John 1:46 (ESV) ; Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” This Bible verse has been lingering in the thoughts of team God’s closet-Minnetonka. It began with the hypothetical question, ”What would happen if our church doors closed? Would our neighbors even know? Are we making such a difference that our neighbors would be devastated if our doors were closed?” These questions catalyzed a remarkable journey that would bring the Minnetonka church and the community closer together.
Under the guidance of Pastor Ray, Donna Thiher, and other church leaders, the church embarked on a mission to extend its reach beyond the sanctuary’s walls. The church’s mission is not only to preach the gospel but to also embody the love and compassion of Jesus by serving its neighbors. With this realization, it was only natural for the church to become a chapter of the national Adventist outreach ministry, God’s Closet. This ministry helps Seventh-day Adventist churches engage with their communities and organize transformative events. Specifically, this event would serve to provide gently used clothing, backpacks, school supplies, and toys to those in need, as well as building bridges of love and compassion within the community.
The church’s commitment to this vision is unwavering, they are the primary financial donors, pouring their resources and support into this ministry. For the summer event, the church’s efforts were bolstered by external sponsors and partners, including “Once upon a time—Minnetonka,” who donated clothing and toys, and “Kid A” in Minneapolis, who donated strollers, car seats, cribs, and baby gear. The largest church outreach ministry, the church school, Minnetonka Christian Academy (MCA), also joined the cause, as did other area churches that channeled their support through dedicated volunteers. The children participating in the summer Vacation Bible School program also donated a significant number of backpacks and school supplies.
Once the stage was set, and the wheels of generosity were set in motion. The organizers planned the event meticulously, with Rachel Seltman’s creative touch elevating it to a new level. She designed a fresh logo and ordered t-shirts, signs, and bags to carry the event’s message far and wide. Volunteers from various ministries within the church, including the women’s Bible study group, MCA students, and the youth, dedicated countless hours to sorting and preparing the donated items. The process was labor-intensive but filled with purpose, as each piece of clothing or toy carried the potential to make a difference in someone’s life.
As the day approached, preparations reached fever pitch. Volunteers stayed late after church services to sort and set up for the event, transforming the church into a welcoming haven for those in need. Pre-event planning meetings were held to ensure that leaders and volunteers were well-prepared to serve the community effectively.
On August 13th, 2023—event day—the Minnetonka police and firefighters joined hands with the church, adding an extra layer of support and goodwill. They handed out stickers, pencils, and other small gifts to the eager children who lined up outside the church doors. It was a powerful symbol of unity between the church and the local authorities, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation.
But the heart of the event was the people who volunteered their time and those who came to receive it. The emphasis was not on charity but on creating a positive experience. Craft stations and snacks for children were set up, and even Paw Patrol costumes made an appearance, bringing smiles to the faces of the little ones. Every guest was welcomed with a warm smile, and their dignity and worth were affirmed. They were not seen as “people in need” but as valued members of the community.
One attendee, a soon-to-be mother, shared her gratitude, saying, “I’m so thankful for this since I am expecting my first child and needed many items to prepare for the arrival. This event and the generosity put my mind at ease as a mother.”
Volunteers, too, found immense joy in serving. One of them expressed, “May the Lord be blessed.” It was a wonderful day well spent, with a great turnout. I shed tears when one lady said, ”You don’t know how much you have helped me; I am not going to need to buy anything as I am preparing for the arrival of my new child.'”
God’s Closet-Minnetonka had transcended the boundaries of charity. It had become a community-building event that touched the lives of both volunteers and attendees, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved. The church had not only opened its doors but had also opened its heart to the community, tangibly embodying the love and compassion of Jesus.
As the sun set on that August day, it was evident that God’s Closet had become more than just an event; it was a testament to the power of love, compassion, and community. The Minnetonka Seventh-day Adventist Church had not only kept its doors open but had also flung them wide to embrace its neighbors, ultimately fulfilling its mission to bring the love of Jesus to the people of Minnetonka. The journey has been transformative, and the impact would resonate for years to come, reminding us all that when a community comes together with a shared purpose and a loving heart, miracles can happen.
In total, 270 children from 97 families received clothing, backpacks (with school supplies), toys, and baby gear, making the event an overwhelming success that touched the lives of many in the Minnetonka community. In response to the question “what good can come from Minnetonka?” we are guided by yet another scripture, Matthew 25:37–40: “Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, my brothers, you did it to me.’ And with that, we hope to see you at the winter coat drive on November 11, 2023.
