Sharing the Love: Local ministry to have Saturday prayer breakfast, fundraiser

Published 12:05 am Friday, February 17, 2017

By Shavonne Walker

shavonne.walker@salisburypost.com

SALISBURY — As a teacher in Philadelphia in the 70s and 80s, the Rev. Patricia Wilson saw a lot children who came to her classroom without the proper clothing. She wanted to do something to reach out to those children and their families.

God gave her the idea of an outreach ministry that would provide clothing, food and support to the community where she taught. In 1981, Wilson created her community outreach program, Love Ministries.

In 1987, Wilson moved with her family to North Carolina, bringing with her the Love Ministries outreach program. Wilson, who is in her 80s, is a former chaplain with then Rowan Regional Medical Center.

“The Lord blessed me to care. I felt like if I could share what he’s given me with someone else then it would make life worth it,” Wilson said.

Each year, Wilson and other members of the program, now a nonprofit organization, gather for a prayer breakfast as a way to raise funds and garner new members.

The prayer breakfast will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, at Holy Tabernacle Church of Christ, 325 Malcolm Road. Priscilla Overstreet is pastor of Holy Tabernacle Church of Christ.

Members of Love Ministries Inc. regularly visit the sick and shut-in as well as take toiletries to nursing homes in the area.

Wilson makes soup that she pours into large Mason jars, which are then given out once a month. She also collects clothes throughout the year for an annual clothing drive. The ministry also helps those in need with utility bills.

Wilson said she would love to in the near future have a permanent place for a pantry, clothing closet and even a place for people to get a free hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

“If you are a loving, caring, sharing individual we would love to have you help,” Wilson said.

For more information about Love Ministries Inc. contact the Rev. Patricia Wilson at 980-565-1955.