Eastern Fraser Valley Food Bank Challenge Returns for 2022

Peace Lutheran congregation in Abbotsford challenged the Anglican Parish of St. Matthew to a second year of collecting food for the Archway Community Food Bank. This year the goal was set for the two groups to collect 2022 pounds of non-perishables. The one collecting the most weight would be treated to a Tea by the other.  This was done as a Lent project ending on Easter Sunday. By Palm Sunday St. Matthews had collected 1160.5 pounds with the Peace folk at just under 600.  On Easter Sunday there was another estimated 300 pounds in the narthex at St. M., with Peace having another 200 added to their total. The 2022 goal was met! It was no trouble at all

Trouble is a strange word.  Living in troubled times creates problems for too many neighbours, whether they are in our backyard, or caught up between nations. The Archway Community Food Bank knows all about these difficulties  This time last year they were feeding approximately 3000 people every month. Today they are serving over 4000 of our neighbours, folks who have come into troubled times. No one knew that COVID-19 would become alarmingly aggressive in 2021. No one knew that the cost of living would increase the burden of daily life, especially for seniors on fixed incomes. No one knew that the year end would be impacted by a massive flood.  So many troubles for so many people.

It is a pleasure and a responsibility to serve one's neighbours who need an extra helping hand. There may be many causes for people to be in a receiving situation. To be able to assist now is our mission of caring. That we may be in need of assistance in the future no one knows. None of us are immune to troubles. It is also in giving that we receive.

This is what this year's food challenge was all about.

 "I know what it is to have little and I know what it is to have plenty, in any and all circumstances. I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me." That is what St. Paul said.  (Philippians 4:12-13)

Sharing with others is no trouble for the Christian community in Abbotsford.  God helps all of us.

IMAGE

The Reverend Allen Doerksen blessed the food items collected at St. Matthew's  (Left to right) Dick Martin, Linda Burton and The Rev. Art Turnbull presenting the gifts of Palm Sunday (Photo by Mary Lee)