In October, while Rev. Kent was traveling, we had a Prayer in Action station where people could write their suggestions for ways to build community and increase the practical action of love in our area. This short article is a round-up of the suggestions. Where possible, there is information about how you can become involved. Italicized statements are transcribed literally from the suggestion notes.
Most of the suggestions were general reminders to walk in Christ-like ways. These are things all of us can strive to do at all times and in all places:
- Show mercy to others even when we disagree with them.
- Listen!
- Walk humbly.
- At least one act of kindness daily.
- Restore a sense of empathy and compassion for all.
One was a personal prayer which could be echoed by any and all of us:
- Restore me to a whole, healthy human being! Show me how to love myself and others with every fiber of my and your being, always and forever.
One was more of a political statement, which requires votes and also self-education on this issue:
- End the embargo on allowing goods to get to Cuba—essential and life-giving goals and necessities.
One may have been a personal goal, but might also call to others who are so inclined:
- Help teach music in schools.
Finally, there were three more specific, local suggestions. The first needs more clarity; perhaps the person who wrote it has ideas on how to implement it. There is information attached to the other two as to how you may become involved if you wish:
- I am in awe of the “town square”! We have no town squares.
- I’d like us to consider ways in which to welcome and encourage college students and young adults. – This one is underway; we are encouraging more young families with children to attend and to become involved in children’s activities, and we do, in fact, have a number of college students who are becoming involved and making this their faith home. LaRee Jacobs will be working on finding ways we can help and encourage them, and you may contact her if you would like to help. 859-358-2681
- Homeless shelter. – This is a complicated issue, and several city and church agencies, including Berea Faith Community Outreach, are hard at work to find solutions. Lately it seems there may be light at the end of the tunnel, and if you would like to add your name and number to a list of volunteers who might be able to help when specific things are needed, contact Dave Kobersmith through the church office at 859-986-3725. There is also a Facebook page, run by Emily Ladouceur, www.facebook.com/CoalitionOnHomelessness.
compiled by Debbonnaire Kovacs
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- December 9 Budget Meeting, after Worship and Lunch
- Endowment Bylaws to be Voted Upon December 16
- Pastoral Care in the Season of Light
- Opportunities to Serve – this Advent Season and Beyond
- Youth Group “Cards for a Cause” Fundraiser!
- Union Church Choir performs at Carnegie Hall!
- News of the Family, Birthdays and Anniversaries
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