New Guildford UMC creates blessing box
A blessing box was started by the youth at New Guilford UMC in late May. The community is invited to leave an item or take an item that they may need. There is also a mailbox on the side for prayer requests. Contributed | Beacon
NEW GUILDFORD – What started as a project for Lent has turned into a new way for the parishioners at New Guildford United Methodist Church to help community members who are in need.
The blessing box was a project started by the youth Bible study at the church. The five youth members expressed their idea to build a blessing box where people could drop off non-perishable items or pick up an item they might need.
“We wanted to find a way to support the community, but since we’re so small (the church) and out in the country, we have limited resources,” said Ashley McMillan, pastor at New Guilford UMC. “This is a way we can help the community by filling a need and being present in the community.”
You don’t have to be a member of the church to use the blessing box. Anyone is welcome to stop by the church, see what’s inside, and take whatever you need. On any given day, the box could contain non-perishable food items, clothing such as socks, hats, or gloves, toilet paper, toothpaste, or any hygiene items you may need.
The kids decided to build the box in the shape of a barn, which relates to Jesus being born in a stable. They painted it and helped drive in some nails, but most of the construction and set up was done by Ashley’s husband, Nick. They just put the box up on Tuesday, May 23 and it’s already well known in the community.
“We were surprised it’s taken off so quickly,” said Ashley. “The kids were excited to see it become so popular. We know there are lots of people in need and we wanted to help out in a way that made an impact.”
The blessing box is accessible 24 hours a day and Nick plans to install a light fixture so that it is visible at night. There is even a mailbox on the side where people can drop off prayer requests.
If people would like to make a donation, they can drop off items at any time or call Ashley at 740-824-8004. New Guildford UMC is located at 30770 New Guilford Rd., Walhonding. Their services are at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday with a children’s program during church.
Category: Faith
