, you will see our typical Pack A Pack events like the Boys and Girls Club Back to School Bashes, weeding and mulching at our local school partners, preparing food to serve for teachers as they return to school but also some new events. We are hosting our first Good Neighbor Market on August 8. For several years, there have been 20-30 families who come directly to the church for their school supplies. But we have never shared the gospel with them. The Good Neighbor Market will be an opportunity for us to share how much God loves these families and then provide a dignified storefront experience for families in need to “shop” for school supplies. Francis Howell has invited us to serve at their immunization clinic on August 12. It is required to go through the FHSD Volunteer Background Check. We need more people to become cleared volunteers to serve with the schools, so I highly recommend going through this process as soon as possible.

Summertime for Local Outreach is always jam-packed. I am hoping you can commit to at least one serving opportunity this summer to receive a a new and fresh blessing from God over your life.

Prayers:

Prayers for our church family to engage and commit to the Good Neighbor Challenge, and that they learn to incorporate serving their neighbors as a lifestyle rather than an event.

Prayers for the families and unhoused neighbors making the choice to trust the church and come to use to help meet their needs. Pray authentic relationships are formed.

Prayers for me because between the Cooling Center and the Good Neighbor Challenge, I have a lot of moving parts to manage. Pray I also, like you, can serve from a place of rest rather than weariness.

 

 

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June 17, 2025
in Alleviation of Poverty, Community Partner, GiveHope, HCC, Local, Outreach
by cefiggins
0 Comments

Community Partner Spotlight: REACH St Charles

This week, we have another installment to spotlight one of our Community Partners and share the impact of HCC members’ generous giving in the community. This week, we are highlighting REACH St Charles. The goal of Reach St. Charles is to connect Our goal is to connect individuals in St. Charles County with resources to address their specific need(s), on a case-by-case basis. REACh St Charles provides food boxes, holiday meal boxes, distribute meals, supplies, and clothing to the homeless, and contact organizations and agencies to help meet various needs as they arise. We are especially proud of REACH St Charles founders, Lisa Davis and Stacey Enders, who are active Harvester Christian members! Read on and pray about how you might support REACH St Charles as they connect to our neighbors in need.
What is one specific way Harvester Christian Church’s GIVE HOPE contributions have unleashed hope in your organization or to the community through your organization?
We have been able to help feed the community members who are facing food insecurity. It’s been rewarding to see how our efforts are making a positive impact, and we’re committed to continuing this vital work.
If Harvester Christians have served at your organization, what impact have they had on the community you serve?
*This summer, we are excited to partner with Harvester volunteers for the first time. We look forward to meeting the families who are experiencing food insecurity and working together to make a difference in their lives. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect and support our community!
Please share a brief client-success or services-success story we can share with Harvester Christian Church. Specific identifying information is not needed
Here is a great testimony from some of REACH St Charles recipients: First, I want to say thanks to Lisa and Stacey with the Reach St. Charles Program. My name is Dwuan & my wife is Ms. Nancy Session. We are newlyweds from Saint Louis. We have lived here for two years now. Here recently, I fell on hard times, losing my job. We fell short on food, and I reached out to Reach St. Charles, and they were right there for us, providing us with fresh food etc. to help get us by, and I am truly grateful for them. Amen. May God continue to bless them and the Reach St. Charles program.
The Session Family
What existing volunteer needs can we share with Harvester Christians?
*Our deck, which provides access to the second-floor offices and the main entrance, is in poor condition. We would greatly appreciate any individuals with carpentry skills and access to materials who could lend a hand. Your support would make a significant difference in helping us improve this essential area!
Please list any upcoming NON-fundraising events your organization is hosting in the next 90 days. These could be tours, meet n greets, trainings, etc.
We are excited to announce that we are planning to open our market, host PopUp events, 2nd annual Scholarship Program, and kick off Lindenwood Outreach, all leading up to our Grand Opening this fall. We can’t wait to share these initiatives with the community.
What is a future program or project that could benefit from an investment of Harvester Christian GIVE HOPE funds?
The Reach Market is almost complete! We are actively seeking food donations to stock the market, including fresh vegetables, produce, and dairy items. Any contributions would be greatly appreciated and would help us provide vital resources to our community.
What is the estimated cost of this future program or project?
Due to the initial stages of launching this program, we are unable to specify an exact funding amount at this time. The financial support needed will largely depend upon us seeking out additional funding sources, such as grants and donations, to cover these costs so that we can assist the number of families in our community experiencing hardship due to economic challenges and societal factors. As we gather more information and assess the specific needs of those we aim to serve, we will be better positioned to determine a more precise figure. Please let us know if you need further clarification.
How can we pray for your organization, staff, volunteers, clients, and community your organization serves?
Please pray that we can find contributors for our market, ensuring that no one in our community goes hungry. We also ask for prayers for our team, to remain inspired with creative ideas to support our mission. Your prayers mean a lot to us as we work together to make a difference!
What is one thing Harvester Christian can do to improve how we serve your organization?
We truly appreciate your continued support of our initiatives aimed at helping families in need. Your encouragement means so much to us, and together we can make a lasting impact in our community. Thank you for standing with us in this important work!
Any additional thoughts, questions, opinions, comments, or feedback?
We cannot thank you enough for everything you do to support organizations that help make our community a true reflection of the hands and feet of Jesus. Your efforts are instrumental in bringing people closer to Him and fostering a spirit of love and compassion.
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*If you are interested in serving with REACH St Charles during the upcoming Good Neighbor Challenge, you can see all the serving opportunities here===>https://harvester.cc/goodneighbor
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June 12, 2025
in Alleviation of Poverty, Child Welfare, Community Partner, HCC, Local, Outreach, packapack, School Outreach
by cefiggins
2 Comments

