Each Christmas Season our congregation supports many different ministries that serve a variety of people. This year is no different. Below are some of the ministries that will once again be supported here at PPPC. Even though we have changed our procedures from years past, compassion and generosity towards others still remains at the heart of all we do.
Build a Shoebox – Operation Christmas Child – From now until November 28 join the ladies of the PW by packing shoeboxes online. Please share the PPPC link with family and friends to realize our goal knowing that our Christmas blessings will travel around the world even in the midst of a pandemic.
Gift Cards Only for the Deacon Food Drive – Thank you to everyone who brought in a lot of holiday food items. It was a very successful collection. At this point the pantry is seeking gift cards for food items. These gift cards will be used for food purchases for those in need. All gift cards will be given to St. Gregory’s Pantry to distribute. Donated cards can be dropped off at the church or left in the breezeway when the church office is not open.
Deacons’ Assistance – Deacons’ ministry assists people with utility bills and rent as well as providing gift and gas cards for those in need. A donation to the Deacons can be made in the Deacons envelope found in your box or can be designated on the memo line of your check or online notes. Communion envelopes for the Deacons’ fund are in your box for December 6.
IHN Christmas Families – Once again gifts will be bought for the families in the program. If you would like to help us in providing a donation to assist us in purchasing these gifts, please indicate “IHN Christmas” on the memo line of your check.
Joan Valentine House Giving Tree – The Valentine House is a non-profit residential home for adults living with mental illness. Starting in December, the Giving Tree will be going remote. Details on how you can get your virtual envelope that will include the names of Valentine House residents with their Christmas list will soon be announced in the newsletter. As in years past, members are asked to purchase only TWO items from the list in order to preserve a sense of equality among all the residents.
St. Gregory’s Pantry Christmas Distribution – There will be no big toy distribution in the CE Annex this year. Instead of purchasing toys, please consider purchasing gift cards for children and teens. Gift cards are now being accepted through December 18th and will be given to the parents/families of those we serve in our community. This will enable them to purchase gifts for their children. Some suggestions are: Amazon, Target, Walmart, McDonalds, Wendy’s and local businesses in Point Pleasant and Point Pleasant Beach. Gift cards can be dropped off of at the Church office or brought to St. Gregory’s Pantry directly.
Christmas Day Dinner – A pandemic could not stop the Christmas Dinner from occurring. The dinner will be all pre-packaged meals for pickup under the direction of Donna Wittmann. Only a limited amount of volunteers are needed this year. To learn more please speak with Donna.