A Church Built On Radical Welcome
At First & Santa Cruz A Lutheran Church in the ELCA, we are a bilingual, multi-ethnic community rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and called to radical welcome, justice, and love. In the heart of the city, we strive to be a church where every person—regardless of language, race, background, immigration status, identity, or circumstance—is seen, valued, and embraced as a beloved child of God. Guided by Christ, who consistently crossed boundaries to welcome the marginalized and forgotten, we are committed to worshiping together, serving our neighbors, building authentic relationships across cultures, and proclaiming a faith that is active in compassion, liberation, and hope for all people.
The Blessings Bench Food Pantry is a ministry rooted in the simple and powerful message of Jesus: when people are hungry, we feed them. Open to all, the pantry exists not only to provide food, but to create a space where every person is welcomed with dignity, compassion, and care. We believe that access to fresh, healthy food should never come with judgment or shame, and that every neighbor deserves to be treated with respect and love.
Each week, the Blessings Bench offers fresh produce, pantry staples, and other essential items to individuals and families throughout our community. More than a distribution point, it is a place of connection — where conversations are shared, burdens are carried together, and people are reminded that they are not alone. In a world that too often isolates and divides, we strive to build a community centered on hospitality, generosity, and mutual care.
At its heart, the Blessings Bench reflects who we believe Jesus calls us to be: a people who open our doors wide, who care for one another, and who recognize the sacred worth of every person. Whether you are seeking support, looking to volunteer, or hoping to give back, there is a place for you here.
Join us every Tuesday. Registration starts at 8:30 AM and where we gather for community and an opportunity for Spiritual Care.
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