Pack A Pack 2025 Season has begun!

Our Harvester family always looks forward to Pack A Pack season. This is an annual initiative where Harvester Christians intentionally pray over our local school children whose families struggle to purchase all the school supplies required to help their child experience success in the classroom.

This year, we have a goal of 900 packed backpacks. These backpacks will go to the Boys and Girls Clubs of St Charles County, families at schools right in our backyard, as well as our inaugural Good Neighbor Market where local families will come to the church for a storefront experience to “shop” for their child’s school supplies (more to come on this.)

For now, we need Harvester Christians to pray, shop, share, and serve during this initiative. Below is the generic shopping list you can use to buy 1 item, collect a few others from neighbors, or maybe you will choose to fill a whole backpack. You can drop these supplies in the worship lobby on Sundays. Don’t delay, though! Our first delivery of backpacks is Thursday, July 17! 

Elementary backpacks

  • 1 sturdy book bag
  • 2 plastic folders with pockets and prongs in different colors
  • 1 pencil box
  • 1 wide ruled notebook
  • 2 glue sticks
  • 1 pack of 24-count crayons
  • 1 scissors
  • 1 pack of 12 markers
  • 10   #2 pencils
  • 1 ruler
  • 1 water bottle

Middle/High School backpacks

  • 1 sturdy book bag
  •  5 plastic folders with pockets and prongs in different colors
  •  1 pencil pouch
  •  3 college-ruled notebooks in different colors
  • 10 #2 pencils
  • 2 three three-ring binders
  • 3 highlighters
  •  10 blue or black in pens
  • 1 ruler
  • 1 pack of colored pencils
  • 1 pack of loose-leaf college ruled paper
  • 1 calculator
  • 1 water bottle

 

You can also use our Amazon wish list to choose your donated items and have them sent directly to Harvester St Charles.

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June 6, 2025
in Alleviation of Poverty, GiveHope, HCC, Local, Ministry Partner, Outreach, Serve Teams, The Sharing Shed
by cefiggins
1 Comment

Ministry Partner Spotlight: The Sharing Shed

Halfway through each calendar year, I ask our ministry and community partners to share how your giving has impacted their mission. These partnerships outside the walls of the church meet tangible needs and unleash hope in ways we could never do on our own. Thank you for your continued ongoing generosity to support local outreach efforts like these.

This week, I want to share the responses from The Sharing Shed. The Sharing Shed is a longtime ministry partner with Harvester Christian. Their mission is to meet the needs of those in crisis, together for the glory of God,  as they strive to provide their clients with anything from a bed to sleep on, a sofa to sit on, and a table to eat from. While our HCC  volunteers are there serving each month, their focus is to share love and hope with those they are fortunate enough to serve through The Sharing Shed. After you read through their responses, be sure to comment below with words of encouragement or a prayer for the staff and volunteers at The Sharing Shed.

