Local ministry unifies clergy, community with food and fellowship

By Mo Burge MBurge@RN-T.com

There’s something about sharing a meal that brings about a tendency to fellowship, connect and gain insight.

That concept of community is the impetus for Feed My Sheep Ministry.

Founded by local minister Beedie Haywood, the nonprofit grew out of concern for those who have strayed away from church.

Haywood said she has heard from so many in the community who don’t feel loved or accepted and have shied away from attending church.

“I said, ‘God what can we do to get these people in,” Haywood said. “Everybody’s been hurt by something, but I wanted to help people to start back believing in God. I just want people to feel loved and know that all of us are the same in His sight.”

The divine message she received was clear, she said.

“It’s a message from the heart,” Haywood said. “God is everything. He told me, ‘Feed them. If you start feeding them, then they will start conversing.’”

So the movement began to start a “heart ministry” to bridge the gap between those who are wary of church communities and local pastors charged with herding the sheep of their community.

And the most authentic way, according to Haywood, is by sharing a prepared meal and a sermon to reach those who have lost or struggle with their faith.

“We need the fellowship back,” Haywood said. “We need folks to start believing in again.”

Each month Feed My Sheep organizes a revival that features different ministers as well as a free meal. Haywood has organized the fellowships for about seven years.

The response, she said has been “beautiful.”

The inaugural event brought out about 300 people and was a coordinated effort of the network of local clergy Haywood said.

Rev. Derrick Miller, one of the local pastors supporting the program, said being a part of a network of local ministers is deeply rewarding and inspiring.

“It allows for collaboration across congregations, breaking down barriers and demonstrating the power of collective faith” Miller said. “This unity sends a powerful message to the community that churches can come together to serve a greater purpose, reflecting the love and harmony of God’s kingdom.”

Feed My Sheep provides an important service by bringing pastors together through fellowship Miller said.

“It creates an inclusive space for worship and connection, fostering a sense of unity and mutual care,” Miller said.

The next revival is set for Jan 9 and Jan 10 at Holey Sinai CME Church, 1233 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Rome. Both the meal and the service are free and open to the public.

Service begins at 6:30 p.m. both nights and features the Rev. Christopher Wimberly Sr.

Miller said the service offers heartfelt preaching, soulful music and a warm sense of fellowship.

“It’s a space where all can feel valued and encouraged in their faith journey,” Miller said.

For more information or to make a donation visit feedmysheepimpacters.org.