Amidst global devastation from Hurricane Harvey, Irma, and an earthquake scaling 8.1 in magnitude this past couple of weeks, the world has been in disarray. Keeping this in mind, members of the World Mission Society Church of God aspired to help clean up in any way they could. Although members could not directly help to clean up these devastated areas, they made a resolution to help clean the community they live in.
On Sunday, September 10th, 2017 about 40 members of the World Mission Society Church of God, a non-denominational Christian faith group from the local community, met together in Colton to clean up a local highway. Members picked up trash and beautified the sides of Washington St., right off the 215 Freeway, near the church. Participants happily gathered on their day off to give back to the community with heartfelt efforts and positive attitudes. Taking pride in their community, members of the church were excited to once again clean up the streets for the families of Colton.
From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., members from the WMSCOG worked in the hot sun, with all of their strength to pick up debris and trash scattered along the highway. With a humble mind, members worked with enthusiasm to restore a sense of community and a positive environment for the citizens of Colton.
This came as no surprise to the city council of Colton who has previously recognized the faith group on numerous occasions with various acknowledgments and rewards for their volunteer services. The church has been noticed and highly appreciated for its Good Samaritan movements not only locally but on a global scale as well.
The Church of God has carried out different volunteer services such as cleanups, emergency disaster relief efforts, blood drives, supporting local activities and visiting nursing homes. In recognition of its volunteer services, the Church of God has received medals, awards, plaques from governments and organizations around the world. On June 7th, 2016, the Church of God received the City of Colton volunteer service award which is given to organizations who make a difference in the community.
For a couple of years, the church members have been working hand in hand with the city of Colton. Mayor Richard De La Rosa and the council members presented an award thanking the church members for their efforts. Additionally, council member Frank Navarro created a presentation that explained in detail the projects the Church of God in Colton had been involved in.
Recently, the Church of God has received one of the most prestigious awards; The Queen's Award. This award is given in the United Kingdom but is recognized by 53 states of the commonwealth such as the U.K., Australia, New Zealand and India. In order to receive this award groups must have been benefiting local communities for a minimum of three years. Among the many requirements, there is a very thorough and rigorous assessment that must be completed to receive this award. After many years of assessment and after the Queen's approval, the Church of God has been recognized as an exemplary organization that contributes to the community. Worldwide service activities will continue to be held to help communities and people in need.