“On an evening when we honor those who have a heart for serving those in need, the list begins appropriately with First Lutheran Church. Since, 1870, when church founders saw unmet needs in the Lincoln community, First Lutheran has found new ways to serve in our ever-changing community.
Lutheran Family Services has a history of stepping into communities and providing human care for the most vulnerable people, according to the unmet needs. The partnership with First Lutheran is natural. Compelled by the love of Jesus, this focus on the individual drives their ministry.
Not only is the LFS partnership with First Lutheran a natural one, it is also rich with stories and history. Refugees from Cambodia, Liberia, Latvia and South Sudan have all found a welcoming home here in Lincoln due to the open arms of First Lutheran. Notably, Channy Laux, author and keynote speaker on this evening’s panel, was resettled by LFS in Lincoln and matched with First Lutheran as a sponsor church.
Leaders of First Lutheran are quick to share a philosophy that models Faith in Action. It’s simple: focus on the needs of others and serve with compassion. So, whether it’s prison ministry or evening exercise classes in the fellowship room; whether it’s working to reunite a mother with her children from across the world or connecting a family with much-needed clothing and hygiene supplies, there is genuine joy in serving others.”
(Narrative from the Lutheran Family Services Faith in Action Awards Program; October 11, 2018))
