The Ecclesiastical District of New Jersey conducted a two-pronged humanitarian event on January 7, 2023 at the chapel compound of the Local Congregation of Elizabeth, providing the beneficiaries blood donations and winter clothing.

The blood donation drive was carried out by the Christian Medical Dental and Paramedical Society (CMDPS) officers in collaboration with Vitalant, a non-profit organization that “collects blood from volunteer donors and provides blood, blood products and services across the United States” which fielded a mobile blood collection unit, with staff.

“The blood donation drive can help save lives. Aware of such positive impact to the community, brethren throughout the district gathered for this endeavor,” explained Denise Tanseco, CMDPS vice president.

“It’s important because we’re not only helping the community but, most of all, participating in activities that the Church Administration launches,” one of the donors, Roseli Serna, said. “Through these we show that we put to practice the teachings we firmly believe in and thus doing everything for God’s glory.”

Meanwhile, as harsh winter conditions affected the northeastern part of the United States, including New Jersey, the brethren donated winter clothing. At the chapel’s function room, they welcomed guests who came to avail of the free winter weather gear such as coats, scarves, and gloves.

District supervising minister, Brother Alex Reyes, along with other ministers and ministerial workers, led these simultaneous humanitarian endeavors. KADIWA members assisted volunteer-brethren as they underwent screening procedures as part of the blood donation activity. — With reports from INC News Section and Lowell Nucum