Monday, June 22
Family,
Thanks again to all who shared their wisdom and gifts in Zoom Church yesterday. I stand amazed in your presence.
Thanks also to all who have asked for some suggestions/guidance in making contributions to the work of seeking justice, building community, responding to human need and fostering meaningful peace in our nation. My first response is to urge you to consider where the Spirit is leading you. Where is your attention being directed? What speaks directly to your heart? There are indeed many worthy efforts, organizations and ministries.
That being said, let me lift up four vehicles that are consistent with the values and commitments of LABC, my belief in the power of organizing, and our desire to give in ways that get support as close to the point of need as possible.
The Faith in Action National Network, PICO California and Faith in Action East Bay are all doing organizing in ways bring justice to all, empower often overlooked communities and change laws and structures. You can find more information about of all of these at www.faithinaction.org.
Our primary partner in organizing around immigration, sanctuary and sacred resistance is the Interfaith Movement For Humanity Integrity. The US Supreme Court blocked the current administration from ending the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program in part because of the good work of organizations like these partners. They can be reached at www.im4humanintegrity.org.
June is Pride Month. LABC is a charter member of the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists. AWAB remains a beacon of hope to many that are vulnerable and afraid. Support of AWAB is one of the best ways to stand for welcome and inclusion – www.awab.org.
Finally, an always reliable way to get resources to faith communities responding to crisis is to give to the One Great Hour of Sharing through LABC. I will talking more about OGHS in July but this link will take you to a current effort to address COVID-19 thru this multi-denominational offering.
Peace,
Pastor Jim