The mission of Social Ministry is to be Jesus' hands to our church, city, national and international community. We do this through weekly opportunities for hands-on service such as those listed below and also through contributions to community charities such as Network of Community Ministries and the Collin County Assistance Center, wonderful organizations who are equipped to deal with the long-term needs of struggling individuals.
For more information about the many ways Messiah can help you serve contact Erin Illian at:
Denton State School is a residential facility which serves hundreds of mentally handicapped people. Every year members of Messiah volunteer their time to help support this wonderful institution. The core of the program revolves around a monthly workday where volunteers prepare Christmas mailings that help to raise money to support Denton State School. Volunteers are also needed to man phones in December as calls come in to pledge support.
All of these gifts help the Denton State School make their many residents feel at home in this unique community. If this is a group where you would enjoy serving, contact Wayne Smith at (972) 235-4000.
The Network of Community Ministries
The Network is an outreach ministry of Richardson area churches assisting those in need of food, counseling and financial aid. Messiah members bring donations of non-perishable food items to be delivered to the food pantry. We also participate in the Angel Tree program which gathers Christmas gifts for needy children.
For more information, you can contact Erin Illian at: erinillian@hotmail.comor214-703-0336
English as a Second Language
In recent years Messiah has become involved in serving the community by teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. The classes are taught by members of Messiah and help people of all abilities, from the most basic levels to intermediate conversation. They are free of charge, though some classes have books that cost a small amount. This is a wonderful way to help people connect with their new community and is also a unique opportunity to connect with other cultures.
If you have a heart for this ministry or are interested in taking these classes, you can call the church office at (972) 398-7500
Habitat for Humanity
Messiah is a member of the Interfaith Partners for Habitat which supports Habitat for Humanity of South Collin County. We're also part of the LCMS effort being funded by Thrivent Builds which has dedicated over $125 million dollars to Habitat projects. This is an outreach designed to improve the quality of life for deserving, caring, sharing, and committed families in our own neighborhoods. This is a wonderful way to put your hands and hearts to work.
If you'd like to volunteer, contact Dave May at (972)596-4778 or dpmay1@verizon.net
Braille Work Center
Messiah Lutheran Church is one of 200 commissioned Braille work centers by the Lutheran Braille Workers, Inc, a Recognized Service Organization of the LCMS. Each month teams of volunteers come to the work center to produce large print Portals of Prayers, a quarterly devotion book, to be distributed to over 470 of those in need.
This work can’t be done without faithful volunteers.To learn more, you can contact Nancy Huett at (972) 596-6450
Sewing Ministries
There are two ministries that use the sewing talents of God's people here at Messiah. From September to May, the second Tuesday of each month a group of ladies come together to do hand sewing of items that are then delivered to cancer patients. Following each meeting there is a potluck luncheon. There is also a group that meets during the same period of time to sew quilts which are shipped to underdeveloped and devastated areas around the world through Lutheran World relief.
If you would like to put both your heart and your hands to work, you can contact the church office for information. (972)398-7500.
Meals on Wheels
Meal on Wheels is a familiar program to many people. It is a vital service that helps those unable to cook for themselves get warm meals delivered right to their door. Messiah members have been active in this community service for many years and continue to serve one week each month in the North Dallas/Richardson area.
If this is a group you might be interested in, please contact Carol Smith, the current coordinator of this activity for Messiah at 972-235-4000
Sunshine Committee
Members of this committee are responsible for arranging for the delivery of the altar flowers on Sunday mornings. Following the services, the flowers are delivered to hospital patients, those at home following an illness, or those celebrating a special occasion. This is truly a way to bring a touch from the Light of the World as we "rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn."
For more information contact the church office at (972) 398-7500.
Messiah’s Touch Ministry
Messiah’s Touch is a ministry organization that takes seriously the idea that Jesus Christ cares for the whole person. This means the mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of each individual are of interest to the church. Our work includes services such as bringing meals to those recovering from sickness, visiting hospitalized and shut-in members, promoting healthy living, and counseling.
If you are interested in being involved in this care ministry, please contact Pastor Otte at james@messiahlutheran.com or 972-398-7502
Spiritual gifts are a topic that’s been hot in the church world for quite a few years now. If you’d like to learn more about the gifts God’s given you, we invite you to walk through a few steps. First, read this quick Bible study and think about the questions contained therein. Second, take the spiritual gifts inventory, score it, and rank your top gifts. Finally, take a few moments to readmore about the areas where God’s focused your talents and then explore how you can put these gifts to work at Messiah and beyond.
To download a copy of the 2008 Messiah Lutheran Commitment Form, click here.
If you're curious to learn more about a specific ministry. Click here for a list of many of our ministries and their descriptions.
Linda Davis, one of our members, is currently serving as a missionary and AIDS educator in Papua New Guinea. If you'd like to learn more about her ministry and how you can help her with prayers and support click here.
