Providing Shelter, a Thanksgiving offering

NCF Office – November 12, 2024 2 Comments

Each November we collect a special offering as an expression of gratitude to share our bounty with those in need. This year, our gifts will go to support shelter for refugees in Lebanon through Evelyne Accad and housing in our own community through a Habitat for Humanity build with the faith communities of the Interfaith Alliance. Lee Ann Kelly shares why this ministry is an important part of our faith walk.-Renée 

When I was asked to write a pastor’s note regarding the Interfaith Alliance 2025 Habitat Build as part of our Thanksgiving offering, this quote came to mind:

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
    And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
   and to walk humbly with your God.”
–Micah 6:6-8  

This is my sober reminder and a rubric for evaluating the choices I make. 

I am thankful for the opportunity to represent NCF at the Interfaith Alliance these last 8 years.  It is humbling and an encouragement to be with members of congregations that believe by sharing our various perspectives and traditions, we can grow in our respect and acceptance of one another.  And by working together on common goals, we can help transform our community.  Learning from them has enriched my own faith.

A Habitat build is a great opportunity for the Interfaith Alliance to do good and for our congregations to connect.  Affordable housing is a national concern these days.  The most recent stats suggest that 31.3% of all Americans are “burdened” by housing costs, which means spending more than 30% on housing.  This  number includes both those above and below the poverty line.  

Now here is a look at the poverty line statistics:
US:  11.1%    
IL: 11.6%  
Champaign County: 19.9%    
Champaign: 23.6%    
Urbana: 27.7%  
44.5% (Ch) and 74% (Ur) of their students are low income.  

Yet, I think the worst stat is 81%
81% of those living below the poverty line in Illinois spend close to 50% and up to 70% of their income on housing. This is the difference between healthy and cheap food, safe/unsafe neighborhoods and the quality of physical and mental health.

Supporting this build is an issue of justice especially when the poverty rates are much higher for persons of color. Mercy is our avenue of action.  And experiencing humility?  That is a gift from our heavenly Abba/Amma. – Lee Ann Kelly
           
To give to our Thanksgiving Offering: Make checks payable to New Covenant Fellowship with “Thanksgiving” in the memo line. Or click here to donate online (and add “Thanksgiving” as the note).