Committees
St. Thomas' Church has always been a strong supporter of missions, and the Missions Committee is charged with the pleasant responsibility of reviewing news and appeals from a wide variety of missions. We attempt to keep the parishioners informed about mission activities locally, nationally and internationally. The Sunday School is also actively involved in correspondence with and support of missions, and many former students have undertaken short or long term mission work.
The Missions Committee receives and disburses money received in the annual parish budget, from donations to the Fieldworker's Fund and from bequests. A 6% portion of the open and envelope offerings are designated in the annual parish budget for missions. Some missions are supported annually at a predetermined rate, which allows them to make long term plans for their work. Others are supported as funds are available and needs arise. Missionaries who are available to visit Thunder Bay are invited whenever possible to speak to the congregation and the Sunday School. The prayer and financial support they receive from the people of St. Thomas' is greatly appreciated, and we are grateful for their willingness to go where some us cannot to spread the Good News.
The Social Action Committee provides services for the needy in our community. Using donations made by church members, a monthly allocation from the Church Funds, donations from groups and individuals, and contributions made during White Gift Sunday, the committee distributes food twice weekly from the "food cupboard", supplies bus tickets for necessary transportation, provides information about other social agencies, acquires and distributes baked good and seasonally prepares Christmas hampers for the needy in Westfort community. The committee meets weekly for prayer and refers to the minister any person who needs assistance with family difficulties, substance abuse, spiritual concerns and financial problems.
Parish Council is an advisory board made up of a cross section of the parish including members at large, sub committees such as Worship, Missions, Social Action, Youth Ministry, Church & Fellowship group leaders. As a group the Parish Council provides input, feedback and leadership for parish initiatives. The Parish council meets the first Sunday of every month, except during the summer months.
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