The Advent season is about waiting for the miracle of the birth of the baby Jesus into the world. That nativity story is deceptively simple, though, for it holds a depth of meaning and symbolism about who we already are and can be when we realize that our hearts have been divinely fashioned as mangers – birthplaces – for the Holy One in our midst, birthplaces for the Infinite Love that Christ passionately invited the world to know. In grateful awe, we prepare for, await, and celebrate such a miracle with love that overflows in acts of joyous giving.

Advent Outreach Giving

This year our giving will focus on HUNGER. The recent disruptions to SNAP benefits have brought devastating challenges to 42 million families across the country. The Outreach Committee has identified three opportunities to support neighbors who have been impacted. The needs are great, and the situation for many families is dire. For this reason, we’re increasing this year’s donations. In addition, we’ve provided information about volunteering with each organization. 

Here’s how it works:

1. Learn about the organizations below or at the Advent Giving table in the foyer during the first three Sundays of Advent.

2. Cast a vote for one of them at that table. Each of the three will receive a donation of either $4,000, $3,000, or $2,000.

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 

Every Wednesday evening since the 1990s, St. Luke’s has welcomed neighbors to a warm, home-cooked meal, serving not only food, but friendship and fellowship that truly nourishes the soul. The average number of meals served each Wednesday was 80-100, but due to the disruption in SNAP benefits, they now serve 180 meals per week. St. Luke’s also lost funding for this community meal due to cuts in government grants.

Roxboro Elementary School

One kindergarten teacher noticed students seeming lethargic and tearful, only to realize they are hungry. A school social worker noted that with increased food expenses due to SNAP disruptions, some families can’t afford other essentials like gloves or coats. St. Paul’s is setting up a fund for Roxboro to support families with specific needs for food and other essentials for their children.

Volunteer as a reading tutor for Roxboro students. Contact parishioner Cathy Albers: CLA2@case . edu

Greater Cleveland Food Bank (GCFB)

The GCFB is the largest hunger relief organization in Northeast Ohio, having served more than 404,000 people from seven local counties in 2025. In the counties they serve, one in four children lives in poverty. Recently GCFB has seen record amounts of food distributed in a single day, noticeable increases in people coming to the food bank, and a significant increase in calls to their Help Center. Due to GCFB’s purchasing power with various vendors and food donations, every dollar they receive helps provide two meals.