by Bill Kear, Mobilization Team
In 2002, a small group of young adults who were passionate about the Gospel and the hope in Jesus, started L.I.V.I.N.G. Ministry in Pittsburgh. The acronym stands for Love Initiated Ventures Investing in Neglected Groups. Their ministry strives to uncover the hope of Jesus as they pursue and build relationships with homeless men and women. They accomplish the goal of building personal relationships with homeless folks by assisting with meeting basic needs, offering tools for self-sufficiency, and providing opportunities for community involvement.
So how do they perform this challenging outreach? By visiting homeless shelters every week, conducting ongoing street outreach, and through discipleship. Their shared vision is that by uncovering the hope and joy found in Jesus, hearts will be transformed and no one would feel homeless.
Hebron Church has identified L.I.V.I.N.G. Ministry as one of our primary missionary partners. We have come alongside them in a broad variety of ways, such as: Groves and individuals participating in their monthly street outreach, small groups going to their building for maintenance and upkeep, participating in the Pittsburgh Marathon as part of their fundraising team running in the event (now that’s commitment!), conducting a ‘Gather’ program to collect a variety of necessary items, and helping to support the annual SaraWally’s Walk/Run for the Homeless.
Speaking of the SaraWally Walk/ Run, the 5th annual will be held this year on Saturday, August 5th at Woodland Hills High School. Hopefully you will mark your calendars and consider joining us as we come together for a time of fun and fellowship, that ultimately helps to support missionary outreach to the least, the last, and the lost. David and Sue Walendziewicz initiated this wonderful event; and many of our Hebron Church members participate. Watch for more details as Spring begins to fade into Summer!
To learn more about L.I.V.I.N.G. Ministry, please visit their website at www.livingministry.org. There you’ll find all the information you need regarding opportunities to volunteer, donate, etc. On their website, they describe a desire for a ministry that is not separate from our day to day lives, but integral to our everyday existence.
