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The Oklahoma United Methodist Contact
February 7, 2024
Warming hearts and people during frigid weather
W
hen temperatures dropped well below freezing, most of us turned up the heat, made soup, and kept the extra pairs of cozy socks handy. A few groups did just the opposite. They opened their doors and their hearts to ensure the most vulnerable in their communities had a warm place to stay - including those warm socks and meals. Three churches Tahlequah FUMC deployed Operation Warmth, where they served around 1,800 warm meals and provided a welcoming space for an average of 33 people per night. “Our commitment to serving goes beyond the tangible provisions,” explained pastor Rev. Shana Dry.
“It is rooted in our motto derived from 1 Corinthians 16:14: ‘Let all that you do be done in love.’ This mantra echoes in every aspect of our work. Each time we serve, we carry this message, and we serve each and every individual with genuine love throughout their stay at Operation Warmth.” Grace UMC in Claremore offered a 24-hour warming station for four days, serving 17 people. Of those, 11 came through for a home-cooked meal, to warm up, shower, and to take advantage of the clothing closet. “Six spent the night, and four stayed the entire time, including worship, Sunday School, and a funeral,” said pastor Tim McHugh. “Of course, the once-feral church cat has now found its home
Tahlequah FUMC turned into a sleeping shelter and restaurant for its neighbors during freezing temperatures. Submitted photos.
wandering the halls and offices of the church during the day and keeping watch over the perimeter at night.” Okmulgee FUMC hosted 40 people per night, with an average of 60 per day for food and showers. According to Rev. Sheri Smith Lashley, they recruited volunteers and raised money from local banks and businesses, and from members of the public. They also provided clothes and did laundry for those who needed them. It takes a village Each community that offered a warming station did not operate in a vacuum. Okmulgee FUMC worked with Red Cross, the county’s emergency management operation, Creoks, and the Muskogee Nation to
TC, the one-cat welcoming committee, helps out around Grace UMC during the freeze.
