Neighbors Loving Neighbors: One Year of God's Love in Action in Cross Plains

A small shed outside the youth building at the Cross Plains, Tenn., Church is making a big impact in the community.

Known as the Cross Plains Community Agape Pantry, the 24/7 shed recently celebrated one year of serving neighbors through donated food and essential items. Open to anyone needing assistance or wishing to give, the pantry has become a visible reminder of Christ's love and an example to what can happen when a church family, local businesses, youth, and community members work together to meet local needs.

This spring, church members, youth, families and community guests gathered to celebrate the pantry's first anniversary with food, fellowship, outdoor vespers and a time of gratitude for the ministry's impact. Kentucky-Tennessee Conference President Steve Haley joined the celebration, sharing words of encouragement and recognizing the difference the pantry has made in the community.

Inspired by 1 John 3:17-18, the ministry has become a mission project for the church's Kingdom Seekers Youth Group. From the beginning, youth and their families worked together during youth prayer meeting to assemble the shed. Today, the Kingdom Seekers continue to care for the pantry by keeping it clean, stocked and organized. Each Sabbath and youth prayer meeting night, they help refill shelves, organize donations and ensure the pantry remains welcoming and accessible.

The pantry has also become a community partnership. Church members regularly contribute food and financial support, while local residents both donate to and benefit from the ministry.

Cross Plains members are especially grateful for Alan and the team at Tap Construction, whose generosity helped bring the vision to life. From preparing the property and creating a safe area for parking and walking to pouring concrete and laying the foundation for the pantry, their support was instrumental in launching the ministry.

As the Cross Plains church family looks ahead, they remain committed to the mission of "Neighbors Loving Neighbors," sharing the love of Jesus not only in word, but "in deed and in truth."