What is one specific way Harvester Christian Church’s GIVE HOPE contributions have unleashed hope in your organization or to the community through your organization?
We have been incredibly blessed to count Harvester among the very few churches, just two—that support us with consistent financial contributions. Your partnership through Give Hope has truly allowed The Sharing Shed to flourish.
Because of this support, we’ve become a cornerstone for local agencies and churches that rely on us to help families recovering from abuse, mental health challenges, homelessness, and other life transitions. Our role is to provide essential household items that help families move toward independence and sustainable living. Your generosity directly supports these efforts.
Give Hope funding has also made it possible to complete our long-awaited renovations, transforming our space into one that reflects our values—serving families with dignity. The Shed has always been filled with warm, welcoming volunteers, and now, thanks to you, our environment reflects that same warmth and care.
Harvester has become a safety net that helps us stay mission-focused. When we run low on critical items, Give Hope funds allow us to quickly respond and fill the gap—whether it’s bunk beds, mattresses, vacuums, or simple essentials like pillows, sheets, trash cans, or cookie sheets. These items may seem small, but they bring immense comfort, dignity, and stability to the families we serve.
If Harvester Christians have served at your organization, what impact have they had on the community you serve?
The volunteers from Harvester continue to be a vital part of the work we do at The Sharing Shed. Month after month, they show up with compassion, dedication, and a heart for service—bringing hope and dignity to every family they encounter.
Their attention to detail ensures that families not only receive what they need, but feel seen and cared for. Whether it’s helping choose the perfect bed for a child or selecting a kitchen table that makes a house feel like a home, Harvester’s volunteers consistently go above and beyond.
But their service goes deeper than just meeting physical needs. Through prayer, kind words, and genuine encouragement, they pour into each family’s spirit—reminding them that they are not alone and that they matter. Their impact is felt far beyond the moment of service, and we’re deeply grateful for the way they help us carry out our mission with such love and grace.
Please share a brief client-success or services-success story we can share with Harvester Christian Church. Specific identifying information is not needed.
The impact of the services provided by The Sharing Shed is truly life-changing. Every week, we see firsthand how essential household items can restore dignity, bring hope, and help families move forward. Here are just a few recent stories that show how your support is making a difference: A gentleman who had been homeless for three years recently secured housing and was working to reunite with his three children. He came to us needing everything. We were able to provide him with beds, dressers, living room furniture, a kitchen table and chairs, bedding, bath linens, and all the kitchen essentials he needed. He was overjoyed—not just for the items, but because he could now welcome his children into a real home. He couldn’t wait for them to see the space and feel safe and settled.
We also served a family of four who had recently moved from Cuba. After living with a host family for a year, they finally found a place of their own. The Sharing Shed helped them turn their house into a home with furniture and household essentials. The mother was overwhelmed with gratitude. She said she had never heard of an organization that helps people like this and couldn’t believe the kindness she was receiving from complete strangers. Another mother came to us after escaping an abusive relationship. She was starting over with her two boys and had nothing. Through The Sharing Shed, she was able to furnish their new apartment and meet their basic needs. She told us she had no idea how she was going to provide for her children—and broke down in tears as she realized she finally could. It was a powerful reminder of how far a little help can go in restoring stability and hope. These stories are just a glimpse into the lives that are being changed thanks to Harvester’s continued support. Your generosity is helping families rebuild, recover, and thrive.
What existing volunteer needs can we share with Harvester Christians?
Harvester currently serves at The Sharing Shed on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 9-11 AM, helping families in need select furniture and household items. Additional help is also needed for furniture pickups during this time. We’re also excited to offer a new serving opportunity for Harvester’s Young Adult Group! They’ll be serving families on the 4th Wednesday of the month from 6-8 PM, starting in June and July. Whether it’s loading furniture, organizing donations, or offering encouragement to families, these are great ways to make a meaningful impact. We’d love to have you join us! We are also looking for a volunteer to help with our administrative duties, and 2 new team leaders for our warehouse on the first and second Monday nights. Training is required.
Please list any upcoming NON-fundraising events your organization is hosting in the next 90 days. These could be tours, meet n greets, trainings, etc.
The Sharing Shed will be hosting a 10-Year Anniversary and Remodel Celebration on Friday, June 21st, from 8:30 to 11:00 AM. This special event will honor our ongoing partnership with Harvester Christian Church and highlight the transformation of our facility. Guests are invited to enjoy refreshments, take guided tours of our newly renovated space, and connect with board members to learn more about how to get involved. We also welcome donations of hygiene items, which will directly benefit the families we serve.
What is a future program or project that could benefit from an investment of Harvester Christian GIVE HOPE funds?
We are currently exploring the option of wrapping our pickup and delivery truck to help increase awareness of our services throughout the community.
What is the estimated cost of this future program or project?
Wrap would cost between $2,000 and $3,000 depending on package option
How can we pray for your organization, staff, volunteers, clients, and the community your organization serves?
We are deeply thankful for your willingness to pray for The Sharing Shed. Your prayers are a vital part of the support that sustains our team, our volunteers, and the families we serve. Please pray for clarity and discernment as we continue to grow. As the needs in our community expand, we are seeking God’s guidance in how to respond faithfully—with the right resources, the right people, and a heart rooted in compassion. Pray for our volunteers and staff—that they would be refreshed, encouraged, and filled with wisdom as they serve. Many carry heavy burdens alongside the families they support, and we ask for strength and joy in their work.
Lift up the families who come through our doors, often in times of deep transition and hardship. Pray that they would experience not only the practical help we provide, but also the love, dignity, and hope that reflect the heart of Christ. Finally, pray that The Sharing Shed would continue to be a light in our community—a place where people feel seen, supported, and uplifted, and where God’s love is evident in every interaction. We’re so grateful to know we are being covered in prayer as we continue this important work.
What is one thing Harvester Christian can do to improve how we serve your organization?
Harvester Christian continues to be a tremendous blessing to The Sharing Shed. Your volunteers consistently show up eager to serve, and they do so with kindness, flexibility, and compassion toward our clients. Your leadership—especially through Lisa and now Stephanie with the young adult group—has been outstanding. Communication has been clear and supportive, and we feel truly cared for. At this time, we honestly can’t think of anything you need to do differently. Just continuing to walk alongside us with the same heart and commitment means the world. Thank you for being such a faithful and valued partner in this ministry.
Any additional thoughts, questions, opinions, comments, or feedback?
We cannot thank you enough for your support! It has been such a blessing.
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May 19, 2025
in HCC, Local, Ministry Partner, Outreach
by cefiggins
0 Comments

