In January of 1978, a new ministry began at the Slicer Street Church of Christ that would become a permanent fixture not only for the church, but for the community at large...
The Dorcas Ladies
A Bible class of 8 ladies was approached by the Elders of the Slicer Street church in 1978 to begin a new and exciting outreach ministry based on the story of Dorcas in Acts chapter 9. Dorcas was a disciple of Christ who was "always doing good and helping the poor." It was this example that spurred the Elders to approach these 8 ladies to minister to those very needs of the community of Kennett. Comprised now of nearly 30 men and women, this group of servants serves thousands of people and families in and around the SE Missouri region.
According to the Dorcas Ladies' organizer, Lona Mae James, the overall purpose of the ministry is two-fold:
1) To serve the needy people and families of the community
2) To promote and have fellowship
The many servants involved in the Dorcas Ladies' ministry are very dedicated to this cause of service. They believe that by serving their community in this way, they might open up doors of opportunity to share the message of hope that comes through Jesus Christ. We believe their actions speak loudly.
At this time they have a few gentlemen who work closely with this ministry. These men are very handy men and help out with various aspects of the ministry including loading and unloading of the many items they receive each week (which can include clothes, toys, furniture, baby items, and many others), and helping to deal with many of the families in a one-on-one situation if needed. They are, according to these ladies, an invaluable help to this ministry.
The Dorcas ministry is constantly looking for more help and openly encourages the young ladies at Slicer Street to join them and learn what this ministry is all about. According to these ladies, "you don't have to know how to sew or stitch, just have a heart to serve!"
