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serve local Tag

April 29, 2026
in Upcoming Events
by cefiggins
0 Comments

April 2026 Newsletter

April 2026 Newsletter

HCC St Charles Campus-Local Outreach

Devotional: Trading Our Certainty for Christlikeness

I think and pray about neighborhoods a lot. When I am driving around meeting with our various community and ministry partners, I get to see all kinds of neighborhoods of different ages, different builders, and different preice points. Think about a neighborhood where every house is painted the exact same shade, every yard trimmed to identical lines, every porch decorated with the same furniture. At first glance, it might look neat—even impressive—but after a while, it begins to feel lifeless and a little creepy. There’s no personality, no story, no evidence of the unique people who live inside those walls. Sameness may create order, but it rarely creates connection.

Unity in the Kingdom of God was never meant to look like that kind of sameness—it was always meant to look like surrender. Somewhere along the way, it becomes easy to confuse being right with being righteous, to elevate certainty over Christlike character. But God did not set us apart because we mastered arguments or held the correct opinions; He set us apart through His Word, which reveals His heart, not our superiority. The invitation of Jesus has never been to prove a point, but to embody a posture—one marked by humility, love, and a deep trust that God is fully capable of being God without our control. And when we begin to loosen our grip on needing to be right, we may discover that what the world has been waiting for isn’t our correction—but our compassion.

Unity does not mean uniformity. It is not about who is right and who is wrong. We are sanctified, set apart, not by being right and everyone else is wrong. We are sanctified by God’s word and His truth. That scripture reveals God’s heart towards us, not our certainty in being right.  It is a posture of humility and love. A posture that is not about us but allowing more and more people to encounter Jesus, not being a blockade. Does the God of all the universe, in all of His omnipotence, really need me to try to control His creation? Does God, in His omniscience, rely on me to define what is true and what is false on His behalf? Have I fallen into the trap that somehow God, the same God who is omnipresent,  needs to be defended in case someone sneaks up behind Him and takes Him down? I am weak, and He is strong. I need forgiveness and redemption. He is the Forgiver and Redemptor. I do not need to waste words, thoughts, and energy on things that seem holy as dictated by the world. I have been called to Love God with all my heart, and all my soul, and all my mind. Secondly, I am commanded to Love my neighbor as myself. We must be careful not to confuse our role with God’s rule. Jesus’ holiness did not push people away. His purpose was not to intimidate or condemn but to gently call all people to something greater than they had ever known.

If we are honest, we have all fallen short of this glory of God and conformed our faith into something we saw on the news or social media, or from some group. 2 Timothy 4:3-5 says there will be a time when we gather around teachers who say what our itching ears long to hear, and it turns us away from the truth to myths. Myths that convince us to force our faith on others through policy or party, or marginalize people for not believing how we believe as Christ followers.  John 17 reminds us that the world will not believe because we are the most correct. The world will believe because we are the most loving. There is a point in our spiritual transformation that we must surrender the fear of being wrong. We must repent from the motivation of “getting it right.” At some point, we all have to admit that we are the barrier keeping others from finding and following Jesus. Join me in humbling myself and repenting of the need to be right with all certainty and surrender to becoming more like Christ.

  1. Ask God to create in you a new heart and renew a right spirit in Him. Repent of the times you have unknowingly or knowingly been a barrier to someone’s faith rather than a door that leads them to Jesus.
  2. The early church was visible to the whole world, and they had favor with all people (Acts 2:47). Dietrich Bonhoeffer shares that the growth of the church came from those who shouted “Hosanna,” not “Crucify.” How is God possibly calling on you to shift your speech to others, the words you choose to listen to, to the social media posts you like or post to focus on John 17 unity rather than creating dividing lines with non-believers?

Prayer Focus

We believe prayer is where outreach begins. Before we go, we ask God to move.

  • Our Community — That individuals and families in St. Charles County would experience stability, provision, and the hope of Jesus
  • Our Ministry Partners — For endurance, wisdom, and encouragement as they serve on the front lines every day
  • Our Church — That more people would step into serving as a next step in following Jesus. Pray that barriers are removed that keep people from finding ways to serve and signing up to serve outside the walls of Harvester.

Prayer Prompt:
Lord, help me see what You see. Break my heart for what breaks Yours, and give me courage to step in.

📅 Upcoming Opportunities

If you do not see these serving opportunities in the app, or if it is not clear how to sign up, please email Carissa at cfiggins@harvester.cc

Leadership Pathway

Our Local Outreach Crew Leaders recently completed a Leadership Orientation that is a requirement for all HCC Leaders at all campuses. So what do they do now? The first special Leadership Seminar will be led by Don Sanders on two important topics to help us grow as leaders. It will also be a great chance to connect with other leaders at Harvester too! Reminder, this is just for HCC Leaders who have completed the Leadership Orientation.

May 2nd
O’Fallon Campus
9 am-11 am

SCHEDULE:
8:45-9:00 – Arrive/Snacks & Coffee
9:00-9:10 – Welcome & Intro
9:10-10:00 – Session 1:  Thinking Critically as Leaders
10:00-10:05 – Break
10:05-10:55 – Session 2:  Caring Compassionately as Leaders
10:55-11:00 – Closing & Dismissal

We want all our leaders to be there! Here is the link to RSVP.

The Sharing Shed

Join us and serve on one or more of these dates! This regular serve crew serves clients of The Sharing Shed by receiving household donations, cleaning, organizing, and personally shopping with clients.

  • Saturday, May 16, 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.
  • Wednesday, May 27, 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.
  • Saturday, June 6, 9:00 am -11:00 a.m.
  • Wednesday, June 24, 9:00 am-11:00 a.m.

Broken & Beautiful Pen Pal Ministry

Ongoing Need- Volunteers are needed to join our Pen Pal Ministry to women incarcerated in prison. A minimum of one email a month to encourage and help women draw closer to Jesus. Training is required.

School Outreach Pray & Prep

  • Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Join us for any of these serving opportunities in the Annex to pray over our local schools, students, and teachers each month. The remainder of the time is spent preparing teacher appreciation gifts and handwriting cards of encouragement. Enter through Door 10 of the Annex.

School Partnerships

Ongoing Need – We are waiting on some details from the schools, but pencil in these events and dates for now. 

  • May 6 Teacher Appreciation Lunch at Harvest Ridge 10:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
  • May 6 Teacher Appreciation Lunch at Barnwell
  • May 12, 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Hackmann Rd Early Childhood End of the Year Celebration at Ollie’s Fun Center-St Peters.
  • Kona Ice at Barnwell Middle School, Friday, May 15, 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Serve at one or both times! 2-3 Volunteers needed to assist students in purchasing Kona Ice, handing out napkins, and being a friendly face at the school
  • May 18, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Senior Clap Out and Ice Cream at Becky David Elementary

HCC Food Pantry and Food Backpack Ministry – Ongoing

Stamp Out Hunger

  • Saturday, May 9. Volunteers are needed to receive non-perishable food items from letter carriers. Donations will need to be sorted, weighed, and organized in the food pantry.
  • May 20 Last deliveries of food backpacks to schools for the school year.

SAVE THE DATE!

Good Neighbor Serve Week Coming July 13-18
Start praying now about how you—and your family or group—can be part of this powerful week of impact. We are lining up over 20 different serving opportunities! I am actively recruiting leaders to lead each serving opportunity, so let me know if you are interested in learning more!

