The West Islip Church of Christ lends itself to God’s ongoing work in the world in a variety of ways.

• We stock a pantry year-round, distributing non-perishable groceries to all who call for help. Additionally, we have special distributions of fresh foods throughout the year for families in need.

• We support the Timothy Hill Children’s Ranch, a Long Island residence for boys from troubled homes, with contributions of money and time. Look for us at the fall festival—we’ll be running the cotton candy booth.

• Twice monthly, we visit our neighbors at Our Lady of Consolation Nursing Home. Nothing fancy—just friendly conversation and prayer for those our society often forgets.

• A not-for-profit, low-cost community daycare operates in our church building with considerable help from church members. We serve on the board, keep the facilities looking great, and volunteer with the children.

• Health Talents International, a medical missions agency that serves the poor in Central America, helps us reach out beyond our community. Several of our members have traveled to Guatemala for surgical clinics. We support HTI with regular financial contributions and by sponsoring several children through their ABC program.

Many more opportunities for service come our way each year. We provide parking for local events, join fund-raising efforts for a hospice, donate school supplies for homeless children, pay utility bills in emergency cases, charter a Boy Scout troop, open our building to Girl Scouts and other children’s programs, mentor teens through community service programs, and invite local families to our Vacation Bible School.

All this and more is made possible by the power of the Holy Spirit, which has empowered our congregation with energy and compassion. We love people because God has loved us, and there is always plenty to go around.