Street Ministry-Lakefield Baptist Church
The opiate crisis now fully realized as an epidemic, ahead of our recent pandemic, became more personal to me now as a pastor, after serving in law enforcement. The drug issues were viewed from a highly different lens. Meeting individuals where they are at and sharing the love of Christ in whatever way appropriate, seemed to be a far better solution after observing the marginalized run through a legal system that doesn’t seem to change a person’s circumstances. The drug use is often a covering tool for the trauma experienced by child-hood abuse, domestic abuse, human trafficking, sex-trafficking, poverty, homelessness, and many other undiagnosed mental health issues. Matthew 25, the parable of the sheep and goats, weighed heavily on me.
How did we start?
I was fortunate to participate in a humanitarian mission, assisting Haitian Refugees through Rotary International. They introduced me to “hygiene kits” put together in household distribution bags. These simple items of the global north, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, etc., became lifesavers for the poor. The Holy Spirit in action through our Rotary friends- “Why not supply those living on the streets of the Kawarthas with the same type of kits, including, warm hats, mitts, coats, boots, grocery gift cards?” The street mission was born.
Three years ago, the mission began in the Kawarthas, while driving and walking the streets, providing packages, engaging personally, becoming trusted faces to the many who have little trust. I have learned that the message I prepare for Sunday mornings, becomes simple on the street during the week. The sermon is this, “We love you.” The words never heard or have not been heard for some time, will often overwhelm our friends with tears and a smile.
The impact of this ministry on the community and our church
Lakefield Baptist Church, and supporters of the ministry, have become the backbone to the ministry. They have added our marginalized to their prayer, and shopping lists each week. Bags and boxes of items are regularly brought to the church as we provide a “grocery list,’ or money is left for requests.
Lakefield Baptist Church has engaged in mission, realizing that those we see in Peterborough, are truly the “little ones” Jesus lovingly discussed. (Babes of a different kind.)
We are connecting with ministries, and liaison with other agencies to help minimize the need.
Lakefield Baptist Street Ministry connects personally with those on the street. Many in the margins often fear confined places, or mistrust others staying in a shelter.
Joys and challenges
Covid-19 was an enormous challenge for the marginalized as shelters were limited; food was scarce; human traffickers persisted, and our street friends became modern day lepers. LBC continued to support the street ministry as we provided warm clothing and supplies during difficult times. The ministry of Jesus continued. Covid19 didn’t stop the street ministry as we are a “go to” ministry.
Pastor Peter Moore, Shawna Moore and Street Team.
