As we are sheltered in our homes, let us be aware that many are experiencing increased isolation and deprivation of basic needs. Our 3 Richmond Baptist Centers and the Eastern Henrico FISH organizations are still serving our community within guidelines directed by health and government officials. Camp Alkulana staff and volunteers are electronically networking with their youthful campers (#AlkulanaFamily).
We need to do what we can to support these ministries. A portion of your regular offering is designated for denominational work in our city through The River City Faith Network (RCFN) of the Richmond Baptist Association, the state through Baptist General Association of VA (BGAV), nationally and internationally through the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF). In addi- tion, special offerings are celebrated throughout the year. In May, Baptists celebrate local association ministries; in our case – Camp Alkulana. You will see a special designated yellow offering envelop in your box. On the 1st Sunday of each month, the congregation has the opportunity to give to the Benevolent Fund which is now designated for support of Eastern Henrico FISH to assist our county neighbors with a food pantry, clothes closet, and assistance with bills for housing and utilities, similar to the work of city Baptist Centers. In these times, please consider including designated contributions to these special funds as you send in your church offering.
While it is difficult to purchase and deliver needed items these days, our church has been able to deliver 40 requested snack bags for the homeless to the Oregon Hill Center for April. We are scheduled to serve a meal on July 9. It may be necessary to serve bagged take-out style, as the center has been doing recent- ly while also allowing mail pick-up and locker access by ap- pointment.
Looking ahead, in some fashion, the Centers will again have “Back-to-School Celebrations”. Carlisle is requested to assist the Church Hill Christian Wellness Center with the collection and early August distribution of Toiletry bags (toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, washcloth, mouthwash, deodorant & soap), children’s underwear, socks, and school supplies – Be alert for shopping bargains this summer, as you prepare for your own family. “The Well” is currently conducting its Friday Bible Study by phone. Be in prayer for Director Glinda Ford in the recent death of her daughter, Sharda.
