Mission and Outreach
Locally, Emmanuel helps those in need through our Rice and Beans program, community garden, Angel Tree, our discretionary fund, by supporting the Franklin Cooperative Ministries and by providing a “home” to community organizations.
Beans and Rice: Each month Emmanuel distributes 150 lbs. of dried beans and 150 lbs. of dried rice to the community. On the first Sunday of the month, the congregation gathers after the 10:30 service to prepare 3 lb. packages of beans and rice from 50 lb. bags. On the second Saturday of the month they are distributed at the church. Anyone who comes walks away with 6 lbs. of food, cooking instructions and a little something extra including the well wishes from Emmanuel. Any leftover packages are taken to the Franklin Cooperative Ministries or to Southampton County Social Services for further distribution.
Community Garden: On the Church grounds, we have a garden plot that is used to raise fresh produce which is given to the Franklin Cooperative Ministries for distribution. Small in size it provides a taste of fresh food and gift of love and care to our community.
Angel Tree: Every Christmas the Friends of Saint Theresa identifies and works with a family in need to provide Christmas gifts. A Christmas tree, hung with “Angel” tags providing specific requests from the family, is placed in the Church. Members of the congregation purchase and wrap the gifts and the Friends deliver them to the family.
Clothing and Yard Sale: Every year the Episcopal Church Women hold a massive clothing and yard sale. Gently used items are sold at extremely low prices which greatly benefits the customers. All proceeds are then used to support organizations such as the Franklin Cooperative Ministry, the Jackson Feild Home for Girls and the Boys Home of Virginia.
Chili Cook Off and Bake Sale: Every year the Episcopal Church Women sponsor a chili cook off and bake sale to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association.
Emmanuel’s Discretionary Fund: Emmanuel’s Rector (Minister) is provided with funds that are used at her discretion to assist those in need in our community. The funds are provided through specific gifts and from the plate collection from the third Sunday of each month.
Emmanuel Episcopal also supports the Diocese, the Episcopal Relief and Development Fund and the Episcopal United Thank Offering which support important ministries outside of our local community.