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A summer in which doors truly opened!

Over 400 souls crossed the threshold of the Charis Center this summer, as part of the Open Doors program. Children, youth, parents, grandparents — every generation found here a place of rest, fellowship, and joy.

Students and parents from a class at Emanuel High School turned an ordinary day into a picnic of gratitude. Geneza Church celebrated Pentecost with worship under the open sky, children’s workshops, and a shared meal that united hearts. One family chose to celebrate the birthday of their two children in the midst of the community — with friends, colleagues, and relatives — creating lasting memories. Sunday school teachers from Emanuel Church organized a vision retreat, with prayer, singing, and making plans for the future. Children from vulnerable families, cared for by Geneza Church, were welcomed with love, games, and food — a day that told them: “You matter!”

Looking closely at these events, we can say: “True greatness is not in what we build, but in what we build in another’s heart.” – Max Lucado. As you read this post, I invite you to reflect: What door can you open in the coming season?

Your challenge might be a shared meal, a spoken prayer, your time offered to serving children or seniors. Charis Center is open for you, your group, your church, and your community. Make room for grace. Make room for people. Make room for the presence of God in the heart of the community.