Partnerships

The Church of the Nativity and Holy Comforter has numerous partnerships with local and national organizations.

GEDCO

In partnership with faith communities, the Govans Ecumenical Development Corporation provides affordable housing with supportive services and assists in meeting emergency needs of community residents. The Church of the Nativity and Holy Comforter was one of seven founding churches of the organization in 1991. GEDCO now has 53 institutional “Member Organizations” including churches, community groups, schools, neighborhood associations and service organizations throughout North Baltimore. GEDCO is committed to a just society that respects the dignity and worth of all people, values diversity, upholds community, encourages each person’s contributions and fosters growth toward personal independence.

CARES Food Pantry

On the first Sunday of every month, we collect non-perishable food items, toiletries, toilet paper, diapers and other items for the Food Pantry at CARES (Civic and Religious Emergency Services). We also support the CARES Emergency Financial Assistance center that serves individuals and families in our neighborhood whose access to the basics of housing, adequate food and financial resources is extremely tenuous. CARES’ goal is to help families escape the cycle of crises and move toward self-sufficiency. CARES is a part of GEDCO. Weekly volunteer opportunities are also available in the pantry and job assistance center.

Cedarcroft School

Cedarcroft School is a preschool with a tradition of excellence in education located at 419 Cedarcroft Road in the northern part of Baltimore City, Maryland. The school resides within a calm and beautiful residential neighborhood, has excellent indoor and outdoor facilities, age-appropriate academic programs and experienced, caring staff.

Cedarcroft School enrolls 85 students in Preschool, Kindergarten and Pre-First classes from 2 to 6 years old. Teachers place emphasis on the philosophy that every child learns differently as well as developing good manners and social skills. The community of students is coed and respects diversity in race, religion and social-economic circumstances.

For more information about Cedarcroft School please contact:
Kate L. Gentry, Headmistress
Phone: (410) 435-0905
Cedarcroft School
419 Cedarcroft Road
Baltimore, Maryland 21212

American Friends of the Diocese of Jerusalem

This partnership helps the Episcopal Church in the Holy Land affirm Christ’s message of love and reconciliation. Each year Nativity raises awareness during Advent and on Good Friday and raises funds for the organization.

Episcopal Relief and Development

ER-D is an international relief and development agency and a compassionate response to human suffering on behalf of the Episcopal Church of the United States. The organization works to heal a hurting world is guided by the principles of compassion, dignity and generosity. Nativity sends funds to ER-D to buy ‘Nets for Life’ – mosquito nets to protect children and families from malaria. During natural disasters, Nativity members also give generously to ER-D for immediate and long-term relief.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Tuesday evening at 7:00 PM in our library.

Baltimore International Seafarers Center

This Center is an inter-faith ministry rooted in Christian hospitality. This ministry demonstrates this love of God through a commitment to serving the personal and spiritual needs of seafarers in the Port of Baltimore. Respecting the values, faiths, and cultural norms of seafarers and their families, volunteers and chaplains coordinate ship visitations and delivery of services. Each Christmas, Nativity members pack shoe boxes with books, toiletries, gloves, hats and inspirational notes for the seafarers.

WORLD, Inc
Women Organized Resources for Liberia’s Development provides resources for Liberian women and children including health care, social services, education, shelter and housing for orphans and other programs. Nativity supports our longtime member Roseda Marshall in her ministry in Monrovia, Liberia. Dr. Marshall is Interim President of the Liberia College of Physicians and Surgeons there.
Partners in Care with Maryland National Guard

This program is designed to assist Army and Air National Guard soldiers and their families before, during, and after deployments.

Outreach Opportunities

The opportunities below are just some of the ways that adults and children can get involved at The Church of the Nativity and Holy Comforter.

Blessing of the Animals

First Saturday of October

Acolytes

Acolytes help clergy at the altar and carry candles, crosses and other items in the procession.

Chalicists

Chalicists administer a chalice during services of Holy Communion.

Lay Eucharist Visitors

Lay Eucharist visitors are lay persons licensed to carry communion to shut-ins and those who are sick or in the hospital.

EYC: Episcopal Young People

EPC gathers once a month for fun outings, fellowship and service opportunities.

Ushers

Ushers assist with welcoming members and guests, seating and taking up offerings.

After Church Fellowship

After the 10:30 AM service there are coffee, tea and refreshments available.

Breakfast

On the 3rd and 5th Sundays, there is breakfast served at 9:00 AM.