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The Fort Avenue Church of Christ is dedicated to outreach, both in our
community and beyond. We encourage and support ministry activities
that bring people into contact with the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
There are various ways to participate in these ministries, including
writing to prospective Christians, singing and fellowshipping with other
believers, and offering financial support. We are also open to new
ideas for ways of sharing the good news. Some of our current ministries include:
Nine Fort Avenue members are currently corresponding with Christians around the world, using World Bible School's lessons for building faith in Christ. So far, several hundred introductory lessons have been sent out, including some in Spanish. It takes patience when corresponding with people overseas; several students have completed multiple lessons, while others are not heard from at all. Mailing time may take weeks, so this ministry requires introductory lessons to be sent out continually in the hope of a few replies. The workers get together every second Sunday night of the month at 6:00 p.m. to assist one another with correspondence. It's easy to get involved, and there is plenty to do! 2. Worship with Heritage Green & Grace Lodge Members of the church have been traveling to assisted living facilities at least once each month to lead worship for folks who could not otherwise reach our church building. The residents of these facilities are mostly older, though some only have a restrictive physical condition that prevents them from doing much travel. The worship primarily involves a capella singing, some scripture readings, a short message, and prayer. Anyone is welcome, and the residents have thoroughly enjoyed our worship together for years. We go to Heritage Green on every fourth Sunday, at 6:30 p.m. Visits to Grace Lodge have usually occurred on fifth Sunday's. 3. Youth Camp The church has participated for many years in a youth camp (ages 10-18) with the Roanoke and Nor-Dan Churches of Christ. The camp is held during the Summer at Camp Bethel, near Fincastle, VA. Youth camp has been very effective over the years in developing character, increasing our youths' Bible knowledge, and inspiring them with challenging messages. The camp has a diverse set of programs that include athletics, crafts, and Bible competitions. All youth are welcome! 4. Barbe's Missionary Journeys to China We have been able to send one of our members to China each of the past three years. Barbe Shackelford has been traveling to China with her skills to teach Chinese children how to speak English. In the course of this teaching, Barbe has found many occasions to share her faith with the Chinese people, though this effort must be done very carefully. The Chinese do not allow open evangelistic efforts; still, there are many believers in China, and we are able to strengthen their faith and ours. 5. Les and Loopie in Papua, New Guinea When Les and Loopie Williams traveled to New Guinea many years ago, I think that most people believed that they would return after a few years. Instead, Les and Loopie have raised five sons and settled. The church in New Guinea has grown strong. The Fort Avenue church has sent financial aid over the years, and we encourage more contributions for this successful ministry. 6. Interfaith Outreach The Fort Avenue Church of Christ works with other congregations in the area to help people in distress, in need of food, shelter, or other basic necessities. Each month, a special contribution is collected for this work. We have come to appreciate the wisdom of Interfaith Outreach and their careful money-handling and decision making. If you know of someone in need, have them give Interfaith a call: 846-6098. |
1. World Bible School