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OUTREACH AND
SOCIAL JUSTICE
OUR OUTWARD EXPRESSION OF GATHERING AND GROWING TOGHETER
"Go in peace to
love and serve
the Lord..."
At the closing of our worship together, we are sent forth out into the world, and we’re transformed from a worshiping community into one actively engaged in works of peace making, justice seeking, and relationship building “out there.”
We go into the world to treasure and tend to the people and the very world God made and loves. Just as we gather and grow with one another at Grace Church as part of healing the world and transforming our lives, we also go with one another and our neighbors into the places and spaces of this world in need of God's love and Christ's compassion. In short, "God so loved the world," and so do we!
Read on to learn more about the Outreach and Social Justice ministries of Grace Church and the ways in which you can join in that shared mission.
Why do we do it?
Our reaching out is a bold expression of faith, a response to Jesus’ imperatives that we “love our neighbors” and care for “the least of these my brothers and sisters.” Our outreach efforts also include a commitment to reaching “with.” Grace is strengthened by and always learning from others – individuals, families, churches, and other organizations – who share the goal of making this world a better place for all.
Our Reach
Our reach is wide. We partner with community organizations such as Community Action House's Food Club and Refresh Ministries, Out On The Lakeshore, Lighthouse Immigration Advocates, Singing Resistance West Michigan, Episcopal Relief and Development, and others. The reach of Grace takes many forms – prayerful, financial, hands on, and with – all expressions of faith as God works through us in love.
Our Impact
Our impact is life-giving. Grace volunteers with Community Action House Food Club and all together have helped thousands of families receive a steady source of healthy food supplies. We have welcomed thousands to the Holland Pride festival in support of our LGBTQ members, neighbors, and friends. Grace has supported immigrants in West Michigan, and provided housing and hospitality for refugees. We have given to global efforts through Episcopal Relief and Development (ER&D) and support local efforts through the ingathering of our financial gifts, our physical resources, and our presence in the community. Grace reaches out in ways that change lives – spiritually and materially. And as we offer this reach, we who are Grace, are changed too.