Tornado Relief Update

Our St Louis neighbors are hurting after the May 16 tornado. Harvester Christians can meet tangible needs TODAY as we wait for processes and protocols to roll out from disaster relief services such as SEMA, United Way, American Red Cross, and Salvation Army. We are focusing our support on our long-term ministry partner, Love the Lou. Our partners there have generated a list of resources they are gathering. You can drop these items off at the church offices any time this week, 8:30 -4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and we will deliver them. Another way you can help is to use the Amazon wish list. The items will also be delivered here to the church, and we will deliver them. If you want to sign up to help Love the Lou with clean up, go directly to their tornado relief sign-up page on their website and click on the days you can serve. Don’t forget to pray every day for our neighbors suffering to find relief through God and His people.

Resources needed for Love the Lou Tornado Relief

  • Bottled water
  • Batteries
  • Flashlights
  • Dust masks
  • Safety glasses
  • Work gloves
  • First aid kits
  • Lanterns
  • 5-gallon buckets
  • Trash bags
  • Diapers/wipes
  • Infant formula
  • Extension cords
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Phone chargers
  • Surge protectors
  • Pop Top canned fruits & vegetables
  • Pop top Canned chicken/tuna
  • Rice
  • Cereal
  • Oatmeal
  • Applesauce
  • Fresh fruit such as bananas, apples, oranges
  • Crackers
  • Instant mashed potatoes
  • Trail mix
  • Peanut butter
  • Jelly
  • Bread
  • Jiffy cornbread mix
  • Mac n cheese add water only
  • Pop top Canned soups
  • Toothbrushes
  • Toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Hand wipes
  • Feminine products

Cannot accept homemade food, open or used items, unlabeled food, rusty or dented items.

Amazon wish list available https://a.co/cVxtN6t

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May 1, 2025
in Local, Mental Health, Outreach, packapack, School Outreach, Serve Teams, The Sharing Shed
by cefiggins
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May 2025 Newsletter

First Things First

In the busyness of outreach—packing groceries, loving teachers and schools, caring for our unhoused neighbors, mentoring kids—it’s easy to pour ourselves out until we’re running on empty. But God never meant for our service to come from exhaustion. He calls us to serve from a place of rest. 

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
—Matthew 6:33 (ESV) 

God established the Sabbath not as a burden, but as a gift—a rhythm of rest and renewal that reminds us: our worth is not in what we do, but in Whose we are. 

As HCC Outreach volunteers, we love well when we live well—rested, rooted, and responsive to the Spirit. When we put God first in our weeks, our days, and our decisions, everything else falls into place—not always easily, but in order. The Sabbath helps reorient our hearts so we can give our best, not just what’s left. 

This month, let’s choose to rest with God before we work for God. Saving the best of ourselves—our time, our attention, our affection—for Him first is the most powerful way to love our neighbors well. 