 

Ministry Partner Spotlight: Safe Families for Children

If you haven’t already, read about our ministry partner, Safe Families for Children, as we continue to bring awareness to Child Abuse Prevention/Awareness Month.  Click this link to read this article by our Communications Volunteer, Christina Bollinger.

More Ways to Stay in the Local Outreach Loop 

  • In the Harvester app: Log in to the app. At the bottom right-hand corner, click “Resources.” On the next screen, click “Volunteer Toolbox.” Click on any group you are assigned to see the calendar and message about needs, events, or serving opportunities. If you would like to be added to any group, such as Food Pantry, School Outreach, EWR Warming Center, Safe Families/Foster/Adopt, Natural Disaster, Food Backpack Ministry, Elections, or Sharing Shed, please email our Ministry Coordinator, Jillian Hohensee, at jhohensee@harvester.cc 

 

 

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April 16, 2026
in Child Welfare, Ministry Partner
by cefiggins
0 Comments

Ministry Spotlight: Safe Families for Children

As we continue sharing resources during Child Abuse Awareness Month, we want to highlight the work of another one of our incredible ministry partners, Safe Families for Children.

Safe Families for Children is a national movement of compassion that gives hope to families in crisis by providing temporary care for children and relational support that helps families move toward stability.

The three goals of Safe Families are child abuse prevention, child welfare (foster care) deflection, and family support and stabilization. In St. Charles County, most of the families served are facing homelessness or other significant hardships such as job loss or hospitalization. Volunteer host families provide temporary homes for children while parents navigate these difficult circumstances. Alongside hosting children in their homes, volunteers help expand a family’s circle of support through relational care and practical connection. Safe Families believes everyone should have a community of support in times of crisis.

Historically, in the Greater St. Louis area, 98% of parents who use Safe Families services have their children returned to them and avoid foster care. Many families also remain connected with their host families long-term, forming ongoing relationships that function as an extended family. Host families themselves often share that their own lives have been deeply impacted as they serve. Safe Families creates connections between people who may have never met otherwise and brings awareness to the realities of poverty.

There are several meaningful ways the community can support this work and serve families in crisis.

Host Families temporarily welcome children into their home while a parent works through a crisis. The average stay is 2–4 weeks. The approval process includes an application, references, background checks, including fingerprinting, online training, and a home safety assessment.

Family Friends support both host families and parents by offering help such as babysitting, transportation, mentoring, assistance with resources, or simply being a consistent, supportive presence. The approval process includes an application, references, background checks including fingerprinting, online training, and an interview.

Resource Friends provide tangible support such as diapers, meals, clothing, and other needed items for families in crisis.

There is an upcoming Info Meeting via Zoom on May 7th at 7 pm for those who would like to learn more about Safe Families and ways to get involved. Register for the info meeting by clicking this link.
https://bethany.org/locations/us/mo/st-louis/events/sffc-info-meeting-5-7-26-5-7-2026

To learn more or get involved, visit:
bethany.org/sffc

https://www.facebook.com/sffcStLouis

Please also keep Safe Families and the children and families they serve in your prayers this month.

Blog written by Christina Bollinger

Local Outreach Communications Volunteers

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March 26, 2026
in Upcoming Events
by cefiggins
0 Comments

March 2026 Newsletter


 HCC St Charles Campus-Local Outreach

March 2026 Newsletter

Bloom Where You Are Planted

🌿 Devotional: Faithful in the Everyday

“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus…” — Colossians 3:17

God has uniquely positioned each of us to help people find and follow Jesus—right where we are. Where you live, where you work, where your kids practice soccer or hockey are beautiful, divine appointments to share the love of Jesus.

Sometimes we think impact requires something big or extraordinary. But throughout Scripture, we see that God works powerfully through ordinary people who are simply faithful.

In Luke 8, Jesus describes a seed that grows not because it was impressive, but because it was planted in good soil and remained rooted.

This is still the invitation for us. Let’s be people who show up. As Americans living where we live, there is not much we can sacrifice to Jesus that is truly a sacrifice. What activity, time commitment, or scheduling conflict can you sacrifice to just be available for your neighbors? Let’s be people who stay faithful. Let’s be people who trust that God is continually growing something, especially when we don’t see anything popping through the soil yet.
This is how hope is unleashed.

Where has God planted you in this season?
And what would it look like to take one faithful step this week?

🙏 Prayer Focus

We believe prayer is where outreach begins. Before we go, we ask God to move.

  • Our Community — That individuals and families in St. Charles County would experience stability, provision, and the hope of Jesus
  • Our Ministry Partners — For endurance, wisdom, and encouragement as they serve on the front lines every day
  • Our Church — That more people would step into serving as a next step in following Jesus. Pray that barriers are removed that keep people from finding ways to serve and signing up to serve outside the walls of Harvester.

Prayer Prompt:
Lord, help me see what You see. Break my heart for what breaks Yours, and give me courage to step in.

📅 Upcoming Opportunities

I have been meeting with each of our ministry and community partners to create meaningful serving opportunities for our church family. Keep an eye out for those details soon, such as serving a meal to our unhoused neighbors at The Salvation Army St Charles or helping prep for an event at The Sparrow’s Nest. There are simple, tangible ways for you to step in and make a difference in April and May. If you do not see these serving opportunities in the app, or if it is not clear how to sign up, please email Carissa at cfiggins@harvester.cc

Easter April 3-5:

Invite friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers! HCC St Charles will spend an extended time reflecting on Jesus sacrifice on the cross during our Good Friday service starting at 6 p.m. HCC members are encouraged to join us for Saturday Easter Services at 3 p.m. or 4:30 p.m. to free up space on Sunday Easter Services for our friends and neighbors who may be attending church for the very first time.

Tuesday, April 7 HCC Election Volunteers:

Hospitality Volunteers are needed for two-hour shifts to greet our neighbors as they come to HCC St Charles to cast their vote.

Thursday, April 16, 6:30 p.m HCC Foster/Adopt Ministry FAM Gathering:

HCC members who foster, are thinking about fostering/adopting, have fostered in the past, or have adopted, and Family Friends are invited to a relaxed evening to get to know each other and encourage each other. Child care is available. Click here to register.

The Sharing Shed

Join us and serve on one or more of these dates! This regular serve crew serves clients of The Sharing Shed by receiving household donations, cleaning, organizing, and personally shopping with clients.

  • Saturday, April 18, 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.
  • Wednesday, April 22, 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.
  • Saturday, May 16, 9:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.
  • Wednesday, May 27, 6:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.

Broken & Beautiful Pen Pal Ministry

Ongoing Need- Volunteers are needed to join our Pen Pal Ministry to women incarcerated in prison. A minimum of one email a month to encourage and help women draw closer to Jesus. Training is required.

School Outreach Pray & Prep

  • Wednesday, April 1, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
  • Monday, April 27, 2026, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
  • Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Join us for any of these serving opportunities in the Annex to pray over our local schools, students, and teachers each month. The remainder of the time is spent preparing teacher appreciation gifts and handwriting cards of encouragement. Enter through Door 10 of the Annex.

School Partnerships

Ongoing Need – We are waiting on some details from the schools, but pencil in these events and dates for now. 

