In this life we cannot always do great things, but we can do small things with great love. – Mother Teresa
We invite every member and friend of the congregation to prayerfully consider engaging with a Watts Street Mission Group, in ways big or small.
You can learn about our 2022-2023 WSBC Mission Groups and Community Connections in this Missions Brochure.
Here are some ways we can reach beyond our walls to love neighbor and care for God’s creation:
Mission Baskets for the Diaper Bank
Our January/February Mission Basket collection supports the Diaper Bank of NC. There is an immediate need for preemie diapers, size 1 and size 5 diapers, baby formula, diaper rash cream, XL adult pull-up briefs, adult body wipes, period products, tampons, and liners. Donations can be dropped off in the Mission Baskets outside the church library by February 26 or visit their Amazon Wishlist to shop online and ship directly to the Diaper Bank. Thank you for your support!
February Minute for Mission: Reality Ministries
During worship on February 12, Quinn Holmquist and Suvya Carroll bring our Minute for Mission on behalf of Reality Ministries. Reality Ministries creates opportunities for teens and adults with and without developmental disabilities to experience belonging, kinship, and the life-changing Reality of Christ’s love. Checks should be made out to WSBC with “Reality Ministries” noted in the memo line or consider the text giving or QR code options.
Invitation from Reality Ministries
On Wednesday, February 1 at 7 pm, Trinity Avenue Presbyterian is hosting a concert and fundraiser on behalf of Reality Ministries. The Meek Squad, a band of Reality friends, will perform original music, and there will be desserts to follow. There will also be opportunities to learn about other ways to get involved with the ministry. Watts Street is a co-sponsor of this event.
Peace Hill Retreat on Howard Thurman
Peace Hill at Avila invites you to an event on Saturday, February 11 from 9:30 am – 2:30 pm entitled, “Howard Thurman: A Man and Life for All Seasons”. The session will be led by Dumas Harshaw and Phil Mathews. Participants will spend the day experiencing and exploring the life, words, and work of the great preacher, educator, activist, and mystic, Howard Thurman. Led by WSBC Pastor Emeritus Mel Williams, Peace Hill at Avila is an initiative that seeks to engage in contemplative practices as a way to enhance the efforts of those working for justice and peace. The Avila Retreat Center is located at 711 Mason Rd. in Durham. Follow the link below to register: https://rcwms.org/event/howard-thurman-a-man-for-life-and-for-all-seasons/
Urban Ministries of Durham
A team of Watts Streeters provides the evening meal for guests at Urban Ministries on the third Thursday of each month. This month that date falls on February 16. To help with grocery shopping, food prep, cake or brownie baking, food packing/delivery, please contact Greg Palmer at senorpalmer@gmail.com.
Durham CAN Action Teams
After lots of listening sessions last fall, Durham CAN (Congregations, Associations, and Neighborhoods) has formed action teams around four priorities: Affordable Housing, Gun Violence & Criminal Justice, Poverty & Living Wage, and Public Transportation. If you would be interested in joining one of these action teams and helping develop concrete and attainable positive change in our community, please contact Bob Kruhm at robertkruhm@gmail.com for more information.
If you have questions about the work of Durham CAN, please contact Bob Kruhm (robertkruhm@gmail.com) or Jan Williams (jan.adams.williams@gmail.com).
Support for Scouting
Watts Street is honored to sponsor Scout Troop 440 (grades 6-12) and is re-launching Cub Pack 440 (grades 1-5). Scouting helps youth develop outdoor skills, self-confidence, leadership, citizenship, and a commitment to service. Scouting also has a strong youth protection policy which includes volunteer screenings and trainings. If you know children or youth who might be interested in joining OR if you would be interested in volunteering in any way, large or small, please contact Worth Lutz at worthlutz@mindspring.com. There is a particular need for Watts Street members to serve on the church’s Scout Committee.