Joy Despite the Distance

Volunteers loading cars at the Jubilee City location

COVID Christmas

This year presented a host of challenges for ministries all over the country. There were obvious limitations on in-person services, community gatherings and other activities. However, Jubilee Church wanted to offer the same uplifting Christmas experience despite the setbacks. Besides, as concerns about safety loom overhead, the needs of the community are growing.

The traditional Christmas Store model from years past looked a lot like a warm hug – families coming into the church building to receive gifts and meet volunteers and staff. There would be plenty of treats and comfort to go around. This year, there were masks, social distancing and extra safety measures to ensure that the needs of those in the community could still be met.

Where there is a heart to love people, we’ll find a way!

The Jubilee City location organized a drive-through event. Christmas music played through the outdoor speakers as volunteers welcomed guests in the parking lot, dancing and singing along. Helpers hand delivered hot chocolate to drivers and their passengers while others loaded up their car trunks with gifts.

The Jubilee Lake of the Ozarks location was able to serve 8 individuals who are part of the recovery/prison re-entry population. The Jubilee Washington location provided gifts and spread love to 84 children and their families. The Jubilee City location was able to provide 250 gifts to 83 children referred by 3 neighboring schools.

The feedback from participating families across the 3 locations echoed familiar in so many ways. There were plenty of stories that began with, “I’m not usually the one to ask for help, but this year …” People were opening up about their challenges, financial struggles, health issues, job losses, evictions, having to start over for one reason or another and so much more.

There are no small efforts in this season of constant change. The little bit that we do spreads far and wide and it touches those in need a bit differently. As a church, we are grateful to have been able to serve in this way. We continue to lift up each and every family we have prayed for, greeted and blessed. Even now we celebrate those who will become a part of the body of believers through these acts of benevolence.

The harvest is here, but we’ll need to use our tools differently.