  • Kona Ice at Barnwell Middle School Friday, April 17 or Friday, May 15, 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Serve at one or both times! 2-3 Volunteers needed to assist students in purchasing Kona Ice, handing out napkins, and being a friendly face at the school
  • April 23 Multicultural Night at Barnwell Middle
  • April 25 Spring Fling at Becky David
  • May 6 Teacher Appreciation Lunch at Harvest Ridge
  • May 7 Teacher Appreciation Lunch at Barnwell
  • May 12 Hackmann Rd Early Childhood End of the Year Celebration at Ollie’s Fun Center-St Peters.

HCC Food Pantry and Food Backpack Ministry – Ongoing

Stamp Out Hunger

  • Saturday, May 9. Volunteers are needed to receive non-perishable food items from letter carriers. Donations will need to be sorted, weighed, and organized in the food pantry.

SAVE THE DATE!

Good Neighbor Serve Week Coming July 13-18
Start praying now about how you—and your family or group—can be part of this powerful week of impact. We are lining up over 20 different serving opportunities!

 

Volunteer Spotlight: Brittany Martin

In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we thought it would be appropriate to share the serving story of one of our Harvester Christians who lives day in and day out raising children with special needs and passionately serves in the world of disability ministry.  Click this link to read on to be blessed and inspired by this fine example of obedience in Loving God and Loving Others!

Ministry Partner Spotlight: Joni & Friends MO

If you haven’t already, read about our ministry partner, Joni and Friends Missouri, as we continue to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Click this link to read this article by our Communications Volunteer, Christina Bollinger.

 

Your Next Step

You don’t have to do everything, but you are invited to do something. Serving is not just about filling a need. It’s part of how we grow as followers of Jesus. Ask to shadow other HCC volunteers at these events. Consider committing to a monthly serving opportunity. Invite a friend or your small group to serve with you

When we serve together, we don’t just meet needs—we help people find and follow Jesus.

❤️ Closing Encouragement

We are not here by accident. We are sent. We are sent into our specific neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities. Let’s be a church that sees the need—and steps in to fill the need with faith, courage, and love. Don’t wait for the church to make an event or program. Find joy in being obedient to what God is calling you to do today.

More Ways to Stay in the Local Outreach Loop 

  • In the Harvester app: Log in to the app. At the bottom right-hand corner, click “Resources.” On the next screen, click “Volunteer Toolbox.” Click on any group you are assigned to see the calendar and message about needs, events, or serving opportunities. If you would like to be added to any group, such as Food Pantry, School Outreach, EWR Warming Center, Safe Families/Foster/Adopt, Natural Disaster, Food Backpack Ministry, Elections, or Sharing Shed, please email our Ministry Coordinator, Jillian Hohensee, at jhohensee@harvester.cc 

 

 

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March 25, 2026
in Ministry Partner
by cefiggins
0 Comments

Ministry Partner Spotlight: Joni & Friends MO

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. What a great month to highlight one of our ministry partners, Joni and Friends Missouri! Joni and Friends helps connect individuals living with disability and their families to the local church and equips the church to better serve those individuals and their families. Read all about Joni & Friends Missouri below and be sure to cover this ministry in your prayers this month.

==========

All people are made in the image of God. At Joni and Friends Missouri, Area Director Kevin Mullins is committed to bringing hope and belonging to individuals and families impacted by disability.

“Our vision is a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ,” Kevin explains. “Our mission is to glorify God as we communicate the Gospel and mobilize the global church to evangelize, disciple, and serve people living with disability.”

“People living with disability are often seen as ‘less-than ’or not seen at all,” Kevin says. “However, everyone, regardless of ability, is created in the image of God, needs Jesus, and needs community.”

Joni and Friends brings Gospel hope and practical resources to families affected by disability by equipping churches to become welcoming, inclusive places of belonging.

Joni and Friends also offers Family Retreats that provide a safe, nurturing space for families to find rest, hope, and support.

“We value each person as an image-bearer, worthy of dignity and respect. We strive to create a rich, Christ-centered environment at every Family Retreat that is safe and accepting for all members of the family.”

Marriage Getaways are also offered for couples navigating the disability of a spouse or child, providing community with others who understand the unique challenges they face, along with respite and Christ-centered encouragement.

Families who attend these retreats, made possible by supporters and volunteers, say the five days provide a chance to come up for air, find rest, and be encouraged, helping them lean on Christ throughout the rest of the year.

Joni and Friends also hosts educational events, such as the Disability Resource Seminar for Parents and Caregivers on May 9, 2026, at the St. Louis County Library-Grand Glaize Branch. This seminar equips families with practical, Christ-centered strategies for financial and legal planning, preserving benefits, and long-term care.

Members of Harvester who feel led to serve can get involved in a variety of ways. Short-term missionaries are needed at the Missouri Family Retreat, August 3-8, at Cross Pointe Retreat Center, Lake of the Ozarks, serving as one-on-one buddies for kids and adults with disabilities. Training is provided, and the only requirements are to love God, love people, and be willing to serve. Additional volunteer opportunities for Fall Respite events will be shared soon.

To learn more about Joni and Friends Missouri, visit https://joniandfriends.org/missouri/

For additional resources from Joni and Friends, visit https://joniandfriends.org/

Blog written by:
Christina Bollinger
Local Outreach Communications Volunteer
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March 18, 2026
in Volunteer Spotlight
by cefiggins
1 Comment

Volunteer Spotlight: Brittany Martin

In honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we thought it would be appropriate to share the serving story of one of our Harvester Christians who lives day in and day out raising children with special needs and passionately serves in the world of disability ministry.  Read on to be blessed and inspired by this fine example of obedience in Loving God and Loving Others!

In today’s Volunteer Spotlight, we’re featuring Brittany Martin, who serves with Kindred, a ministry that was completely created and is completely led by two HCC volunteers. Kindred exists to support mothers of children with special needs. God created His people for community. Throughout Scripture, we are called to gather together, encourage one another, bear one another’s burdens, and point each other to the hope found in Jesus. For many moms raising children with special needs, finding a supportive community can be challenging. As a mother to several children with special needs herself, Brittany Martin understands how isolating the journey can feel and how meaningful it is to be surrounded by women walking a similar path. This is why she and Taylor Jones started the ministry of Kindred.

 

Looking back, Brittany can see how God was preparing her for this calling. During high school and college, she worked with youth ministry, learning to listen attentively, pray earnestly, and walk alongside the girls she served. Today, that experience helps her to care for the women of Kindred as they navigate challenges, celebrate milestones, and encourage one another. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, Brittany also worked professionally as a lead designer for a local megachurch. These creative gifts help her and co-leader Taylor craft gatherings that feel welcoming and thoughtful, spaces where moms feel seen from the moment they step onto the sidewalk, even before entering the building.

 

While mothers of children with special needs are no strangers to multitasking and complex logistics, these women are willing to rearrange schedules, coordinate specialized childcare, and even travel long distances so that they can attend their biweekly meetings. Their commitment to show up for themselves and others reflects how deeply these spaces are needed. Regardless of spiritual backgrounds, the women of Kindred continue to return because they experience something unique, which many describe as “life-giving.” While the gatherings are thoughtfully curated, Brittany says, “It is not the content or the aesthetic that gives life and peace to the women who attend, it is Jesus.” Some who were initially hesitant, or who have experienced hurt in church settings in the past, have begun asking about attending Harvester with Brittany and Taylor. A few have even come and experienced a complete change of heart about the church. This is the result of Kindred unleashing the hope of Jesus, creating a space where meaningful conversations, encouragement, and genuine care naturally draw women closer to Him.

