Prayer Shawl Ministry
In our Prayer Shawl Ministry a number of parish members knit a total of about 100 shawls each year while in a time of prayer. We give the shawls to people within and beyond our parish so that they know they are wrapped in God’s grace and healing during physical or other challenges. Our Prayer Shawl ministry provides tangible evidence of our support to those who are encountering serious life challenges.
Supporting the Heron Emergency Food Centre (HEFC)
We continue to support the HEFC both financially and with direct food donations, especially on the first Sunday of every month, which we have designated as Food Bank Sunday. St. Thomas members regularly bring non-perishable food to church which is then taken to the HEFC each week. Church members also make financial contributions to the HRFC’s work. The Centre continues to serve a widely varied clientele including families with children, seniors and, increasingly, newcomers to Canada.
South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre (SEOCHC)
St Thomas financially supports SEOCHC, a community-governed organization that provides a range of health-related services to clients. The relationship is close; St Thomas members have regularly held senior positions on SEOCHC’s community-based Board of Directors, including Chair of the Board
Primates World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF)
PDRDF is the Anglican Church of Canada’s agency for sustainable development and relief. With the support of Anglicans across Canada, PWRDF partners with organizations working to increase healthy pregnancies and births, reduce gender inequality, relieve hunger and break the cycle of poverty in the world’s most vulnerable communities. Against a backdrop of climate change, PWRDF strives to address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for 2030. St Thomas actively supports PWRDF through donations and participation in events and campaigns.
Community Outreach Events
St Thomas members continue to organize events such as the Fish Fry, Pancake Supper, and Bazaar that involve both parish members and members of the community at large. These events underline our presence in the community and provide participating St Thomas members with an opportunity for fellowship as members of the organizing teams. They also raise significant funds for Outreach in our community.
Coins for the Kingdom
Parish members place pocket change in a container which is used to support various worthy causes. These include diocesan community activities such as Centre 454 and St. Luke’s Table as well as the Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund.
