Practical Outreach Ministry Meets Real Needs

Over my years of ministry, I’ve experienced many outreach initiatives. But none have been as culturally relevant and effective as those I encountered while serving in Alaska. I witnessed two examples of practical outreach ministry that made a real impact: Moose meat and winter coats.

Moose Recovery Program for Families in Need

Our church partnered with local law enforcement to ensure that meat from road-killed moose didn’t go to waste. I realize that to some, this might sound unusual. But for many in the North, a single moose can provide a family with food all winter. This practical outreach ministry was life-changing for those in need.

Day or night, when a State Trooper called, men from our church drove out to harvest the meat. Afterwards, they prepared it for storage in a church freezer. In the weeks that followed, struggling families knew they could stop by and get fresh meat for their table. It was a simple way to provide for real needs while building relationships within the community.

Coats Keeping the Community Warm

Two mothers in the church saw a need and took action. They placed a donation bin near the church office, encouraging people to drop off coats, snow pants, hats, and gloves. Those in need were welcome to take what they needed.

“Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” (Luke 3:11, ESV)

As donations grew, a storage unit was needed and it filled up quickly! This launched a Winter Gear Giveaway event at the start of winter, hosted and facilitated by our church. The auditorium was covered in winter clothing, freely available to anyone who needed it.

Many people in our community stayed warm that winter because two moms had a heart to serve. Moreover, there was a church family who rallied behind them. This was another great example of a practical outreach ministry that met real needs.

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4, ESV)

The Heart of Practical Outreach Ministry

Both of these ministries were built on the same foundation: to meet practical needs with the love of Christ. A practical outreach ministry isn’t about elaborate programs or complex strategies. Sometimes, it’s as simple as providing a warm coat or a good meal. Which often spring-boards into opportunities to share the Gospel!

I’ve learned that outreach is most effective when it’s personal, tangible, and done with a heart to serve. When we see a need and respond, lives are changed…ours included!

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• What practical outreach efforts have impacted your community?
• How has your church responded to real needs in tangible ways?
• What simple ways can we better serve those around us?