Ribbons of Hope

I was in Louisville on September 11, 2001. I had just returned from the World Conference against Racism. A friend flew into town from the same conference - scheduled to arrive on the evening of September 10. Because of flight issues, my friend ended up taking a taxi from Cincinnati that arrived at the Louisville airport early on the morning of September 11. A phone call from another friend later that morning brought me the first word of the day's event. It was a dazed day, even at that distance. In many ways, I continue to sort through the day and its meaning.

Now as the 10th Anniversary approaches, I find myself living in New York. The proximity fills the day with new meanings that lead me to ponder more deeply and work through in new ways.

I have not been to the World Trade Center site yet. Ever. I plan to take part in the events commemorating September 11 including the worship service of the Presbytery of New York City. I think I will go to the site before September 11.

I have helped the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) gather resources for the anniversary. I have promoted the work of Prepare New York.

Today, in a worship service at the Church Center for the United Nations led by the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations, we adapted a liturgy from the National Council of Churches created by written by the Rev. Dr. Eileen Lindner and the Rev. Jon Brown. In the places where the services suggested lighting candles, we invited people to write prayers of remembrance, comfort and hope on simple red ribbons. Ryan Smith read scripture; Peng Leong led the time of prayer; Kevin O'Hara from the Lutheran Office for World Community led the benediction. Thanks to all my friends who helped me pick a song!

These ribbons will become part of the Ribbons of Hope display in Battery Park on the weekend of Septmbe 11, 2011.

To paraphrase the blessing from the liturgy:
May memory now reside in us at peace. May comfort companion us in all our days. May hope spring forth in us by the power of the Holy Spirit. May we serve God in all that you do and say, witnessing to the reign and realm of God to come. Amen.

See you along the Trail.

Meeting with the Committee on Ministry

The highlight of the day was a meeting with the Committee on Ministry of the Presbytery of New York City - a step in transferring membership. It was actually quite enjoyable. Lots of questions - but fun questions to answer. I believe that seeds were planted for future conversations as well. I think that gathering small groups of folk to talk about ways to partner in ministry may be worth pursuing.

In terms of goals - I ate well again; got a normal blood sugar reading; and walked 10,236 steps. I have not gone to the gym or engaged in concerted walking as I have a couple of sore spots on my feet. I am taking care of them and am seeing some progress so hopefully the exercise/walking will commence soon.

I got home from the COM meeting soon enough to watch Ohio State play in the Sugar Bowl. It would really be good for them to win - or at least I know many folk who would like that - I assume there are many folk who would like Arkansas to win, I just don't know as many in that position. Things started really well, but the tension is rising. Ohio State just went on fourth down and came up short giving Arkansas good field position. This could ugly for Buckeye fans.

Tomorrow there is a meeting with the Eckerd College group; then I will do some work on the Interfaith Harmony Week; and then head to Louisville where I will stay in the Shire West for one night with a CPJ coordinators' meeting on Thursday.