[November 29, 2017]      

On Sunday morning, November 26th, the Mission Committee, representing the congregation of St. John United Church of Christ in Lincoln presented 287 coats, 64 hats, 68 pair of gloves and mittens and 2 headbands to Breann Titus of Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois. This year’s presentation of coats was the largest to date in the 27 year history of the church’s annual offering.


As is the tradition, members of the church presented the coats by bringing them to the altar during the Sunday morning Service. Verdeen Ingram spoke to the congretation about this year’s donation then presented the coats to Titus, who was accompanied to the front of the church by her two young daughters.


The program began in 1990, with the first Thanksgiving Offering of coats. Since that time, the church has donated 3,480 coats to the children of Logan County.


CAPCIL will host a Christmas luncheon this Saturday, December 2 at the Lincoln Banquet Center from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The coats will be distributed to local children during that time. The holiday luncheon is free to the community. CAPCIL has reported that the first 200 children will get their photo taken with Santa, will receive a free book and also a coat, while supplies last. The day will also include a free meal for all in attendance. An RSVP is requested. To reserve a meal call 217-732-2159 or visit the CAPCIL website at www.capcil.info.

The annual collection of coats is led by Ingram and Mission Committee co-chair Marlene Wilmert. Mission Committee members include Larry Ingram, Norma Kramer, Jack and Nancy Leich, Edna Mara, Bob and Sandy Meinershagen, and Lee Westerfield.


Pictures by  Tonita Reifsteck