Outreach
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Part of our vision at First Christian Church is to “serve joyfully”, and we have so many ways to do that! We believe that everyone is a beloved and capable child of God, so that means everyone has something they can do to love and serve their neighbor. And we have been leading with compassion ever since our founding in 1890. Plus, it just feels good to help, which is maybe why we want to make sure we serve our neighbors in a spirit of joy.
Historically, we have been engaged in missions that have made a difference locally, and around the globe. For 40 years, we have been leaders in supporting and guiding the East Elm Apartments, which provide affordable housing for Canton’s retired residents. We have consistently been a voice for hunger relief, for care of survivors of domestic violence, for supporting those on the margins of society. When a tornado destroyed significant portions of our town, First Christian was there in the rescue, relief and recovery phases. We house the offices for our county chapter of Habitat for Humanity.
Sometimes our Outreach has taken the form of direct assistance for individuals experiencing hardships. Sometimes our Outreach has included events, like our quarterly community meals that provide more than just the food that is shared. Each year, we provide books for every first-grade student in the Canton school district, so that each child might be inspired to grow in their education. We also offer specific Outreach support through our Inspiring Generosity Grants ( https://cantonfcc.org/fcc-grants ) and scholarships for students connected to our congregation as they go through college, graduate school or seminary.
