Here at the SE Portland Parish we understand that our worshipping communities are in ministry with our neighborhoods. One of our most beautiful assets in Portland is the engagement level of citizens in their neighborhood. With Eilidh and Jeff attending the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood group, I also attend the Woodstock and Foster-Powell Neighborhood Associations.
As many of you know, Transition Projects recently opened a shelter on Foster and 61st called the Laurelwood Center. Transition Projects also recently opened a short-term family shelter on Powell. Two Sundays ago, the Foster-Powell Neighborhood Association sponsored and cooked the meal for both shelters utilizing the incredible kitchen facilities at Laurelwood. And y’all, let me tell you we had such an incredible time. Not only was it fun to cook and see the beauty of a group of 12 or so people pooling together their resources to make a meal for 200 people, talk about fishes and loaves, but the conversations and connections we were able to make with each other as we cooked and dished-out supper.
I was so amazed, encouraged, and grateful to be able to connect with all of my neighbors in such a way. The shelter’s residents expressed so much gratitude and to each of them I just said, “Of course. That is what neighbors do.” I am so grateful that my neighborhood is making space for people to be safe and cared for as they get back on their feet. I saw the gospel and the Spirit alive and well that Sunday night. If any of you reading this feel so moved to come alongside and serve a meal, or even for a group of us from the Parish to provide a meal— please let me know! You will not regret it.
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