We are excited to announce that we have begun to partner with local churches to provide services of Holy Communion to the men we serve. Rev. Jed Hanes, Matthew 25’s Director of Operations, is a provisional deacon seeking ordination in the United Methodist Church. Jed will be leading this fruitfulness project as a part of his ordination process and is seeking to partner with various faith leaders to reconnect M25 residents with the church.
Our first Communion took place on Monday, April 26. We were blessed by the presence of Reverend Pat Freudenthal, who serves as District Superintendent of the Red River District for the United Methodist Church. Pat met and spoke with our men, giving a short sermon and serving Communion to all.
“This is an ecumenical appeal to be able to extend the table of God’s grace and love to our residents, and to remind them that the love of God has not forgotten them,” mentioned Rev. Hanes. "Believing that faith formation, participation in the sacraments and connecting to a larger community of faith in particular, are integral components to reestablishing one’s place in reclaiming their life, we hope that this will aid our men in this vital part of their recovery.
After just a few short days of asking, we already have more than five dates filled for pastors who have committed to preside at Communion services, a few of whom are making monthly commitments to do so."
Monday was a special evening for the men we serve, and we are anticipating many more like it! We are so thankful for Jed’s leadership and the support of local faith leaders, especially Reverend Pat who so willingly heeded our request. Please reach out to us if your church may have interest in partnering with Matthew 25.
