At Haywood Street, the invitation to be a companion is a unique and transforming experience. In many ways it requires a new way of “seeing” those who gather here. The invitation begins and ends with the recognition of everyone being a child of God – each having gifts and each having needs. This is a not a ministry where “the haves” help “the have nots”. We are ministry that acknowledges each of us as privileged and each of us as being in need. While some come with hunger from the body others come with a hunger in their souls.
As we stumble to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, we find his life and his teachings call us to accompany one another. Most of Jesus’ ministry was gathering with folks at the table, sharing bread and story. Haywood Street strives to follow this model. You will find homeless folks preparing and serving the meal. You will discover folks in 3 piece suits and hospital scrubs coming only to eat. It turns the notion that the homeless are helpless and the housed are the saviors on its head. You’ll be invited to step out of your comfort zone. If you are accustomed to only serving others, you’ll be invited to be served. If your gifts have been overlooked or dismissed, you’ll be put to work. It’s a joyful and often chaotic ministry. One that requires openness, vulnerability, flexibility, and last but not least, a good ‘ole sense of humor. You’ll make new friends and experience a joy only authenticity can uncover.
Anyone is welcome to sign up. We have an online calendar or you can simply contact Rev. Shannon Spencer at revsspencer@haywoodstreet.org or by calling 575-2477. We do ask that you attend a companion orientation before signing up. Orientation takes place the first Tuesday of every month at 5 pm or the first Wednesday of every month at 10 am.
The first step is to come and join us on a Wed. and bring the best gift anyone has to offer: your presence.
There are many ways to get involved at The Haywood Street Congregation. Take a look here and see where you can help out.
Welcome Table – This is a free lunch, open to all, that runs from 11:30 – 1:00 every Wednesday. Companions are needed to help prep meals and set tables on Tuesday evenings, and to prepare, serve and cleanup on Wednesdays. Reliable, committed companions are needed to sign up for one regular Tuesday or Wednesday a month (or more!)
Clothing Closet – The Closet is open every Wednesday from 11:30 – 1:30. Companions are needed during those hours to sort and hang clothes, tidy the shelves, and help folks find what they need. Companions are needed to sign up for a regular Wednesday (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.) each month. Companions are also needed for occasional work days to help keep the closet looking good.
Special Events – Help plan special events related to holidays and celebrations, or as fundraising events for the church and its mission programs; help staff special events (i.e. volunteer for a single day of service).
Greeter – Work one of the doors on Wednesday during programming hours, to welcome folks, distribute name tags and answer questions.
Building / Grounds / Community Garden- Contribute your skills and talents to projects related to building maintenance and upkeep. Work in the community garden to plant, weed, water or harvest fresh produce for the Welcome Table.
On Call Driver / Run Errands- Help with simple tasks like picking up donated clothes, food or mulch and delivering them to the church.
Email or call our Co-Pastor, Shannon Spencer at revsspencer@haywoodstreet.org or 828-231-4169 for more information, to become a companion or to register for the orientation.
The Haywood Street Congregation
297 Haywood Street (corner of Haywood Street & Patton Ave. Downtown Asheville)
Asheville, NC 28801
Mailing Address: PO Box 2982
Asheville, NC 28802
Co-Pastor Brian Combs
revbcombs@haywoodstreet.org
Phone: 828-246-4250
Fax: 828-575-2478
Co-Pastor Shannon Spencer
revsspencer@haywoodstreet.org
Phone: 828-231-4169
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