St Andrews by the Sea
United Methodist Church 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente, CA
92673St
Sojourners Ministry
Sojourner: A
person dwelling in a place temporarily; as a stranger.
The
Sojourner Ministry began in January 2006. Five St. Andrew’s members combined
efforts to assist a 77 year old woman, Ruth, then a 20 year resident of San
Clemente’s streets, to transition from street life into an apartment. The church
learned a great deal about current assistance programs, what they can and cannot
provide, and through the struggles and triumphs of working with Ruth, the
ministry was born !
Sojourners is a quiet,
behind-the-scenes program – but very unique and vital. Since Ruth, three
additional Sojourner families have been assisted. Ministry members also take
sack lunches and visit with homeless in our locale.
St. Andrew’s Sojourner
Ministry is unique in being able to provide first and last rent money and /or
security deposits. Even FAM has referred a family to the Sojourners Ministry for
this kind of help. Often, that $1500+ barrier is what stands between a Sojourner
and a chance to get a fresh start. Referrals are screened and must meet
established guidelines.
The Sojourners
Ministry is in need of:
-
Two additional
members to sit on the evaluation board.
-
Members to visit
with new Sojourner referrals and to work with those who become Sojourners in
our program.
-
A couple of people
willing to continue lunch time visits with local homeless.
-
Sojourners needs the
continued financial support of St. Andrew’s members. This congregation has
been most generous and supportive, and we thank You!
For more information
or questions, please speak with Rev. Lucy Stafford-Lewis.
John Scholfield or Diane Clark.