 

Serving in this way has also stretched Brittany personally. As an introvert, she says Kindred has pushed her to step out in faith and dig into Scripture so she can speak words of life to and pray with women navigating a variety of circumstances. Though the ministry requires time, effort, and sacrifice, she has discovered a deeper joy through it.”The biggest sacrifices tend to lead to the most meaningful rewards,” Brittany reflects.”The story of the widow’s oil in 2 Kings 4:1-7 is a beautiful example of this. Sometimes we feel like that small jar of oil, barely enough, running on empty, and convinced we don’t have even a drop to give to someone else. But when we offer what little we have to the Lord and choose to use our time and energy for something that glorifies Him, He multiplies it. He fills what feels empty and gives us more than enough to pour into others, until those around us are overflowing too.”

+++++++

Interested in learning more about Kindred? Check out their website by clicking this link==> https://www.kindredmoms.com/

 

Blog by: Christina Bollinger, HCC Local Outreach Communications Volunteer

 

 

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February 26, 2026
in Upcoming Events
by cefiggins
0 Comments

February 26 Newsletter

Unleashing the Hope of Jesus in

St. Charles County

Devotional: Love That Moves

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” — 1 John 3:18

February is often centered around love. Cards. Candy. Flowers. But Scripture reminds us that love is not simply something we feel — it’s something we do. Jesus didn’t just speak about compassion. He lived the fullest meaning of compassion: TO SUFFER WITH. He moved toward people. He touched the untouchable. He fed the hungry. He welcomed the outsider. He made love visible.

As a church, that is our calling too. When you move dusty furniture on a cold Saturday morning, you are making Jesus’ love visible. When you deliver packed food backpacks to school staff who may be too busy to even acknowledge you, you are making Jesus’ love visible.  When you serve overnight at the Warming Center with folks who may not experience the same reality as you,  you are making Jesus’ love visible. When you organize what seems like the same school supplies for the 50th time, you are making Jesus’ love visible. When we act and live and serve as one saved by the blood of Jesus, we make the love of Christ tangible for the world to see. You are putting hands and feet to the gospel.

This month, ask yourself:

  • Where is God inviting me to move toward someone and suffer with them?

  • What would it look like for my love to be visible?

  • Who needs to experience hope through action?

Love is more than a feeling. It’s a response to the love we’ve already received in Christ. Let’s be people whose love moves.

Prayers

Please join us in praying for:

  • Our unhoused neighbors to find safety and security and a compassionate community.

  • The ministry partners who serve families facing food insecurity

  • School staff and administrators navigating mid-year challenges

  • Volunteers who faithfully show up and serve behind the scenes

  • New leaders emerging within our outreach crews

Prayer:
Father, thank You for loving us first. Give us eyes to see needs around us and the courage to respond. Strengthen our ministry and community partners. Protect the vulnerable. Raise up compassionate leaders within our church. May everything we do unleash the hope of Jesus in our community. Amen.

📅 Upcoming Serving Opportunities

Date
Event/Program
Leaders
Ministry
3/1
Warming Center Celebration/Reflection Lunch
Mike Coumerilgh
Michael True
Emergency Weather Response
3/2
LO/GS Gathering #1- Safety Focus
Brendon & Carissa
All Local Outreach & Guest Services
3/5
Monthly Pray & Prep
Katy Pursell
School Outreach
3/7
Operation Restoring Calm Exercise
Leader Needed
Natural Disaster Response Team
3/21
Sharing Shed
Lisa Rogers
Alleviation of Poverty
3/24
City Life Serve Day in Food Pantry & Food Backpack Ministry
Carissa Figgins
Susan Nash
Food Pantry and Food Backpack Ministry
Ongoing
Food Pantry
Jane & Steward Topper
Denise & Ken Sabo
Linda Beeler
Food Pantry
Ongoing
Food Backpacking
Shelly Swart
Susan Nash
Food Backpack Ministry
Ongoing
Broken & Beautiful Ministry Pen Pals
Leader Needed
Mental Health Support
3/25
YAM Sharing Shed
Stephanie Lake
Alleviation of Poverty
4/1
Monthly Pray & Prep
Katy Pursell
School Outreach
4/7
Election Polling Place
Leader Needed
Local Outreach
4/18
Sharing Shed
Lisa Rogers
Alleviation of Poverty
4/24-4/20
Carissa on Vacation
4/27
Extra Pray & Prep
Katy Pursell
School Outreach
4/30
LO/GS Gathering #2- Discipleship Focus
Brendon & Carissa
All Local Outreach & Guest Services
SAVE THE DATE!
Good Neighbor Serve Week is July 12-18th!
Look for more information this spring!
Mark your calendar now!

🌟 Volunteer Spotlight

Do you have a serving story to share? When we highlight your story, it isn’t about drawing attention to you — it’s about honoring God and helping others see how they might step into serving too. If you’d be willing to share how God is working through your local outreach involvement, we’d love to connect with you.

New to Local Outreach?

Not sure where to start?

  1. Pray about where God may be leading you.

  2. Click here to take the SHAPE assessment and familiarize yourself with your spiritual gifts.

  3. Explore current serving opportunities.

  4. Try one opportunity and see how God works through it.

  5. Consider stepping into leadership if you sense God nudging you.

There is a place for you.

💬 Final Encouragement

Serving our neighbors isn’t a one-time event that we check off when we are done. It’s a rhythm of life that honors what Jesus did for all of us. It’s choosing compassion when it’s inconvenient. It’s showing up consistently. It’s believing small acts can create eternal impact. Thank you for being a church that doesn’t just gather — but goes.

Together, we are unleashing the hope of Jesus in St. Charles County.

With gratitude,
HCC St Charles – Local Outreach Team

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December 22, 2025
in Uncategorized, Upcoming Events
by cefiggins
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December 2025 Newsletter

HCC Local Outreachers! Man oh man! Have you unleashed the hope of Jesus this year inside and outside the walls of Harvester! The days and weeks have been jam-packed from food pantry to school outreach to serving with our Community and Ministry partners such as Faith Haven House, The Sharing Shed, and The Sparrow’s Nest. Your financial giving allowed monthly support to those partners and more, including Bad Boyz Jail Ministry, Boys and Girls Clubs of St Charles County, Child Advocacy Center, EWR Warming & Cooling Centers, Joni & Friends, REACH St Charles, Safe Families, as well as so many individuals and families right in our own backyard. You can read more about the impact of your serving by clicking this link to read our Annual Impact Report (August 24-September 25)

Food Pantry Donation Pick Up Drivers Still Needed

Are you a college student without morning classes on Wednesdays or Thursdays? Do you have a flexible work schedule? Stay-at-home parent or recently retired? We are STILL in need of regular and substitute donation pick-up drivers for the HCC Food Pantry. You need about 2 hours a week to pick up donations using the HCC Food Pantry Van, deliver back to the pantry, unload, weigh, and sort. I know there are just FOUR new people looking for their place to serve in 2026. Email Sherry B today to talk through what this might look like for you! sbollinger@harvester.cc

School Serving Choice Survey

HCC St Charles Campus Local Outreach serves about 10 of our local schools through events and the food backpack ministry. Our primary investment is in the schools that are neighbors to the HCC St Charles Campus. These include Hackmann Rd Early Childhood, Barnwell Middle School, Becky David Elementary, and Harvest Ridge Elementary. In 2026, we want our School Outreach Crew Leaders to know exactly who they can call on to serve at the schools. We also want them to know who they are discipling and equipping to serve. We are asking anyone who has ever served with School Outreach or who is now thinking about serving with School Outreach to complete this School Serving Choice Survey. We are requesting that you choose the primary school you would like to serve at to build consistent trusting relationships, as well as a secondary school. You will still be included in the large School Outreach group and can serve anywhere you like. But for the purposes of communicating specific serving opportunities, building a serve community, and providing information, our School Outreach Crew Leaders have requested please CLICK HERE to complete the survey by January 30th.

