(Photo by Rich Copley, PMA)
As we reflect and honor the contributions of many in Black History month, I am drawn to the powerful history of SDOP, a history of beginnings that were couched in the salient issues of the late 1960s well into the early ‘70s. Issues such as political unrest, poverty, racism, sexism, economic disenfranchisement and the need for repair were key issues that were integral to the formation of SDOP in what was then known as the United Presbyterian Church. It is an understatement to say that we were formed in turbulent and revolutionary times of the Civil Rights era, but it is also equally safe to say that we were also forged in both hope and determination.
Also, in reflection about the ministry of SDOP, I think about what we, the church, have learned and continue to learn from and through this work. I think about our community partners – our teachers – who have shown us what the profound work of anti-poverty looks like in our communities. Concomitantly, we as students of this work would like to do the same for you. As you look at the links provided here, we hope that it presents an opportunity for you to learn more about us and our community partners that engage in this profound work. (Continued online)
The Rev. Dr. Alonzo Johnson, Coordinator The Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People |
Celebrate SDOP Sunday March 10; new resource and yearbook available online |
SDOP headed to Commission on the Status of Women and co-hosting March 12 program in New York |
SDOP featured on ‘Connecting Our Conversations’ podcast during visit to Presbytery of Southern New England (Photo courtesy of SDOP) |
Spreading the Vision of Matthew 25 across the Church |
Matthew 25 is a living translation of Jesus Christ — strengthening relationships, transforming your church, and bringing alive your commitment to those who are marginalized or in need in your community and the world around us. Make no mistake, Jesus is calling us to perform ordinary acts of compassion in daily life. But we have also been called to consider the factors that led to these conditions, to confront the causes of inequality, to confess the sin of greed and to correct the problem of poverty — whether in our own nation and neighborhood, or around the world. |
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