Mission Team Report: Sharing Christ, One Pair of Socks at a Time
Earlier this month, our church (Waterloo First) had the privilege of serving alongside our ministry partners at Elmwood Community Church in Elmwood Park, Illinois. From November 7-10, our hearts and hands were at work in a ministry that’s making an incredible impact for Christ in their community.
“Socktober” Sparks a God Moment
Leading up to the trip, our church participated in “Socktober,” collecting over 550 pairs of socks for Elmwood’s clothing closet. When we delivered the socks, the leader was thrilled—there were only six pairs left on the shelves! This was a powerful reminder of how God uses small acts of faithfulness to meet big needs.
A Ministry Meeting Needs and Changing Lives
Elmwood Community Church is a hub of compassion and service. Every Saturday, their food pantry feeds nearly 190 families, and on clothing closet days, they provide much-needed clothes to those in need, including immigrants from Venezuela and Ukraine. During our visit, over 20,000 pounds of food arrived for Thanksgiving distribution.
The volunteers’ dedication and the faithfulness of Pastor Sean and his wife, Lidia, inspired and encouraged us deeply. They are faithfully meeting physical needs while sharing the hope of Jesus with their community.
An Opportunity for All Churches
We are so thankful for this partnership with Elmwood Community Church and the way it mobilizes our congregation for missions. If your church is looking to serve, consider partnering with another church in our state. The nations are coming to Illinois—will you answer the call to serve them?
Join Us in Prayer
Pray for Pastor Sean, Lidia, and their ministry as they continue to meet needs and build relationships in their community.
Pray for their newly launched Spanish-speaking ministry, that it would flourish and reach many with the gospel.
Together, we are making a difference for the kingdom. Let’s keep building ministry relationships, one step—and one pair of socks—at a time!
Pastor Greg Braswell
Worship & Administrative Pastor
Waterloo First Baptist Church