May Serving Opportunities Looking for serving opportunities? Check out our new link on the  “big” church website! https://harvester.cc/outreach-events 

FHSD: God is opening doors for us left and right in the Francis Howell School District. However, it does require us to have many more volunteers complete the volunteer background check through FHSD. Even if you are cleared to serve at HCC you must complete the FHSD process. We will need at least 8 clear volunteers to serve at an immunization clinic in August and 15 cleared volunteers to participate in a pilot math tutoring program later this fall. Processing can take up to six weeks. Let’s get this done by June please!  

Good Neighbor Serve Group: Did you know we have a group of Harvester folk who answer the call when our members or neighbors need lawns mowed, simple repairs, or heavy items fixed? Let me know if you would like to be added to this group to be notified of needs.  

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 5-9. We have a ton of ways to show our local school teachers and staff how much we appreciate all they do in our neighborhoods!  

Sharing Shed: We have had such a response to serving at The Sharing Shed. They have provided a few more opportunities, but we need your input on how we are going to best divide this serve group. Be sure to complete this survey so we know the best way to communicate with you. It’s very important to RSVP to the event as a limited number of people can serve effectively at The Sharing Shed.  

Work Day at The Sharing Shed 

Saturday, May 17 9:00 –11:00 

Pack A Pack 

We have a goal to collect enough school supplies for 800 local children in need this year! Are you a small business owner or have access to a doctor, dentist, insurance agent, or small shop? Could you consider serving as a Pack A Pack Collection site June 1-30? Email Carissa to learn more about how you can have an impact on the community using your gifts, talents, and blessings. Huge shoutout to those HCC businesses who have already said yes! We have a goal to have ten businesses in total.

  • CC3 Solutions 
  • Dailey Chiropractic 
  • Edward Jones 
  • Midwest Scuba 
  • Tequila Restaurant  
Prayers: 

Pray the most audacious prayers this month for our neighborhoods. Pray for those seemingly impossibilities! Is it Satan’s release on someone’s mental health or freedom from addiction? Is it curing someone of cancer? Is it for safe, affordable housing for our unhoused neighbors? Is it for child abuse and neglect to be non-existent in St Charles County? Is it for 300 foster children in St Charles County to return to safe homes or find safe havens in adoptive families?

Comment below what you are praying for!  

 Resources:  

In these present times, our mental fitness requires us now more than ever to renew our minds with the Lord. Check out this new study from Kyle Idleman in Right Now Media.  https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/920259 

“Jesus said, ‘Come to me all you who are weary and I will give you rest.’ This You Version plan is an invitation to partake in God’s abiding rest with many practical ways to make rest a lifestyle. This one discipline could deepen your intimacy with God and change the fruitfulness of your life.” Check out this Bible Study by yourself or with a friend! https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/25341-sabbath-living-from-rest 

Here is an interesting podcast from the Think Biblically Podcast How does a Christian view of mental health compare and contrast with a secular perspective? Are we in a mental health crisis today? And how do we best love our family and friends who are suffering from mental illness. In this video and podcast, Sean and Scott talk with Rosemead Professor Chris Adams about these questions and more. Dr. Adams shares about the new Flourishing in Ministry resource that helps pastors and churches address mental health. See www.flourishinginministry.org. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xd0DoddNSCs 

 Recommended Reading:  

The Body Keeps Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk  

It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lisa Terkeurst 

Troubled Minds by Amy Simpson 

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March 31, 2025
in Child Welfare, Church, Community Partner, Discipleship, Food Backpack Program, HCC, Local, Ministry Partner, Outreach, packapack, School Outreach, Serve Teams, The Sharing Shed, Uncategorized
by cefiggins
0 Comments

April 2025 Newsletter

New Life in Christ: A Season of Baptism and Service

Spring is a season of renewal, a time when we can usually shake off any worries of bleak winter days and look forward to days that just burst with vibrant new life. It is so wonderful to be able to celebrate Easter in this season—the ultimate reminder that Jesus conquered death and offers us new life in Him. At Harvester Christian Church, we see this truth come alive in so many ways, but few are as powerful as witnessing baptisms during this time of year.

Baptism is a public declaration of faith, a moment when someone steps into the water to proclaim that they are leaving behind their old life and stepping into a new life with Christ. Romans 6:4 says, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” This new life is not just about our own salvation—it calls us into something greater: a life of service, generosity, and love for others.

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March 20, 2025
in Alleviation of Poverty, Church, HCC, Jesus, Local, Mental Health, Outreach, Uncategorized
by cefiggins
0 Comments

Take a risk in the name of the Lord

There is not a set formula that leads someone to live unhoused. We can’t be so naive and judgemental to assume someone got into drugs, lost their job, doesn’t want responsibility, and is now living on the streets. In St Charles County homelessness is becoming a crisis. The situation is fueled by the lack of affordable housing, lack of transportation, and affordable child care,  mental health challenges, job loss, and other life crises that create depression and despair.

