Congregational Voices: Hope Lutheran, Jordan
In our Collaborative Voices for June, we look at Hope Lutheran Church in Jordan, Minnesota. The Southwest congregation has been a Beacon collaborating congregation since 2014. We talked to Sarah Gavert, the Shared Ministry Coordinator at the congregation.
“Hope is a mid-sized congregation started over 40 years ago. It began in the gym of one of the Jordan schools before building on the current location. The present sanctuary and education area were added in 2004. The people of Hope are here to not only spread the good news, but to act out our faith by our actions and deeds. All are welcome to join us. As people of faith it is our responsibility to work for freedom, justice and peace for all peoples. We are called to work on the many issues surrounding housing.
I joined Hope in 2005. I am now working in the office as the Shared Ministry Coordinator and help out wherever I can and when my health allows.
Hope has been involved with Beacon since 2014. Hope and St John the Baptist Catholic Church joined together to shelter guests from the Families Moving Forward Program. Part of our mission as followers of Jesus is to help others, and FMF is a great way to do that. I am one of the volunteer coordinators for FMF and have helped with some hosting duties.
Beacon has made a huge impact in helping us understand homelessness in our community. More people are aware of the scope of the problem than they were before. Our eyes are slowly being opened to the many injustices that people experiencing homelessness, or those struggling to hang on to their homes, face.
In small town Jordan you don’t really see the homeless – until I started working more closely with Beacon I was unaware there was even an issue in Jordan. It’s clear that we need more affordable housing in our area. I personally would love to see some type of shelter for those who need it.
I have really enjoyed the classes that Beacon offers. I have learned so much about the homeless and the varied reasons for becoming homeless. My eyes have also been opened to the racial disparity that exists all around me. I am looking forward to the June Convening!
I would tell anyone who’s interested: don’t hesitate to get involved with Beacon! They are very supportive and the people are wonderful throughout the collaborative.”
