Our very own member, Rev Jerri Handy, will be traveling in Tijuana Mexico next week as part of her work with UCC Global Ministries with Albergue Las Memorias. This is an HIV/AIDS Hospice Center currently serving 95+ residents. This particular center is unique in its mission to house, clothe, feed, and transport to medical appointments as needed for each resident. All of this is offered without cost to residents, all of whom are HIV positive. And it is more than this, as residents find hope and meaning in life as they live in an atmosphere of care and respect.
Jerri describes her work at this hospice center: My whole life has been preparing me for serving at Las Memorias. I have a Marriage and Family Therapy degree from Christian Theological Seminary and an MDiv from Pacific School of Religion. These two degrees, together with my life experiences, have prepared me to work with individuals and families who are facing life decisions. Addictions work, family systems in a community setting and working with spiritual guidance all come together in this community.
She will return with stories from her travels, and share these as part of her sermon on Sunday, Oct 27. Her sermon for Reformation Sunday is entitled “Let it Go”, and will focus on our personal and collective courage to change what we can for the greater good.
Also, mark your calendars for Nov 3rd, as we will plan to celebrate the soulful and joyful music ministry of Benjamin Mertz, on his last Sunday with us.
I will be away this week at our UCC national offices for board meetings with the UCC Church Building and Loan Fund, and with our UCC climate justice ministry team.
