Social Justice Task Force, Grace Presbytery

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'Til Kingdom Come Screening and Discussion

April 13, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Guest Speaker: Rev. Craig Hunter
West Plano Presbyterian Church
2709 Custer Rd, Plano, TX 75075

West Plano Presbyterian Church will be hosting a screening of 'Til Kingdom Come, followed by a discussion and Palestinian Dinner. 'Til Kingdom Come uses a small church community in Kentucky and its support for the state of Israel to explore the larger relationship between American Christian Zionism and the state of Israel - a relationship that is essential to understanding Israel and Palestine today. Their guest discussion panelists include Rev. Craig Hunter, who recently returned from Palestine with a Presbyterian delegation, and Dr. Khawaja Ikram who served in Gaza as an orthopedic surgeon.

Register Here: https://gracepresbytery.regfox.com/screening-of-documentary-at-west-plano

Christ is Risen! Blessings on this day of Resurrection Joy and discovery of new life.
Easter is the oldest and most important holy day throughout Christianity. It is a celebration of Jesus’ resurrection after his death on the cross three days earlier on Good Friday. Christians believe this is the fulfilled prophecy of the Messiah and has given the gift of eternal life in heaven to those who believe in his death and resurrection.
Christians around the world celebrate Easter with special church services, music, flowers, and the ringing of church bells. Non-secular celebrations involve the Easter bunny who brings baskets of treats, including jellybeans, Easter eggs, and chocolates. Easter egg hunts are also popular.
Passover typically begins close to Easter, however, that timing is thrown off periodically. The lunar-based Hebrew calendar is shorter than the Gregorian calendar used in the United States and many other parts of the world. Every few years a leap month is added — an extra 29 days — to keep pace with the seasons. When this happens, it can distance Passover from Easter; even making it after Easter as it is this year.

Shared by Colleen Holbert - Communities Foundation of Texas
Photo credit: Bruno van der Kraan on Unsplash

Holi - a Festival of Color!
Observed since the 4th century, Holi is a jubilant Hindu festival marking the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. This two-day festival stems from the legend that evil King Hiranyakashyap forbid his son from worshiping Lord Vishnu. His son refused and continued to worship Lord Vishnu. The king had his sister Holika lure the son to sit in a fire with her. She had a magical cloak that would protect only her from the fire. However, the cloak blew to the son and protected him instead. Holika was killed in the fire. On the night before Holi, bonfires are lit to signify the burning of Holika and the victory of good over evil.
Also known as the Festival of Color, Holi celebrates the eternal love between Radha and Lord Krishna. Lord Krisha was worried that fair-skinned Radha would not love him with his blue skin. His mother teased him that he should paint her face whatever color he liked. The mischievous Krishna did so and today Holi is marked with people throwing rainbow-hued powder and water at each other. Each of the colors carries a meaning - red symbolizes love, and green represents new beginnings.

Shared by Colleen Holbert, Communities Foundation of Texas

Through the month we have been honoring the celebrations of faith traditions. Now we mark the holiest week of the Christian church as Palm Sunday marks the beginning Holy Week...
It commemorates Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. The crowd lined his path with palm fronds and waved them in his honor. Palm branches were considered symbols of victory and triumph at the time. Today processional celebrations in Christian churches symbolize this journey.
Maundy Thursday takes place the Thursday before Easter and is believed by most Christian denominations to be the day when Jesus celebrated his final Passover with His disciples. This is the beginning of the Holy Eucharist, also referred to as the Lord's Supper, the Lord’s Evening Meal, or communion.
Good Friday is the remembrance of the willing crucifixion and death of Jesus on the cross. This day is one of solemn reflection of Christ’s sacrifice to atone for humanity’s sins. Many Christian congregations will make their altars bare, fast and muffle their bells as a sign of mourning. In the Catholic Church, believers pray the Stations of the Cross, a 14-step devotion, and observe a day of abstinence, especially from meat.

On this day, Purim commemorates the survival of the Jewish people in Persia in the 5th century BCE. Haman, an advisor to the Persian king planned to execute all the country’s Jewish subjects in one day. Esther, Queen of Persia revealed her hidden Jewish heritage and asked the king, her husband, to save her people from slaughter. He agreed and had Haman executed instead.
Originally a minor festival, Purim has been elevated to a major holiday celebrated with spirit of liveliness and fun. Observances include reading the Book of Esther, giving money to at least two poor people, sending gifts of at least two kinds of food to another person, and a festive Purim feast. It is customary for children to dress up in costumes.

