About Our Ministry
For over two decades, we've been sharing the love of Christ and serving the people of Appalachia.
We're an Illinois-based volunteer team serving Eastern Kentucky.
Our Journey of Faith & Service
The Spark
It all began with a single act of service. Roger N. Whaley, a Lexington native, led a mission team from a local Illinois church to the Appalachian Mountains to serve a family in need. That first trip to Kentucky Cornerstone ministry sparked a lifelong calling to serve the people of Appalachia.
Growing Commitment
What started as one trip became a movement. Over these years, the team returned to the mountains time and time again. To date, nearly 100 mission trips have been completed, delivering essential clothing, furniture, working appliances, and tons of food to underserved families.
Formalizing the Mission
Driven by a deep passion to meet both the spiritual and material needs of the region, the team officially incorporated as Servants of Our Lord Ministry, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
A Legacy of Kindness
Today we remain an all-volunteer ministry. From coordinating massive food distributions of up to 50,000 pounds to providing Christmas joy and back-to-school essentials for children, our mission continues to be "Feeding Hope" in the heart of Appalachia.
Why Appalachia?
The Appalachians is the most economically depressed area in America. Appalachia is now home to 13.3 million people living in poverty, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Owsley County, Kentucky, located in Eastern Kentucky, is the poorest county in America with 66 percent of all children living in poverty, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Today that passion continues as we expand our outreach to other missions in the Appalachians. Through our partnership with our local food bank, we can reach out and help thousands of economically deprived families by delivering food on a monthly basis to several food pantries in Eastern Kentucky for further distribution.
How to Get Involved
Become a Prayer Partner
- •Pray we are sensitive to the Lord's leading.
- •Pray about how your church, small group, Sunday School Class, or you as an individual may become involved in this ministry.
- •Pray that all glory be given to God.
Partner Financially
We invite you to partner with us in this ministry. We know we cannot change the conditions in the Appalachians, but with your help we can make one day brighter for them.
$400
Covers transportation to deliver over $3,000 of food to food pantries in Eastern Kentucky
$40
Delivers a box of groceries to an economically deprived family
Please make checks payable to: Servants of Our Lord Ministry and write on the memo line "Appalachian Outreach" and mail to P.O. Box 224, Lexington, IL 61753.
Your donations are tax deductible. Servants of Our Lord Ministry, Inc. is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, Federal Tax ID# 46-4339602.
Donate Online"Thank you so much for standing with us in prayer and financial support of our ministry."
— Steven Whaley, Director
Explore More About Our Work
Christian Ministry Serving Appalachia
The faith foundation behind our work in Eastern Kentucky.
Food Assistance in Eastern Kentucky
How families find food help through our 30+ partner pantries.
Appalachian Volunteer Guide
Practical guide to serving — what to pack and where to stay.
Donate to Feed Families
One-time and monthly giving options for the ministry.