In 2006, Trinity Church in Clanton, situated half way between Birmingham and Montgomery just off I-65, had no more than 25 members. A small church by any standard, it was – and is -- a church with a big heart.

Trinity's members wanted to be known in Clanton, the county seat of 8,500 people, for reaching out to the community. So, in the fall of 2006, they began the Beans and Rice ministry,  modeled after the 25-year ministry of the Praire Grove Presbyterian Church in Praire Grove, Ark. 

Every First Saturday from 9am to 11am, three pounds of rice and two pounds of pinto beans is given away for every adult in a household. In addition, usually some peanut butter, soup, chicken broth, canned vegetables, and even soap and toilet paper is given to any family coming to the church. There are no questions asked and no forms filled out. Typical of the monthly sharing, on July 5, 2008, the offerings in addition to beans and rice, included new potatoes from Chilton County and Blount County onions. Peanut butter, canned tomatoes, soup, canned green beans, oatmeal and nuts were also distributed. Normally, about 25 to 35 families come by the church each month for food assistance.  A sign is placed curb side in front of the church for a week as the reminder of the upcoming food distribution. That is our only advertising. 

Since the first sharing in November 2006, the parish has distributed more than two tons of food.  

Some of the food is purchased from wholesale markets like Sam's or one of the farmer's markets, but some is brought to the church every Sunday by parishioners. The Diocese of Alabama, through its Parish Based Outreach Grants, has assisted in the purchase of signage, shelving and most recently a freezer.

First Saturday's, a very special time at Trinity Church, have added to the members' sense of purpose. Now a 50 member congregation, Trinity is on its way of becoming a permanent parish at the next convention of the diocese.

Parishioners gather each month to assist with the sharing of food as well as handling routine maintenance jobs around the church, including caring for the new "Parish Herb Garden" where fresh herbs will soon add to the food distributed each month. 

The motto of the day remains that of Hebrews 13:2"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."

Visit "Feed My Sheep" to learn more about addressing the hunger crisis.