Larry Stone, a member of Harbor Christian Reformed Church in Seattle, Wash., took up a kingdom challenge from his pastor and started a group that cares for widows and orphans while studying the book of Proverbs.
Every Wednesday morning, in the early hours before most people go to work, a group of four to 15 men meet and read from the book of Proverbs. They share with each other how they can apply the biblical truths to their daily lives. “It’s not what we really call a study but a conversation,” said Stone.
Stone chose Proverbs because of its practical instruction that can be shared within the community. “The Proverbs are the chalk line . . . where you are able to walk in that direction applying it every day,” he explained.
On weekends and some afternoons, group members volunteer their time to help meet needs within the community. Recently they have been setting up a wooden play structure for children in the church and the community. A church member is overseeing this playground completion as part of his Eagle Scout project.
Jana Koh, minister of outreach and family ministries, said, “I’m really excited for this project! It’s been beautiful to see some folks from our church join together with our Eagle Scout, Tim, to give a great gift to the children in our church, our preschool, and our neighborhood.”
Stone feels the Bible study creates an environment for men to get to know one another outside of Sunday morning worship services. “We find out more about needs because of the personal setting and how we can pray and help,” he said.
About the Author
Amy Toornstra is a freelance news correspondent for The Banner. She lives in Salem, Oregon.