Often, while walking the streets, we encounter remarkable life stories that highlight God’s work in our community. During our worship on a recent Sunday, we read and discussed John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Everyone gathered expressed that they needed God’s grace, mercy, and guidance to help them find that life as promised. We paused the service to read a passage from the Book of Jeremiah. We discussed how the Potter can reshape the clay when it doesn’t take the desired form, since it is still soft and malleable. We talked about how the Lord is like the Potter, working to make each of us beautiful and functional. If the Lord’s work is damaged, we are not discarded; we are healed and grow into our full potential. God acts like a Potter, shaping the course of a believer’s life. It was a terrific discussion and worship service.

That afternoon, as we walked through Harvard Square handing out sandwiches, snacks, and water, a young man approached us. He said, “The Outdoor Church saved my life. In 2022, I was homeless, sleeping outside. You fed me countless times. You gave me a winter coat, blankets, and a sleeping bag. Whenever I needed something, you were always there for me. In 2023, I found my way to a shelter, and nine months later, I got an apartment and then a job. I have been clean for three years, and I owe my life to you.” We were flabbergasted. The young man’s testimony is powerful. We rarely witness outcomes like this.

We paused to pray with the young man, thanking God for working in his life and asking for continued grace and mercy. We understand that God changes the lives of many people we meet on the street, yet the revelation of God’s work isn’t always witnessed in the same way. God help refine the young man, just as the potter shapes the clay. Our shared belief in God is that the young man did not perish and has been granted eternal life.

We continue to gather for worship at Porter Square on Sunday mornings, offering donuts, coffee, sandwiches, and socks. Our steadfast Saturday and Sunday afternoon outreach provides sandwiches, water, snacks, and other essentials like socks and toiletries. We also distribute hats, gloves, and scarves as the cold weather approaches. We keep handing out water and snacks before gathering on Thursdays at the Cambridge City shelter for an evening worship service. We couldn’t support these ministry events without the many volunteers who make sandwiches, cookies, and muffins, and who supply water, juice, and snacks. These gifts and efforts are sincerely appreciated by the unhoused, homeless, and street-involved community as we work to bring kindness into their lives.

We, at The Outdoor Church, thank you for your support. Your encouragement, prayers, and assistance enable us to bring our ministry to the women and men on the streets of Cambridge.  If you feel inclined, you can donate through the DONATE button on our website, www.theoutdoorchurch.org