The Church Without Walls (CWW), an outreach ministry of St. Andrew’s, Longmeadow, took part in the city of Springfield’s second annual Project Homeless Connect, held in June at the MassMutual Center. The city’s program brings together city agencies, service providers, citizens and faith communities to provide multiple resources in one location where those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless can find the services they need. Assistance available during the day included help with housing, food, clothing, transportation, employment, medical and mental healthcare and legal assistance.
The Rev. John Jeffrey Purchal, chaplain for the Church Without Walls, above with Philip F. Mangano, executive director of the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, had an integral role. John Jeffrey, along with several of the ministry’s “core team,” handed out more than 600 pairs of socks to those attending the program. Christ Church Cathedral’s Dean Jim Munroe was also on hand for Homeless Connect, and he said, “Several Cathedral parishioners had a terrific experience being involved in this program, and we hope to have even more folks take part when it’s held again.”
The Church Without Walls gathers outdoors every Sunday at Noon at the corner of Winchester and Monroe Streets in Springfield for a simple celebration of the Holy Eucharist and fellowship. All are welcome to come experience the worship and community.
For more information, contact John Jeffrey at RevJJP@St-Andrews-Longmeadow.org.
- by Wende Wheeler, St. Andrew’s, Longmeadow