Shared by Colleen Holbert, Communities Foundation of Texas

It's the Spring Equinox!
The Spring Equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, is when the sun sits above the equator, making day and night roughly 12 hours each. Equinox translates from the Latin word aeguus (equal) and nox (night). Vernal means new or fresh.
In England, Druid and Wiccan groups gather at Stonehenge to greet the rising sun on the Spring Equinox, which they celebrate as Ostara. Like many other spring celebrations in other cultures, Ostara symbolizes fertility, rebirth, and renewal. Ostara comes from the pagan fertility goddess Eostre.

Ramadan, a fast of faith and worship, begins today -
The holiest month in the Islamic year, Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days. The start of Ramadan changes each year as it is determined by the lunar calendar and the sighting of the New Moon. During Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an to the prophet Muhammad. Fasting (sawm) during the holy month of Ramadan is the fourth pillar of Islam. While sawm is generally understood to mean refraining from food and drink from dusk to dawn, it is also interpreted to include refraining from sexual activity, impure or unkind thoughts and immoral behavior. The fast is an act of faith and worship in which Muslims develop self-control, gratitude, and compassion for those less fortunate.
Each night, the fast is broken with prayer and Iftar - the evening meal. This is often shared with friends and family. While able-bodied adults and older children fast during the daylight hours from dawn to dusk, exemptions are made for pregnant and nursing women, children, the old or infirm and travelers on long journeys.

Shared by Colleen Holbert, Communities Foundation of Texas

March 8 - the Hindu festival of Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri, meaning Great Night of Shiva, is a major Hindu festival. Lord Shiva is part of the Hindu holy trinity with Brahma and Vishnu. The festival is celebrated with street performances, colorful masks representing Shiva and colorful paints and lights. It also sees worshippers fast, pray and sing hymns.
There are differing beliefs around the origins of the festival. Some consider the festival as a celebration of Shiva’s marriage to the Goddess Paravati. Some believe it commemorates the night Shiva drank poison, saving the universe. Another legend is the night when he performed a dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.

- shared by Colleen Halbert, Communities Foundation of Texas

March is a month to honor Women's History, Irish American Heritage, and Greek American Heritage. Celebrate the diversity we get to enjoy as God's children. Learn more here (courtesy of Colleen Halbert, Communities Foundation of Texas)...

Women's History Month
In 1987, Congress declared March as National Women’s History Month in perpetuity to honor and recognize the achievements and contributions of women throughout our country’s history.

Article: Supporting women in leadership: Strategies and allies unveiled — People MattersWomen have been instrumental in many areas of life in the United States since its founding, including the business, education, religion, healthcare, the military, technology, and the arts. Texas has produced many renowned female authors in both the fiction and non-fiction sectors, including Monica Muñoz Martinez, Attica Locke, Mattie Ruth Cross, Dorothy Scarborough, Estela Portillo-Trambley, and Annette Gordon-Reed. And in the visual arts, Texas is also well represented by female artists – check out this blog post about 10 Women Artists in Texas for more information and inspiration.

Irish American Heritage Month
Make NYC Home this Spring and Celebrate Irish Heritage - New York Habitat BlogFirst proclaimed by President George W Bush in 1991, Irish American Heritage Month is held in March to coincide with St. Patrick's Day on March 17th. St. Patrick’s Day is the Catholic feast day of St. Patrick – the patron saint of Ireland who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Immigrants from Ireland to the United States, transformed St. Patrick’s Day into a secular celebration of Irish heritage, including parades, traditional music and dance and wearing green.
From 1841, shortly before the Irish Potato Famine, to World War II, estimates conclude that 4.5 million Irish came to the United States. Today, more than 31.5 million residents claim Irish ancestry.

