Shirley and M.E.Sorenson- Feeding Farmville

Feeding Farmville -

 A Story from St. John's in Farmville, VA

Jumping the hurdles of racial discrimination 

and being an unknown church in the community were some of our challenges. Perhaps we were only known as a church that keeps to itself. We were struggling how to help others when the poverty level in the county is at the least 14% higher than the national average. This was the evaluation that St. John's Farmville faced 3 years ago and decided to "do something". Pastor Matt Sorenson inspired the congregation to look beyond their walls into the neighborhood. St. John's members developed a plan to organize a community-wide project to feed 500 neighbors a hot meal on Thanksgiving Day. 

These meals were delivered to the homes. 

Going out -2 by 2- the individuals took time to speak with and pray with the recipients. They let them know they were special to God by sharing His unconditional love.

This community-wide event know as Feeding Farmville was  organized and hosted by St. John's. But, we have reached out into our community for volunteers and financial support. This year we had over 300 volunteers (many pictured above) and 69 different organizations supporting us in various ways. This made it possible, with God's help, to serve 800 meals. What seemed like an impossible mission when we began, was not too big for God. Each year He has provided the volunteers and the finances we have needed.

The hardest part this year was having to turn away requests for meals because we reached our limit with the available food. The best part was to enjoy the atmosphere of neighbors serving neighbors because of the unconditional love of God we share.

This service project involved the Sorenson family, including  M.E. Sorenson from Prince of Peace- Springfield, Virginia.  She was a big help in many ways as the Distribution Team Leader on Thursday. She oversaw the food packing, the sorting for the drivers, and the loading right into their cars.  She has worked all 3 years.

A special thank you to Shirley L. Sorenson, Feeding Farmville 2018 Facilitator, 

for this wonderful story of Love In Action- 

right in the neighborhood.