Each of us individually have been created to make a difference in the world. We do so primarily in, and through, our vocations as we seek to serve the King and advance his Kingdom in, and through, our work. We do so secondarily in our neighborhoods and among and with our neighbors, seeking to love one another as Christ has loved us. We do so thirdly through our passions, interests, and vocations, as we seek to use our gifts and talents in a God-given way. At Christ the Redeemer we are committed to helping each find those ways God has created and gifted us.
Additionally, we believe that God has led us to make a difference in our community in some specific ways:
Park Place School
In 2014 Park Place Christian School opened its doors to serve this inner-city community of Norfolk, Virginia. Christ the Redeemer is integrally involved in the school financially and personally (four of our members are staff at the school), and through our many volunteer opportunities. The mission of Park Place School is to build strong academic and spiritual foundation in students to prepare them for success.
Ghent Area Ministries
We are part of a community of churches that support the homeless and the less fortunate in our city. Ghent Area Ministries has been offering a ‘hand up not simply a hand out’ to many within Norfolk for over 20 years. Christ the Redeemer supports GAM financially and encourages all of our members to participate as we are able in GAM’s various ministries.
International Student Ministry
The world has come to our doorstep through the presence of international students at Old Dominion University. We are blessed that Tabernacle Church and the ODU Global Student Friendship organization invited CTR to become involved with their international student outreach ministry. Our focus has been Chinese students in particular, along with a few Korean students. We are connecting in significant ways with international students and scholars at ODU and have developed several opportunities to serve them:
- Conversation Partnerships: Many of the students are looking for friendship with Americans and for ways of improving their English skills in conversation. Our Conversation Partnerships meet both needs at one and the same time in a life-giving way. Once per week relationships are deepened in meaningful and fun ways. Please contact CTR to sign up.
- ODU International Student Bible Studies: TBD
If you would like to become involved with our International Student Ministry, contact David Snouffer at ctrsec@gmail.com.