Helmut Linne von Berg
Our Episcopal Church Men meet every second Friday of the month at 7:30 A.M. in the back room of Horne’s Restaurant at the intersection of US 301 and US 17. Attendance varies between 7 and 15 men who begin the meeting with a discussion of Aunt Jemima’s Pancakes to the latest Chinese landing on the dark side of the moon and anything in between. After many problems have been identified and solved, the process of ordering a scrumptious breakfast begins. At this time our waitress has already put two coffee pots on the table and brought in the hot chocolate to those men who need something sweet early in the AM. Typical breakfast order consists of two eggs (any style), bacon and/or sausage, home fries with extra sauteed onions and peppers, toast and a selection of jams. Some of our hard working men occasionally consume a country fried steak with all the trimmings; often take half of it home to their loving spouse.
When pouring the third cup of coffee, the time for our devotional has arrived. Suddenly there exists a more somber mood as Ken Pogue presents his well prepared homily. Usually Christian current or historic issues are identified and a discussion evolves. There exists an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust; men do not hesitate to identify and talk about their personal spiritual journeys with all its ups and downs. We thank Ken for his leadership regarding the group’s devotional!
The ECM’s main outreach programs are discussed and plans are made at the appropriate time. The programs are:
- Need a ride? Call any of the men.
- Feed the needy for Thanksgiving; 5 households in 2018.
- Prepare a Christmas for three families with children; this includes food, clothing and toys.
- Maintain liaison with Caroline County Social Services to identify truly needy people.
- Any time during the year provide canned meats to Social Services if and when funds are available.
All our meetings close with the Lord’s Prayer.