Connecting Congregations Through the Gift of Giving
Lehigh Mission District Ingathering
Living out our shared purpose of connecting congregations for life-giving mission and ministry, we give thanks for the many ways the synod comes together to love like Jesus, heal like Jesus, and engage like Jesus. Across mission districts, congregations and volunteers are sharing hope in practical and compassionate ways that strengthen communities and reflect Christ’s light. One meaningful example is the Lehigh Mission District Ingathering, a ministry of generosity and care during the Advent season.
The following details were shared through the Lehigh Mission District newsletter and are offered here with gratitude for their ministry and witness.
During Advent, we focus on the gift of a child who comes to show us God’s love and calls us to share that love with others. We spread the light of Christ by participating in the Lehigh Mission District Ingathering. This annual effort provides essential personal items and Christmas gifts to various institutions throughout the Lehigh Valley. The Ingathering's success is a direct result of your time and effort.
Congregations and Volunteers:
- Ingathering Team Board Members: Penny Newhard, Alice Mudge, Faith Drescher, Pam Page, and Shellie Fritchman.
- Participating Churches: 22 congregations.
- Volunteers: Each church has 1–2 point persons (representatives). Hundreds of congregational members support the ministry annually through monetary donations and purchasing items.
- Volunteer Hours: While difficult to quantify, the process involves months of planning starting in September, followed by a month of collections and several days of sorting, assembling, and delivery.
Donations and Recipients:
- Organizations Served: Topton Home, Allentown Rescue Mission, Daybreak, Bethany Christian Services, Sixth Street Shelter, Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley, YMCA Winter Warming Station, Cedarbrook Nursing Home, Sharing Life, Boys & Girls Clubs of Allentown, Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Center, and Allentown Halfway Home.
- Items Received: Thousands of items were donated and distributed.
Financial Information:
- 2025 Recipients: We have approximately $3,250 available to donate. Two organizations were selected to receive $1,625 each:
- SoLeHi KidCare (St. James, Coopersburg)
- Ripple Church (Allentown)
- 2026 Recipients: We have already selected Family Promise and The Caring Place for next year.
Thank you, Lehigh Mission District, the 22 participating congregations and all volunteers, for allowing us to share your story
Lehigh Mission District
