"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

Bryan and I (Kenny) had the opportunity to talk about Street Church to a local church gathering last weekend. Our goal wasn’t to get more people to come down with us (though everyone is welcome), but rather to share what we’ve learned about Jesus and how folks can apply those learnings to their context. Our session was titled, “Discipled by Jesus at the table of the outcasts.”

I first showed up to Street Church six years ago thinking I was going to be fulfilling Matthew 28 and making disciples, or at the very least obeying Jesus’ command to go and serve the needy. Little did I realize that I was the person who was going to be discipled, and that I was the needy one! But man, I am thankful for how it turned out. I’ve learned more than I ever thought about Jesus on Saturdays on the front steps of Hartford City Hall and through my dear friends I’ve come to know and love. Most of my learning wasn’t through handing out lunches, underwear, or coffee, but rather simply showing up consistently, learning about people’s lives, and sharing a meal together. We call it the ministry of presence. The Lord is close to all those who need Him. Let us recognize where we need Him in our own lives, and how we can show God’s presence and nearness to those around us.

Last Week’s Update…stay connected!

Logistics

Served: 80ish., with the extra help around 50 bags were prepped for next week
Last week's leaders: Ruth and Chichi
last week preacher: Ruth
Next week's leaders: Ruth
Next week's preacher: Kenny
Last week's: socks
Next week’s: Hygiene

From Ruth

Picked up speakers and other items from Bryan's house and made it to storage by 10:10 where the Yangs, Deb and her son Nate were already waiting. I opened our unit and left them to pack lunches as I got the truck. (it was nice having the extra help!)

Once I got the truck packing up was easy and we made it out before 11. We dropped off ChiChi’s son, Royal at the sitters and headed downtown. (thankful for ChiChi’s commitment)

One of our friends was having a hard time and was cursing and shouting as we set up and as we broke down but somehow while service was going on he was quiet. God is faithful.

Chichi led us through the service and I preached on suffering experiencing Job moments when Satan may come at us and seemly “take” thing from us, yet we still persevere and win the battle. I called us all to remember God’s promises in Matthew 5 that we are blessed as we suffer on this earth for our rewards will be great in heaven.

God provided too as an old time friend of mine, Danielle, who led intervarsity back at Eastern State University was passing by. It was great to see her and she came through as we were missing the ladle for the soup and she was able to call her husband to bring it down. It was a beautiful day through and through, and TC came with me and chichi and helped us unpack in the afternoon.

Be blessed,

Ruth

From the Community Churches

Beautiful first service at our newest community church at Arden Court. The staff were fantastic and had everyone gathered and even joined us for the service and communion. Mary will be with me here too (she is living a Godly retirement!). This group loves to sing, but as always, it was communion that was the center piece and thank you after thank you came from folks who have not had it in years. This is such a gift to be here. Pray for our new friends!

The Street Church Collective Community Churches

Arden Courts Community Church (Farmington)

Brookdale/Chatfield Community Church (West Hartford)

Clairbridge Community Church @ Brookdale/Chatfield (West Hartford)

Farmington Station Community Church (Farmington)

River Ridge Community Church (Avon)

West Hartford Health and Rehab Community Church (West Hartford)

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Bryan
Street Church Administrator & Volunteer Coordinator
(860) 578-2961 TEXT ONLY
bryan@thestreetchurch.org