Send an SOS and this group comes running

[April 07, 2009]  Who doesn't need an extra pair of hands and sometimes a strong back to get something done from time to time? John and Tina Cotton took a few minutes from their Sunday school ministry at Vonderlieth Living Center to update LDN on another group effort that they are also involved in that lends neighbors a helping hand.

The Cottons report that Serving Other Souls is going well. S.O.S. began earlier this year and offers assistance to people who cannot meet some common, everyday needs on their own. The ministry has helped the elderly, disabled and single women, but really, says John, it's for anyone in need. "We've done about 20 jobs already and are working on four more." Tina adds, "We've been getting about two calls every week."

The group of approximately 20 men from Park Meadows has lent a hand in a variety of situations. They have repaired, stained and built some decks; helped with gardening jobs; and even moved a woman from St. Louis to Clinton. The program has been such a blessing to the volunteers that several women in the church have come forward to say they want to be involved as well. So the ministry is expanding, and John says it is now easier to list what they don't do than to list what they can do. "We can't do anything that requires a license: not a licensed plumber, electrician or builder. We just can't do those," he said. "But we'll do anything else."

The person requesting service may need to pay for supplies, but the labor will always be free. Occasionally, someone will donate money to the ministry. "If we have money in the fund and someone needs us to cover the cost of supplies, we will," he said.

Cotton explained the group's motivation in giving their time this way: "We do this because we want to obey the two greatest commandments: to love the Lord with all our heart, soul and mind; and to love our neighbors as ourselves. We would like to be able to share the gospel with everyone we help, if they'll let us." And if the offer to share the gospel is rejected? "We'll still come back if they need us."

If anyone would like to help with the ministry, the group would be happy to add more volunteers or accept money to cover the supplies when the beneficiary cannot afford it. To talk to John or Tina Cotton, call 217-735-1373. They'd love to visit with you.

Do you need a hand with something at home or with your vehicle? Call the same number and they'll make arrangements with you. They're just a group of Christians, Serving Other Souls.

[By JO HILLIARD]

Related letter to the editor

• New ministry offering services to the community
  (January 2009)