Our School Outreach Crew Leaders invite any School Outreach Volunteer who has ever served at a single school outreach event, Pack A Pack, Good Neighbor Market, food backpack ministry, are invited to the School Outreach Volunteers Fellowship Lunch on January 4 for the very purpose of getting to know each other and building a serving community. You can find the event to RSVP here in the School Outreach Calendar. In the event RSVP there is an additional sign-up genius link to indicate what you will bring to the Fellowship. See you then!

January Serving Opportunities

Click on any date to see more details

Sunday January 4 School Outreach Volunteers Fellowship Lunch

Wednesday January 7 Pray and Prep

Sunday January 11 EWR Training

Saturday January 17 The Sharing Shed

January 18-24 HCC On Call for EWR- try this QR code to view the EWR Schedule & Plan!

 

Tuesday January 27 Broken and Beautiful Pen Pal Training (sign up coning soon)

Wednesday January 28 YAM Serves at The Sharing Shed

YAM Serve With Friends January Options

February Serving Opportunities- sign ups coming soon

Wednesday February 4 Pray & Prep

February 15-21 HCC On Call for EWR

Saturday February 21 The Sharing Shed

Wednesday February 25 YAM Serves at The Sharing Shed

YAM Serve With Friends February Options

 

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December 9, 2025
in Outreach
by cefiggins
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Annual Impact Report September 2024 – August 2025

HCC Local Outreach – St. Charles Campus

Annual Impact Report
September 2024 – August 2025

A Message from the Local Outreach Team

This year we have seen God’s faithfulness as we served our neighbors across St. Charles County. From cooling centers in the heat of summer to back-to-school breakfasts, from partnering with ministries like Faith Haven House to loving our neighbors in practical ways—we have been the hands and feet of Jesus. Thank you for your willingness to unleash hope to lead people to find and follow Jesus.

— Carissa Figgins, HCC Local Outreach Pastor

By the Numbers

  • 293    active Local Outreach volunteers
  • 3873  serving roles filled
  • 194    Local Outreach events hosted in our community
  • 41       new volunteer sign-ups through August 2025

Ministry Highlights

School Partnerships

  • Sent individualized handwritten notes and small gifts to every teacher and staff person at Barnwell Middle School, Becky David Elementary, Hackmann Road Early Childhood, and Harvest Ridge Elementary. This often prompted staff and teachers to call the church to personally thank us, and in many instances, attend Sunday morning services.
  • Hosted First Day of School Breakfasts for teachers and staff at multiple campuses
  • Delivered approximately 3300 Food Backpacks to local school children experiencing food insecurity in 8 local schools between September 2024 and May 2025
  • Provided back-to-school supplies to over 750 students through the Good Neighbor Market, Pack A Pack, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of St Charles County
    • Recipient testimony- Me and my son attended the good neighbor market for that back to school bash and he definitely enjoyed the time. It was a great experience and we will definitely continue to be a part of the program. I can’t thank them enough for all the help we got.-Ebony
    • FHSD employee testimony- Their volunteers show up with genuine care—helping to organize and distribute school supplies, stock and deliver weekend food backpacks, and fulfill holiday gift wish lists for students who might otherwise go without. Their generosity doesn’t stop at material needs; they’ve provided financial assistance for families facing urgent crises, lifting burdens that would otherwise distract from learning and well-being. Because of Harvester’s partnership, our school has not only met physical needs but also fostered a stronger sense of connection and trust between school, home, and the broader community. Their investment has turned moments of struggle into moments of hope, reminding our students and families that they are seen, valued, and supported.

Bad Boyz Jail Ministry

  • HCC supports the Bad Boyz Jail Ministry correspondence Bible courses for the locally incarcerated.

Boys and Girls Clubs of St Charles County

  • Received the Boys and Girls Club 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award
  • Harvester Christian- O’Fallon campus had its first serving opportunity as a campus at the O’Fallon BGCSCC Back To School Bash in July 2025.
  • HCC financial gifts have helped the BGCSCC to provide hot meals to kids who attend their after-school program.

Child Advocacy Center of Northeast Missouri

  • Financial contributions allowed a child a voice to start the process of healing through forensic interviews.
  • HCC volunteers helped to create a warm, safe environment for children of Lincoln and St Charles County to enter the CAC.

Faith Haven House

  • HCC Volunteers served as house monitors. They built relationships with the residents to help stabilize.
  • HCC volunteers provided meals, shared hobbies, and deep-cleaned the facility.

Joni & Friends-Missouri

  • HCC hosted church network meetings to provide encouragement, motivation, collaboration, and resources for local church Disability Ministry leaders and key volunteers.
  • Financial contributions allowed Joni & Friends-Missouri to expand their Disability Awareness training to Christian colleges, schools, and businesses.

REACH St Charles

  • HCC giving helped to feed our neighbors who are facing food insecurity.
  • HCC volunteers repaired REACH St Charles deck and served in food pop-up experiences. 

Safe Families- Bethany Christian Services

  • Hosted 2 Spring Trainings to recruit more HCC Host Families and Family Friends
  • Provided ongoing financial support for operations

The Sharing Shed

  • Added to additional monthly serving day for HCC Young Adults Ministry (YAM)
  • HCC Volunteers and financial gifts have aided in The Sharing Shed becoming a cornerstone for local agencies and churches to help families recovering from abuse, mental health challenges, and homelessness.

The Sparrow’s Nest

  • HCC volunteers helped to clean and sanitize the Children’s Center. Volunteers also helped to organize the resource closet.
  • HCC financial contributions assisted The Sparrow’s Nest in moving into a larger child care facility sooner than originally anticipated.

