Opportunities to Show Mercy
- Lutheran Mercy Care Ministry: Lutheran Mercy Care Ministry is both a chaplaincy and after care ministry designed to embrace and teach offenders and people dealing with drug and alcohol addictions about Christ’s love for them. The Ministry offers some financial assistance which is preceded by bible studies, prayers, lively discussions on faith issues and ways to change their ways.
The road to earthly redemption for people in trouble with the law is hard and challenging and without some help leads to high recidivism rates. Heroin and Meth use are rampant in our communities; although the courts recognize more and more that addiction is a disease and needs treatment like any other disease, some of the requirements set by the court are expensive and the offender cannot afford it. Most addicts have lost contact with their families or have been abandoned. The Ministry offers spiritual counseling and some financial assistance in emergency cases. The Ministry stays involved in their lives, makes them part of our church family and stays in touch while they are incarcerated. Phone accounts with the county jail and prison system have been set up.
The ministry is run by our Pastor John Widmer. - Loaves and Fishes: The purpose of this corporation, Loaves and Fishes of Archuleta County, Colorado, serving as a faith based and community based organization, is to provide nutritious meals in a safe, warm, and caring environment, free of charge, to anyone who comes seeking nourishment and fellowship. And further, the mission is to provide access to community services and resources to those in need, while providing opportunities for volunteers to give of themselves in service to others.