Greek American Heritage Month
Wearing traditional costumes, brothers Nick, 8, and Athan Dafulas, 7, of Attleboro, Mass., members of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Cranston, await the start of the Greek Independence Day ceremony at the State House.Greek American Heritage Month was created to celebrate Greek culture and ideals. Also known as Hellenic History Month, the celebration coincides with National Greek Independence Day on March 25th. Greek Independence came at the end of the Greek Revolution in 1921. Before that, the Ottoman Empire had occupied Greece for over 400 years.
For generations of Greek-Americans, with their attachment to the Greek Orthodox church, preserving the culture, religion, and language of Greece are focal points in their lives. The first Greek Orthodox Liturgy in Dallas was held in November 1915, when Father Paisios Ferentinos came from New Orleans and established what is now Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

photo credit- George Pagan III on Unsplash

Black History Month, observed in February, serves as a significant time to reflect on the rich and diverse contributions of Black individuals throughout history. Beyond acknowledging achievements in various fields, it is also an opportune moment to consider the intersection of Black history and Theological Social Justice. Theological Social Justice involves examining religious principles and applying them to address social, economic, and political inequalities. In the context of Black History Month, this framework emphasizes the role of faith and spirituality in advocating for justice, equality, and human rights.

Many Black leaders and communities have drawn inspiration from their religious beliefs to confront systemic injustices. The Civil Rights Movement, for instance, was significantly influenced by the moral teachings of various faith traditions. Leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a Baptist minister, rooted their calls for equality and nonviolent resistance in Christian principles. Theologians such as Howard Thurman and James Cone also contributed to shaping a theological discourse that addressed racial oppression and advocated for social justice.

Theological Social Justice invites believers to scrutinize their religious teachings and challenge any interpretations that may perpetuate discrimination or inequality. It encourages communities to actively engage in dismantling structures of oppression and to promote inclusivity and fairness.

During Black History Month, congregations, religious institutions, and individuals can engage in discussions and educational activities that highlight the role of faith in the struggle for civil rights and equality. This includes exploring historical narratives, analyzing religious texts in the context of justice, and fostering a commitment to social activism within religious communities.

In summary, Black History Month emphasized our need to delve into the intersection of Black history and Theological Social Justice. By acknowledging the pivotal role of faith in the fight against injustice, we can strive for a more inclusive and equitable society guided by the principles of compassion, love, and justice.

Tuesday, February 13 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Temple Emanu-El
Have you experienced difficulty in finding the words to faithfully converse about the war in Israel and Gaza? Faith Commons is sponsoring a Faith Leaders Luncheon: Advocates of Humanity -
Join Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger and Noor A'Wad to discover new language to speak about the war in Israel and Gaza.
See the link for more information and registration. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/faith-leaders-luncheon-advocates-of-humanity-tickets-814103143417?aff=oddtdtcreator
Learn more about Faith Commons - https://faithcommons.org/

February 5, 7pm - "Rising: The Hall of Negro Life"
Join Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church for an engaging evening at the special screening of the 30 minute documentary film, followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by radio host Ed "The Commish" Gray, featuring producer Lindell Singleton. Attendance is free but please RSVP so they can have an idea of numbers. See the link for more information and to register...
https://www.phpc.org/event/rising-the-hall-of-negro-life---a-chapter-in-dallas-civil-rights-history

Jesus calls to us love our neighbor. We do so through acts of goodwill. And God sends the Church to work for justice in the world by changing unjust systems. Engaging in the voting process is a means to faithfully exercise our power for the common good, seeking dignity and freedom for all people, and promote justice and fairness in the law (Directory for Worship, W-5.0304). Join the Social Justice Task Force February 3 for a multi-faith event to learn ways to talk about voting and impact our communities to become faithful, educated voters. Register via this link http://txfaith.org/NTFVevent or at the QR code below.

11th Annual Israel / Palestine Film Festival promises to be a meaningful time of learning and conversation. Graciously hosted by Trinity Presbyterian Church Denton, this event is free and includes a Palestinian dinner!

What are you doing on January 16, the National Day of Racial Healing? Save the date and register for this free event hosted by Dallas Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation. Be present to the process of healing from the effects of racism.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! Join Dallas TRHT for this year’s National Day of Racial Healing, featuring Nikki Giovanni and Dallas Goldtooth! You can register now on our website, through the link in our bio, or on Eventbrite!

We can’t wait to see you there!

The National Day of Racial Healing is just around the corner! As we anticipate this significant day, take a moment to reflect: “How are you creating more love, justice, and equity within your community?” Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

This weekend learn, honor, and celebrate Native American Heritage:
Native American Contest Powwow, November 11, 10am-6pm, AT&T Discovery District - The Inter-Tribal Council of AT&T Employees showcases Native American artisans, vendors and competition dancers in the third annual Contest Powwow. Native Americans in traditional regalia will make a grand entrance on the AT&T Discovery District plaza at 1 p.m. The day includes demonstrations, authentic Native cuisine and competitive dancing for men, women, seniors, teens and children. Free parking is available at 1212 Jackson St. with validation from district merchants. (courtesy of Dallas Morning News. Photo by Andrew James on Unsplash)

Tuesday, November 7 is an important day to speak up regarding 14 Texas state constitutional amendments and various local ballots, bonds, and propositions. Exercise your citizenship, go vote.
Photo by Glen Carrie on Unsplash

Things to do to learn, honor, and celebrate Native American Heritage:
Watch

Native America | PBS Season 2 of Native America is a groundbreaking portrait of contemporary Indian Country.

