Mission/Social Action News: Abraham's Tent

Ever thought of serving in Abraham's tent? Genesis 18:2-5 sets the scene of providing water and rest for three strangers who appeared. Abraham offers, "Let me bring a little bread, that you may refresh yourselves."

In response to the growing number of homeless people in Baltimore County, a group of agencies and congregations, including Central, are partnering to supplement current resources, such as ACTC (Assistance Center of Towson Churches) by creating a Day Resource Center. The interfaith coalition of congregations which constitute Abraham's Tent is motivated by the desire to share God's love and to serve in His name.

It is estimated that there are approximately 2,000 persons living on the streets, sleeping in parks and under bridges. The need for a place to go during the day is especially acute during cold/wet weather. People fearful of losing their children are living in automobiles and sending their children to school during the week.

At present there are no indoor, daytime resources for the homeless in Baltimore County. There is an overnight/cold weather shelter connected with Franklin Square Hospital, which requires that clients leave by 7:00 am each day. Several churches are supplying evening meals and breakfast there.

A new facility, target date November 2004, will be constructed adjacent to the current Franklin Square shelter and will provide a great range of services. Basic needs (food, clothing, showers, laundry) and intervention services (counseling, employment counseling, health screening) will be available.

To boost awareness and raise support, there is a RALLY FOR THE HOMELESS scheduled tomorrow at 5:30 pm beginning in the Calvary Baptist Church parking lot, 120 West Pennsylvania Avenue in Towson. The church will serve soup and then the group will walk to the County Courthouse with candles. Maria Wetherington is the contact person for Central.

Is this an opportunity for you to be the church without walls?