Most people think that mission teams are groups going to exotic places, or going to share relief to those suffering from a natural disaster. At Christ Church United Methodist in Charleston, mission groups are coming to them. For many years Christ Church youth have gone on mission trips and been hosted by warm, caring congregations in every corner of our country. These experiences inspired the leadership to “pay it forward” and develop a mission site here in Charleston where groups can come to serve as the hands and feet of Christ.

A “mission house” that the church bought several years ago is adjacent to the church property. This Victorian house has undergone lots of hours of sweat equity to be resurrected as a warm, hospitable site for groups to stay, complete with showers and a kitchen. If a group is too large for the house, the Christ Church accommodates the overflow. The C.R.O.S.S. Ministry has partnered with local organizations such as Rebuilding Together, Manna Meal and Faith in Action to supply the work that these groups need. Each trip is tailored to the abilities and interests of those coming.

An Appalachian cultural event has been developed to showcase our unique corner of our country. The groups are encouraged to participate in Breaking Bread on Wednesdays, which is Christ Church’s free community dinner. They can help prepare, serve and clean up as well as enjoy a meal with some of the local folk. This coming year promises to be an exciting one. Groups from Indiana, Connecticut, Maryland, Texas and Pennsylvania are just a few that will be coming to share their Christian faith with those in need over the spring and summer. The C.R.O.S.S. Ministry is registered on the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries site as well as on the webpage for Christ Church United Methodist (www.ccumwv.org). For more information on this ministry, contact Kathy Chaney at 304-546-8513 or call the church at 304-342-0192 ext. 211. IF you know of someone who would benefit from our ministry, please give them a call!