Alka's Angle

Yup, today is Friday, the 13th, which happens one to three times each year in the Gregorian calendar and is considered an unlucky date by around 44% of Americans, which surprised me.

Even though it originated in the mid 1970’s Critical Race Theory has been part of many conversations lately. According to google, (CRT) Critical race theory examines social, cultural, and legal issues primarily as they relate to race and racism in the United States.

I know so many of you were looking forward to returning to the building for worship, starting this Sunday, so I am deeply saddened to share with you that I have made the decision to continue worshipping virtually for the month of August.

Delta! Delta! Delta! The word Delta is on almost everyone’s mind right now -- at least for those who have to decide whether to open or wait a little longer!

Paula, Satia and I are attending the virtual 182nd session of the Northern Illinois Annual Conference. We spent yesterday in worship, Bible Study, celebrating the lives and ministry of those who died in this past year, and deliberating on legislation and resolutions that are important to us and are matters of justice for God’s people, while also grieving the discontinuance/closure of 8 churches in our conference -- all of them because the congregation became so small they could not sustain themselves anymore. We voted our support in advocating for the Palestinian children who are displaced in the midst of the Israel/Palestine unrest. We voted support to continue the work of anti-racism by humanizing our criminal justice system and we voted to support the marginalized communities negatively impacted by COVID. We will continue our work today. Today we also have our vaccination clinic. I hope you have shared the information with anyone you know who still needs to be vaccinated!