A Community of Service --By Bruce Jackson

Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles stated, "Respectful and sincere interfaith service not only builds our communities, but also enables us to collectively and individually grow in our love of God and His children."

The New Covenant Church food bank and distribution center is a quiet place for much of the week. The church congregation reverently attend Sunday and mid-week services and activities. The church building and grounds are pleasant and well kept. Unless you were told, you might not realize that twice a month the food distribution center becomes a whirl wind of activity.

On those days, the first thing you see are eighteen wheelers pulling in and starting to unload case after case of fruits, vegetables, canned goods, and staples: beans, rice, pasta, and bread. It is urgent work; the portion for our area must be quickly unloaded so that trucks can travel on to help other communities.

By 2 pm, additional people arrive to start separating and unwrapping the cases. The work space quickly transitions into a high-speed assembly line. Pastor Mike Greene and his congregation have developed an efficient and effective way to sort, box, and distribute the food. But it is still go, go, go until the last customer has received the help they need.

Pastor Greene says that Apache County is one of the ‘food insecure’ counties in the nation. Many people do not know if they will have food to meet their family’s needs.  Pastor Greene tells of many children who come with their families to the center, and of their delight and their parent’s gratitude.

In the past two months I have been able to join in the work at the center. I was delighted to find the spirit of cooperation and friendship there. Everyone is welcome to come and join in the work. More volunteers are needed. The center distributes the food on the first and third Tuesday of each month. It is best to arrive at 2 pm, and the work is typically complete by 4:30.

A good warm feeling comes from pitching in and helping others. You will be glad that you were there.