Algoma Churches Reaching Out to Students
As the new school year began, churches across Algoma found creative and generous ways to support students and families in their communities.
At the Church of the Epiphany in Sudbury, the Outreach Committee launched a drive throughout August to collect essential supplies for students at Sudbury Secondary School. This growing partnership with the school aims to eliminate some of the small but real barriers that can prevent students from achieving success. Donations included binders, paper, pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, and even scientific calculators. Some of the supplies have already been distributed, while others will be shared throughout the school year. “The students are so very grateful,” shared school staff.
In Sault Ste. Marie, parishioners at Holy Trinity Church collected dozens of backpacks along with a large supply of school materials to fill them. These will be distributed to local children and youth who might otherwise start the year without the essentials they need to thrive.
These efforts are part of the joy-filled discipleship Archbishop Anne described in her Charge to Synod: “Joy is at the heart of being Christian, and it is discovered at every table we join.”
She often praises the practical ways parishes support their communities, and this kind of back-to-school outreach is a beautiful example. By gathering and sharing supplies, churches set a table of generosity and welcome — and in so doing, invite God’s blessing on the students and families they serve.
The Diocese of Algoma gives thanks for all those who are finding simple, practical ways to make a difference in the lives of children and youth this fall.
📸 Photos welcome! If your parish has done a back-to-school outreach, please share your stories and pictures so we can continue to highlight the ways Algoma Anglicans are supporting children and youth. Please send to communications@dioceseofalgoma.com.