True gospel ministry rarely happens in quiet comfort behind closed doors. It lives on the sidewalks of our neighborhood, unfolds in the warm smiles shared across a crowded table, and takes root in those sacred, gentle moments when we pause to pray with someone.
Half a decade ago, Tabernacle of Praise Adventist Church set out with a simple, prayerful burden: to relieve the overwhelming financial strain that St. Louis families face each August, and to ensure our community’s children step into the school knowing they are deeply loved, valued, and prayed over. What began as a humble leap of faith has, by the abundance of God’s grace, blossomed into one of our church’s most sacred annual traditions—BackPack Sabbath.
This year marked our fifth anniversary, and under the Spirit-led action of Stewardship Leader Beverly Diggs who said, “1,0000 backpacks, 1,000 futures, and the Tabernacle of Praise church coming together to make it all possible.” The Lord multiplied our efforts beyond what we could have asked or imagined:
- 1,000 Children Blessed: One thousand students were blessed with brand-new backpacks filled with school essentials, empowered to begin their academic year with dignity, confidence, and joy.
- 180 Sacred Encounters: We had the privilege of connecting personally with 180 local families—not merely passing out supplies, but listening to their hearts, and laying the foundation for lasting spiritual relationships.
- Kingdom Partnerships: We were deeply honored to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with incredible community allies, including Save Our Youth–St. Louis and Behind It All, whose generous collaboration allowed us to widen our reach and surround our city with love.
Faith in Action: The Heart of Every-Member Evangelism
Putting tools into the hands of a thousand children requires far more than logistical planning; it requires a church family willing to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Members from our youngest youth to our cherished seniors answered the call. Some spent hours packing and distributing backpacks, others fixed lunch or offered warm words of welcome to visitors, or prayed before the throne of grace.
Ministry is not confined to the pulpit or the sanctuary; sometimes, the gospel is a fresh box of crayons handed to a child. Sometimes, it is reminding a struggling person that they are not alone. And so often, it begins with the simple, heartfelt declaration: “We are so glad you are here!”
Those 180 families we met are not just numbers. They represent 180 divine appointments, 180 open doors, and 180 precious opportunities to witness to the glory of God, offer tangible support, and introduce them to a Savior who cares about them.
With Grateful Hearts
Stewardship team member, LaKeta Carrell said, “This was a joyous occasion to see the church united and engaged in ministry.” To every church member who donated, every volunteer who packed a bag, every partner who stood beside us, and every warrior who covered this day in prayer: thank you! Your selfless devotion poured the physical love of Christ directly into the hearts of St. Louisans.
Five years of backpacks. Five years of compassionate outreach. Five years of planting seeds of hope and building eternal relationships. We praise God for all He has accomplished, yet we move forward with expectant hearts, knowing that in His hands, this is only the beginning. To God alone be the glory!
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” — 1 Corinthians 15:58
Lee Carrell works with multiple church projects in St. Louis, Missouri.
