Make a Difference

Our world today seems overrun with so many problems: hunger, disease, neglect, poverty, unemployment, wars, droughts, floods, ecological disasters, ethnic/racial/religious persecution, and horrible crime rates. The world Jesus lived in was not so different. The Bible describes Jesus’ acts of healing, of feeding the hungry, of             West Virginia Mission spending time with the outcasts of society, of treating and loving all people equally. Saint Gabriel’s members try to follow his caring example.

Through our values to love God and our neighbors and to make disciples of every nation, we embrace our call to reach out to those in need and try to make a difference in their lives. Opportunities surround us in our local communities, in our state, in our region, in the United States, and across the world.

We at Saint Gabriel’s gladly and with a spirit of thanksgiving donate our time, use our talents and spiritual gifts, and give of our resources to help make someone else’s life better. In the act of reaching out to someone else, we too are blessed and grow stronger as Christians.

Making a Difference in the Community

Saint Gabriel's reaches out to those closest to us in our community through several activities. In December, we       Rev. Jeunée at the Alternative Gift Fair conducted our first annual Alternative Gift Fair. Rather than 'buy uncle Ted another tacky tie', residents could donate to one of ten local charities and send a card naming the charity in which the gift was given. Saint Gabriel's was able to collect nearly $10,000 for local charities including shelters for the homeless, food for the needy and medical care for the uninsured. Read more on our news page.

 

This year we collected over 1,500 lbs of food at a neighborhood grocery store and sports event for Loudoun Interfaith Relief Food Pantry to be distributed to local residents who cannot buy food. Additionally, a monthly collection is take from our parish to supply the Interfaith shelves throughout the year. We collect school supplies to be donated through the Salvation Army to help equip children for the new school year. Easter Eggs filled with treats are distributed to Loudoun Hospital patients who are not able to spend Easter with their families. There are activities in which all ages can participate and learn the value of giving.

The Christmas in April Project is a nationwide program that pairs us with Saint James Episcopal Church to improve local housing with severe plumbing and/or structural damage. A group of workers devotes an entire Saturday to the renovation of a Loudoun County home selected from this national program. Everyone can join this project by either making a financial contribution, carpentry work and assistance or providing food and drinks. Read more on our news page.

 

Making a Difference Nationwide

            West Virginia Mission

Reaching out of our state, Saint Gabriel's teams with Saint James to help repair homes in Southern West Virginia, one of the poorest regions in our country. Last year we helped rebuild two homes damaged by Spring Floods. Recent events and a slow economy have caused even greater need as many charities have seen a decline in their support. Saint Gabriel's strives to support our existing outreach commitments and seeks other ways to help our neighbors in need.