Martinsburg Mennonite Church Provides Events For Holiday Season

On Sunday, Dec. 5, Martinsburg Mennonite Church's congregation enjoyed special music by flutist Linda Furry. Other activities are being planned for this month as well.

Clothed by Grace will be open at the church on Dec. 18 and will be open the third Saturday every month from 10 a.m. to noon.

According to Furry, each month this ministry opens doors of Martinsburg Mennonite Church to those in the borough in need of clothing and coats at no charge. This ministry provides clean, seasonally appropriate, gently worn clothing for women, men and children. Positive social interaction with each customer is also provided, and prayer is provided per request.

A chalk board with the first names of the customers surrounding an image of the hand of God, and a verse from Isaiah is the focal point of the ministry room.

Clothed by Grace serves an average of 20 customers each third Saturday of the month. An advertisement can also be found in the Morrisons Cove Herald monthly to inform the community of its ministry.

Each new customer is provided with a free booklet of the Book of John, as well as a drinking cup and a pen with information about the church on them.

The ministry is staffed by several volunteers, members of the church who enjoy helping each customer find clothing that fits well and meets their needs.

Donations of clean, lightly worn clothing are accepted from members of the community.

This year on Christmas Eve, Friday, Dec. 24, a Christmas Eve candlelight service will be held.

This service will be a COVID-19-safe environment. The church will not be open for the service but everyone is invited to come to the church parking lot, where they will be told which radio channel to tune into. Candles will be provided, and those interested are encouraged to invite a neighbor or friend to come.

The Christmas story will be given by Pastor Joe Furry, and the candles will provide a beautiful atmosphere and give a chance to reflect. Those at Martinsburg Mennonite Church invite everyone in the community to join them.