Outreach Programs
Community Partnerships and Collaborations
At Saint Gabriel’s - San Gabriel, you’re invited to live out the Gospel by serving others.
As Christians, we are called to love, serve, and do justice. This calling isn't just for us—it’s a universal command shared by all faiths. In Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus says, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…” At Saint Gabriel’s, these words inspire every outreach effort, and we partner with community organizations to make a real difference in the lives of others.
Food Ministries
Jesus’ command to “feed the hungry” is central to our food justice ministry. Through partnerships with organizations like Loudoun Hunger Relief, Shelter House, Rise Against Hunger, and Grace to Go, you can help provide food to families facing hunger.
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Hospitality Service Ministry – Shelter House is a community based organization in Leesburg offering crisis-intervention, safe housing, and supportive services to those in need. Saint Gabriel's-San Gabriel provides a monthly meal on the 3rd Friday of the month to guests at Shelter House. Contact Deacon Holly for more information.
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Rise Against Hunger – Every year, you can join us to pack high-protein meals that are sent both locally and globally, serving families experiencing food insecurity. These events are a great way to engage with family and friends in meaningful service.
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Special Meal Support – In times of need, you can help provide meals for families facing crises. If you or someone you know needs assistance, simply contact us at info@saintgabriels.net.
Make a difference in our community, and join any of our Food Ministry events. Visit our Parish Calendar for upcoming packing events and fundraisers.
Handcrafters Ministry
The Handcrafter's Ministry at Saint Gabriel's invites all to join in creating handmade items that bring comfort and joy to individuals in need. Whether you're an experienced crafter or new to knitting, sewing, or crocheting, this ministry provides a space for fellowship, learning, and skill-sharing.
Virtual Gathering: Craft from Home
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When: 2nd Thursday of every month at 6:30 PM
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Where: Virtual (Check our Church Calendar for the Zoom link)
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Join us for an online gathering where experienced crafters can improve their skills in doll making, shawl patterns, and prayer squares. This virtual meeting is ideal for those who already know how to sew, knit, or crochet. All are welcome to join for fellowship and crafting in the comfort of your home.
In-Person Gathering: Craft Together
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When: 4th Thursday of every month at 6:00 PM
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Where: Janney Parlor, St. James' Episcopal Church
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Join us for an in-person gathering to learn or share your knitting and crocheting techniques. Whether you're new to these crafts or a seasoned maker, come together for fellowship, crafting, and skill-building in doll making, shawl patterns, and prayer squares. All are welcome, no experience necessary!
By participating in the Handcrafter's Ministry, you can make a direct impact in our community by creating comforting gifts for individuals in need, including those at the Rio Grande Borderland Ministries.
Rio Grande Borderland Ministries
Saint Gabriel's - San Gabriel has an ongoing, meaningful partnership with the Rio Grande Borderland Ministries (RGBM), supporting families and individuals in desperate need along the US-Mexico border. Through this collaboration, you can offer not just material support, but spiritual comfort and love.
Handcrafted Support: Prayer Squares, Dolls and More
One way you can get involved is by creating handmade items that are sent to families in need at the border. These handcrafted items are gifts of love that show the recipients they are not alone, reminding them of God's love and the support of those who care.
Get Involved:
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Create handmade items: Join others in knitting, crocheting, or sewing prayer squares, dolls, nursing covers, and other gifts for families at the border.
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Donate: If you're unable to create, contribute financially to this ministry HERE — select "Gift for a Specific Purpose" and specify "Rio Grande Borderland Ministry" in the memo.
Your contributions go to shelters along the border providing tangible comfort to those on their journeys. Each item represents your compassion, solidarity, and the church’s mission of welcoming the stranger.
A Message from Fr. Mike Wallens - Borderland Ministries
Fr. Mike Wallens, a key leader in the Rio Grande Borderland Ministries, shares how Saint Gabriel’s partnership has impacted those in need:
"The partnership with Saint Gabriel’s has allowed us to offer love, dignity, and care to those in crisis along the border."
Your participation in this ministry allows us to show love to the most vulnerable and ensure they feel welcomed, cared for, and loved.
Community Support Programs
At Saint Gabriel's - San Gabriel, we are committed to supporting all families and individuals who are new to the area or facing difficult circumstances. Your generosity allows us to provide comfort, care, and vital resources to those in need.
Supporting Families Facing Difficult Circumstances
Your involvement in ministries like Project Linus brings warmth and comfort to children who are sick, traumatized, or otherwise in need.
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Project Linus – Every December, you can participate in creating fleece blankets for children facing illness or trauma. These blankets are distributed to local hospitals, cancer centers, foster care homes, and homeless shelters. This project is an excellent way for families to serve together and make a positive impact.
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Get Involved— check out the Parish Calendar in December or Contact Us for more information.
Helping Those New to the Area
We also partner with several organizations that help newcomers to the area by offering resources and support for families as they settle into their new communities. These organizations provide legal, health, and social services to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to the help they need.
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We collaborate with Kids in Need of Defense (KIND), DREAMers' MOMS, Loudoun Free Clinic, and Health Works for Northern Virginia to assist newcomers in navigating the challenges of settling into a new area.
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Get Involved— Contact us to volunteer your time and expertise, or support our partnerships financially.
By supporting these programs, you help ensure that everyone feels welcome, supported, and able to thrive in our community.
Educando con Amor: Education with Love
You can also make a difference through Educando con Amor - Educating with Love — an initiative that helps support children and families in need by offering STEM camps, mentorship, and tutoring. Through this partnership, you are helping children succeed academically and spiritually.