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Pilot Program Focuses on Ministry in Urban Context
OAKLAND, CA (September 12, 2006) - A recently completed pilot program that brought eight young participants to work with the poor, study and reflect on the experience over a three-week period was a huge success, says Greg Yee, director of leadership and congregational development for the Pacific Southwest Conference.
The Journey to Mosaic Squared (j2m2) began July 22 with the participants coming together to live in the multicultural lower Fruitvale District of Oakland home. Facilitators for the event were Michelle Dodson and Stephen Sharkey from New Community Covenant Church in Chicago.
“The goal of the program was to expose, educate, and challenge the participants about life and ministry in an urban context,” Yee says. The idea is rooted in the conference’s Journey to Mosaic trips. Participants travel to sites related to racial injustice with regards to Latinos, Asians, and African Americans as a means of seeking reconciliation.
A rhythm of teaching, experiencing, and reflection organized the three weeks. Teachers from Chicago and within the Pacific Southwest Conference unpacked biblical topics including compassion, justice, love, community, and the church. The students also learned experientially while visiting and serving at such places as the Santa Clara County jail, an inner city mission, a day laborer center, a senior care center, and at a local school. Group debriefing sessions followed each experience.
During the final service, pastor Brian Woodson of Bay Area Christian Connection in Oakland said the training was similar to instructions given to military recruits. “Wouldn't it be great," Woodson said, "if likewise, we train young people to love. If we say to them, go! Go to that city, that area, that neighborhood and love. Love as many people as possible!"
Plans for a second j2m2 next summer are being considered.
Copyright © 2008 The Evangelical Covenant Church. |
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