Clair, Maddie, and Sarah What are three words that describe you? Loyal,...
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Clair, Maddie, and Sarah What are three words that describe you? Loyal, Funny, Friendly What's a favorite memory from Bethlehem? It would have to be Ms. Brenda and her basket of shakers. The kids loved them. Every week we came in, Madison looked forward to those shakers, and we knew we were there, and it was her way of engaging and being a part of the service. It was a really subtle way for kids to find their place. How did you get connected to Bethlehem? Through my pastor in Baltimore - I actually was going to a different church when I first came to New Orleans, I thought that's where I was supposed to me, but It became clear that wasn't the place. When I went back to Baltimore and to my Lutheran church there, I knew I wanted to find another Lutheran church. I asked Pastor Tillman if he knew of any Black Lutheran churches here, and he connected me to you. At the same I was reading Ruth, and it talked about them going back to Bethlehem, and I was like oh my goodness, this is where I am supposed to be. Why is this church important to you? First, I think Bethlehem, the name, reminds me of Christ. Two, it's a very inclusive place, you know, with my commitment to racial and social justice I feel like I can bring my full self to Bethlehem. Then, as I get to know more, I recognize the historical significance it has in New Orleans, and in the broader ELCA context, and it is important that it's a predominantly black congregation, and that the roots are of African descent, which again allows me to bring my full self. And the people, oh my goodness, the people are amazing. I think some of it is just New Orleans, but the folks here are so welcoming and loving and you feel it when you walk in Bethlehem. What are your dreams for Bethlehem? That it just continues to be around. This morning I was reflecting the city on the hill and what it means to be light. That Bethlehem can be light for the city and hope. That it can grow and expand and become a multigeneraltional multiethnic force and beacon in the community. Anything else: As much as I love being at home, I really miss the routine of coming to church and building community traditionally. I look forward to whenever the day comes for us to come back together.