The Tabernacle of Praise Church in St. Louis, Missouri, led by Pastor Lusajo Kasyupa Sr, is overjoyed to share the extraordinary success of our fourth annual Backpack Sabbath. Through the faithful commitment, hard work, and loving spirit of our entire church family, we were able to provide 1,000 backpacks including essential school supplies to children and families throughout our community.
Each backpack was more than paper and pencils—it was a gift of hope, encouragement and opportunity for a bright school year ahead. From the very beginning, the energy in the church was contagious. Volunteers from every ministry came together—packing backpacks, sorting supplies, organizing stations, inviting passersby to stop in, and offering prayers and encouragement to each vehicle that drove through.
We saw the joy on parents’ faces and the excitement in the eyes of students as they received tools to help them succeed in the classroom. Many families shared how deeply touched they were, not only by the supplies but by the kindness, unity, compassion and joy they experienced from every member of our team.
Backpack Sabbath was more than a distribution event—it was a powerful expression of unity. We practice “every member evangelism” at the T.O.P. Every department, every generation, and every gift within the church was used for God’s glory. The result was an unforgettable day that demonstrated what is possible when we join together in love and service for Christ.
Stewardship director Beverly Diggs said, “BPS is the highlight of my year—it’s an honor to play even a small role in serving our community.” We know the ripple effect of this effort will be felt far beyond the start of the school year. Students will walk into their classrooms prepared and confident. Parents will feel supported. And our community will know that the Tabernacle of Praise is a place where they are valued and cared for. “In that you have done it to one of the least of these My brethren, you have done it to Me.”
As we look ahead, we are excited to continue building on the relationships formed during Backpack Sabbath. We will be using our contact list from the event to personally invite families and friends to our next community event, where we can continue to share resources, encouragement and God’s love in practical and meaningful ways. In fact, two families who attended the event requested baptism. To God be the glory!
We were blessed to partner with two local non-profits: Save Our Youth–St. Louis and Behind It All. Thank you to every volunteer, donor, prayer partner, and supporter who made this possible. Your generosity of time, talent, temple and treasure created an impact that will last far beyond the day itself. Together, we made a difference—and together, we “will do greater works than these!”
Lee Carrell is a member at Tabernacle of Praise in Missouri.
