This is a wonderful season of thankfulness and generous giving.  And a part of truly appreciating the fullest of thanks is to realize the source of all of your blessings.  God gives you the simple joys of spiced cider and hot cocoa.  And God gives you the intricate blessings of family and friends.  And God gives you the transcendent blessings of love and forgiveness and the Word of God who became human for us - Jesus.

     When you truly realize the abundance of your blessings through God, you have a deep desire to share your abundance to bring hope and joy to others.

     This year, I would like you to consider giving a financial gift to the Hanover Area Council of Churches as a part of your abundance.

     This past year, one of HACC’s largest single donors decided to move their financial gifts to larger corporations.  And so, the Hanover Area Council of Churches lost $100,000 per year that they had been using to fund their many ministries to the needy in our area.

     HACC provides an excellent free hot lunch (PAL Lunch)  every day to anyone who needs it.  They also provide lunches for the Meals On Wheels ministry that brings meals to the elderly in our area.

     The Hanover Area Council of Churches provides a Changing Lives/Cold Weather Shelter for homeless individuals and families on the streets of Hanover.  Both to help them off the streets and to help them find housing and a job.

     They also provide very inexpensive clothing to the needy out of their clothing bank.  They provide basic health care a couple of days per month.

     HACC also sponsors Ruth’s Harvest that provides backpacks of food for the weekends to needy children in our area.

     They also help us provide Christmas gifts to the needy and various other ministries like giving work boots to those who need them.

     You and I often feel a little helpless when we want to be generous and help the poor directly - without worrying about who might be scamming you.  The Hanover Area Council of Churches is a ministry run by people who live in our area... the Board of HACC is composed of many of the church members and pastors in our area including St. Bartholomew’s.

     This is the kind of ministry that directly serves the needy in our area in a multitude of ways - and this ministry is in significant need of support.  The Hanover Area Council of Churches is running a Campaign to raise funds to buffer their significant loss of funds.  Of course, you can give in any amount, but I would encourage those of us who can - to consider a significant donation in recognition of your significant blessings.  Their categories are:

     $10,000+  Faithful Friend

     $5,000      Loyal Friend

     $2,500      Devoted Friend

     $1,000      True Friend

     $500          Steadfast Friend

     $1-499      Dedicated Friend

You can fill out the form ( See Dec. Newsletter) and send to CRISIS FUND at HACC, P.O. Box 1561, Hanover, PA 17331.

     I hate to ask for money, but this is an astounding ministry in our area - and it is one of our direct outreach to our sisters and brothers in need.

     Thank You!

- Pastor Steve