Rev. Helen P. Branch Minister of Outreach & Pastoral Care

Dear Members,

This year promises to be an exciting time for us as we embark on the journey of life.  When you and I move beyond the comfort of the sanctuary and our comfort zones, we are uniquely position to be the church.  As Christians, we do not live in isolation but are called to a life lived in community and service to others.  You and I become the very message of hope and love to a hurting world when we obey the command to “therefore go.”

As we go forth to places and people, giving unconditional love and sacrificial service, we have countless opportunities to be ambassadors for Christ. We provide opportunities for people to encounter the Body of Christ up close and personal. We have the joy of sharing Jesus with others and inviting them to be a part of the family of God.

Through the various outreach ministries we invite you to join us as we serve those that are hungry and poor, those living on the margins of society, those re-entering our community after being incarcerated, and those who have governance responsibilities over us.

Through technological advances we will keep you abreast of legislation and advocacy opportunities that impact us on a local and global level.  Just as we went to the polls to vote in records numbers for the 2009 presidential election, so we must take seriously the upcoming 2010 census count.  The census outcome has ramifications for everything that is important to our communities and quality of life, from the number of congressional seats we have in Congress to federal tax dollars to support infrastructures, hospitals, the building of new roads, and schools.  We will offer ongoing information about the census count and its’ importance to us.

This year we will launch the Hope Through Health Clinic permanent site, offering quality healthcare services to the uninsured and underinsured, in addition to providing the mobile clinic to the DeKalb community in August.

I am excited about the countless ways God will use us in service to others and our partnership in ministry with you.

Peace and Grace,

Helen P. Branch
Minister of Outreach and Pastoral Care

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others.” - 1Peter 4:10a

Benevolence Ministry
This ministry provides financial assistance to people (tithing members and non-members) experiencing potential loss of shelter and/or discontinuation of utility services. Applicants are seen by appointment only, on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month and must provide documentation of need at the time of the appointment. Appointments may be requested through the Receptionist, Monday through Thursday during the business hours of the church. (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.).

Feast of The Harvest
During the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season, we provide special food and other support to the adopted children of Dunaire Elementary School as well as, members of the congregation.

Food Pantry
As a part of the Benevolence Ministry we offer food assistance to people in need. Appointments for assistance may be requested through the Receptionist, Monday through Thursday during the business hours of the church from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Services are available on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. and on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Hope Through Health Clinic
This is a free comprehensive mobile clinic that provides health care and support services to medically under-served communities in Georgia. As an outreach mission of the church your giving, time, and talents help to provide a circle of caring and hope to others in need. The clinic will serve the Dekalb community on August 28, 2010.

Reconnection Ministry
In partnership with CrossRoad Ministries, Atlanta Union Mission, and the Atlanta Day Shelter for Women and Children, we provide services to assist homeless men and women in reconnecting back with the community and God. This is accomplished through the following means:

• One-to-One mentoring
• Bi-monthly Bible studies
• Employment search assistance
• Provision of toiletries and clothing
• Onsite meals and fellowship at the shelters

Keys of Hope Counseling Ministry
This ministry provides opportunities for emotional, mental, and spiritual growth with Christian insight. All of the counselors received biblical counseling training to offer short term counseling to unlock the doors to wholeness.  The ministry provides:

• Individual Counseling
• A Biblical Counseling Course
• Couples Counseling
• Family Counseling
• Referral Information
• Seminars & Workshops

To schedule an appointment with one of the counselors, contact the ministry at 770-696-5100 extension 216.

Restoration of Hope Ministry
The mission of this ministry is to educate and provide a safe environment for persons affected by domestic violence in and around DeKalb County.  As a church body, we will address violent crimes against women and others by developing the following faith-based responses: 

• To educate and raise the awareness about the effects of domestic violence on the family unit
• To provide support and resources for persons effected by domestic violence
• To apply Christian values, prayer and support for persons effected by domestic violence
• To provide a sense of hope for persons effected by domestic violence

Second Chance Prison Ministry
This ministry provides re-entry assistance to young adults released from prison to encourage them in rebuilding their lives through weekly support group meetings, MARTA passes for employment search, and Christian fellowship opportunities.

Evangelism Committee
This ministry develops and supports congregational witness opportunities to reach the lost for Christ.

2010 Calendar of Events