CentralHOPE

It would be an easy thing for today’s church to miss God's heart for the poor. As a pastor and a Christian, I could have continued my life and ministry and pretty much neglect those people who are very close to God’s heart. A study of the scripture has clearly shown me that God cares deeply about meeting the basic needs of the poor. The only question now is, do I?

After a week of homelessness in New Hampshire, the question was, What difference did it make? I discovered many people right here in New Hampshire – the homeless, the street-kids, in some cases entire families living in virtual poverty right in our own communities. Do we really endeavor to reach them with the same intensity and intention that we reach those people of our own socio-economic class? Or do we come up with excuses, rationalize away the issue or simply throw the blame around, absolving ourselves of the responsibility God has given us?

God tells us to:

“feed the hungry, clothe the naked, give shelter

to the poor and welcome the stranger.”

Isaiah 58:7

Central HOPE exists to meet the real needs of real people with the real Jesus. For example, we are a missional “church without walls” that comes alongside other faith-based organizations that want to meet the following needs:

Offer food, clothing and shelter to the homeless and poor.

Visit prisoners and help provide for their families.

Offer transportation to those who need rides for medical help and shelter.

Provide friendship, food and hygiene items to those living on the streets.

Offer counseling and direction to Street-kids.

Provide support for widows and single moms.

Meet the needs of families and children living on the edge.

Need-based outreach and evangelism, proclaiming Hope in Christ!

Central HOPE financially supports and serves Christ-centered food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters that provide the life-giving hope that only Christ can give. We are joining with a coalition of Christ-centered organizations, churches, and individuals that want to meet the needs right here in New Hampshire.

If you would like to make a financial contribution to the ministries of Central Hope, please make your checks payable to: Central Congregational Church and indicate Central HOPE on the memo line. Remember, 100% of your contribution will go directly to meet needs in Jesus’ Name.

Blessings in Christ’s Incomparable Gospel,

Pastor Fred Cheney