By Pat Garber
I’m a member of the Strive Committee at Trinity Lutheran church. This committee focuses on a variety of justice issues: social, racial, mental health, environmental, etc. The committee is led by Deacon Lidixe Montoya, our Minister of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I chose to work on this committee because I care about these issues and have always been concerned about fairness, bias, etc. (Probably stems from my experience with 5 siblings and as the oldest having to assure that everyone got equal shares of goodies!)
Some issues the Strive Committee has worked on include reducing our impact on the environment such as composting and using less plastic. Recently there has been involvement in assisting an immigrant family. Last November we held a Hispanic Heritage Appreciation event which was well attended. Its purpose was to acquaint attendees with Hispanic culture and welcome those of that Heritage. It began with a “Service of the People” led by Deacon Lidixe, which was inclusive of non-English languages and music. The event featured a lunch of Hispanic foods (tortillas, para chips, Tres Leches cake) and games for adults and children such as opening a piñata. Also, we offered educational hours on the following JONAH work: general JONAH 101, mental health, immigration, childcare needs, and updates on refugee work in the community. We recognize that there is work to be done in many areas!
I work part-time for Trinity doing visitation, which includes visiting members who are facility- or home-bound, usually due to health issues. This means interacting with older members to help keep a connection to Trinity. Often this includes explaining the work of the Strive Committee. I find it inspirational that many share concerns about the issues being addressed, where the focus is bringing good news to all people and caring for creation. One couple I visited reminisced about when they helped with the resettlement of a Hmong family years ago, and were pleased to see such ministry continue. This allowed them to feel again the warmth of these precious memories.
As a child in Sunday School and confirmation classes, I recall being told how important it is to reach out to others, even across the world, to spread good news and share God’s love. Serving on the Strive Committee is a way to connect with those needing good news, and perhaps touch lives from other parts of the world in the process.