SERVING OTHERS
SERVICE is central to the life and faith of Highland Presbyterian Church.
From the beginning, Highland has been deeply committed to community outreach and global mission. We believe that when God calls us to a life of faith, God calls us to a life of service, and God guides us in reaching out to neighbors in need. In addition to hands-on services, Highland gives about 20% of its offerings and special gifts to local and global missions! Join with us in supporting local and global ministries, doing justice and making peace everyday, everywhere.
From the beginning, Highland has been deeply committed to community outreach and global mission. We believe that when God calls us to a life of faith, God calls us to a life of service, and God guides us in reaching out to neighbors in need. In addition to hands-on services, Highland gives about 20% of its offerings and special gifts to local and global missions! Join with us in supporting local and global ministries, doing justice and making peace everyday, everywhere.
Sustainability Committee
In 2022, Highland formed the Sustainability Committee, and in April 2023
we became a designated Earth Care Congregation through the PCUSA.
Some of the highlights of our work so far include:
*Transitioned to using 100% recycled office paper
*Transitioned 100% recycled washroom paper
*Composting paper towels + garden waste
*Partnered with Interfaith Power and Light and became a Cool Congregation. Our energy efficiency upgrades generated an average savings of 25% in energy consumption per year between gas and electric. Our estimated carbon emission reduction is on average 7.1 tonnes per year. The average financial savings has been $1300 per year.
*Hosting a manure sale for the community
The Sustainability Committee is doing long-term planning to seek ambitious goals with decarbonizing our building, doing education, outreach, and incorporating Earth Care into the worship service.
In 2022, Highland formed the Sustainability Committee, and in April 2023
we became a designated Earth Care Congregation through the PCUSA.
Some of the highlights of our work so far include:
*Transitioned to using 100% recycled office paper
*Transitioned 100% recycled washroom paper
*Composting paper towels + garden waste
*Partnered with Interfaith Power and Light and became a Cool Congregation. Our energy efficiency upgrades generated an average savings of 25% in energy consumption per year between gas and electric. Our estimated carbon emission reduction is on average 7.1 tonnes per year. The average financial savings has been $1300 per year.
*Hosting a manure sale for the community
The Sustainability Committee is doing long-term planning to seek ambitious goals with decarbonizing our building, doing education, outreach, and incorporating Earth Care into the worship service.
Highland is officially a Matthew 25 Congregation. Please via the Matthew 25 Section of this site to learn more. Together we eliminate racism, poverty and continue to improve the vitality of our Congregation.
GOOD NEIGHBORS
Good Neighbors is a community ministry in Blount County, designed to help lift our neighbors out of crisis in a compassionate setting. Highland's support for people in a temporary financial crisis is through Good Neighbors. Call (865) 681-5420. Members serve on the board, as volunteers, coaches, and with special events and fundraising.
OUR CUBA CONNECTION
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GATEWAY TO INDEPENDENCE
The GATE's mission is to help young adults with disabilities achieve independence through vocational and social activities. Highland hosts parties and special activities with The Gate participants, staff, volunteers and caregivers.
Our Members serve on the board, as volunteers, with fundraising events, and by hosting recreational activities and parties at the church. |
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In 2009 a relationship began between the congregation of the Presbyterian Church in Taguasco, Cuba and the congregation of Highland Presbyterian Church in Maryville, Tennessee. This partnership for peace is based on mission as a relationship of equal partners, mutually sharing how God is present in the lives of the two congregations. Over 20 members of Highland have visited in Taguasco, and several church leaders from Cuba have visited Highland. The two congregations are learning what it means to be the body of Christ together, living and serving in different countries and cultures.
 FAMILY PROMISEFamily Promise is a nonprofit organization committed to helping low-income families achieve lasting independence. Highland Presbyterian volunteers participate in Family Promise's network of congregations and volunteers who help to meet homeless families' immediate needs for shelter, meals, and comprehensive support services. To contact the local Family Promise program click on the link above or call them at (865) 233-4737.
SECOND HARVEST
We volunteer and take a special offering to support Second Harvest
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HEIFER INTERNATIONAL
Highland Presbyterian Church has a long history of involvement with Heifer Project, which works to end hunger and poverty, while promoting good stewardship of the earth.
In recent years, Highland has given a total of $15,000, filling three "Arks of Animals" to help families around the world develop a sustainable source of food and income.
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Nicaragua Mission: Center for Development in Central America
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We now love and pray and work to support Bridge for 9 refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
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We also support many other organizations including:
Presbyterian Peacemaking Program
We support the PC(USA) peace and justice ministries and advocacy for women, children, refugees, and victims of violence.
Presbyterian Church (USA) Missions
For Highland, global mission means human rights, disaster services, education, food security, and self development of peoples. We have sent special support many times for disaster assistance and humanitarian services along the Mexican/USA border.
Bounty Garden
Highland's own fresh produce and community garden, provided for local hunger ministries. All ages have helped to grow vegetables, and we welcome participation by Boys and Girls Clubs, Maryville College students, and other community groups.
Blount Fine Arts for Youth
Afterschool classes and programs for youth in the arts
PFLAG and support for LGBTQ
Welcoming support for individuals and LGBT community programs
Presbyterian Peacemaking Program
We support the PC(USA) peace and justice ministries and advocacy for women, children, refugees, and victims of violence.
Presbyterian Church (USA) Missions
For Highland, global mission means human rights, disaster services, education, food security, and self development of peoples. We have sent special support many times for disaster assistance and humanitarian services along the Mexican/USA border.
Bounty Garden
Highland's own fresh produce and community garden, provided for local hunger ministries. All ages have helped to grow vegetables, and we welcome participation by Boys and Girls Clubs, Maryville College students, and other community groups.
Blount Fine Arts for Youth
Afterschool classes and programs for youth in the arts
PFLAG and support for LGBTQ
Welcoming support for individuals and LGBT community programs
