 |
 |
A Faithful Friend and a Faithful Community
submitted by Margaret Hartley, First Presbyterian Church, Socorro, New Mexico
Florence M. Walker came to Socorro in 1965 and she brought with her a blanket for the Church World Service Blanket Offering. She got First Presbyterian Church in Socorro started on supporting the CWS blanket program, and for years we have continued that support.
Every year, on the two weekends closest to Florence's birthday in October, we hang the blanket on the front wall and ask church members to give. We have continued the tradition even after Florence's death. What a way to honor such a good Christian woman and good cause.
As part of the Blanket offering, we hang the blanket on the wall after we have passed it around at the Presbyterian Women's meeting (asking for a donation with the regular offering) and at the church service. When Church World Service added Tools to the program, we started displaying tools with the blanket (see photo). Some years, we have things set up in the back of the church to remind folks as they enter, up close and personal, of what the program is all about. We always have flyers, posters and someone speaks out about the project. In addition to our current Pastor, we have had two previous Pastors who knew first hand of the good the Tools & Blanket program does and they strongly endorsed it too.
Now, I have a new blanket and I will be able to change how I display things and tell folks of the offering. Florence Walker's love and compassion for people in need through the Church World Service Tools & Blanket program got First Presbyterian Church in Socorro involved and her strong commitment will continue to inspire the congregation to offer their support.
 Photo: Margaret Hartley
|
Every year, on the two weekends closest to Florence's birthday in October, we hang the blanket on the front wall and ask church members to give. We have continued the tradition even after Florence's death. What a way to honor such a good Christian woman and good cause.
As part of the Blanket offering, we hang the blanket on the wall after we have passed it around at the Presbyterian Women's meeting (asking for a donation with the regular offering) and at the church service. When Church World Service added Tools to the program, we started displaying tools with the blanket (see photo). Some years, we have things set up in the back of the church to remind folks as they enter, up close and personal, of what the program is all about. We always have flyers, posters and someone speaks out about the project. In addition to our current Pastor, we have had two previous Pastors who knew first hand of the good the Tools & Blanket program does and they strongly endorsed it too.
Now, I have a new blanket and I will be able to change how I display things and tell folks of the offering. Florence Walker's love and compassion for people in need through the Church World Service Tools & Blanket program got First Presbyterian Church in Socorro involved and her strong commitment will continue to inspire the congregation to offer their support.
Tools & Blankets Resources
- Visit the CWS Tools & Blankets Resources page for graphics, skits and other materials to liven up your Tools & Blankets event.
- Order materials online or phone our national service center, 1-800-297-1516