A Word from Laura: Reclaiming Our Space

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly. – Martin Luther King Jr.

This quote lingers with me as I’ve walked through our 24th Street entrance over the last few weeks, remembering the incident on our sidewalk that resulted in the death of Kevin Chamberlain. As a group gathered with candles after the beautiful performance of the little match girl passion on Monday, I saw the network of mutuality come to life.

Recognizing our human interconnectedness, this Wednesday, February 5 at 2 p.m., all are welcome to join us to remember Kevin and to rededicate our entrance for God’s holy purposes.  We will gather in peace to worship and give thanks for Kevin’s life, while reclaiming our space for the sake of life for all.  We will lift up God’s compassion and justice, claiming the truth of our faith, of goodness over evil, love over hate, healing over pain, comfort over grief, hope over despair, and life over death.

You may not have known Kevin – this may be the first time you’ve heard his name – but because of your connection with Western, you are connected to what happened to him here. Even if you cannot be with us on Wednesday, I invite you to pause for a few minutes and lift up Kevin and those who will gather here – Miriam’s Kitchen guests and staff, Western members and staff, neighbors and students and others.  As you feel led, you may pray for the safety of all who draw near to our building, or that the legacy of this terrible act strengthen our resolve to treat all with respect and dignity.

This week, may you find your own thread in the single garment of destiny, and may you discover God knitting us all together,

Laura