August 6, 2026
On the afternoon of July 18, Galilee’s Multi Purpose Room was filled with laughter, encouragement, prayer, and hope as our church welcomed families from a partner Hispanic congregation for a celebration called Seasons of Giving.
This “Christmas in July” type event helped prepare 25 area students for the coming school year with brand new backpacks, school supplies, and thoughtful gifts. But just as important as the items they received was the message they heard: they are loved by God, valued by their community, and will never walk alone.
Galilee member Gwen Bondon celebrated Seasons of Giving with 25 kids
Partners from New Life Ministries joined us to offer heartfelt words of encouragement to students and parents, sharing their faith and reminding families that Christ walks with them through every season. The afternoon also included prayer and pizza, giving everyone an opportunity to gather around the table and build relationships.
The outreach was organized and led by Galilee members George and Gwen Bondon, helped by Felicia Johnson, who put them in touch with our congregation partners. Funding came through a $2,000 UMCOR Mustard Seed Grant, which supports ministries serving immigrant communities, along with a $1,000 Galilee Mission Fund grant. Galilee’s Mission Fund exists to help the church carry the love of Christ into communities both near and far through hands-on ministry and compassionate outreach.
Seasons of Giving reminds us that the church’s calling is more than meeting material needs. It is about seeing our neighbors, praying with them, encouraging them, and walking alongside them in the name of Jesus Christ. As these students begin a new school year, they do so knowing that an entire church (or two!) is praying for them and cheering them on.
More than gifts or school supplies, it was prayer that made the difference at Seasons of Giving.