I don’t know if I express enough how grateful I am to be part of this amazing community! I am blessed to call you my church family. Yesterday, (Thursday, Jan 22nd), within a matter of an hour, we decided that we needed to open our building as a warming center!
We put the word out and within 2 hours, I got an abundance of blankets and sheets. We had tacos for the night, the morning volunteer (community member) came with donuts and sandwiches, and we have someone willing to bring soup for lunch.
I am amazed at the outpour of support and care. Reminds me of the wonderful community we live in and the church we belong to! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! And, if you are able to volunteer an hour or two, today or tonight- please text me!
And don’t forget- this Sunday we are anticipating a visit from Mayor Brandon Johnson, and I learned yesterday, that our alderperson Bennett Lawson will also be here. So, I do hope to have you all in worship on Sunday to welcome, hear and connect with the mayor of our city and the alderperson of our ward.
Beloveds, as I have been saying, let us continue to do all we can to be helpful and compassionate towards people around us. Everyone is dealing with their own challenges. Let us be patient with our neighbors. Let us strive to do our best, and move forward- resisting evil, injustice and oppression. Let us keep our light of HOPE lit, check on friends and neighbors often, especially those who are vulnerable in any way in this cold weather! And, let us continue to be joyful in the midst of challenges, remembering that the challenges come with moments where life’s greatest possibilities can emerge.
So, with renewed commitment- let us continue to walk boldly towards justice, support communities through mutual aid, and do all we can to leave a better and peaceful world for our children and all future generations.
Be well beloveds, and I hope to see you in church soon,
