4/1/20 I Hope & Service
Stories of Hope:
God's first act in the Bible is to create- light, earth, sky, plants, animals, and humans. Creating and creativity are often a beautiful expression of our faith, and certainly remain so during this time of social distancing. While professional artists and performing arts institutions are in the same social-distancing boat as the rest of us, many have found a way to share their gifts despite distance and separation. Museums have offered online tours, performing arts around the world, including dance, musical theater, opera, and Shakespeare companies have begun sharing free online versions of ther performances, musicians have offered live performances on Facebook, the much-loved children's author Mo Willems has offered daily 'lunch doodles' online to share in the joy of art... the list could go on and on! This outpouring of the arts and continual creativity has been a true gift and sign of hope in the midst of this pandemic. Here are a few of my favorites songs that have been shared recently:
Singers from around Nashville formed an online choir for this beautiful rendition of "It is Well With My Soul"- click here
The cast of the Broadway musical "Dear Evan Hansen" put together a version of the powerful song "You Will be Found" from their homes:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bSAMJIS-HOo
The Toronto Symphony Orchestra performed Appalachian Spring from their homes:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rzZ2F18MwI
I pray that these pieces and more lift your spirits as we continue to care for our community by staying home! If you have stories of hope you’d like to share in the weeks ahead, you are welcome to email them to me, Candace Johnson, at cjohnson@ssumc.org
Ways to Serve:
-The food pantry Jenn Lott began at Samad Mediterranean Grill has added a second location at Under the Cork Tree! Donations of food items can be dropped off from 11am-3pm in a box outside of the restaurant. Volunteers are also needed for hour-long shifts to assist families; you can find out more about volunteer guidelines and sign up here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0c45a8ac29a6fb6-popuppantries
-The CAC has collaborated with musicians from Berklee College of music to organiza an online concert to support families in need through the Corona-Aid Relief Fund. You can donate and find more details here: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/coro/mobile