MISSION STATEMENT: Mobilizing women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ.
OUR PURPOSE: As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ,
and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts,
support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action,
and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world.
LOCAL CIRCLE NEWS
St. John’s Lutheran Church, Spartanburg
All Around in Circles…
Submitted by Cathy Pearson
When we were tasked with Fellowship opportunities during the pandemic, St. John’s Circles rallied. Prior to the pandemic, Circles would host fellowship hour after the 11 o’clock service and host supper hour prior to Wednesday Lenten services as just some ways we came together to promote camaraderie and a spirit of togetherness within the congregation. And then came COVID! Church became a virtual zoom session.
Our Circles began sending “Thinking of You” cards with personal notes monthly to our homebound members, those in the military, as well as those who were added to our church’s weekly prayer list. Some Circles sent cards also to those who were deeply affected by the COVID virus, those depressed due to those circumstances, and to both members and non-members who needed encouragement. One of our Circles made batches of soup and hand-delivered them to individuals in the community!
So many of our recipients were so appreciative of the kindness and thoughtfulness extended to them that we decided to extend this activity now that COVID rates have decreased and church is returning to a new normal. We have resumed hosting Lenten Meals and fellowship hour after our 11 o’clock services as well.
On Sunday, November 21, we held our Thankoffering Service at both 9:00 and 11:00 with all donations given to the Hope Center (previously called the Children’s Shelter). The Theme for that Sunday was “Shine the Light of Christ into the World.” Over 60 women (including young adults and children) participated in both services. Hundreds of dollars in donations and gift cards were presented to the Center.
We will continue to serve God by reaching out to others as we shine the light of Christ into the world.