June 19, 2025
Summer is traditionally a slower time at Galilee. With schools out and folks taking vacations, the building seems quieter. But don’t be fooled—we’re not on vacation! We’re working hard to update the facilities and trying out new ideas.
For example, on Monday, June 23, we’ll take advantage of lighter foot traffic to begin some exciting upgrades in our facilities. Using a grant from the district that we received last year, we’ll be installing new flooring in the old sanctuary and upgrading the HVAC system there with three new through-the-wall units. These improvements will make the space more comfortable and inviting for the congregations, recovery and mental health groups, and other guests who use this space. We appreciate your patience with the dust and disruption during this time.
And here’s a way you can help: on Saturday, June 21, from 9am to noon, we need volunteers to help clear out closets and furniture in the original wing so work can start promptly. If you have a few hours to spare, please join us!
But that’s not all that’s new this summer. While school is out, we always pause meal packing for Backpack Buddies and usually slow down food collection for other feeding missions. But this July and August, we’re stepping into new territory. We’re launching a Test of the Emergency Neighbor System—a pilot partnership with the Anna Sudha nonprofit food pantry and kitchen in Dulles Town Center to prepare and distribute meals to homeless shelters.
We are refining details for this test mission and will approach the congregation soon with more information about prepping trays of food in the Anna Sudha kitchen on July 19 and August 23. If this test goes well, we plan to make it a year-round mission where Galilee donors and volunteers can help deliver hundreds of meals to neighbors most in need.
Keep an eye on our website for sign-ups and donation needs—it’s a great chance to flex our community-building muscles while feeding the hungry.
So, summer at Galilee may look slow from the outside, but inside, we’re busy serving and testing new ways to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ.