A community service initiative inspired by Matthew 25:35 has demonstrated how faith-based social action can address food insecurity while strengthening compassion and solidarity. Conducted by Victor Deak, Elfira Loppies, Emanuel, Aldi Juandi Tari, and Marsaulina from Kharisma Theological College Bandung, the project implemented a Free Food Sharing Program to support vulnerable communities in Bandung. Published in June 2026, the study found that the initiative not only helped meet the immediate food needs of low-income residents but also increased social awareness among volunteers and reinforced Christian values through practical service.
Food insecurity remains a significant challenge for many urban residents, particularly daily wage workers, elderly people living alone, waste collectors, online motorcycle taxi drivers, and other low-income groups. Although economic development continues, unequal access to basic necessities leaves many families struggling to secure adequate meals. The researchers argue that community service programs can become practical expressions of social responsibility while fostering stronger solidarity among community members.
To address this issue, the research team organized a one-day community service program in Mekar Wangi Village, Bojongloa Kidul District, Bandung, on 20 February 2026. The initiative involved five volunteers, including lecturers and university students, who raised donations, prepared ready-to-eat meals, and distributed food directly to vulnerable community members using a participatory and humanitarian approach.
The implementation followed several structured stages:
- Planning and identifying target beneficiaries through field surveys.
- Raising funds from church members, students, and community donors.
- Preparing hygienic ready-to-eat meal packages.
- Distributing meals respectfully to vulnerable residents.
- Evaluating the program through field observations and volunteer discussions.
The program achieved several notable outcomes.
- 100 meal packages were successfully distributed to people in need.
- Five volunteers participated in organizing and implementing the activity.
- A total budget of Rp1,250,000 supported meal preparation and distribution.
- Beneficiaries included daily workers, elderly residents, waste collectors, online motorcycle taxi drivers, and low-income community members.
- Volunteers reported increased awareness of social responsibility and compassion after participating in the program.
According to the researchers, the program reflects the biblical teaching of Matthew 25:35, in which Jesus declares, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat." The authors explain that helping people experiencing hunger is not merely a charitable activity but also a spiritual expression of faith that demonstrates love, dignity, and respect for every individual created in the image of God. They emphasize that Christian service should address both spiritual and physical needs within society.
The study also highlights the concept of diakonia, or Christian service, as one of the Church's essential missions. By providing food directly to vulnerable groups, churches can move beyond preaching alone and demonstrate God's love through concrete social action. The authors further connect the initiative to the concept of Missio Dei, explaining that serving people in need represents active participation in God's mission to bring justice, peace, and human dignity into society.
Beyond providing meals, the program generated broader social benefits. It strengthened relationships between volunteers and local communities, encouraged empathy and solidarity, and promoted a culture of sharing among participants. The researchers concluded that community service programs centered on basic human needs can become effective instruments for building stronger, more compassionate communities while encouraging active civic engagement.
The authors recommend expanding similar initiatives through collaboration with more churches, educational institutions, and community organizations so that larger numbers of vulnerable people can benefit. They believe sustainable food-sharing programs can become an effective model for integrating faith, education, and social responsibility in community development.
Author Profiles
- Victor Deak - Kharisma Theological College Bandung
- Elfira Loppies- Kharisma Theological College Bandung
- Emanuel- Kharisma Theological College Bandung
- Aldi Juandi Tari- Kharisma Theological College Bandung
- Marsaulina - harisma Theological College Bandung
Research Source
Deak, V., Loppies, E., Emanuel, Tari, A. J., & Marsaulina. (2026). Implementation of Matthew 25:35 Values Through the Free Food Sharing Program as a Form of Community Social Concern. Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Bestari (JPMB), Vol. 5, No. 6, pp. 513–522.
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