What is the cause of homelessness? 

If you talk to any HCC volunteer who served in the Warming Center they will all humbly share that they entered that serving opportunity with a preconceived idea of why someone would be homeless. In reality, there are so many situations that can lead to homelessness. Many of us in the church are just one hospitalization away from being homeless ourselves.

Homelessness can mean :

  • Earning a wage that is insufficient to meet housing costs.
  • Aging out of foster care and not having a permanent place to live.
  • Fleeing an abuser as they seek a safe place to live.
  • Living in a constant state of survival mode.
  • Being arrested for sleeping in a public location, despite having nowhere else to go.

So what does this mean for us at Harvester Christian Church? What can we possibly do?

Pray

For sure, I can share all the ways I know how to serve our unhoused neighbors, but I don’t know specifically how God is calling you. Pray for God to give you eyes to see His children who are experiencing homelessness. Pray for your heart to break for the things that break His heart. Pray for God to open your mind to the possibilities of service through justice and generosity. Pray you are obedient to the command of Loving God with all your heart, all your mind, and all your soul. Pray you are also obedient to the command of loving your neighbor as yourself.

Educate yourself and others

As I mentioned before there are lots of reasons for homelessness but there are solutions that work to end homelessness as well. The solution to ending homelessness is simply housing. “Rapid re-housing provides short-term rental assistance and services. The goals are to help people obtain housing quickly, increase self-sufficiency, and stay housed. It is offered without preconditions (such as employment, income, absence of criminal record, or sobriety) and the resources and services provided are typically tailored to the needs of the person.” Rapid re-housing can end homelessness by quickly connecting people to a home and services. We need Christian landlords willing to provide truly affordable housing with limited barriers. We need policies that encourage and incentivize business owners and community leaders to support rapid re-housing initiatives. We need many more second-chance employers to provide employment opportunities at a living wage. We need to be well versed in what God’s word sets as expectations and commandments for serving the poor and marginalized.

Practical and Tangible Help for Transportation

Many of our unhoused neighbors have been able to hold onto a car of some form or another. This provides their access not only to employment but also serves as their home Many of our unhoused neighbors share that transportation is a barrier that hinders access to services and opportunities. Challenges can include high maintenance costs and unreliable vehicles. You can help by donating bikes, and gas/Uber cards, supporting small repairs (Jiffy Lube GCs), and offering to pay directly to insurance providers to make sure their cars are properly insured for 30,60 or 90 days. Or make a financial contribution to local organizations that provide direct services.

Take A Risk

Ultimately we need Christ’s followers to live their faith in action. We need Christians to be obedient to God’s calling in their lives and take a risk in the name of the Lord. We need to walk into loving others knowing that yes we may get taken advantage of, yes we may be inconvenienced, yes, our efforts may not work out, and yes something we own might be mistreated or abused. Yes, the individual we are helping may not know how to properly express gratitude. Yes, it might be messy and take a long time. Yes you may not get to see the results of your efforts and investment of your time, talents, and treasure in this individual. But all of those things are of this world. All of those excuses are really about pleasing ourselves and man rather than God.

I don’t know where is God is leading you in meeting this need in our community. But I do know we have to step out of faith and be much more intentional in our actions of serving those women, children, and men who are experiencing homelessness. If you want to learn more about homelessness in our community let’s schedule a coffee soon. We CAN do something about this issue not because of who we are but because of WHOSE we are.

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March 6, 2025
in Community Partner, Food Backpack Program, HCC, Local, Ministry Partner, Outreach, packapack, Safe Families for Children, School Outreach, Serve Teams
by cefiggins
0 Comments

Is Your Small Group Ready To Serve?

With winter finally melting away and Daylight Savings time just around the corner many of us are also coming back to life! I have heard that many small groups have been on hold since the holidays with the onslaught of rough weather and long weeks of illness. Is your small group coming back to life? Are they starting to talk about how they can serve their community? Here are a few ideas to get them going!

1. The HCC Food Backpack Ministry serves about 100-120 local students every week. Your small group can help these children who experience food insecurity by hosting a food drive. This is an easy way to get neighbors involved near your host home as well. Collect canned ravioli, individual mac n cheese, nut-free snacks such as granola bars, beef jerky, and healthy fruit snacks. Plan a special time to pray over these students and families hit with hard times.

