Annual New Year’s Eve Inter-Faith Service to Focus on Area’s Homeless

The Inter-Church Council of Greater New Bedford will host the 16th Annual Inter-Faith New Year's Eve Service at Seamen's Bethel Thursday evening. 

From 5:00 - 6:00 PM, all members of the community are invited to join in spreading the message of hope, renewal and commitment for the New Year.

Each year, the service revolves around a theme important to the community at large, and this year is no different. Rev. David Lima, executive minister of the Inter-Church Council, says this year's message is highlighting the lives of those less fortunate on the SouthCoast.

"This year, we're taking from the scriptures about taking care of 'The Least of These' and the homeless is right there to taught," Lima said. "We want to be able to highlight their plight and do what we can to help them."

For the first time, donations will be accepted for distribution during the Point-in-Time Count of the Homeless, taking place January 21.

Suggested items for donations include winter hats, mittens, scarves and gloves; socks; toothpaste and toothbrushes; canned foods with pop-tops or pre-packaged food; gift cards to locations such as Dunkin' Donuts and McDonald's; hand warmers; various toiletries; and monetary donations.

This year, the service will conclude with a candlelight prayer for peace and healing in light of unrest and terrorist attacks domestically and abroad.