ROCHELLE -— Rochelle United Methodist Church (RUMC) and their “Love Thy Neighbor” local ministry announced two monetary donations of about $1,500 each to the Rochelle Rescue Mission and Rochelle Christian Food Pantry.

The purpose of the “Love Thy Neighbor” ministry team’s mission is to love and serve the community along with meeting as many local needs as possible. The heart of this program is about loving neighbors here in Rochelle, especially those in close proximity to the church.

“When Jesus calls his followers to love thy neighbors, he is asking them to extend more than charity, thoughts, and prayers,” said Pastor Rob Hamilton. “Jesus is calling his follower to actually get to know our neighbors and share all of life with them. This local ministry has helped our congregation cultivate those relationships within our community, specifically our church neighbors. These relationships are transforming lives and our community.”

The Rochelle Rescue Mission has only been open since this spring and has already helped multiple families and individuals during their time of need.

Autumn True, executive director of the Rochelle Rescue Mission, expressed sincere gratitude for the monetary donation.

“I want to say thank you to the Rochelle United Methodist Church for their generous donation,” she said. “It is so rewarding being able to witness our community come together as one and support the Rescue Mission so that we are able to provide temporary housing and referral services to those in need.” 

Jenny O’Rorke of the food pantry also thanked the church for its support.

“The Rochelle Christian Food Pantry would also like to thank Rochelle United Methodist Church and their local ministry for this cash donation. With the holidays right around the corner, this donation will help us provide even more for our community,” O’Rorke said. “Every $1 donated turns into $8 worth of nutritious groceries.”

RUMC’s “Love Thy Neighbor” ministry has also provided Central School with school supplies, pillows, pillowcases, books and more totaling over $2,000 in donations for the school’s annual block party event.

 “At Central School, we have been on the receiving end of tremendous generosity from our neighbors at RUMC. We are both grateful and inspired by their continued support and kindness,” commented Justin Adolph, principal at Central School.

The “Love Thy Neighbor” ministry is funded primarily from the church’s annual turkey dinner and silent auction held in November each year.

“In 2017, our turkey dinner event was able to raise over $4,000, with 100 percent of the proceeds going back in the community of Rochelle,” Hamilton explained.

This year’s turkey dinner will be on Saturday, Nov. 10, starting at 6 p.m. Tickets are now on sale for $12 each. Children ages 5-10 are $10 and children under the age of 4 are free. There is also carryout available for $12.

Anyone interested in tickets for this year’s dinner or for more information may  contact Rochelle United Methodist Church at 815-562-2164.