Recently a homeless gentleman showed up at our door. While not an uncommon occurrence, his visit was unique to us, as he chose to set up camp and sleep outside along the side of the church for a few days. Those who saw him reacted in many ways— surprised, perplexed, concerned, scared, disheartened and even disturbed.
Our guest said he felt safe and thought the church would be “cool with him staying and sleeping outside,” but with winter already here we could only help so much. During his stay, we gave him what snack food we had, some water bottles, a few cups of hot coffee, a handful of bus passes, and an exhaustive list of agencies that can give him the long-term care he needs.
Many folks here tried to help him get out of the cold, to a safe place with services like warm showers, cozy beds, and hot meals. Early this week, he made a connection with Carpenter's Place, an organization downtown which St. Mark supports in many ways. In fact, by sheer coincidence, all through the month of December, we are lifting up Carpenter’s Place by collecting needed items, as well as monetary donations to pay for more meals made by our members for the people at Carpenter’s Place. Our Outreach Committee prepared a Reverse Advent Calendar that lists items needed, which can be brought to the Red Truck in Fellowship Hall, or to the bin at the south entrance. This sort of action is the best way that we can provide support for our homeless neighbors. Agencies like Carpenter’s Place have the facilities, staff, and resources to best provide for folks like our guest, and when we support those agencies, we support our neighbors. Please continue to pray for our guest, all people without a home, Carpenter's Place, and those who care for others.
St. Mark is a safe place, with many caring people who have a heart and the knowledge to give folks like our guest the resources that can get them the professional services they need. These kinds of encounters can be uncomfortable and challenging, but we on staff are grateful that the people of St. Mark are living examples of Matthew 25.
“I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me….Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.”
(The Rescue Mission discourages giving a ride or cash to people in this situation. If you encounter someone who is hungry, consider buying them some food or giving them a restaurant gift card. In winter months, you could even keep hats, gloves, new socks, and other items in your vehicle to give to those who may need such things.)
Peace,
St. Mark Staff