EWR Cooling & Warming Centers

  • Opened cooling centers during excessive heat days in a pilot partnership with the EWR Network and two other St Charles County churches.
  • Provided a total of 113 beds as a warming center to our unhoused neighbors as a death prevention program.
  • Provided meals, safe spaces, and biblical hospitality to those in need

Food Pantry

  • Between September 2024 and August 2025 served over 18,000 people.
  • 41% increase in people served from August 2025 to November 2025

Seasonal Outreach Events

  • Good Neighbor Challenge: Over 104 volunteers completed 21 projects in schools, neighborhoods, and local ministries

Equipping the Saints

  • Hosted three volunteer trainings with Guest Services focused on safety, crucial/difficult conversations, and discipleship.
  • Provided resources for Christians to advocate with local policymakers on issues of housing and dignity

Volunteer Stories

“I felt moved to give my time to help with EWR last winter. It seemed like it was going to be “a simple way” for me to help out. Little did I know, God was moving in my heart before I even showed up. I’ve since helped during the Cooling Center, building relationships with our unhoused neighbors. I now feel God calling me to continue to serve the people who are so often overlooked and shoved aside. Even though I feel my “resources” are limited, I know He has given me a spiritual gift that allows me to be a friend and a shoulder for folks to lean on. I can love them in the way He loves and help them find resources that can help.” — Becca, Warming Center volunteer

“When my wife and I came to Harvester, we were specifically looking for outlets to be the hands and feet of Jesus, to exercise our ‘become like Jesus’ muscles. EWR provides exactly that as a healthy foundation, allowing me to practice what is preached.” — Mike C, Emergency Weather Response Crew Leader

“I thought I was simply volunteering to pack bags of food for kids in need, but the Backpack Food Ministry has proven to be much more than that. Explaining the purpose behind the food backpacks to the middle schoolers who also serve in this ministry and leading their group in prayer before we start packing has shown me that this is more than a simple humanitarian effort. It is a small way for me to be a part of the larger purpose of leading people to find and follow Jesus.” — Ronda, Food Backpack Ministry volunteer

“I signed up to serve because I thought local outreach was about helping others and giving my time to make a difference. I have learned it’s also about letting God change my heart, growing in leadership, humility, and seeing His love move through genuine connections.”-Katy, School Outreach Prayer Crew Leader

Financial Stewardship

Generosity fuels outreach.

  • 71% of HCC Local Outreach budget went outside Harvester Christian Church’s walls.
  • $72,000 given to community and ministry partners.
  • Gifted over $28,000 to local schools through Food Backpack Ministry, Teacher/Staff Appreciation, School Maintenance, and Financial Aid.

Thank You for Being the Church that Unleashes Hope

We are so grateful for each prayer, gift, and hour you have given. The Gospel is not just preached—it’s lived out in acts of generosity and justice.

Looking Ahead – September 2025 to August 2026

  • Launch new volunteer leadership roles to multiply impact
  • Increase advocacy efforts on affordable housing and homelessness prevention
  • Equip 100% of volunteers to take their S.H.A.P.E. Assessment to serve where they are gifted
  • Recruit 68 new volunteers for local outreach service, 17 new leaders, 7 coaches with an emphasis on emerging generations and intergenerational mentorship.
  • Equip and empower volunteers in Next Door Spiritual Influence to lead their neighbors to find and follow Jesus.

Join Us

You have a place in Local Outreach.
Whether you can serve once a month, once a week, or for a single event, your gifts matter.

HCC Local Outreach – St. Charles Campus
Leading people to find and follow Jesus through generosity and justice.

 

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December 4, 2025
in Outreach
by cefiggins
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We may not be able to meet in person to pray over our schools, administrators, teachers, staff, students, and families this month, but we can definitely continue to pray without ceasing.

Take a moment and use this prayer guide to join all of our School Outreach volunteers in prayer today!

Harvester Christian Church | December 2025 Pray & Prep Prayer Guide

Use these short prompts to guide focused, powerful prayer together. Pray boldly, believing God is working in and through His people to unleash hope in our community.

Schools & Students

  • Pray for God’s protection and peace over every school in St. Charles County.
  • Ask that students would find safety, belonging, and encouragement within their school communities.
  • Pray for students struggling with anxiety, loneliness, or instability at home—that they would know God’s presence and care.

Teachers & Administrators

  • Pray for wisdom and endurance for teachers carrying heavy workloads and emotional burdens.
  • Lift up administrators making difficult decisions—may they lead with integrity and compassion.
  • Ask God to fill Christian educators, especially those teachers and staff who are Harvester members, with courage to reflect Christ’s love daily.

Families Impacted by the Government Shutdown

  • Pray for families facing financial hardship due to the government shutdown.
  • Ask for God’s provision for those waiting on SNAP benefits or other supports.
  • Pray for the church to be a steady source of help, hope, and generosity in this season.

Workers Affected by the Boeing Strike

  • Pray for peace and resolution between leadership and workers at Boeing.
  • Ask God to meet the needs of families missing paychecks and feeling anxious about the future.
  • Pray that believers within Boeing would be lights of hope and reconciliation.

Mental Health & Emotional Well-Being

  • Pray for students, teachers, and families struggling with depression, stress, or burnout.
  • Ask the Holy Spirit to bring comfort and healing to minds weighed down by fear or hopelessness.
  • Pray that the church would be a safe place for honesty, healing, and prayer.

Cold Weather & Homelessness

  • Pray for warmth, shelter, and safety for families and individuals experiencing homelessness.
  • Ask for resources and volunteers to be abundant at warming centers and shelters.
  • Pray for God to open our eyes to the unseen and invite us to respond with compassion.

Food Insecurity

  • Pray for our neighbors facing hunger and uncertainty about their next meal.
  • Ask God to multiply the food resources of the Harvester Pantry and community partners.
  • Pray that every act of generosity would open a door for the gospel.

Harvester Volunteers

  • Pray that every volunteer would serve with joy, boldness, and love that points people to Jesus.
  • Ask that God would give divine appointments—moments to share the gospel and unleash hope.
  • Pray for unity among teams as they serve together in humility and purpose.

More Laborers for the Harvest

  • Pray Luke 10:2—that God would send more workers into His harvest field.
  • Ask God to stir hearts within Harvester to step into service, mission, and compassion.
  • Pray for bold faith and open hands to go wherever He leads.

Thanksgiving & Vision

  • Thank God for the opportunities He has given Harvester to serve our neighbors.
  • Pray for continued vision to see our city the way God sees it.
  • Ask that through every act of service, St. Charles County would experience the hope of Jesus.

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” — Luke 10:2

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November 26, 2025
in Upcoming Events
by cefiggins
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November 2025 Newsletter

🍁 Harvester Christian Church Local Outreach
November Newsletter 

Hello Harvester family! As we step into this season of gratitude, we look back on a month full of generosity, service, and reminders of God’s faithfulness. Thank you for being a church that continually unleashes the hope of Jesus into our neighborhoods. 

✨ A Brief Devotional on Gratitude 

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Paul writes, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a spiritual practice that reorients our hearts toward God’s goodness, even when circumstances fall short of ideal. 

This month, we witnessed gratitude lived out: 

  • Students thanking veterans. 
  • Families giving from what they had. 
  • Volunteers quietly and faithfully showing up to serve. 

Gratitude grows when we pause, notice, and name God’s movement around us. As you enter this holiday season, take time each day to reflect on one moment where you saw God’s kindness. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your heart fills. 

🇺🇸 Veterans Day at Harvest Ridge Elementary 

This month we had the honor of supporting Harvest Ridge Elementary’s Veterans Day celebration. Our volunteers helped welcome veterans, serve families, and celebrate the bravery of those who have served our country. It was a beautiful picture of community partnership—students learning honor, families gathering in gratitude, and our church helping create sacred moments in a public school setting.

 

🥫 Neighbors Helping Neighbors 

Thank you to everyone who donated food this month! Your generosity supported families in need across St. Charles County. We watched bags of groceries show up on porches, in lobbies, and at the church doors—each one a quiet act of love that speaks loudly of Jesus!

 

💛 Celebrating 25 Years with the Child Advocacy Center 

This month also marked the 25th anniversary of the Child Advocacy Center of Northeast Missouri, one of our cherished community partners. We are grateful for their decades of work advocating for vulnerable children and families. Harvester is honored to support this mission through prayer, financial contributions, and awareness. Their unwavering commitment reminds us what hope in action truly looks like.

