Serving our neighbor with God’s Work. Our Hands.
September 13, 2020
On September 13, Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest will be participating with other congregations nationwide for what has become known as God’s Work. Our Hands. This one day event, held by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is a way to celebrate as a church by living out our mission of service and love to all. Will you join us?
Although options seem limited due to COVID-19, it’s easy to give your time through your local church or community group. God’s Work. Our Hands. is just another way of putting into action the message that no matter our background, we are—and continue to be—in this together.
Take a look below for options of how you can participate on this important day of giving.
Host A Card Writing Party
Choose a date and time for your group to gather (virtual or social-distance appropriate) to create uplifting cards for various LSS-SW programs.
Some ideas for cards include:
“Thinking of you cards” for older adults or their Direct Care Workers
Words of encouragement for refugee students
Words of inspiration and support for refugee families (bonus: try writing something in the refugee’s native language!)
Motivating cards for clients OR staff in our Children and Family services or Emergency Services
2. Join our Advocacy Efforts
Among the many ways to serve our neighbor, advocacy remains a steadfast way to engage with your community by learning more about the policies that shape our everyday lives and supporting those who are among the most vulnerable.
Host an Advocacy Workshop with LSS—
Schedule a time for an LSS-SW staff member to present an up-to-date Advocacy Information session, and have your members write their own advocacy letters. (Church/group can choose to have LSS staff member lead session OR opt for group member to lead the session by receiving training from LSS in advance.)
Want to opt-in to our Advocacy Alerts and stay informed of the newest refugee and advocacy news? Click here.
3. Join Operation Deliver Hope
You can help those affected by COVID-19 by collecting at your local congregation or community group and dropping off your donation at our Phoenix or Tucson office.
Urgently needed items include: baby supplies (formula, diapers, wipes), toiletries, non-perishable foods, gift cards, and cleaning supplies with disinfectant.
Volunteer groups are also needed to distribute items to client’s doorsteps.
Click here for updated information regarding drop-off times and locations.
Although our churches and communities are living through COVID-19, we here at Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest want to take a moment to step back and consider the work that still needs to be done. We invite you to join us in continuing to serve our communities with the same Christ-like love all Lutherans have set out to live from the beginning.
Send us photos of your Day of Service!
Send us pictures of how you choose to serve your community for God’s Work. Our Hands. for the chance to be featured in our newsletter. Please send by Sept. 15, 2020.