Matthew 25 In Action: Memorial Presbyterian Church's Commitment Shines on Hope Day 2024
Living Out the Call of Matthew 25
The Matthew 25 Initiative, rooted in the parable of the sheep and the goats (Matthew 25:31-46), calls us to action in building congregational vitality, dismantling structural racism, and eradicating systemic poverty. This year, Memorial Presbyterian Church of Roosevelt, NY, embodied this mission through its active participation in Hope Day 2024, held on June 8th in the Western Beef parking lot in Roosevelt, NY.
A Day of Hope and Service
Hope Day 2024 was a collaborative effort with Christ's First Presbyterian Church of Hempstead, NY, and showcased the power of community and faith in action. This year's event was marked by significant achievements and a profound impact on the local community.
Reaching Out to the Community
The event welcomed 433 Guests of Honor, who were met with compassion, care, and a spirit of service. 50 Volunteers from both Memorial Presbyterian Church and Christ's First Presbyterian Church worked tirelessly to ensure the day was a success.
Spiritual and Emotional Support
A dedicated Connections Team prayed with 51 Guests, offering spiritual support and guidance. Remarkably, 10 Guests made a decision for Christ, and 22 Guests requested follow-up visits, highlighting the deep spiritual impact of the event.
Collaborations and Services
Hope Day 2024 saw the participation of 12 Community Service Organizations and 3 Health Service Organizations, providing a wide range of support and services to attendees. This collaboration underscores the importance of working together to address community needs.
Essential Supplies and Services
The generosity of the event was evident in the distribution of 400 bags of groceries and 400 pairs of shoes, ensuring that many families had their basic needs met. Additionally, 84 family photos were taken, creating lasting memories, and 35 haircuts were provided by Trimz, enhancing the dignity and self-esteem of the guests.
Health and Well-being
The event also focused on health and well-being, with 50 Honored Guests receiving blood pressure screenings, contributing to the overall health of the community. 160 lunch bags were distributed along with over 400 ice bars, providing nourishment and refreshment on a warm day.
Reflecting the Spirit of Matthew 25
Memorial Presbyterian Church's participation in Hope Day 2024 is a testament to the church's commitment to the principles of the Matthew 25 Initiative. By addressing immediate needs, offering spiritual support, and fostering community connections, the church demonstrated how faith in action can transform lives and build a more compassionate and just society.
A Call to Continue the Mission
As we reflect on the success of Hope Day 2024, let us be inspired to continue this mission in our communities. The work of building congregational vitality, dismantling structural racism, and eradicating systemic poverty is ongoing. We encourage all members of the Synod of the Northeast to participate in similar initiatives, embodying the teachings of Jesus and making a tangible difference in the world.
For more information about Hope Day and to get involved, please visit Hope Day Network.
Together, let us move forward in faith, hope, and love, living out the call of Matthew 25 in our daily lives and communities.
Memorial Presbyterian Church
189 Babylon Turnpike
Roosevelt, NY 11575
https://mpcliny.org
Presbytery of Long Island
109 Udall Road
West Islip, NY 11795
https://presbyteryofli.com/
