[printprofilepic]There is a spiritual hunger today and it cannot be satisfied by better cars on longer credit terms — Adlai Stevenson
As many of us make plans for Thanksgiving trips, family reunions and sumptuous meals, we know, as the name of this holiday says, the emphasis should be on gratitude. We know that as we feast there are almost 925 million people who suffer the effects of hunger: malnutrition, weakened immune systems and poor cognition. When we call ourselves Unitarian Universalists we try to affirm and promote our principles and also to put them into practice. We do so by educating ourselves about social justice issues such as hunger. Sometimes as individuals we act in quiet and humble ways, and sometimes we act as a community with conviction and mutual encouragement.
Before we travel to meet with family or friends or before we engage in holiday preparations, the children in the religious exploration program will have an opportunity to feel what it might be like to be disadvantaged and hungry on November 21st. They will experience what is called a Hunger Banquet during which a few will eat an abundant meal, others will eat an ordinary meal and the most will eat a very paltry meal. In this way, they will better understand the inequities in our world and address ways to address hunger issues.
This process may evoke anger, tears, or sadness, or care and sharing. They will feel something and we hope they’ll understand what empathy is. Later in the afternoon, they can extend their experience by walking with their families in the CROP WALK. At the end of the day let’s hope their feelings are of gratitude, understanding, engagement, and empathy.
May you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your loved ones.
Benette Sherman
Interim DRE
DATES TO REMEMBER
- November 21: Hunger Banquet, Return your Guest at Your Table boxes
- November 28: Intergenerational Service at 11 a.m., no RE classes (childcare available)
- December 3-5: 7th-12th grade youth CON at the church
- December 11: Holiday party for everyone
- December 19: No RE classes (parents and teachers, this is a change to your calendars), One Intergenerational “Stories of the Season” Service
- December 20 or 21: Winter solstice celebration
- December 24: Christmas Eve service(s) December 26: No RE classes, one service January 2: No RE classes, one service
