Pastor Reshorna and Bishop Derrick Fitzpatrick Transform Church into Community Outreach Hub During Pandemic

Pastor Reshorna Fitzpatrick and her husband, Bishop Derrick Fitzpatrick, have long been committed to serving their community through the Stone Temple Missionary Baptist Church on Chicago’s West Side. Their efforts expanded significantly in 2020 as the pandemic created new challenges for those in need. The couple transformed their church into a central hub for community support, offering a range of services that addressed both immediate and long-term needs.

In April, as many in their congregation and surrounding neighborhoods faced unemployment, the Fitzpatricks began distributing approximately 300 food boxes weekly. This initiative was supported by the church’s community garden, which provided fresh produce to a “love fridge” located near the church. The fridge became a vital resource, offering free food to those struggling with food insecurity.

As the food-box program faced financial constraints, the Fitzpatricks partnered with the Urban Growers Collective, a local Black- and women-led nonprofit farm, to ensure continued access to fresh produce. They also launched the “Soup for the Soul” program, where community members could collect hot meals prepared by local chefs every Monday. Reshorna expressed her belief that “we are our brother’s keeper,” emphasizing the importance of communal care during times of crisis.

In addition to food assistance, the Fitzpatricks provided over 20,000 masks, along with hand sanitizer and other essential supplies. These efforts were part of a broader commitment to public health and safety during the pandemic. The couple also adapted their worship practices, hosting socially distanced outdoor services to maintain community connection while adhering to health guidelines.

This summer, the Fitzpatricks created an outdoor stage where community members could share stories and perform, fostering a space for expression and healing. Derrick noted that the pandemic had amplified the voices of long-disenfranchised individuals, making it easier for them to discuss their needs and experiences. The couple emphasized that despite the challenges of the year, they felt a deeper sense of connection and purpose.

Reshorna’s dedication to ensuring that people are “blessed” reflects a consistent commitment to neighbor-love and practical mercy. Their work aligns with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable, as seen in Matthew 25:35, which reminds us to serve those in need as if we were serving Christ himself. Through their actions, the Fitzpatricks exemplify the spirit of Galatians 6:10, which encourages believers to do good to all people, especially those in the household of faith.

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