More than $25,000 has been distributed this year to provide assistance to needy pastors, retired pastors or their widows, and married ministerial students through the ministry of the Parson’s Pantry.
Parson’s Pantry was started while Ron and Karen Jackson of Gaffney were preparing their wills and the Lord laid it on their hearts to establish the benevolent ministry.
Since its inception in 2005, Parson’s Pantry has provided more than $64,000 in financial aid, according to Jackson, pastor emeritus of East Gaffney Baptist Church.
“There’s such a need out there. We get recommendations from other pastors for people who need help. This (having a story published) also helps to get the word out,” said Jackson.
A pastor from Green Sea said, “Being a pastor, hearing the word ‘cancer’ was nothing new, but this time the doctor was talking to me. God is so good and has chosen to heal me through my doctor’s hands. And he has used your hand to help us with our financial burdens. May God continue to bless you.”
A widow from Anderson said, “Thank you so much for the generous gift. The loss of our husband, father and pastor is almost more than we can grasp. Your ministry is a lifeline thrown to us amidst the storm. Thank you again for being Jesus’ hands and feet for our family. God bless each of you.”
The board of directors of Parson’s Pantry, which includes 16 pastors and laymen, has designated October as Parson’s Pantry Month to encourage churches and individuals to make a generous gift to its benevolent ministry.
“All gifts will go directly to assist the Lord’s servants and their families,” Jackson said.
A barbecue meal and gospel singing will be held Oct. 4, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall at East Gaffney Baptist Church. Tickets cost $10 per person and may be obtained by calling the church office at (864) 489-8740 or Jackson at 864-489-6709. An offering will be received during the singing for the ministry of Parson’s Pantry.
Contributions may also be sent to Parson’s Pantry Inc., P.O. Box 777, Gaffney 29340.