I'm thinking of just how many people have told me about solutions they're part of. You know what they say, if you're not part of the solution you just may be part of the problem!
Some of the problems are huge ones--AIDS, war, hunger and homelessness. And you might think you can't be the solution to those ones. But look again. Today (I'm writing this on December 1) is International AIDS Day and there are the folks in Stratford organizing and attending vigils and creating awareness and support for real solutions.
We think of our good friend Rod Downing who keeps reminding us via his Peace newsletter and truly putting pressure on countries and their leaders to move on solving such huge issues as Darfur. It may be a global issue, but there are things to be done, even by one person.
Many CEM congregations have found community problems they can do something about: GTA West make sandwiches for the homeless hungry; Providence Bay ensures families without means can join in the community skating time; Hamilton provides food and fellowship for their neighbourhood seniors. Many congregations support local food banks and adopt families at Christmas time. You can add to this list I'm certain.
As Christmas approaches you, like me, may be receiving all kinds of pleas to help with this or that important cause. Let's not just reject them all. Let's give some thoughtful consideration to how we can be part of the solution.
We've been considering our various ministries to bring our healthy congregations into greater balance. As the season of giving is upon us, this is a time to answer the call to serve others. What are the calls into community that tug at your heart? Can you moblilize your family, a few friends, even your whole congregation to make a difference, to be part of the solution?
Share your story here.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
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thank you for acknowledging our (Stratford's) AIDS Vigil. It was a great success and we had people from the community attend as well as folks from out of town!
ReplyDeleteAs we try to reach out to our community more, the pastoral team decided to create community/neighborhood parties. Our first was Halloween and we had about 60 attend and half of them were people from our church neighborhood we had never seen before. This week we distribute flyers for our 2nd installment, our Christmas Party. We have Santa, games, crafts, food and we will have small food baskets available for "those in need of a little Christmas blessing" ... We'll let you know how it goes!
Thank it helped me focus on the great things that are happening in our congregation.
ReplyDeleteMel, we would have liked to have been at the AIDS vigel, but cannot be everywhere. I'm so glad to hear it went well. When is your Christmas Party? It sounds like fun.
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