Rev. Melissa Self Patrick posted on February 29, 2012 13:47
Dear friends and supporters,
Recently, I enjoyed a good visit with one of my favorite seminary professors. She wanted to know more about Urban Ministry. By the time I finished sharing about our core programs, she said what many people say: “Urban Ministry really does a lot!”
This is true, but what I reminded her and others like her who admire the breadth and depth of our programs is that we could not begin to offer compassion and wholeness without the faithful contributions and untiring efforts of many people like you. Whether you are a new supporter of Urban Ministry, or someone who has affirmed our shared ministry with your gifts for a long time, we are grateful to you for helping us make a positive difference in early 2012. Your gifts enable us to meet immediate needs while also providing long-term solutions for people and communities struggling because of poverty.
The other wonderful part of your support is that your giving joins the contributions of many people like you, expanding the impact and making an even greater difference in the lives of people in need across our community. In February, Urban Ministry was part of Alabama Gives Day, which was led by the Alabama Association of Nonprofits. Perhaps you learned more about our efforts during this big day of giving. As we participated in this new online giving opportunity and joined our supporters to celebrate at our Junior Board fundraiser, we were reminded of the strong network of people who care deeply for other people.
Jesus had a lot to say about caring deeply for others. The word “compassion” appears numerous times in the Synoptic Gospels, and most always it is associated with Jesus’ actions towards people who were somehow in need, downtrodden, outcast, or poor. Jesus never hesitated to break bread with those rejected by society. He reached out to the widows and the children, showing them unconditional love even as he taught his disciples to become like a child in his kingdom.
During this Christian season of Lent, we remember the ways of Jesus, and we examine our own ways as we pray and desire to faithfully walk in the ways of Jesus. Remembering his teachings, perhaps you have taken on a new spiritual discipline during Lent. Maybe you would like to spend time volunteering with us as a way to remember Jesus’ love for you and for the whole world. Please let us know if you would like to visit us or even tour our ministry center.
Together, we are able to make a difference in the lives of many people who are hurting, scared, embarrassed to have to ask for assistance, and hungry. Thank you for choosing to support Urban Ministry with your gifts and with your prayers, too.
Peace and gratitude,
Melissa