On Sunday, October 28 we celebrated FaithWorks Sunday with a focus on Loft Community Services.

Anne Simons and Jim Rehill, on behalf of Shirley Rehill, spoke about what Loft Community Services does for those in our community, who they help and what their current needs are. We thank Anne, Jim and Shirley for sharing with us how important Loft is in Stouffville and other locations in the GTA.

After the service, a hot dog lunch was served with freewill offerings going to our Deacon Al Fund (which funds local outreach needs, such as gas cards and grocery store gift cards for those in need). A portion of the funds raised also went to purchasing a blender, lamp and alarm clock for the Loft house here in Stouffville. They were received with an abundance of gratitude.

Christ Church Stouffville is one of the largest contributors to FaithWorks in the Diocese of Toronto and we thank you all for your continued support. The work FaithWorks does cannot be accomplished without generous donations by people like you!

It is possible to come to church and never serve. But this doesn’t make for a very dynamic or spiritual experience. According to an article on Christianity Today, the number one reason why people don’t help out at church is because they don’t know how they can help or they feel like they don’t have the talents or gifts to help. But God has given us each a unique gift to share. Here’s 5 easy ways you can serve at church.

1. Greet people: Each week, we say hi to the people we know, but what about the people who are visiting or new to our church? It's awkward and uncomfortable to be in a room of strangers with no one to talk to and not knowing where the facilities are. The simple act of saying hi to a newcomer and showing them around is a great way to help them feel more comfortable, and is a practical way to love others as we would like to be loved (who enjoys standing awkwardly on their own?!).

2. Pray: Don’t discount the power of prayer. Sometimes it can seem like it’s the “least you can do”, but it’s actually one of the most important. In addition to praying for someone to heal or have a problem fixed, pray for them to grow strong in the Lord. In the first chapter of each of St. Paul’s books, he prayed less for situations to be resolved positively and more for people to grow in their spirituality.

3. Read a book and share it with others: Our church library is an underused resource that we are fortunate to have. Have you read a great Christian based novel or book lately? Recommend and share it with others. Spread the word – literally.

4. Host a coffee hour: Everything goes better with coffee. It’s easy to get to know those in our church whom you may not have spoken to before over a cup of steaming hot joe.

5. Invite others to church: Share your faith! One of the best ways you can do this and serve the church at the same time is to simply invite your friends to attend a church service or event with you.

“Serve one another humbly in love”
Galatians 5:13

Faithworks Sunday

Top 5 Ways to Serve at Church