I am excited to be your Social Ministry Representative. This ministry allows us to respond, as a faith community, to the needs within the Cochrane area. The Bible is full of scripture where Jesus calls upon us to take the church outside of the institution itself and be His “hands and feet” in the world.

“Love others as Christ first loved us” (1 John 4:19)
“Truly as you have done it to one of the least of these, you have done it to me.” (Matthew 25:40)
“Love thy neighbor as thyself” (Mark 12:31)

Sometimes we struggle with the question, “Who is our neighbor?” Cochrane appears to be affluent, but are you aware that semi-annual food drives and Christmas hamper donations do not prevent the shelves of the Cochrane Food Bank from becoming empty?

'Cochrane Helping Hands' was founded, a few years ago, when individual churches struggled to meet the requests that they received for help. It was hoped that if the faith community worked together all needs would be met. Many seniors, single mothers and people with physical limitations make requests to Cochrane FCSS (Family and Community Support Services). They are then fanned out to point people (like myself) within the churches of Cochrane. The number of requests continue to grow and vary from one-time things like driving a senior to a medical appointment or helping them with a move; to weekly commitments like visiting a lonely senior or providing childcare for a single mom while she does grocery shopping. Many requests involve some physical lifting, so men would also be very much appreciated!

In addition, I would like to entertain your ideas for community involvement that we can do as a St. Peter's family. We will continue to do the Food Drives (FALL FOOD DRIVE- OCTOBER 15). This is an easy 1-2 hour commitment and I am looking for volunteers.

If anyone feels it on their heart to reach out to the community, please contact me. What other churches have done is form a group of interested individuals to whom requests from Helping Hands can be emailed. This gives you the opportunity to peruse them and respond to those that may “speak” to you. They are also posted on the bulletin board downstairs.

“Let your light shine before others that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in Heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Wendy Williams
Social Ministry
403 932-7368
e-mail