2. In the same vein, on average the HCC Food Pantry provides groceries for 130 clients. Could your small group consider hosting a canned food drive to help keep the pantry shelves stocked?

3. Does your small group enjoy being outdoors? Could they consider weeding and mulching at one of our local schools on a weeknight? Would they enjoy helping to keep the Journey Trails free of weeds and trash?

4. Does your small group have the gift of hospitality? Could they consider hosting one of our teacher appreciation breakfasts or lunches? Could they stock and deliver our WOOT WOOT cart, a snack and drink cart, to one of our local school partners?

5. Does your small group love shopping? Could they consider collecting 24 packed backpacks this summer for Pack A Pack? Could they purchase children’s socks and underwear for HCC Back To School events?

6. Is your small group packed with Prayer Warriors? Could they consider joining our monthly School Outreach Pray and Prep where we pray over local schools, administrators, teachers, and students?

7. Does your small group like to plan and host parties and fun events? Could they consider helping to organize community breakfasts or dinners for our community and ministry partners to come to HCC to be encouraged? Or help plan a teacher appreciation dinner?

8. Does your small group love children? Could they consider becoming a Family Friend or a Host Family with Safe Families for Children?

9. Does your small group have a heart for individuals living with disabilities? Could they consider connecting with our ministry partner Joni & Friends and serving at summer camps or family retreats this summer?

10. Does your small group’s heartbreak for our unhoused neighbors? Could they consider serving at a cooling center this summer or a warming center in the winter?

BONUS option: Does your small group want to serve but is not sure where to start? Consider inviting Carissa Figgins, our local Outreach Pastor to visit your small group and learn more about how your small group can lead others to find and follow Jesus!

Make sure each of your small group members subscribes to this blog and is following the HCC Outreach- St Charles Campus Facebook page to stay up to date on serving opportunities and more!

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March 3, 2025
in Church, Community Partner, HCC, Local, Ministry Partner, Outreach, Safe Families for Children, School Outreach, Serve Teams, The Sharing Shed, Uncategorized
by cefiggins
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March 2025 Edition: What’s Coming in HCC Local Outreach & Beyond

March 2025 Edition: What’s Coming in HCC Local Outreach & Beyond
Thank You Father

On Sunday Nikomas preached on Gratitude. I had the vantage point of sitting up top during the third service. As I looked down I saw two of our warming center guests praising God with all of their might during a sermon on gratitude I saw one of our members who I know is battling harsh health issues praising with all their might during a sermon on gratitude. I saw one of our Local Outreach volunteers who I know is going through a rough family season praising with all of their might during a sermon on gratitude. That was one of the “Thank You Fathers” I wrote down in my phone. Thank you Father for examples of spiritual giants who praise you and thank you and keep a laser focus on you no matter what life throws their way.” I would love for you to share one of your “Thank You Fathers” in the comments of the blog!

Local Outreach Updates:
In order to focus on the For The One Campaign we had very few events in February. But if you attended one of the vision nights I know you got a piece of the momentum and excitement. I personally loved when we turned to our neighbors and prayed with 3-4 people seated around us for courage and for our One. Be sure to sign up for a time slot for the 24 Hours of Prayer. Commitment Sunday is coming up on March 9th. Continue praying about how God wants you to share his gifts to go above and beyond your normal giving.

I have been working hard to build out this blog with useful information. You can now find an overview of all current serving opportunities as well as many specific volunteer descriptions. Make it a goal to share those links with people in your small group this month.

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February 27, 2025
in Child Welfare, HCC, Local, Ministry Partner, Outreach, Safe Families for Children, Serve Teams, Volunteer Spotlight
by cefiggins
2 Comments

Volunteer Job Description: Family Friend

Volunteer Job Description: Family Friend

Purpose:

  • Ephesians 4:11-12: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
  • Harvester Christian Church is dedicated to caring for the least of these. One of the ways we do this is by providing support and encouragement to Harvester Christians who have made the decision to be Safe Families, Foster Families, or Adoptive Families. Safe Family Friends play a crucial role in encouraging and strengthening these families through various means of support.

Key Responsibilities:

Prayer Support: Commit to praying regularly for Safe Families, Foster Families, and Adoptive Families within the Harvester community.

Practical Support: Provide practical assistance such as:

  • Dropping off diapers or essential supplies.
  • Preparing and delivering occasional meals.
  • Offering babysitting services for a few hours to give parents a break.
  • Providing transportation to appointments or school.

Emotional Support: Offer encouragement and a listening ear to families, providing a sense of community and understanding.

Flexible Assistance: Be available for other support tasks as needed, ensuring families feel supported and valued.

