On November 13 and 14, more than 2,000 people—many of them coming as families—packed Thanksgiving meal baskets to be distributed by Willow’s Care Center. Widely promoted through Promiseland, the time was spent singing, enjoying snacks, coloring, packing food, writing notes of encouragement to the receiving families, and praying—all designed to help parents and children serve and grow together.
“In Promiseland, we want to help kids grow up with a faith that sticks,” said Compassion and Justice Director Heather Larson to the volunteers. “Our goal is to bridge what we do in Promiseland to what you do as parents, your children’s spiritual leaders, at home.”
Serving together as a family is a great bridge. Parents Steve and Linda served with their four children, Christina (age 13), Amanda (11), Mikey (5), and Johnny. According to Steve, “I didn’t get to do anything like this when I was a kid so I’m just grateful that we’re able to serve as a family and help other people.” Christina said she likes serving with her family; it draws them closer. She added, “It feels good [that] we’re helping the community.”
Arianna (age 6), who served alongside her parents Phil and Tammy, also likes it when her mom and dad get involved and serve with her. Phil said, “Willow does a great job not just packing the food but making it an event that impacts all of us.” Tammy added that, after listening to Ken Davis’ message from Philippians 3:10–14, which exhorted us to “live fully alive,” it was good to put it into practice.
11/16/2010
GREAT JOB
Posted by: DAVE | 11/17/2010 at 05:20 PM