 

🤝 LO/GS Gathering: Leaders Strengthening Leaders 

Our Local Outreach / Guest Services Gathering brought together volunteers and ministry leads to share stories, encourage one another, and pray over the year ahead. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed. These gatherings strengthen our mission: leading people to find and follow Jesus through generosity and justice.

 

🌟 December Reminders 

🙏 December 3 – Pray & Prep for School Outreach 

Join us for a time of prayer and hands-on preparation as we get ready to bless our local schools this Christmas season. Your presence makes a tremendous impact! To RSVP CLICK THIS LINK to see all of the upcoming School Outreach serving opportunities. 

🎅 December 13 – Castlio Elementary “Pancakes with Santa” 

We’re helping Castlio welcome families for this fun holiday breakfast. It’s a simple, joy-filled way to show the love of Jesus to teachers, students, and parents. We need many more volunteers to cook 1000 pancakes and sausages. CLICK THIS LINK to see shifts and responsibilities. 

❄️ Preparing for Winter:

Emergency Weather Response (EWR) Warming Center

Harvester is on call as a warming center the week of January 18-24, 2026, HCC will provide overnight spaces of warmth and safety for neighbors experiencing homelessness. We are only activated where the temperature is forecasted to be 20 degrees or below. There are many ways to support this ministry, from volunteering to staying overnight with a team of Harvester Christians, providing a hot meal, helping with laundry, and always praying. We will have an EWR Warming Center training on Sunday, January 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Annex. RSVP BY CLICKING THIS LINK.

You can commit today to being on call the week of January 18-24, 2026 by CLICKING ON THIS LINK. Start praying now for the guests who will come through our doors—and consider how you might serve or support the team this winter. 

 

Thank you, Harvester, for being a church that unleashes hope—not only in words, but in action, consistency, sacrifice, and love.
Let’s step into December with grateful hearts and ready hands to lead people to find and follow Jesus!. 

With much love
Carissa

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November 3, 2025
in Outreach, Uncategorized, Upcoming Events
by cefiggins
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October 2025 Newsletter

Just pretend when you open this newsletter it’s still October because I am sure most of you are like me, thinking: “What the what, how did November and that Vile Daylight Savings Time Sneak In!

God and I have been simmering in Matthew 9 and Ephesians 4 for many weeks now. For this month, I want to invite you to settle into Matthew 9:37-38.

In Matthew 9:37-38, Jesus said to His disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”

Is it just me, or is there an actual command from Jesus that says to pray for laborers to be raised up and sent out? What does that mean for us at HCC Local Outreach? I often tell others that people who choose to serve with Local Outreach really do see the world differently. They have a very hard time passing by those who are suffering. It almost physically hurts them to overlook those who are hungry, those who are thirsty, those who are naked, those who are in prison. My heart, mind and soul have been especially burden this month with the increasing needs of our community. Recently I have often felt overwhelmed and ineffective. It has been a beautiful thing though, because it reminds me to daily and almost hourly surrender to God, submit to His authority, and trust in Him. It has also been a reminder that I am to be obedient to His calling, but I am not responsible for the outcomes. Those battles belong to the Lord.

Your faithful service in the HCC Food Pantry, school outreach, the Sharing Shed, or any part of being a Good Neighbor and serving with HCC Local Outreach is a living answer to that prayer. You are the hands and feet of Jesus, meeting physical needs and planting seeds of hope in our community.

Thank you for your compassion, your time, and your heart for people. Whether you’re stocking shelves, praying with families, or simply offering a smile, you are making an eternal impact.

We’re praying for more laborers to join this beautiful work. If you know someone who might be interested in serving, invite them to one of our upcoming VIP Tours—a behind-the-scenes look at how ministry happens at Harvester and how others can use their gifts and talents to unleash hope in our city.. These tours are a great way to connect, learn, and take the first step toward volunteering.

Volunteer recruitment is ongoing, and we’d love to welcome new hearts into this mission. Let’s continue to pray for God to stir hearts and send more workers into His harvest. Our world needs us more than ever.

 

Upcoming Events

November 1: As you have heard in the news, SNAP benefits are suspended during the federal government shutdown. We are anticipating more of our neighbors needing support during this unusual time. The food pantry always needs canned meat, canned meals, fresh meat ( venison too!), and cereal. Our HCC food pantry also needs your plastic grocery bins. You can drop off donations in the covered bin outside of the South entrance, Monday through Thursday, or in the wooden bin near the TV in the Mission Cafe on Sundays. We love hearing stories of Harvester Christians like Stacey Floweree mobilizing her neighbors to give to their neighborhood food drive to support the pantry. Thank you Stacey and friends!

Tuesday, 11-4-25 There is nothing on the ballot in our area so HCC is not needed as our neighborhood’s regular polling site. The next time we will serve our neighbors in this way is April 2026.

If you plan to serve in any capacity during the warming centers in January or February 2026,  I highly encourage you to attend this EWR training at Wentzville Christian Church from 6:30 to 8:30. If you need to carpool, we are meeting at the church at 5:50 PM and leaving at 6 PM. Not only will this provide a clear vision of why we do this, but also how we do this, and as you know, knowledge is always power!

 

Thursday 11-6-25 

The closure of the O’Fallon Salvation Army Shelter has left people, including children, without a safe place to go. Specialty shelters are nearly full, and families in crisis are being sent outside the county for help. Temperatures are cooling in St. Charles County, and it has been 637 days (nearly TWO YEARS) since we’ve had an option for our families seeking emergency shelter.. Over 600 of our neighbors are at risk. The Continuum of Care for St. Charles, Warren, and Lincoln Counties is actively looking for resources and partners to address this urgent need. Together, we can do better for our neighbors. Our community is invited to attend Community Coffee Conversation: No Place To Go at Saints Joachim and Ann Care Service to hear directly from those on the front lines, share ideas, and explore urgent solutions.

Let’s learn what’s needed—and how each of us can help. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Click here to register.
Event Timeline:
8:30 am Doors open for networking and intentional connections
9:00 – 9:15 am Member announcements
9:15 – 10:00 am Presentation/ Discussion
10:00- 10:20 am Round Tables and Resources
10:30 am Meeting adjourned
Monday 11-10-25
With so many of our local children and families experiencing stress from strikes, furloughs, or their benefits being paused, we need to serve from our knees even more. We will have two School Outreach Prays and Preps this month to pray for our schools as well, and prep our handwritten cards and gifts for teachers for the upcoming Christmas season. In November, we will meet in the Annex on Monday, November 10 and November 24 at 6:30 p.m. Enter through door #10. RSVP in the Harvester app. At the bottom of the home screen, click “Resources.” On the next screen, click “Volunteer Tool Box.” On the next screen, click “Groups.” On the next screen, search “LO – School Outreach.” On the next screen, click “Calendar.” On that screen, click “Monthly Pray and Prep for School Events.” At the bottom of that screen, you can RSVP by clicking “Going”, “Maybe,” or “Not Going.”
Thursday 11-13-25
Our Annual LO/GS Gathering is just around the corner! This is the only time all of Local Outreach, Food Pantry, and Guest Services volunteers can be together in one setting! We will enjoy a fellowship meal from Ginghams together as we celebrate all you did this year to unleash hope inside and outside the walls of Harvester! We will hear our Vision for next year and receive some practical evangelism training, and pray for how God will use us to bring more laborers to the harvest!
Saturday 11-15-25
Sharing Shed Crew serves from 9 a.m. -11 a.m.

