In a world often marked by division and uncertainty, even the smallest acts of kindness can bring light and hope. During this past Lenten season, Christ United Methodist Church of Rockford set out to touch their community with simple acts of love.  

The congregation was challenged to spread kindness and positivity through everyday interactions. A Lenten Challenge Checklist suggest activities like “order pizza for your doctor’s office” and “give a coffee-shop gift card to drive-through or store checkout employee.” Even simple gestures can create a ripple effect of positivity within the community. 

CUMC’s children and family ministries carried out additional acts of kindness during Holy Week. Church staff and volunteers who mentor students at neighboring schools made a special delivery of treats to the dedicated teachers and staff to thank them for their hard work. Later in the week, families showed gratitude and support to our postal workers and local police and fire stations with bottled water, snacks, and homemade cookies. Throughout the week, children were hard at work making fleece-tie blankets for youngsters at a local children’s home. 

Lent is a time of prayer, reflection, and personal spiritual growth. While the people of CUMC encouraged one another to pray, fast, and reflect, they also were encouraged to embody the spirit of compassion and kindess that lies at the core of their faith, reaching beyond the walls of their church to serve and show Christ’s love to those in their community.