Community Ministries

We believe that God calls us to be welcoming of all people and in ministry to the whole community.

Community Ministries is at the very heart of what the Gospels call us to do and who we, as followers of Jesus, are called to be. We believe Community Ministries to be vital part of what makes Highlands the unique and vital place that it is.

The coffee we pour and the bagel we serve, the clothes we wash and the mail we sort are important, especially important for those who are hungry, have dirty clothes and are disenfranchised. But the real commodities that we offer are a safe place, a warm welcome, a kind word, a little encouragement and a sense of dignity and worth that may be lacking on the street. In doing so we follow the advice of St. Francis of Assisi who is attributed with saying, “Preach the Gospel, always, and when necessary use words.”

The spirit of this understanding can perhaps best be expressed in the following communication that we received a few years ago.

Good day. God bless each of you as you have blessed me by your Ministry to the homeless. Today Nov 16, 2006 I read an article in the Montgomery Advertiser about local merchants complaining about the homeless loitering in your area. I felt God move over me to share my experience, strength and hope with you. I pray it motivates you to continue in your endeavor to do Gods work

On Oct. 20, 1998 I arrived homeless and hopeless in Birmingham, Al. Walking the early morning streets hungry, lonesome and tired of fighting the disease of alcoholism. I was sick in body and soul and had lost myself spiritually along that downward spiral. I had given up my nursing career because I could no longer function to do my shifts. Life as I knew it was over....Praise God!

As the sun began to rise I noticed a crowd gathering at a corner Church. I finally asked another homeless woman what was going on. It was then that I discovered the Church...known to those gathering as 5pts Church had hot coffee and bagels. I took my turn in line and entered your halls with downward eyes afraid to meet the servers for fear of "The Look" received from busy-goers heading to work in their nice warm coats. I was given a cup of coffee, a bagel and a God Bless You. Before leaving I was given a brown bag by a humble servant who took my hand, met my eyes and said quite simply, ‘We're praying for you.’ At that moment I felt the fight leave me and a quite surrender enter my soul. ’The Peace that Passes Understanding.’ I haven't had to drink since that day.

Eight yrs sober now and so very grateful for each day of it. I have re-entered the Nursing profession and make all attempts to 'pass on' what was so unselfishly given to me at that Church on the Corner...The Cornerstone and beginning of my recovery.

Please continue your work. It means so much to so many. Remember, ’We're praying for you too.’

Janet L.

Community Ministries

Hospitality Hour

Coffee, bagels or pastries, mail service, phone service, limited laundry service, toiletries and a respite from the street are offered.

Open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

Clothing Closet

Basic clothing items such as pants, shirts, socks, and underwear are available every thirty days. Shoes are available every ninety days.

Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.

Project ID

Assistance is available to obtain birth certificates and state-issued

identification. Clients are seen by referral from forty-three partner social

service agencies and by appointment only.

Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:00 a.m. until noon.

You are invited to contact the church office should you wish to volunteer or learn more about Community Ministries at Highlands. 205.933.8751