Outreach

Outreach is an integral role of Immanuel’s overall ministry, and continues to be a huge part of what we are about as a church. We are committed to bringing God’s love and hope to the places where it is most needed. We strive to embrace mission work and outreach at every level, and are committed to prayer, worship, and discerning God’s will for us and the work we do.

Community

A sampling of our local and community outreach activities are listed below.

New Journey Community Outreach (NJCO) Soup Kitchen

On the first Tuesday of each month, a team of 5 men and women prepare and serve 140+ lunchtime meals at the New Journey Community Outreach (NJCO) soup kitchen, which is the only daily food program in downtown Reading. In addition to the serving of meals, there is an opportunity to donate food items or to join in preparing food in the Immanuel kitchen. To volunteer please contact Kate Conrad at 610-763-7073 or the church office.

Blankets of Hope

Governor Mifflin School District

Immanuel is proud to be part of “Mustang Nation” – Governor Mifflin School District. Over the years Immanuel has provided after-school programming, classroom supplies, and mentors to young learners. Throughout the 2020 pandemic, Immanuel has expanded its outreach with the school to include monthly food distribution.

LGBT Center of Greater Reading

Opportunity House

On the third Wednesday of each month, a team consisting of 5-8 people journey into Reading to serve dinner at Opportunity House, a shelter offering services such as emergency, transitional, and long-term housing, a child center, and Veteran assistance services to the homeless community. Each team is prepared to serve a total of 60 men, women, and children. We have use of a full industrial kitchen if choosing to cook on site, or the meal can be prepared ahead of time and heated on-site. Members of the congregation donate food items and help offset costs through monetary donations. This is a personally fulfilling experience! Gather your family, friends, club, or group to form a team then contact Sharon Kaufman at ‪610-781-6581 or srkaufman2@ptd.net to reserve your month.

Reading Pride Celebration

Souperbowl of Caring

Interfaith

At Immanuel, we believe that God lives amongst us, blessing all those in our community and around the world. Because we share that love of God, we have cultivated and nurtured a growing relationship with members of the other faith traditions.

Islamic Center of Reading, PA (ICORPA)

Each year since 2010 we’ve partnered with the Islamic Center of Reading to offer a food and clothing giveaway at the nearby Queen City Family Restaurant, symbolizing our unity and desire to be a bridge between different cultures and faiths. It also serves as a reminder of both faith communities’ shared commitment to the City of Reading.

Education and fellowship opportunities are continuously being offered. Recently, members of Immanuel, the Islamic Center of Reading, and many guests spent six weeknights together, sharing meals and learning about the faith and practices of Islam. During the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, Immanuel prepared and served a meal when our Muslim friends broke their fast after sundown. For information on becoming involved, please contact the church office.

Congregation Oheb Sholom, Wyomissing PA

Immanuel also partners with Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom, Wyomissing PA, and the Jewish Federation of Reading to offer community service projects, educational programs, and interfaith worship services.