The Bellingham Church has a culture of caring and involving people of all ages. The church works throughout the year to make a difference in the community and in the lives of young people.
One purpose is to foster a closer church community. "It's important to get to know the people you worship with," says Stacey McGhee, a graduate student from Anchorage, Alaska, who attends the Bellingham Church. "You can go through the motions of church, but it doesn't really affect you unless you have someone to share it with."
In February, members brought bags of cookie dough for a home-style, cross-age social event where teams baked 30 dozen cookies for distributing to shut-in members, adult care centers and nursing homes.
In the spring, adults, young adults, youth and children combined their talents to decorate the chapel and cafeteria at Lighthouse Mission, the largest homeless shelter in Bellingham, Wash.
The biggest event of the year is Whatcom County's Walk Through Bethlehem each December, which attracts more than 2,500 people and helps to bring the night of Jesus' birth alive for the community. As a direct result of this ministry, two guests were recently baptized.
Year-round service and ministry ventures in Bellingham include offering a prison music ministry, sending out student missionaries, ministering to students at Western Washington University, serving the homeless and stitching quilts for orphanages.
"Jesus' ministry was one of frequent contact and positive impact," says Michael Demma, district pastor. "By His guidance, I see members of all ages reflecting this type of practical ministry and opening hearts to our God-given, end-time message."
Whatcom County's culture of caring is reflected in the number of volunteer projects youth and families participate in year-round. (Keith Lindsey)
Community activities in Bellingham attract volunteers of all ages. (Keith Lindsey)
Bellingham children and adults volunteer in all seasons because it's part of their culture of caring. (Keith Lindsey)
