The Backpack Ministry, John Wesley and the United Methodist Church

Aug 23, 2023 | by Carolyn Kitchens by The Backpack Ministry

A media slogan adopted by the United Methodist Church in 2004 that some of you may remember is “Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors.” Just as applicable today as it was twenty years ago, this slogan applies to you, our First United Methodist Church of Hurst family.

You have demonstrated “Open Hearts” by your generous product donations this summer. Each week we pack 200 packages of Ramen Noodles and 100 cups of Mac & Cheese. We are off to a great start! You have filled the shelves of our Food Products Workroom with 767 packages of Ramen Noodles and 152 cups of Mac & Cheese.

You have demonstrated “Open Minds” by “doing the math” and adopting more than 56 backpacks at a cost $240 ($8/week for 30-weeks) for the 100+ children we will feed during the 2023/2024 school year. You are following exactly what John Wesley taught us to “Earn all you can, save all you can, and give all you can for the glory of God.”

You have demonstrated your ability to “Open Doors”, by moving from inside our brick and mortar church building into three of of our neighborhood schools. Schools receiving backpacks are Donna Park Elementary, Harrison Lane Elementary and Shady Oaks Elementary. Again, you have made John Wesley smile because of your following what he suggested, “The gospel of Christ knows no religion, but social; no holiness but social holiness.” In our world today he might sound more like this: “Our faith is not private. It is to be lived and shared.” Thank you for living and sharing your faith.

There is still one more way you can participate in this ministry; you can continue to bring products for the backpacks. This month of September, we are asking for the 4.6 ounce small can of Vienna Sausage. You will see the display and tub in the Atrium.

We are blessed that you are a partner in this ministry. Thank you from the Backpack Ministry for your open hearts, open minds, and open doors.