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Story | Shepherd of the Coast Lutheran Church

Learning to Serve, One Step at a Time

"Everyone knows that you're supposed to serve,"...

“Everyone knows you’re supposed to serve,” said Dr. Daniel Czaplewski, pastor of Shepherd of the Coast Lutheran Church in Fort Lauderdale. “But often it feels overwhelming, threatening...Faith In Action breaks it down into practical, manageable, bite-sized pieces.”

Faith In Action Sunday was preceded by four weeks of sermons, home Bible studies and devotions, said Dr. Czaplewski. “We had some interesting conversations, wrestling with the issue of being taken advantage of by those you serve and other issues.” The material helped church members confront their fears. He said, “the studies didn’t mince words, but very clearly brought out concerns and issues that we needed to face.”

During those four weeks, the church sponsored a food drive for the needy. Then, on Faith in Action day, they prepared food for a homeless shelter. Kids from their church school also helped sort food and clothing, and served at the shelter. The smaller children made thank-you cards that were mailed to the military, as part of their Operation Military Pride.

“It was a multi-generational day, and everyone helped,” said Dr. Czaplewski. “Several people said afterwards, ‘I didn’t know you could have this much fun at church!’”