YAKIMA, Wash. – St. Michael’s Episcopal Mission, the oldest continuous congregation in Yakima, celebrated a significant milestone today. The church has been serving the Yakima community since 1885, and today’s Sunday service marked 140 years of ministry.
Reverend David Hacker, the Vicar of the church, spoke about the mission’s impact beyond the church walls.
“We do a lot of community organizing in the community. We have other meal programs that happen here for folks that are struggling with homelessness. We have a lot of partners in the community to work with. So, lots of different ministries going on here,” said Reverend Hacker.
The celebration was not only about honoring the past but also looking toward the future of the congregation, including a baptism of a parishioner. Reverend Hacker shared his vision for the church.
“I really do believe that we can continue to be a thriving congregation with and doing incredible ministry here. I believe there is so much in our society that feels like it’s overwhelming. They’re being dismantled and destroyed at this moment. So much injustice that’s happening around us, but I believe that we are really on the verge of something new, a new creation, a new vision,” he said.
Reverend Hacker emphasized the church’s dedication to helping those in need.
“We see ourselves as following Jesus and being welcoming the least of these and welcoming other strangers, welcoming all of those that are struggling, clothing the naked and visiting the sick and, and those in prison doing that work that Jesus called us to do, to be to be serving this community,” he said.
The church is seeking more volunteers to continue its mission of service. For more information, visit their website.
