On Sunday, January 16, the First Church Worship Committee invites you to observe Human Relations Day, one of six denomination-wide Special Sundays where we are invited to partner with fellow United Methodist congregations in a special offering to fund specific needs in the greater community. On Human Relations Day, our offerings support neighborhood ministries and community advocacy through Better Community Development Programs, United Methodist Voluntary Services, and Youth Offender Rehabilitation Programs. Our gifts work together for the common good, building community and sharing God’s love.
While it is important to address systems that breed injustice, it is equally important to build on our strengths and create networks of transformational love, complete with tangible results. Paul writes in his letter to the church in Corinth: “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:4-7, NRSV).
We know how systemic inequality affects the most vulnerable. When neighbors experience poverty and reside in places that have less access to needed resources, a sense of desperation and hopelessness can often permeate the community. Yet, we can be a part of the healing hand that gives hope and relief to these at-risk populations, partnering with God and God’s people to strengthen Christ’s loving presence in a hurting world.
On Human Relations Day, we recognize the connections we have with our neighbors. Our gifts work together for the common good, with life-affirming results, sharing God’s love throughout.
Thank you for partnering your spiritual and financial gifts to build up what the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. called “the beloved community.” Thank you for your generosity on Human Relations Day.