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medicine

Gospel and Good People, Getting Together

Wednesday Night Ministry at Pacific Beach UMC

by Church Health Reader Editors

This article was featured in the Winter 2012: Mindful of Grace print issue. Click here to see the complete table of contents.

Written by Church Health Reader Editors on December 15, 2012

Church Health Reader Editors

See all articles by Church Health Reader Editors.

On a random evening in 1993, the single mother of a toddler addressed the church council at Pacific Beach United Methodist Church, humbly asking if she could start a one-night-per-week food ministry. The woman explained that she was once homeless and wanted to give back to the community that helped her make it. Then, she quoted Matthew 25, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat… whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

“How could we say no?” explained Rev. April Herron, pastor of Pacific Beach UMC since 1991. “She planned out the entire process and formed community partnerships to supply the food donations. All we had to say was ‘okay!’”

Nearly 20 years later, the Wednesday Night Ministry at Pacific Beach UMC provides much more than weekly meals. Since 1997, Wednesday nights have included free medical services donated through a partnership with the UCSD Student-Run Free Clinic Project.

Medical and pharmacy students, faculty, and community health professionals provide health care and social services to those in need. Most are “working poor,” earning slightly more than the limited earnings cutoff” to qualify for public programs, but not enough to afford private insurance. The clinic offers access to physicians, dentists, social workers, lawyers and acupuncturists. Medications and lab work are donated or purchased by the clinic project for patients at a discount.

“We serve an average of 150 to 200 people every Wednesday,” said Herron. “It reminds me of Jesus and the story of the loaves and fishes. Somehow there is always food enough to feed everyone. It’s all part of our hospitality and our message: Everyone is welcome at God’s table and in God’s house.”

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Medicine
ministry moment

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Fall 2019 I Building a Vibrant Health Ministry: Mobilize Strengths in Your Congregation

Summer 2019 I Aging and Well-being: Navigating New Pathways for Health and Faith

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