Seven individuals and families helped since Thanksgiving

At St. Johannes Lutheran Church in Charleston, our faith calls us to serve others, embody love through action, and work shoulder-to-shoulder as a church family to make a lasting impact in our community. Last week, our church joined hands with The Navigation Center of Charleston and Next Steps of South Carolina to be the church in action. Together, we encountered seven unique individuals and families, each carrying a story of hardship, perseverance, and hope—and together, we provided meaningful assistance to each of them.  

Through our shared ministry, every member of St. Johannes Lutheran plays a vital role in creating real change. From leadership to volunteers to those who give their prayers and support, this work belongs to all of us. Here is a glimpse at how God worked through our church and our partners last Thursday, December 5, to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors:  

1. Bringing Clarity and Peace to Ms. Smith  
Ms. Smith has struggled for over 13 years to secure what she believes is her late mother’s last wish: passing her home on to Smith’s children. She was left distressed and confused after losing her case in court and working without legal representation. Thanks to a dedicated volunteer from Next Steps, who reviewed her 500 pages of legal documents, Ms. Smith has finally been given clarity and the resources she needs to find peace and understanding after so much heartbreak.  

2. A Father’s Journey: Supporting Corey and His Daughter  
Corey, a devoted father whose young daughter battles sickle cell anemia, came to The Navigation Center searching for job opportunities and financial stability. While working hard through temporary agencies, Corey has struggled to meet ends. Last week, Corey received new job leads and a helping hand from St. Johannes and Next Steps. Together, we covered his remaining rent balance, enabling him to stay in his home and focus on his daughter’s care.  

3. Renewing Hope for Stephanie  
Stephanie, a motivated woman transitioning between jobs, recently hit hard times and struggled to pay her electric bill. With assistance from St. Johannes and our partners, Stephanie is back on track and ready to move forward in her new employment. Sometimes, all it takes is a little boost to turn things around, and she is grateful for our help.  

4. Standing with Davita and Her Daughter  
Davita, a hardworking mother juggling a full-time and a part-time job, faced a mounting rent payment. Though her family’s medical challenges are now behind them, lingering financial strain weighed heavily on her shoulders. St. Johannes and Next Steps worked together to cover part of her rent, with The Navigation Center seeking even more assistance to ensure she and her 11-year-old daughter can stay in their home.  

5. Empowering Ronnesha to Begin Again  
Despite being solely responsible for two children and expecting her third, Ronnesha came to The Navigation Center determined to find work and support her family. Our partners identified promising job opportunities for her, and we worked together to cover her overdue electric bill. With a newfound sense of security, Ronnesha is ready to take the next step in creating a better future for her family.  

6. Helping Jacie Keep the Lights On  
Jacie, a custodian at a church-affiliated school, has struggled to make ends meet as she isn’t paid during school holidays. Her power was disconnected after falling behind on her electric bill over Thanksgiving. With plans to relocate in January for new opportunities in Florida, Jacie was doing everything she could to hold on for a little longer. St. Johannes and Next Steps provided immediate financial assistance to restore her power, giving her the breathing room needed to move forward.  

7. Restoring Dignity to Delphia  
Thirteen years ago, Delphia's identity was stolen, leaving lingering damage she had only recently discovered. When trying to move into a new apartment, she was shocked to find an unpaid water bill—one she didn’t incur—blocking her from turning on the water. After many failed attempts to resolve the issue on her own, Delphia received support from Next Steps, who gathered the necessary evidence and successfully convinced the water company to dismiss the fraudulent charge. Delphia and her family were finally able to move into their new home.

A Church Family United in Service  
Last week was more than outreach—it was a testament to what happens when a community of faith steps up to serve. From offering financial aid to providing emotional support, sorting through complex documents, and simply listening, every act of service made a lasting impact.  

St. Johannes Lutheran Church is more than a building; we are a family of believers committed to making Charleston a better place for all. Through partnerships with organizations like The Navigation Center and Next Steps of South Carolina, we live out our calling to love our neighbors and care for the least among us.