Beloved Epworth Community,
Fear can bring out the worst in humans and sadly, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans. Since the beginning of the pandemic in the US, there have been 1700 recorded incidents, with 58% of those happening in New York and California. We can counter this fear and hate with our voices, our own actions of solidarity and care, and education for ourselves and others.
Until the end of May, KQED has a five-part series on
the history of Asian Americans
in the US. I hope you will not only watch this series, but also take a positive action to stand with our Asian American siblings and neighbors. I want to thank Amelia Chua for bringing this series to my attention.
I am also grieving today the loss of George Floyd’s life, an unarmed African American man who died from a police officer kneeling on his neck, though he posed no threat. This occurred in South Minneapolis, about four blocks from where Elizabeth and I lived 1998-99. While we are all attempting to avoid the loss of life associated with the coronavirus pandemic, the crisis of unarmed African Americans, particularly men, dying at the hands of police continues. Lord have mercy.
As we near the midpoint of our third month under stay at home orders, we know that many in our community are experiencing financial hardship. I want to remind you that we have a fund available to help. If you or someone you know has a need, please send an email to
covidrelief@epworthberkeley.org
with name, contact information and need or call me at the church 510-524-2921, x103, and I’ll get right back to you. All requests will be held in confidence.
Speaking of finances, while March income held steady at Epworth, April has seen a decrease in both giving ($21,000 under budget) and building use ($6000 under budget.) Though there is not much we can do about the loss of income due to building use, I want to encourage you to bring your pledge up to date or make a special gift to Epworth if you are in a position to do so. You can also set up a regular gift of any amount on autopay through your bank or through our
website
. Thank you so much for your generosity and support of Epworth in this time especially.
In the coming weeks, our Do No Harm team will be sharing with you the plans and protocols we are putting in place to return to our building. I miss you all and look forward to seeing you again as soon as we can safely do so. Take good care, and know that you are loved.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Kristin
