Church of God in Christ plans free holiday outreach in St. Louis before annual convocation

Church of God in Christ will host a free community outreach event in St. Louis on Oct. 31, 2026, ahead of its 118th Annual Holy Convocation. The “Christmas In November” event will distribute coats, toys, groceries and household items as the denomination prepares to bring clergy and members from around the world to the city.

Why it matters: - The outreach gives the Church of God in Christ a chance to support St. Louis families before thousands of clergy, leaders and members arrive for its 118th Annual Holy Convocation. - The event ties a major religious gathering to direct community aid, putting the denomination’s service mission into practice in the host city. - The free giveaway comes as holiday needs begin to rise for local families.

What happened: - Church of God in Christ, Inc. will present Christmas In November on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in St. Louis. - The event will take place at the St. Louis Urban League, 1408 Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, Missouri. - Bishop Marquaello Futrell, the jurisdictional bishop of Missouri Eastern First, is coordinating the event. - The event is free and open to all. - The 118th Annual Holy Convocation, themed “Answering The Call,” will convene in St. Louis Nov. 3-10, 2026.

The details: - Families and individuals will receive coats, toys, groceries, household items and other items. - The giveaway is framed as an act of Christian love and service. - The community is encouraged to attend with family and friends for fellowship, generosity and holiday cheer. - The event is being supported by the St. Louis Urban League, World Vision and the Archdiocese of St. Louis Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs. - The partners say the effort reflects a shared commitment to meeting practical needs and strengthening community ties across faith and civic lines.

Between the lines: - The event positions the Holy Convocation as more than an internal church gathering. - Bishop J. Drew Sheard said the church sees host cities as neighbors and considers giving back a sacred responsibility. - The outreach also serves as a visible thank-you to St. Louis before the denomination’s national and international delegates arrive. - Church of God in Christ, Inc. was founded in 1907 by Bishop Charles Harrison Mason and is headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. - The denomination serves congregations across the United States and around the world through ministry, education, evangelism and community outreach.

What's next: - Church of God in Christ will hold its 118th Annual Holy Convocation in St. Louis Nov. 3-10, 2026. - The Christmas In November outreach is expected to draw local families ahead of that gathering and reinforce the denomination’s community presence in the city. - The event is likely to set the tone for the week of worship, leadership and fellowship that follows.