Beyond These Walls...

"Because oppression, or the lack of universal justice, is so insidious, we must labor constantly to bring about our great hope, the commonwealth of God. We do this not only because oppression limits the ability of the disinherited to use their talents but also because it can easily make them doubt the goodness, if not the very existence, of God. Finally, in due time oppression will almost invariably lead the victims to resort to violence and many of the superficial to blame the victims because they would no longer bear the pain not experienced by their critics..."
-Dwight Spann-Wilson 1981
Daily Readings from Quaker Writings Ancient amp; Modern, p. 289

Central has a rich history as a church without walls by reaching out to the people of Baltimore City and addressing the injustices that have long resided there. Much of this work continues to be done through the Missions Committee, but not many people know of the opportunities available to serve and be served by the people of Baltimore City in an effectual way. Matthew Schultz and I are hosting a discussion on Sunday, June 5th, regarding a sampling of the programs in which the Missions Committee is involved. The time will focus on giving you the opportunity to set up new relationships with these programs and the people they involve.

The eight-week experience is designed not only to make people more aware of the opportunities to minister but also to foster discussions and encourage relationships. We want participants to think outside the walls and comfort that Central provides and ask God how He wants us to use the resources He has given us. We approach this experience not as teachers but compatriot learners, together venturing into Baltimore in hands-on ways.

The most important part of this experience will be the emphasis on relationships. We can learn more about relationships by walking beside real people on the streets of Baltimore than by lecturing. Jesus had an amazing way of gaining the respect and love of people he walked with, not simply by sitting and talking, but by walking in relationship with them. The stereotypes of the city must be overcome in order for us as a church to experience life in the full way that God intended for us. A lecture will not disprove them but will only magnify the separation that keeps people from engaging Baltimore. Only through real-life experiences and friendships will the stereotypes that separate us be broken down.

Matthew and I long to walk beside those willing to step into a relationship with Baltimore and learn with you so that we all can hopefully become more aware of issues that can often seem so distant to us. This opportunity will not only provide you with new eyes to see, but a desire to act and live in Baltimore as God calls us to promote justice the best way we can.

See NV: Church Without Walls: Reaching Baltimore Through Social Action for more information.

See also Social Action Ministries at Central in Baltimore Area.