Bus Stop Ministry
Bus Stop Ministry is a ministry of hospitality and caring intended to bring the care and concern of the local church to the persons who ride the urban bus system. Bus Stop Ministry derives its inspiration from the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 25, verses 31-46, in which we read: “…I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me.”
Bus Stop
Bus Stop Ministry (see CURRENT SCHEDULE below) is an outreach and service to the people who travel the city by bus. This ministry was inspired by the Christmas card designed by St. James teenager Osa Eke: Bus Stop Nativity. In this scene, Osa portrayed the Holy Family of Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus waiting in the bus shelter at 39th and Troost. This sense of Jesus’ Presence among us, especially in those who travel the city by bus, moved us to reflect in a new way on the Gospel of Matthew quoted above.
Riding the bus is not easy. Some bus riders have long rides; many wait a long time to get their bus or a connecting bus. Sometimes bus riders have close bus connections and must run from one corner to another in order not to miss their connecting bus.
All bus riders must face the challenge of the elements: rain, snow, wind, hot sun… and sometimes they are blessed with comfortable weather.
Bus riders are workers, shoppers, people going on appointments to the doctor, dentist, and so on; and people going to visit family or friends.
Bus riders are young, middle age, seniors and infants, too. Some riders are challenged by mobility issues and must board the bus with a cane, a walker, a wheelchair or an oxygen tank.
Once the bus journey has begun, the rider must put up with whatever happens in order to reach the destination.
Location for St. James’ Bus Stop Ministry — corner of 39th and Troost, Midtown Kansas City, Missouri.
Frequency – one day a week (to expand); one hour at a time
Time— various throughout the day/week (see CURRENT SCHEDULE below)
What— drink, light snack and Social Services Referral flyer (developed by St. James
Parish and the Troost Alliance)
Purpose—hospitality is primary: friendly communication, snack & drink and social
services information
Volunteers—this is a totally volunteer-run and donation-funded ministry.
Bus Stop ministry