God’s Work Our Hands at Advent Lutheran in Charlotte reached from local neighborhoods to the UNC-Charlotte Greenway to area first responders to the mountains of Peru.

This year we were especially sensitive to COVID-19 concerns–the service events offered were either outside or ones we could do in our own “bubbles”. One unique part of Advent’s GWOH event included work done by sister ministries in Peru led by Advent council member, Jim Hintz!

• 8 bags of trash were collected at the UNCC greenway (plus a tire and 2 bicycle wheels!)
• 16 service hours were given in caring for newly planted trees in the Mujeres con Esperanza settlement (Peru)
• 17 casseroles were lovingly prepared to be shared with Advent community in times of crisis
• 2 picnic tables were stained and added to the Advent outdoor space
• 18 service hours were given by college students mentoring school-age kids (Peru)
• 52 service hours were given in cleaning a 3-story service center in the Mujeres con Esperanza settlement (Peru)
• 100 goody bags were prepared for teachers and staff at Newell Elementary School
• 480 cookies were shared with medical centers and first responders on 9/11
• Unmeasured yards of mulch were spread on the Adventure Preschool playground and in walking paths of the College Downs neighborhood adjacent to Advent
• Uncounted canned and boxed goods were donated by church members to stock Advent’s “Little free pantry”

At least 77 church members participated along with 33 volunteers in Alto Cayma, Peru.

Thanks to all members who “captained” these projects and who invested their time, talent and treasure. And thanks to Nurture and Support for the sweet treats following worship on Sept. 12 in celebration of the event.

May this event inspire us to even greater service of our neighbors in the coming year!