A Christian fellowship of men, promoting love among all people.
Since the founding of the Boston Baptist Social Union more than a century ago, the members of the BBSU gather regularly not only for fellowship with each other, but to carry on the ministry of its founders of reaching out to people of Boston with the love of Christ.
Jesus taught his disciples on many occassions “to love one another.”
One of these conversations with the disciples is recorded in Matthew chapter 25 verses 35-40 (below). Here we see some practical ways to love one another.
35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
Matthew 25:35-40
New International Version (NIV)
Christian Work
Over the years BBSU has provided grants to Christian organizations that carry out the mission of loving one another in the practical ways our benefactors and Jesus described.
One example of this is the BBSU grants to help fund food pantries / kitchens that provide food assistance to the hungry. One of these food pantries is Project Manna.
Summary
Project Manna seeks to enhance the quality of life and decrease the incidence of hunger for low income families and individuals, especially those who are homeless, by providing nutritional assistance. Project Manna has been in continual operation since August 4, 1989.
The cornerstone of Project Manna's contribution to the community is our soup kitchen that serves a three-course dinner each Monday and Friday evening. Served in Fellowship Hall of the church, this warm, nutritious meal is offered year-round to anyone in need. Approximately 300 homeless individuals enjoy this meal twice per week in a supportive, caring environment.
Our Food Pantry is open one Saturday per month, with the mission of providing nutritional competency of low-income families and individuals. This program serves seniors and families with infants and children.
Last year we saw a considerable increase in the number of individuals looking for a meal and also, recorded an increase in the number of families participating in the EPIC Food Pantry program. The family composition now includes an increasing number of families without children as well.
