Outreach shows our commitment to be at work in the world as agents of God's justice, mercy, and peace. It's not just something special that we do occasionally; it's an integral part of who we are woven into the very fabric of our ministry. In addition to the special initiatives for which our members give generously of their time, talent and treasure, our congregation's annual operating budget commits more than 20% of pledged contributions and endowment income to ministries that extend beyond our walls. These funds are put to work locally at the direction of the outreach committee and in UCC-related ministries through Our Church's Wider Mission (OCWM). Also, we reach out by opening up...making our beautiful and convenient facilities available to other service and community groups and partner churches.
Some of our special offerings:
February, Have a Heart. Food to Kent Social Services for local distribution and monetary contributions to the chicken fund.
March, One Great Hour of Sharing. Helps provide clean water, food, education, health care, emergency relief, and advocacy/resettlement for refugees and displaced persons. It also supports domestic and international disaster preparedness and response.
May, Strengthen the Church. Supports leadership for new churches and renewing churches, programs for youth and young adults, and leadership development.
October, Neighbors in Need. Supports ministries of justice and compassion throughout the US. Also helps support the UCC’s Council for American Indian Ministries as well as justice advocacy and direct service projects supported by Justice and Witness Ministries.
December, Christmas. Directed by the outreach committee to places of greatest need.
The goal of the outreach committee members is to take a vested interest in those we support locally, to educate the membership to opportunities for ministry beyond our local congregation and to include the entire congregation in service projects. For more information, contact us at Office@KentUCC.org or 330.673.9534.