Social Ministry

Social Ministry at Holy Cross is a social outreach helping to meet the various needs arising in local, regional, and world communities. Beyond the avenues used through our benevolence dollars, these areas receive special attention in our congregation.

PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter)
Once monthly from October through April, volunteers provide meals and lodging for homeless people at a Waukegan Park District building. Partnering with Union Church of Lake Bluff, volunteers provide, cook and serve food as well as staff shifts at the site.

WINCHESTER HOUSE
Holy Cross leads worship services on a Sunday afternoon during the year at Winchester House, a Libertyville nursing home for the aged. Volunteers participate in the service, assist, greet, and worship with the residents.

C.O.O.L. ~ Christian Outreach of Lutherans
Holy Cross support the C.O.O.L. Food Pantry and transitional housing efforts by collecting and delivering food donations to the site. Holy Cross also coordinates special seasonal projects throughout the year, such as Easter “bagskets”, the Christmas Giving Tree, and special needs when necessary.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
In their efforts to provide affordable housing in Lake County, volunteers build and repair area homes as well as raise necessary funding. Special opportunities are available for special groups to work with other groups throughout the year, such as Women’s Build.

To volunteer during summer 2007, fill in this volunteer poster and e-mail to Matthew Coyne. All Holy Cross Thrivent Build Habitat for Humanity volunteers MUST print out the Habitat waiver form and forward to Matthew one week prior to volunteer date. For more information about Habitat contact:

Matthew Coyne
Holy Cross Habitat For Humanity Champion
esmmmc@earthlink.net

LAKE COUNTY UNITED
This organization of area churches and civic groups has united to address specific social issues, working toward a common goal. This effort is both ecumenical and inter-faith in nature. Individuals interested in the social justice discernment and advocacy process are invited to participate in training events and broad-based organizational efforts.

ELCA WORLD RELIEF
Through four major projects in a year, needs throughout the world are being met by Holy Cross members. Various projects include soap collection, school kits, health kits, and newborn layettes. These items are boxed and shipped overseas.

ELCA WORLD HUNGER APPEAL
The first Sunday of each month, Holy Cross lifts up the needs of those in poverty in the world through financial assistance to World Hunger. Beyond that, volunteers write newsletter articles and create visual presentations to raise congregation awareness.

ROSEBUD INDIAN RESERVATION, SOUTH DAKOTA
A relationship with Rosebud Indian Reservation was established through a Youth Group trip in 2001. Plans are being made to extend our involvement and include inter-generational members. Volunteers will work in coordination with the tribe, exploring any needs that arise. Volunteers will also set up opportune times for individuals or groups to go to Rosebud.

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