journeys-page

Trinity has so many amazing ministries. And it follows that Trinity has many amazing people. We could be a Hallmark commercial – “when you care enough——.” I marvel daily at all the ways our church is in mission to our community. One area that particularly touches my heart is — drum roll here — and no surprise to those who know me, Loaves and Fishes. Last weekend you read some year-end numbers. Amazing, 19,199 people had more food this past year, because of all those who help. Let’s look at a few more numbers, that’s 4788 families served in 2019. And that translates into 7992 children who had more food in 2019, plus 9762 ages 19-64, and 1445 seniors over 65. More importantly, let’s talk stories for a moment. There are people in their 80’s who are raising great grandchildren and are extremely grateful for the food help. There is a physically challenged lady who comes each month. Our group calls a cab to pick her up. In December, she baked cookies and brought them for the volunteers! We give out blankets, hats, socks, gloves, and scarves during the cold months. In December, a man got two hats and hugging them close to his heart, he said he had two kids and asked for two blankets for their Christmas gifts. Children who receive a blanket and are warmer while waiting with their parents have huge smiles. A lady brings Bibles to give away most months. A man from Hastings brings grocery carts every month. A group brought books in December. And in addition to those from our church, some of the consumers volunteer plus the hard-working ROTC from Senior High, people from First Presbyterian, some scout troops have helped as do people from Principal Finance and others who have heard of the distribution. We are also very grateful that the city of Grand Island allows us to use the utilities garage. It takes over 110 people each month to man Loaves and Fishes and that translates into about 480-man hours per month or about 5760-man hours in 2019. Also, in 2019, we began taking prayer requests. We get anywhere from 35 to 98 requests a month. The care, the smiles, the pats on the back, the prayers we give are every bit as important as the food we distribute. So, here’s that word again, AMAZING. Yes, Trinity, you are an amazing and loving church and today I salute you as we celebrate our first TRINITY UNITED! –Deb Brummund