As followers of Jesus, we are called to love our neighbor as ourselves. We need to be ever mindful of this commandment, and even more so in times of crisis. Your "neighbor" could be a co-worker, a person at the grocery store, or the people who live on your street. At the very least, we suggest that you check on your physical neighbors, especially the older ones, to make sure they are doing OK and help them with any urgent need they may have.
We are providing some templates of "notes" that you can download, edit, print and hand out to your immediate neighbors. It gives a short explanation of your intent to offer help and has a place where you can put your name, address, email/phone number.
You can also write in a link to an online neighborhood group that already exists or that you create. We suggest something using something like Nextdoor.com and creating a private group that focuses on your immediate neighbors. But feel free to use Facebook or whatever you think best. You can also just create an email or texting group.
We hope you’ll team up with family, friends and/or other Oakdale people in your neighborhood to pass these notes out to your neighbors (on the outside of a mailbox or front door). You might even offer to pray with them. Who knows how God will use these opportunities. Miracles could even happen!
Some people are even using these new connections in their neighborhood to start prayer gatherings and bible studies online using tools such as Zoom.us. We trust the Holy Spirit will lead you in what’s best for your neighbors. Check out our page: Disciple-Making in a COVID-19 World.
If you run into a need that is just too big for you and your family or friends to help with, then feel free to reach out to the church at or 301-774-2030 to let us know the situation.
Also, if you need some coaching on how to start an online group (for prayer, bible study, etc.), staff members are happy to help. Contact us at .