During the past 15 years, Madison Avenue Christian Church (MACC) has quietly been going about the business of serving the homeless and poor through its community ministry programs.
On Sunday, May 19, the church will hold a day of celebration, marking the 15th anniversary of the beginning of the community outreach programs that coincided with the beginning of Reverend Chinnamuthu Simon’s tenure as minister and leader of the faith community.
Covington Mayor Joe Meyer and State Representative Buddy Wheatley will present proclamations during a special program that begins at 1:15 p.m., along with guest musicians and other speakers who will provide reflections on the work of the church community.
Best known for their community meal program and the Samaritan Car Care program, Madison Avenue Christian Church has sponsored numerous community events including a fundraising benefit for Puerto Rico hurricane victims and the 2004 Indonesian tsunami along with holiday programs honoring homeless veterans, services honoring the homeless population, sponsored city election candidate forums and more recently, is providing volunteers to work with residents at Lincoln Grant Scholar House in Covington.
“When Simon joined us 15 years ago, it was transformational for the church,” said long-time MACC member and Board leader Linda Mauser. “He changed the way I think about church. Prior to his leadership, we were more inward-focused and for the past 15 years, we have been outward focused, opening up to the needs of the community and providing a service that was much needed.”
Working with several hundred volunteers each year, the church provides two community meals each week, serving approximately 200 guests at each meal. On the first Saturday of each month, church members collaborate with First Christian Church in Covington to provide evening meals. The quarterly Samaritan Car Care program provides oil changes and minor car repairs for low-income individuals who need help maintaining their automobile. Next door to the church is a transitional residence that is sponsored by the church, providing shelter and services to a family in need.
In addition to serving the community, MACC has put a great deal of effort into the beautification of the church grounds, facilities, and cherished stained-glass windows, providing beauty and a sense of community for the residents in the surrounding neighborhoods.
All are welcome to attend the Day of Celebration May 19th with the schedule of programming as follows:
10:45 a.m. – morning worship
12 Noon – lunch by the bite
1:15 p.m. – Music, reflections and celebration program.
A Disciples of Christ-affiliated church, Madison Avenue Christian Church has an over 100-year commitment to the citizens of Covington, currently hosting a robust community meal program for those in need and sponsoring a Samaritan Car Care program that assists women with families who are unable to afford the cost of routine maintenance and minor repairs to their cars.
The church has provided medical programs in conjunction with NKU nurses and registered individuals for the Affordable Care Act.
Dedicated church members and hundreds of community volunteers serve on average, 15-20,000 hot meals a year, and over 275,000 meals have been served since the beginning of the program in 2004.
