CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD– About four dozen women and children living at the Shepherd’s Cove shelter gathered days before Christmas to sing songs of Christ’s birth and fellowship with members of the 5 AM Bible Study Ministry.
The United Communities Against Poverty (UCAP) cafeteria was the site of the “Christmas Carol and Gift Exchange” hosted by Johnnie Jackson’s ministry class. Songs such as “O Come, Let Us Adore Him” and “Joy to the World” filled the room, which was decorated with white table cloths and a lighted Christmas tree protecting glistening gift bags stuffed with toys and clothing.
“We really did a tremendous job, working together to be prepared for this night,” said Sister Jackson, explaining that her class spearheaded the outreach effort and solicited help from other members of the Bible Study Ministry.
“This was really beneficial,” she added. “The need was great. But more children attended than expected, especially babies.”
The ministry provided warm robes for more than a half dozen women and shower caddies filled with decorative leggings, tooth brushes with tooth paste and shower caps for nearly three dozen young women and teens. Dolls, jump ropes, puzzles and games were distributed to the children. Shelter officials had to personally distribute gifts to one family of five that was quarantined.
Nearly 10 dozen home-baked cookies were prepared by Ironia Broyles’ sister-in-law Jacqueline Franklin, Tamara Henry and her daughter, Charisse. Dorothy Cotton assembled the Christmas songbook that the residents excitedly used to belt out their tunes.
Besides Johnnie, Ironia, Tamara and Charisse, other ministry members helping with the event were Co-Founder Pansy Wells, Tiffany Henry, Gloria Turner and Nancy Evans.
“We pray that they move from transitional to permanent housing in 2019,” said Sister Evans. “I know that God will open a door with blessing and prosperity.”
