Serving Our Neighbors
Faith calls us beyond the walls of our church and into the wider community. At St. Philip's, we seek to put Christ's love into action through partnerships with local organizations, care for our neighbors, and advocacy for justice. From addressing food insecurity and supporting people experiencing homelessness to sharing in worship and building relationships throughout our community, we believe that loving our neighbors is at the heart of our life together.
Our outreach ministries offer many ways to make a difference. Whether through volunteering, sharing resources, or simply showing up for others, everyone has something to offer.
Mission Statement of the Outreach Committee
The Outreach Committee of St. Philip's Church in the Highlands encourages and organizes parishioners to identify and serve communities in need, moved by God’s grace and guided by the Holy Spirit. We recognize the commitment of every volunteer, who shares their time, talents, and presence to bring hope to individuals where it is often in short supply, as a reflection of our shared faith fostered by our St. Philip’s Church community.
Jan Peek Shelter Ministry
Jan Peek House, operated by Caring for the Hungry and Homeless of Peekskill (CHHOP), is a year-round shelter in Peekskill providing temporary housing and support services for single adults experiencing homelessness. Through case management and individualized support, the shelter helps residents work toward stable, independent living.
St. Philip's Involvement
On the third Monday of each month, parishioners from St. Philip's prepare and serve dinner for residents of Jan Peek House. Everyone is welcome to participate, whether by preparing an enchilada casserole at home or joining us at the shelter to serve dinner. Throughout the year, we also gather as a parish community to prepare casseroles together—a wonderful opportunity to share fellowship while serving our neighbors.
Get Involved
There are many ways to participate, and everyone is welcome! Sign up to prepare a casserole or join us at the shelter for dinner service.
Ministry Contacts
Philipstown Food Pantry Ministry
The Philipstown Food Pantry, located at Philipstown Presbyterian Church in Cold Spring, provides essential food assistance to individuals and families throughout the Garrison, Cold Spring, and Philipstown communities.
St. Philip's Involvement
St. Philip's supports the pantry through regular food and financial donations, collected in designated boxes on the Parish House porch and in the church narthex. Monetary contributions are especially valuable, allowing the pantry to purchase the items most needed by the people it serves.
For those who prefer to shop for groceries, parishioners can also donate through Instacart, with orders delivered directly from Foodtown in Cold Spring to the pantry. Detailed instructions for using Instacart are available online.
Throughout the year, the Outreach Committee also organizes special food drives during coffee hour, providing additional opportunities for our parish community to come together in support of our neighbors.
Get Involved
Donations are welcome throughout the year! You can contribute food, make a financial gift, or shop for groceries through Instacart. Together, we can help ensure that our neighbors have access to the food they need.
Food Donations
At St. Philip's: Donations can be left in the designated collection boxes on the Parish House porch and in the church narthex.
At the Food Pantry: Donations may be delivered Friday, 12pm–1pm, or Saturday, 8:30am–10am.
Ministry Contacts
Peg Moran and Sue MacLean
Hedgewood Senior Center Ministry
St. Philip's has a longstanding relationship with Hedgewood, a senior living community in Beacon, NY. Twice each month, members of our parish gather with residents to celebrate Holy Eucharist, sharing scripture, prayer, music, and the sacrament of Communion.
St. Philip's Involvement
This ministry brings the familiar rhythms of Episcopal worship into the lives of residents who may find it difficult to attend church regularly. Through the celebration of the Eucharist and the relationships we build along the way, we share in the life of faith together.
Each Christmas, St. Philip's also prepares gift bags filled with items requested by Hedgewood residents, offering a tangible expression of care and holiday cheer.
Get Involved
Parishioners interested in participating in this ministry are warmly invited to join us. Whether helping with worship, sharing music, or contributing to our annual Christmas gift bags, your participation is welcome.
Ministry Contacts
Kathleen Casey – Sunday worship
Sue MacLean – Christmas gifts
Rural & Migrant Ministry
Rural & Migrant Ministry (RMM) works alongside farmworkers, immigrant families, and rural communities across New York State, advocating for justice, dignity, and opportunity. Through community organizing, education, leadership development, and direct support, RMM works to address the challenges facing rural and farmworker communities.
St. Philip's Connection
St. Philip's is connected to this important work through two parishioners who serve in leadership roles with RMM.
Lisa Baker serves as RMM's statewide Volunteer Program Coordinator, connecting volunteers with opportunities to support the organization's mission and participate in its work throughout New York State.
Jim Bopp serves on RMM's Board as Hudson River/Catskills Council Chair, helping advance the organization's mission in our region.
Get Involved
Interested in supporting RMM? Learn more about volunteer opportunities, advocacy initiatives, and ways to support the organization's work throughout New York State.
Ministry Contacts
Lisa Baker — Statewide Volunteer Program Coordinator
Jim Bopp — Hudson River/Catskills Council Chair