Partners in Ministry

The Partners in Ministry Designated Offering Program at Grace is one of the ways that we are Reaching Out in Christ's Love. Each month, we pass the plate for an organization that aligns with our Mission, and about whose mission our members and friends feel passionately. Our impact is doubled thanks to the Grace Foundation, who match every gift dollar for dollar, up to $2,000/month.

October 2023: Pacifica Synod

The designated Partner in Ministry (PiM) offering for October 2023 is

Pacifica Synod, ELCA, supporting disaster relief for the devastating fires on Maui. Bishop Dave of the Pacifica Synod writes,

 

"The images on the news are apocalyptic. The fires on Maui and the Big Island of Hawai’i have killed at least 36 people (as I write this), destroyed people’s homes, churches, and schools. The town of Lahaina has been devastated.

 

I have been in contact with the pastors of our Lutheran congregations on Hawai’i and Maui. So far, both congregational campuses are safe, but there is a fire in the hills above Kihei that could threaten the property if the winds become too strong. Some members have lost their homes.

 

 Many people have been reaching out to ask what they can do. We have had an initial contact from Lutheran Disaster Response assuring us that they stand ready to assist our synod. The need for relief assistance will be tremendous, but as yet we do not know the scope of the damage as this is an ongoing disaster.

 

So, what can the people of God do when our siblings are suffering? We can pray. I ask you to take time today and every day for the duration of this emergency to ask for God’s compassion to flow to those who are injured or grieving or overwhelmed with loss and fear. Pray that the winds may abate and for people to find their way to safety. Pray for the fire fighters, police, and emergency responders who are going to great lengths to save people and property. Pray for the community to come together with a solid commitment to rebuild and restore what was lost.

 

We can also give generously. We do not know the scope of the damage or how best to use our donations, but we can begin now to create an emergency relief fund. Once the smoke clears and the people in Maui and Hawai’i can tell us what they need we will send 100% of any funds donated to them. Again, any funds that we receive will be sent to organizations and agencies providing direct relief to those affected by the fires."

 

Learn more at https://www.pacificasynod.org/pray-for-and-support-hawaii/

November 2023: Wholly Kicks

Wholly Kicks is a non-profit organization whose presence in Aurora, Colorado, and the Denver Metro area, exists for the purpose of “walking with” those in impoverished areas or those at risk of or, experiencing homelessness. Through the distribution of new shoes and socks, the focus of Wholly Kicks is to mentor and build relationships in “walking with” individuals experiencing economic disparity.

 

Wholly Kicks provides new shoes and socks to children and adults through large events and personal interactions on the street, in shelters, in Title 1 schools, with community non-profits, to case managers, at motels, and low-income housing units.

 

Learn more at https://whollykicks.org/

December 2023: Emergency Family Assistance Association

Emergency Family Assistance Association (EFAA) provides stabilizing services, innovative programs, and transformative advocacy to strengthen families and create a thriving community.

 

EFAA is building a community where all of our neighbors can meet their basic needs and springboard themselves and their children out of poverty.

 

For over 100 years, EFAA has served as Boulder County’s safety net, working in collaboration with volunteers, donors, partners, and participants. We ensure our community has access to food, housing, and other resources to move toward financial stability and resilience. When families thrive, our community is stronger.

 

Learn more at https://www.efaa.org/


Below are the organizations we have contributed to over the past few years through our designated PiM Offering.