Epworth UMC and Clifton Sanctuary Ministries

Epworth has enjoyed a long history with Clifton Sanctuary Ministries. For many years we have shared community meals during holidays.

In the summer of 2005, an arsonist set a fire at Clifton that created the need for the men to find a temporary new home. Epworth, along with the assistance from the Mayor’s office, our Trustees and congregation, were able to house the 30 Clifton men and provide staff offices for 18 months during their reconstruction. During this time, we forged an even deeper bond, working alongside the amazing staff of Clifton; Alice Jenkins, Director, Prince Venn-Davies, chaplain/case worker, and Julie Moor, admin. Assistant and their committed board of Directors.

We continue to support Clifton Sanctuary in many ways. Our choir makes sack lunches each week for the men to take each day. We serve a meal each month, and continue the history of a meal during Thanksgiving. We have added a new celebration to our community life together—each fall we get together for a "Homecoming" to remember and celebrate the time Clifton shared our church home.

We continue to build and maintain a vital family connection with Clifton. It is an organization that truly makes a difference in the lives of homeless men. Rev. Lisa Dempsey said, "It is our privilege to support the effective and life giving ministry that Clifton offers. Together, we are committed to bring hope, life and God’s grace to one another and to those we are blessed to serve. I highly recommend this community organization as a model for breaking the cycle of homelessness, and value the essential part that this ministry provides for our city."

To learn more, visit http://www.cliftonsanctuary.com

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