Here are some ministry updates from the fall edition of our Mission Messenger newsletter. To view our complete newsletter, download the PDF here: Mission Messenger Fall 2023.
Fall ministry update
We were recently able to provide help with a special need thanks to a gift from one of our donors. This summer, a man rode his bike all the way from Fort Wayne to Lima; he and his wife were living in a rough area which they wanted to leave. He was hoping to find work here and was able to get a job right away. One requirement for his job was a pair of steel toe boots. As it turns out, a donor had given us a gift card to use for anyone who might need steel toe boots. We took him to the store and were able to purchase the boots he needed for work. He has been staying at the Mission while continuing to work, with the goal of finding a place for he and his wife to move to. Sometimes a physical move can bring about needed change. We hope his time at the Mission will be a help as he and his wife transition to a new location.
Mission Notes
The number of men coming in for meals is usually consistent with very small fluctuations, but recently there have been sudden spikes and later drops which can make it difficult to plan for meals. Thankfully we have had a good supply of donated food to help through those times. Our overnight shelter has been at or near capacity recently.
Camp Roberts Update
Unfortunately we were not able to hold camp this summer due to a lack of applicants for counselor positions. As we have mentioned previously, we used to have to turn down applicants because we had more than enough staff. We have increased recruiting efforts with no success. Early next year we would like to visit churches in person, if possible, and provide more information about our Camp Roberts ministry and opportunities to serve. We are not asking to share during a service, only to set up a small display and be available to discuss the camp ministry with those interested.
Giving and Current Projects
We have seen a decrease in giving over the first half of this year. While we have been careful to manage expenses, some increases are unavoidable. We also have a couple of repair projects that must be completed. We appreciate everyone who has continued their support, and understand that some have to carefully manage their own expenses at this time. Thank you for your continued prayers and support for our staff and those we minister to every day.
Weekend servers wanted
We are looking for small groups of anywhere from two to five people who would be interested in serving meals, especially on Saturdays and Sundays that have openings. This activity takes place from 4:30–6:00 P.M. and involves kitchen and dining room preparations, serving the meal, and cleanup. If you are interested in joining us or would like more information, please contact us.
Banquet upcoming
We hope you'll make plans to join us as we celebrate 117 years of ministry! Our anniversary banquet featuring The LeFevre Quartet is scheduled for Friday, November 3, 6:30 P.M. at UNOH Event Center.
Our banquet provides a time of fellowship with our supporters and is an opportunity to raise funds in support of our daily ministry. If you've never been to one of our banquets, we hope you'll consider attending this year! Be sure to invite friends, family, or co-workers, as this is a great opportunity to introduce them to the ministry of Lima Rescue Mission.
General admission tickets are free; an offering will be taken at the end of the evening. If you're interested in reserved seating, you can sponsor a table with a gift of $300. Each table seats eight.
To request tickets or sponsor a table, visit our website at limamission.org/banquet, respond by mail, or call 419-224-6961. Please request tickets as soon as possible; we cannot guarantee availability closer to the event. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Current needs
Donating items from our needs list is a great way to make a difference in the lives of the poor and homeless, and anyone can get involved by collecting these items. The best time to bring donations to the Mission is on weekdays from 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. or Saturdays from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Our current needs include a variety of items to be used in our daily ministry:
- Bleach
- Instant coffee
- Sugar
- Large #10 cans of corn, green beans, peas, pork and beans, sauerkraut
- Napkins, paper towels
For updates to this list, and a link to items on Amazon, visit our Current Needs page. Thank you for giving!
Sheep without a shepherd
If you have read any number of written materials that we have shared over the years, you'll know that we frequently discuss physical and spiritual care. This is not a marketing phrase or a passing fad. These are, in effect, the core tenets of our ministry—the example for which we find in Jesus' earthly ministry.
To view our complete newsletter, download the PDF here: Mission Messenger Fall 2023.