Feb. 23: A Fresh (Vegetable) Approach to Feeding the Hungry

St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, takes the Bible’s urging to “feed the hungry” seriously.  The parish is known for its outreach programs, including an active youth ministry and a Philoptochos chapter of the largest organization of Orthodox women in the country.  These Philoptochos societies raise money for all sorts of worthy charities.

“Perhaps our most innovative outreach program is a vegetable garden, the proceeds of which are donated to a local food bank,” parish priest Father Nicholas Pathenos informs the Orthodox Observer.

Ironically, although Bloomfield Hills was once one of the five richest cities in the United States, the recent unemployment rise has created a need for more charitable outreach than ever.

“My biggest challenge is dealing with the economic impact…on people’s lives,” Father Nicholas admits.  “I do a lot of counseling.”

Each of us has the power to help the less fortunate.

Give, and it will be given to you.  (Luke 6:38)

Lord, may we seek fresh approaches to assist the impoverished.