SERVING & GETTING INVOLVED
2021 THEME: “Fruit for Orange”
We at 9th and Elm believe in what’s called, “Low hanging fruit.” That is fruit that is within reach. We reach this fruit at our finger tip through serving.
We “see you” when you come to our congregation. Worshiping God and welcoming all who attend is a first order of business. These are areas where all serve:
Disaster Relief
In the past 9th & Elm has a hub for relief distribution. Going forward, we will take on more responsibility for relief on the gulf coast, east Texas and west Louisiana. Our intent is to be a clearing house, staging area, distribution port and service facility for relief. To do this we will coordinate with church of Christ related disaster relief organizations in place such as Nashville, Alabama and Sugar Land. Food, clothing, appliances, monetary and crisis counseling will be offered.
Publicity
We believe so strongly in what 9th and Elm has to offer that we encourage all believers to “Take the Lord with you everywhere you go.” This is how we promote Christ and this is how we “get the word out” about all that 9th and Elm has to offer. Publicity by word of mouth, social media, etc.
Benevolence
The mainstay of Christ’s kingdom. Our goal is to help and touch the lives of as man as possible through assistance from the congregation and, in some cases, its individual members. In addition, our benevolence is connected with various relief efforts brought about by various disasters.
Community Connections
9th and Elm is part of the Orange community and we contribute to the community’s well being. We serve schools; public service agencies (such as first responders); assist with care agencies (group homes, nursing care facilities and the likes); bottom line, we serve community in an organized and purposeful fashion
Couples & Family
We have an intentional ministry designed for those in relationships and those who are related. We are organized to grow strong families and healthy couples which is the life and blood of the church. Family retreats; couples retreats; marriage seminars; family outreach; couples encounters; special family days at the church; etc.
Education
We have an “Education Team” that works tirelessly to organize the teaching ministry and make those who teach job easy and those who learn enjoyable. Classes for all ages mean from early age to adults. Not only on site at the building but at home, too.
Evangelism
THE GOAL IS TO MAKE THE “WHOLE GOSPEL” AVAILABLE TO THE “WHOLE WORLD.” Our deacon over this ministry utilizes whatever member is best suited to make the contact.
Fellowship Support
For those who are not skilled or comfortable for other areas, there is “Fellowship Support.” They are tasked with facilitating fellowships, hospitality and special church events. This group can assist in set up, clean up and take down and managing the food part of gatherings. Funerals, weddings, special honoring, youth gatherings, church meals, and other activities.
Keenagers
The senior members, much like the youth of the congregation, need an organized ministry to help their growth and attend to their particular needs. The Keenagers themselves are the organizers and facilitators of this ministry that include but is not limited to special studies, trips, activities, fellowships, game days, retreats, etc.
Youth
Our kids are excited about SNOT. No ministry of the church deserves more intentionality. Each month, the kids gather at a different home for Sunday Night Out Together, SNOT. In addition, our youth programs are well thought-out and carefully planned, well staffed and impassioned to help the youth to know Christ; God’s word; build character; develop care for others; have peer relationships; encourage creativity; and help them be servants.
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Lamar State College
The campus is within a stone’s throw of the 9th & Elm property. Administration; instructors; students and employees present a great opportunity to hand out something to eat, gift packs, etc. Along these same lines, we prepare “care packages” for the 9th and Elm college students who are away from home, and we have a ministry we support at Lamar in Beaumont.
Men’s Ministry
In addition to our monthly “prayer breakfast,” our men have a robust program that includes activities, time together, seminars, encounters, retreats, guest speakers, special studies, trips, etc.
Missions
There are several missions that we support and they present a great service opportunity away from here.
Singles
The most represented yet neglected segment in most churches. They are never married, widowed and divorced. We ministered to them in a meaningful way to help them know that they are not alone. Not only do they have other singles but they have the rest of us.
Women
Females, like their male counterpart, need a robust program designed for the female’s growth and development. Ladies Bible class (weekly), our multi-faceted program include activities, time together, seminars, encounters, retreats, guest speakers, study on topics to help the female, trips, etc.
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