"Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too"
Philippians 2:4 (NLT)
Earlier this year, Sharon Platt-McDonald, Director of Adventist Community Services (ACS), Health & Women's Ministries at the British Union Conference (BUC) developed and launched the ACTS of Service initiative. This project was designed to make outreach ministry meaningful, by applying four key elements: Attention,Compassion, Teamworking and Solutions. See full article at: https://adventist.uk/news/article/go/2022-06-23/1224/
Following on from the launch of ACTS of Service, Sharon has developed two new projects building on theACTS principles. LAYERS and SHARE specifically address the repercussions of the rising energy bills and the cost-of-living crisis and are launched in partnership with the I AM Urban initiative.
THE LAYERS PROJECT
"If you see some brother or sister in need and have the means to do something about it but turn a cold shoulder and do nothing, what happens to God's love?" 1 John 3:17 (The Message)
LAYERS was created as a practical response to the escalating energy bills and the subsequent dilemma around keeping warm. The term 'layers', refers to wearing extra layers of clothes or using additional coverings to add extra warmth. By donating warm clothing and bed coverings through the LAYERS project, individuals in need, can survive the cold, even if they are unable to keep the heating on.
The request is to donate NEW items such as blankets, duvets, comforters, throws, ats, scarves, gloves, and socks. These can be purchased items or handmade.
If you are interested in donating these items, please email communityservices@adventist.uk to register your willingness to donate, and further instructions will be sent to you.
THE SHARE PROJECT:
"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." Hebrews 13:16 (ESV)
The SHARE project is another practical response to the current cost-of-living crisis.
We are requesting donations of food items such as dried and canned goods (in date), and household items, that can help to replenish the stock of essentials that individuals in need may not be able to afford on a regular basis.
We will provide you with a list of items that you can donate once you contact us.
If you are interested in assisting with the SHARE project, please email communityservices@adventist.uk to register your willingness to donate. You will be given additional information on how to proceed.
Speaking about the initiatives, Sharon said: "I wanted to unite the work of my three departments – Adventist Community Services, Health and Women's Ministries, to mobilise our departmental leaders and members to participate in practical ministry which relates to current national challenges."
She further explains:
"There are several scriptures which encourages us to attend to the needs of others. One of my favourite is found in Luke 3:11 (NLT) which states:
'…If you have two shirts, give one to the poor. If you have food, share it with those who are hungry.'
"I felt this scripture spoke to both the 'LAYERS' and 'SHARE' initiative. I am looking forward to seeing how our churches and members can support these two projects, so that individuals in need will be adequately provided for. Thank you to everyone who will help to make this a reality."