​The linens were pressed and synched carefully around each table - grey, of course, - in preparation for the reception. The baby's - breath and fresh cut greens rested delicately in each vase trimmed with hand-tied bows. Smiles, protected by masks, were evident by bright eyes and words of excitement as we publicly celebrated the launch of Well Suited for Work and dedicated the ministry to God! 
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Sunday, September 12th, was a day of celebration. The Ministry Dedication & Blessing began with a Service of Dedication within the sanctuary of Cross & Crown Lutheran Church. We shared stories, gratitude, prayers and hopes - for all that God has done and is doing, and all that God will do in and through this ministry.

​But this day - a day that had been postponed and reimaged more than once due to the realities of starting something new in the midst of a global pandemic -  was 2 years in the making! After intentional community assessment, congregational survey and months of planning, preparation, learning and relationship-building, this ministry has moved from a vision to a reality. 

The morning started much like any other sleepy Saturday. The sun shone high in the summer sky and the hot air was already sweaty with humidity. It was, after all, August in Florence. 
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…but there was something different about this morning. The world was full of possibility – of excitement – because this particular morning was reserved for Suiting…
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The referral had come in earlier in the week from Connie’s Workforce Connections, one of our four official Referral Partners, and our volunteers were eager to schedule the #SuitingAppointment and prepare items for our new friend. Well Suited for Work, which is fully volunteer-led and donation-driven, aims to tackle the challenges of poverty in our local communities One Suit at a Time. Our goal is for each client to walk away from their appointment with pre-laundered and pressed outfits that can be worn right off the hanger to an upcoming interview or new employment.

Friends of Well Suited for Work - we are so excited to launch "One Suit At A Time" the official blog of Well Suited for Work where we'll share stories, tips and provide a window into the ministry that we love so dearly! 
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So whether you've been with us from the beginning or are still building your friendship with us, we look forward to the time that we will share here with you. 
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In case you're less familiar with Well Suited for Work, allow us to introduce ourselves!
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Like many other faith communities, 2020 was a year of challenge and growth for Cross & Crown Lutheran Church. We stumbled through the first few weeks of online services and remote Christian education. We missed worshiping and fellowshipping in-person and learned to be creative and adaptive to continue valuable ministry. We made adjustments, grieved losses and leaned into gratitude, faith & community.
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It was within this context that Well Suited for Work was established. ​