We are now a Matthew 25 Congregation!
By Elder Karen Wilson
What is a Matthew 25 Congregation? You can probably guess that it might have something to do with caring for “the least of these.” And you’re right. Following are the three components of the Matthew 25 initiative:
Building congregational vitality by challenging people and congregations to deepen their faith and get actively and joyfully engaged with their community and the world.
Dismantling structural racism by advocating and acting to break down the systems, practices and thinking that underlie discrimination, bias, prejudice and oppression of people of color.
Eradicating systemic poverty by working to change laws, policies, plans and structures in our society that perpetuate economic exploitation of people who are poor.
To be a Matthew 25 Congregation, a congregation must choose one or more of these components. On February 25, the Session of LoveJoy United enthusiastically chose to implement all three! You might say we’re already addressing these things through our food pantry, Good Samaritan Fund, special offerings, and so on, so what’s new?
These things are a good start. But being a member of this so-called vital congregation means more than just being a member of the “club.” It means each member is actually living into this concept. It means each member is discovering their gifts, finding their passion and making it a part of their lives Sunday thru Saturday. Being a member of LoveJoy United is not just a Sunday morning thing.
Members will be contacted sometime between Easter and Pentecost to learn just how they might incorporate the Matthew 25 concept into their everyday lives. Remember, this doesn’t have to be a church-type thing. It might be driving someone to a medical appointment or be something as simple as a kind word to someone. We can all be Matthew 25 people who make up our Matthew 25 Congregation.
Thank you Karen, I love this!