Community and Ministry Partner Updates

Tuesday, 11-11-25 Joni & Friends has its St Charles County Church Network Meeting for Disability Ministry Leaders and Volunteers at 6:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church of O’Fallon, MO. The guest speaker will be DeAnn Yount, licensed counselor from Crossroads Counseling Centers. DeAnn will offer encouragement and hope for those who give of themselves to meet the needs of others. The meeting will explore the sustaining power of Christ’s presence and the renewal of our spirits when the work feels overwhelming. Please RSVP HERE

Wednesday, 11-12-25 Child Advocacy Center is celebrating its 25th Anniversary at Bogey Hills Country Club from 5:30 p.m. -7:00 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

Immediate Volunteer Needs

Our ministry partners at Faith Haven House urgently need volunteers.
Volunteers are needed to be at Faith Haven House every afternoon and evening between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Volunteers are primarily needed to socialize with any residents who are present during those hours. Other volunteers who have served in this capacity share that sometimes it is just chatting around the dinner table. Other times it’s watching TV or playing cards. Other times, it was teaching a hobby like crocheting. As consistent, trusting relationships are built with the residents over time, there will be opportunities to share the gospel. If you are interested in learning more about this serving opportunity, please reach out to Dareth at Faith Haven House at faith.haven.house@gmail.comFaith Haven House

The Child Advocacy Center of Northeast MO is looking for 1-2 unique volunteers. They have been diligently building out a chaplaincy program called The Hope Project to assist children and families who seek their services in the healing process. The CAC has also seen a need for its staff to have spiritual care as well. You do not have to have specific chaplain qualifications or credentials. The crux of chaplaincy is the Ministry of Presence. God can do so much when we are willing to sit in the hardships and heartbreaks of others, just so they know they are not alone. If you would like to know more about joining this small team of CAC chaplains, email Carissa at cfiggins@harvester.cc
Food Pantry Van drivers are needed to pick up food donations. The pickups consist of going to 3 stores and picking up their available donations that day using the HCC Food Pantry Van. Food Pantry Van Drivers need to be able to pick up boxes that weigh up to 50lbs. Food Pantry Van Drivers would bring items back to the HCC food pantry, weigh each store’s donation separately in several categories, and put away accordingly (freezer, cooler, table).
Pickups are in the mornings, Wednesdays & Fridays. A Saturday driver is also needed to pick up on Saturday mornings from the Lindenwood Schnucks bakery. Potential volunteers will need a cleared motor vehicle records check through HCC before driving. Email Sherry Bollinger today with questions to get started on you being the next best happy van driver! sbollinger@harvester.cc
Did you know? The Good Neighbor Serve Crew receives requests from HCC members and our neighbors to help with one-time tasks such as moving, mowing, powerwashing, simple home or car repairs, or trimming trees and bushes. Needs are posted in this group and grabbed as schedules and skills allow. Want to be added to the group? Email Jillian at jhohensee@harvester.cc

SAVE THE DATE(S)!

Is it too soon to mention serving opportunities in December? Not when it involves PANCAKES because our people LOVE cooking tons of pancakes! Castlio Elementary School K-Kids is hosting a Pancake Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 13. Volunteers are needed to cook approximately 2000 pancakes and sausages between 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
You can sign up now using this link! https://harvestercc.ccbchurch.com/…/737/responses/new

HCC has committed to being on call as one of the area warming centers the week of January 18-24, 2026, and February 15-21, 2026. The EWR warming centers are activated if the temperature is forecasted to be 20 degrees or less. This program is a death prevention intervention to keep our unhoused and most vulnerable neighbors safe in extreme weather conditions. This program is even more needed this year with the closure of the O’Fallon Salvation Army. There will be MANY volunteers needed to serve in MANY capacities. Prayer Warriors, Hospitality to cook and serve meals, Laundry, Set Up, Clean Up, but ESPECIALLY volunteers to stay overnight on the nights we are activated. Pray how God wants you to support this ministry, and mark your calendar now for this critical event. Sign-ups will be available soon.

 

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October 27, 2025
in DTOTD
by cefiggins
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Praying for the Harvest


Luke 10:2 – “He told them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.’”

In Luke 10, we see Jesus selecting 72 disciples to preach in cities he was going to visit. They were told to heal the sick and announce the arrival of the kingdom of God. Before sending the seventy-two out on mission, Jesus invited them into intercessory prayer. David Platt defines intercession as a form of “desperate prayer” through which believers partner with God to accomplish His will on Earth. This is where we can stand in the gap between God and people. Jesus reminds the crowd that the work of ministry doesn’t begin with our mouths, our hands, or our minds.

It begins on our knees.

The harvest has always belonged to the Lord, and our first act of partnership with Him is to pray for those He will send — and to be willing for that prayer to include us. When Jesus looked out over the crowds, He didn’t see inconvenience. He didn’t see interruptions. He didn’t see a to-do list. He saw a harvest — people ready to experience the love and hope of God. And His first instruction wasn’t “Go.” It was “Pray.”

At Harvester Christian Church, when we lift a desperate prayer for “our One,” we are joining Jesus in His heart for the lost. We’re not just praying for opportunities to serve; we’re asking God to open eyes, soften hearts, and prepare both the laborers and the harvest. Every time you pray for a neighbor, a co-worker, a teacher, a student, or a family in need, you are cultivating spiritual soil that the Holy Spirit can grow something eternal in.

Intercessory prayer isn’t a small task — it’s the spiritual groundwork of every movement of God. When you pause to pray before serving in the pantry, before walking into a school, or before greeting a guest at an outreach event, you’re aligning your heart with the heart of the Harvester — Jesus Himself.

Our call is to see the harvest as He sees it. It’s not a burden to be carried; it’s not task to be scheduled into our lives; it’s a promise to be fulfilled. And when we pray for the laborers — for others and for ourselves — we are saying to God, “Use me, too.”

Reflection Questions

  1. When you think of “the harvest,” who in your life comes to mind as your One—the person God has placed on your heart to pray for?

  2. When you think of ‘the laborers,” who in your life do you need to invite to join you in service to others inside and outside of Harvester?

  3. How might you intentionally include intercessory prayer in your serving rhythm—before, during, and after you serve?

  4. What would it look like for you to say “yes” if God answered your prayer by sending you into the harvest field?

Intercessory Prayer

Hey God, 
You are the Lord of the Harvest. Thank You for allowing us to see what You see — a world full of people who are loved, seen, and ready to know You. When we were still powerless ourselves, you died for us, the ungodly. Because we have been reconciled, we boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ that as many others as possible will come to know the love of Jesus.  Stir in us a holy compassion for the lost and a deep burden to pray for those who labor in Your name. We lift our fellow workers in the harvest — every volunteer, every servant, every neighbor who carries Your light into dark places. Strengthen them, protect them, and fill them with Your Spirit. We desperately pray for our Ones — those who are far from You but not far from Your heart. Prepare the soil of their hearts to receive the good news of Jesus. Open doors for us to speak truth, to show love, and to live lives that point directly to You. And Lord, if the answer to our prayer for more laborers is us, give us the courage to go. Send us where you will. Use our hands, our words, and our presence to bring in the harvest that You have already prepared.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

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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.