Sir Godfrey Gregg

Being the Hands and Feet

The calling of a church extends far beyond its Sunday services and internal programs. Its most profound testimony is often written not within the walls of its sanctuary, but on the streets of its neighbourhood. To be a vital, life-giving force, a church must intentionally step out into the community, not as a powerful institution, but as a humble servant, seeking to be the hands and feet of its faith in practical, tangible ways.

This begins with a posture of listening and learning. Church leaders and members must ask the community, “What are your greatest needs? What are your hopes and dreams for this neighbourhood?” instead of presuming to have all the answers. This requires building genuine relationships with local leaders, school principals, business owners, and social service agencies. By listening first, the church can identify where its unique resources, skills, and volunteer power can fill a genuine gap, rather than duplicating services or offering unwanted programs.

Service is the most authentic language of love. This could take countless forms: starting a free after-school tutoring program for at-risk students, hosting a weekly community dinner where anyone is welcome, offering a “clothes closet” for those in need, or organizing teams to help elderly neighbours with yard work or home repairs. By meeting practical needs without any strings attached, the church embodies a selfless, Christ-like love that speaks louder than any sermon. It demonstrates that faith is not just about beliefs, but about action and compassion.

Furthermore, the church can serve as a vital community hub—a neutral, safe space for connection. It can open its doors for neighbourhood association meetings, recovery groups, or local concerts. By offering its facilities as a gift to the community, it breaks down the perception of being a closed club and becomes a shared resource that fosters civic unity and connection.

When a church truly integrates itself into the fabric of its community, a beautiful symbiosis occurs. The church gets to live out its mission in a real and impactful way, and the community gains a committed, compassionate partner dedicated to its flourishing. The church’s presence becomes a source of hope, practical support, and unconditional love, proving that its greatest purpose is found not in being served, but in serving, and in giving its life for the sake of its friends and neighbours.