Local Mission Projects

“And the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invited you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’” - Matthew 25:37-40

The Local Mission Committee focuses upon serving the local Fort Wayne geographical area as well as the Fort Wayne District of the United Methodist Church. This committee provides avenues to “roll up our sleeves” and get involved right here in Fort Wayne.

Local Missions Team
The Local Mission team meets October 9, November 6, December 11, 2008; February 12, April 30, June 11, August 13, 2009 to discuss possible mission projects, determine involvement and support, and creatively address the needs of Fort Wayne and the surrounding community through ongoing and special projects.
Tree of Angels Holiday Giving Tree

Through Tree of Angels we help children and families from the Fort Wayne area , Good Shepherd, Open Arms and Iglesia Cristiana El Buen Pastor during Christmas time. Children receive gifts of clothing and toys while essential gift certificates go the parents or caregivers. This year the Tree of Angels collection will be November 17th-December 9th; Gift tags are available in the narthex at Vance & Reed and Hessen Cassel. The Tree of Angels family reception will be held at Open Arms Ministries on Saturday, December 15th at 3pm. This holiday season pick up a gift tag, make some cookies for the reception, and pray Tree of Angels is able to reach over 120 children and their families again this year!

Associated Churches Food Bank

Members and friends bring non-perishable food items for the Associated Churches Food Pantry system on the first Sunday of each month, although donations are received anytime and delivered to the Food Bank regularly. Items can be left at any entryway.

Monetary donations are received on the first Sunday in March, June, September, and December during communion for the purchase of meat for Associated Churches Food Pantry system. The goal is $2,500.

Blood Drives (American Red Cross)

Good Shepherd hosts a summer and Christmastime blood drive. These blood drives come during traditionally critical times when the Red Cross is in low blood supply.

Charis House

The women and children’s arm of the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission is Charis House, providing a safe place and resources for families in time of crisis. Good Shepherd holds activities such as mitten trees, church wide baby showers, or financial support for this outreach. Gift baskets are presented at Valentine’s Day and Easter to the women’s shelters of Fort Wayne.

Emergency Fund
Support is given for member families who are in critical need. Support for this ministry comes through special offerings and Communion offerings. Contact the office at 483-8816 to request assistance through the J.O.Y. ministry or to provide financial assistance. Related to this ministry is Crown Financial Ministry offering workshops and counseling for financial matters.
Habitat For Humanity

Good Shepherd joins others from across the city in building homes for low income families. From season to season we alert our congregation about current projects and other opportunities to contribute resources for the work Habitat. The goal is $1,500.

Matthew 25 Clinic
This Fort Wayne health and dental clinic provides physical, social, emotional, and spiritual care to many in need. Prayer, volunteer and financial support are always needed.
Rescue Mission
Fort Wayne has an aggressive and effective ministry to the homeless. On the second Tuesday of the month, Good Shepherd sends a worship team to lead worship at the Rescue Mission. During the Christmas season special gifts are collected for the Rescue Mission.
Tutoring
Fort Wayne Community Schools comes to Good Shepherd for Study Connection. Members and friends of the church work one on one with elementary and High School students giving extra guidance and encouragement during the school year.