Faith in Action: Serving Third Ward Through Love, Leadership, and Manna

At Pilgrim Congregational United Church of Christ, faith is never meant to stay inside the sanctuary. It moves through the hands of volunteers, the hearts of servants, and the everyday acts of compassion that uplift our neighbors.

Two recent community stories in The Defender remind us of that truth in powerful ways, highlighting both the lifelong service of one of our members and the impact of a ministry that operates right here on Pilgrim’s grounds.

Together, they tell a story about what it means to live out faith in action.

A Life of Service: Dr. Jene Washington

For more than 50 years, Dr. Jene Washington has been a faithful member of Pilgrim Congregational UCC and a servant to the Houston community. Her life’s work spans education, ministry, and community care—each chapter rooted in a deep commitment to helping others thrive.

Dr. Washington recently concluded a remarkable 32-year career with Houston ISD, where she helped secure millions of dollars in grants to support student success across the district. But long before that—and long after—it has been her heart for service that truly defines her story.

At Pilgrim, Dr. Washington serves not only as a dedicated member but also as a leader and advocate for ministries that meet real needs in our neighborhood.

As she often reminds us, service is not about recognition—it is about answering a call.

“One of my passions is to give back to the community… I’m just here to serve.”

Her life is a living testimony of what happens when faith becomes action.

📖 Read the full feature about Dr. Washington here:https://defendernetwork.com/people/dn-news-profiles/jene-washington-third-ward/

Feeding Our Community: The Third Ward Manna House

That same spirit of service lives on through the Third Ward Manna House, a food pantry that operates in partnership with Pilgrim and three other churches.

Each week, volunteers gather to prepare food and welcome neighbors in need. Families, seniors, and individuals facing rising food costs come seeking support—and find not only groceries, but dignity and care.

Manna House currently serves about 100 people every week, providing food assistance to residents throughout Harris County while focusing on the surrounding Third Ward community.

The ministry is powered by volunteers who believe that feeding people is not just charity—it is discipleship.

As one volunteer shared in a recent interview, the work reflects a simple but powerful calling:

“Jesus called us to feed his people… and I love it.”

From bagging groceries to greeting families, every moment at Manna House becomes an opportunity to share God’s provision with others.

📖 Learn more about the impact of Manna House here:https://defendernetwork.com/community/manna-house-houston-food-pantry/

A Living Mission

For more than 120 years, Pilgrim Congregational UCC has been rooted in the Third Ward community. Our mission has always extended beyond the walls of the church—to serve, uplift, and walk alongside our neighbors.

The stories of Dr. Jene Washington and Manna House are reminders that ministry happens wherever people choose compassion over comfort, generosity over scarcity, and service over recognition.

At Pilgrim, we believe faith should move.

And when it does, it changes lives.