Faith & Action

Central is committed to being “in the city for good.” We do that through direct service, advocacy and public witness, and education at the intersection of the Gospel and society.

Health Care Advocacy

Look for flyers today with information to advocate for transparency and the well-being of those on the margins as Minnesota looks at the merger of Allina Health with Sutter Health. Sign a petition, join a rally, and more. Talk to a member of the Faith & Action Committee for more information, and come to the Oval Room on Sundays at 9:30 for community discussions about advocacy and justice. 

Current Donation Drives

Over the course of any given year, Central hosts a variety of donation drives to serve the special needs of community programs. 

Look out of future drives for some of the following:

  • Back-to-school supply drives for students in need with the Department of Indian Work and Project Home.

  • Food donation drives benefitting numerous area food shelves, including Interfaith Action of Greater St. Paul and Keystone Community Services.

  • Hygiene kits and Snack Packs are assembled by our Youth Groups to share with neighbors in need.

Wednesday Lunch

Each Wednesday, we host a downtown community lunch beginning at 11:45 a.m.. (Buffet line closes at 1:00 p.m.)  All are welcome!  We are becoming well known for healthy and affordable gourmet food and a place for good conversation.  Requested donation is $10, though no one is turned away for lack of funds. To see each week’s menu, visit our home page.

St. Paul Opportunity Center

Continuing on the work began that in the community as part of the Hunger Initiative, the Mission & Justice Committee has scheduled volunteer opportunities for Central to serve the Saturday lunch meal at Catholic Charities’ St. Paul Opportunity Center (formerly Mary Hall) multiple times throughout the year.

Central’s next volunteer opportunity at the Catholic Charities the St. Paul Opportunity Center is on Saturday, Saturday, September 12th  from 11am -1pm.  To sign up to volunteer and to see/signup for other upcoming dates , visit our Volunteer Page. The link will take you to the Catholic Charities website to register.

Food Shelf Drive

 

The Hunger Task Force will be holding Central's annual donation drive for Keystone Community Services Food Shelf

on November 8 & 15. Keystone is the largest food shelf provider in St. Paul and the East Metro area.

Along with rising prices on groceries, gas and other necessities, new SNAP (food stamps) rules mean more Minnesotans are being subjected to work requirements. About 18,000 Minnesotans per month are expected to be impacted. Foot traffic to food shelves like Keystone is increasing. 

In our drive, we'll continue to focus on financial contributions which enable Keystone to buy food in bulk, offering a “bigger bang for the buck.” And the Hunger Task Force will again match all contributions up to $1500! 

Watch for more details on giving as we get closer to November.

ISAIAH

Central is a partner congregation of ISAIAH, Minnesota’s largest multi-faith organizing group, helping Minnesotans advocate for economic, social, and environmental justice. We participate with a variety of organizing events during the year, from acts of public witness to agenda-setting meetings. Reach out to Pastor Chris if you’re interested in joining!