In God We Trust: Pledging for a Special Place
By Donny MacKenzie
This place is special not just because it has a priceless Tiffany piece on its Western wall. It's special because in the Southern and Northern transepts during communion its lay people lay hands on and pray for others in need.
This place is special not just because it has a Peace Cross in its garden. It's special because its people each week collectively pray for peace.
This place is special not just because it has and has had esteemed judges, politicians and community leaders in its pews. It's special because it has parishioners who stand up and say ICARE about good government and social justice.
This place is special not just because it has a gold-gilded bible and an exquisite pulpit. It's special because it preaches and proclaims the Gospel of Christ. Through the tongues of many. From chalky-white Englishmen with funny accents to chocolate-brown south Africans with funny accents. From those with wild and wooly beards sharing the passion of Christ to those with little hair proclaiming the compassion of Jesus.
This place is special not just because of its warm environment and great food and fellowship. It's special because its people leave the warmth of their homes on cold nights to help provide shelter to those who are homeless and hungry.
This place is special not just because of its beautiful liturgy and powerful music. It's special because it reaches out to those who are weary and infirm and provides a soft touch and a soothing prayer to those in need of a quiet moment.
This place is special not because of bricks and mortar and stained glass shaped into inspirational forms and symbolism. It's special because of the person who sits beside, in front of and behind you in worship.