Profiles in Christian Caring- June 2024

This month, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Suzanne Murray from the Protestant Community Church in Medford Lakes, located at 100 Stokes Road, Medford Lakes, NJ 08055. While I knew of their commendable works in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their humble beginnings were a revelation. The Protestant Community Church has been a steadfast partner to the Christian Caring Center for nearly two decades, and I thank God for their partnership and leadership.

        Suzanne shared the inspiring story of their food casserole program, initiated by Mrs. Kathy Roberts 19 years ago. Inspired by a similar program, Kathy introduced the idea to the church, and it blossomed into a vital ministry. Initially, they sought bread donations from the congregation, which soon led to a partnership with a local Amish market. Every Saturday, the church collects food from the market and creates casseroles, each feeding up to eight people. These casseroles are then blessed to the Christian Caring Center to assist feeding out clients at the center and at Code Blue.

    In the first year, they created and distributed 500 casseroles—praise God! Today, despite increased need due to economic conditions, the church continues to answer the call. In 2023, they produced and distributed 2,500 casseroles and 1,600 sandwiches.  In the first quarter of 2024 alone, they have produced 606 casseroles!

Suzanne also shared a significant challenge when the Burlington County Health Department required additional refrigerator/freezer units. With limited funds, the church turned to Madelyn Sutton, Executive Director of the Christian Caring Center. Our board approved funding for two new units, exemplifying true Christian support.

        What began as a humble act of kindness has become a vital community lifeline. I encourage you to support the Protestant Community Church in this important ministry. Donations of food are welcome on Saturdays, or you can make a monetary contribution. Volunteers can pick up ingredients on Saturdays and return prepared casseroles on Tuesdays between 10 AM and 1 PM.

      The faith and dedication of Suzanne, Kathy, and the Protestant Community Church family demonstrate two key Christian principles: unconditional love and the duty to care for our brothers and sisters in need.

I hope that by sharing their story, you too are inspired to answer the call to Christian caring and love.

Randy Holston

Development Director, Christian Caring Center of Pemberton, INC.