 

Qualifications:

  • Commitment to the mission and values of Harvester Christian Church through membership.
  • Completion of Belong and/or Discover Harvester class (highly recommended, though not required).
  • A heart for serving and supporting Safe Families host families, foster or adoptive families in need.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to handle sensitive situations with confidentiality and compassion.

 Time Commitment:

  • Flexible and variable based on the needs of the families and the availability of the volunteer.
  • Regular check-ins with the Safe Family/Foster/Adopt Crew Leader to ensure families’ needs are being met effectively.

Training and Support:

  • Initial orientation and training will be provided to familiarize volunteers with the role and responsibilities.
  • Complete Core Training and Sexual Abuse Prevention Training through Safe Families for Children
  • Ongoing support and resources will be available through Harvester Christian Church.

Benefits:

Spiritual Growth: Deepen your faith through acts of service and prayer, fulfilling the call to love and support others as Christ loves us.

Community Connection: Build meaningful relationships with other volunteers and families within the Harvester Christian Church community.

Personal Fulfillment: Experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from making a positive impact on families who are caring for children in need.

Skill Development: Enhance your skills in areas such as caregiving, communication, and organization.

Flexibility: Enjoy a role that offers flexible hours and tasks that can fit into your personal schedule.

 

Reporting To: Crew Leader for Safe Families/Foster/Adopt

By serving as a Family Friend, you will be making a tangible difference in the lives of families who have opened their hearts and homes to children in need. Your support, whether through prayer, practical assistance, or emotional encouragement, helps to build up the body of Christ and strengthens our community.

 

Contact:

For more information or to sign up, please contact

Carissa Figgins

Local Outreach Pastor

cfiggins@harvester.cc

 

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February 27, 2025
in Church, HCC, Local, Outreach, Serve Teams, Volunteer Spotlight
by cefiggins
1 Comment

Volunteer Job Description: Administrative Ministry Volunteers

Volunteer Job Description: Administrative Ministry Volunteers

Purpose:

  • Local Outreach is in need of administrative volunteers. Administrative Ministry Volunteers play an essential role in the life of the Local Outreach, contributing to the effective administration and coordination of ministry tasks and activities. This is a wonderful opportunity to use your skills to serve the community and support the mission of the church.
  • Ephesians 4:11-12: “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”

Key Responsibilities:

Database Entry: Maintain and update Local Outreach databases with accurate and timely information.

Sorting and Organizing Supplies: Manage and organize ministry supplies, ensuring everything is in order and accessible.

Event Preparation: Assist in preparing for events, including setting up materials, coordinating logistics, and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Copying and Printing: Handle copying and printing tasks for various ministry needs.

Administrative Support: Provide general administrative support to the Local Outreach team, including answering phones, responding to emails, and other tasks as needed.

 

Qualifications:

  • Commitment to the mission and values of Harvester Christian Church through membership.
  • Completion of Belong and/or Discover Harvester class (highly recommended, though not required).
  • Strong organizational and administrative skills.
  • Proficiency with basic office software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in completing tasks.
  • Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and discretion.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Time Commitment:

Flexible hours based on volunteer availability and ministry needs.

Regular commitment preferred (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly).

 

Training and Support:

  • Initial orientation and training provided to familiarize volunteers with their roles and responsibilities.
  • Ongoing support and resources available through the Local Outreach team.

Benefits:

Spiritual Growth: Deepen your faith through acts of service and contributing to the mission of the church.

Community Impact: Play a vital role in supporting the church’s outreach efforts and making a positive difference in the community.

Personal Fulfillment: Experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from using your skills to support ministry activities.

Skill Development: Enhance your administrative and organizational skills in a practical setting.

Networking: Connect with other church members and volunteers who share a commitment to serving the community.

Flexibility: Choose volunteer hours that fit your schedule, allowing you to serve in a way that complements your personal and professional commitments.

 

Reporting To: Outreach Ministry Coordinator

 

Contact:

For more information or to sign up, please contact

Jillian Hohensee

Outreach Ministry Assistant

jhohensee@harvester.cc

 

By serving as an Administrative Ministry Volunteer, you will be making a significant contribution to the effective operation of Local Outreach activities and events. Your dedication and skills will help build up the body of Christ and support the church’s mission to serve the community.

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From the HCC Outreach Team:

Thanks so much for stopping by the Harvester Christian Church Outreach Team’s blog! We hope you find this resource helpful, insightful and encouraging as we strive to Unleash the Hope of Jesus back into our world!

This resource belongs to Harvester Christian Church in St. Charles, Mo.