Weekly News | 11.7.25
Hi COTC,
One of my recent prayers for our community has been that the Lord would expand our imagination for what it means to be a people of presence through mission and outreach.
Missions at Church of the Cross
I’m excited to share a few updates related to missions and ways in which y'all can join in this important work. Over the last few months, we've added new members to the missions team allowing us to engage more meaningfully; our kids' club ministry has grown, and we've honed our vision. Check out our updated missions page to learn more about partners, areas of strategic focus, upcoming events, and more. You’ll also notice a missions section in the enews and bulletin with regular updates.
Meeting this Moment
In a time when many in our communities are struggling to make ends meet, I want to draw attention to the Good Neighbor Fund. The GNF allows COTC to live into our calling as a community of blessing to others in the name of Christ (2 Cor. 8:9) by enabling parishioners to notice and bring attention to the needs of others in our city. GNF has helped subsidize needs such as auto repair, immigration attorney fees, rent, and care packages for Child Protective Service Workers. While these remain appropriate uses, it can also help with smaller costs, such as a doctor’s appointment, childcare, and household items. With SNAP benefits on pause this month, many of you have reached out to ask how COTC is responding. Applying for grocery gift cards through the GNF is a great way to utilize it. Apply on behalf of someone else here.
If you'd like to learn more about how our faith might inform how we think about the pause in SNAP, check out this piece of listen to this podcast from C4SO priest, Esau McCaulley.
We also recognize that food insecurity is not limited to those outside of COTC. If your household is experiencing food insecurity, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Another way to support families whose benefits are on pause is through Safe Families, one of our mission partners. See below for the details.
Safe Families Food Drive
Sign up to contribute items here
See below for drop-off locations throughout Austin– items can be dropped off through November 9th at 5 pm
Central: 1205 Quail Park Dr, Austin, Texas, 78758 (leave at the front door)
South: 7108 Dunkirk Dr, Austin, Texas, 78736 (leave at the front door)
North: 5101 Valburn Ct, Austin, TX 78731 (leave at the front door)
East: 5121 Bantom Woods Bend, Austin, Texas, 78724 (leave at the front door)
3. Drop off on 11/10: Items can also be dropped off at the Safe Families offices
between 8:45 am and 12 pm– 500 E St. Johns Ave, Suite 1.460
It is a privilege to bear the good news of Jesus in word and deed. I encourage us to listen to and be in conversation with the Lord about how He is inviting us into the healing and empowering work of His Kingdom.
Kimberly+