“Unmasking the Powers Behind the United States Gun Violence Epidemic” presented by Rev. Deanna Hollas on October 24 is available by recording. Feel free to share and broaden our horizons in educating about gun violence and learning how to take action to prevent it.
The day after this presentation, we lost 19 of "these who are members of my family" to gun violence in Lewiston, Maine. In the words of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, “there comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why the people are falling in.”
We grieve and lament from the banks of the river in Lewiston. Again we are overwhelmed. And already we may be numb to this news, protecting ourselves from the pain because it is regular fare for our headlines. It is easy to be paralyzed because it doesn’t change. But, Jesus made the paralyzed walk! And when they walked, they shared the good news. We must be the good news. With compassion, advocate for laws that protect mentally ill to prevent them from such violence. Stand up and speak out in stores where fi****ms are on full display to children and families. As Jesus critiqued leaders who abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition, we must call out the U.S. tradition of guns that has abandoned the commandment of God. "I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these who are members of my family, you have done it for me" (Matthew 25:40).
https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/g_qTBUB1D7R01QpT6jTVHAY8jiZRzplVdX2Obd_n2JXL9Y00-Y6XgTXAJGArQs-g.PZPfVJTGQm--C41Z

Native American Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge the historical and cultural legacy of the first inhabitants of North America and Alaska: the indigenous peoples who cared for this land. The name Texas comes from the Caddo word taysha' meaning "ally" or "friend." This month recognizes hundreds of different tribes and approximately 250 laguages across the United States, including the more than 50 Indigenous tribes that have existed in Texas, such as the Alabama-Coushatta, Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo, and Kickapoo Traditional tribes.
Native American Heritage Month, also referred to as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, provides an opportunity to raise general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present. (text from Colleen Halbert of Communities Foundation of Texas. Photo by Andrew James on Unsplash ).

People for Justice in Palestine and Israel is a small interfaith group operating under the auspices of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Denton to educate and advocate around the situation in Israel/Palestine. Trinity PC invites you to to a virtual event Thursday, Nov 2 at 8pm to listen and learn about the unfolding humanitarian crises in Gaza, featuring Mara Kronenfeld, Executive Director of UNRWA-USA - the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. Join the gathering via the link or QR code below.

Tuesday, October 24, 7pm virtual event with Rev. Deanna Hollas - "Unmasking the Powers Behind the United States Gun Violence Epidemic."
Register through the following link...
https://gracepresbytery.regfox.com/unmasking-the-powers-behind-the-united-states-gun-violence-epidemic?fbclid=IwAR2lP_1Gh_wHnM_mDz5-snEI6bqQsXlz0cPotj-XlVjB6J58iC-RZbG5-cw

"Now is the time to elevate the universal experience of human grief, and set aside disagreements, no matter how well reasoned. Now is the time for healing of our souls..." From a Virginia Rabbi's powerful and sensitive letter to a local Muslim society. Shared with us via Presbyterian Outlook:

Interreligious respect and care: A Virginia rabbi's letter to a local Muslim society - The Presbyterian Outlook All Dulles Area Muslim Society and Northern Virginia Hebrew Congregation have partnered for 15 years. In a letter penned earlier this week, Rabbi Michael G. Holzman emphasizes the importance of their relationship in the face of violence.

With one voice may we join in solidarity with the PC(USA) Office of Public Witness in lament and confession...

We cry aloud for the devastation that has occurred and the fear of what might be.
We lament the lost lives of civilians, sojourners, military personnel,
journalists, and aid workers.
For the injured, kidnapped, and refugees we pray.
We cry aloud for those whose homes have been destroyed and those who have been forced to leave their homes for safer ground.
We lament the impact of war on families who become fractured or separated. Political leaders declare war, civilians pay the price.
We cry aloud for those who feel forgotten, helpless, abandoned, and trapped within their own land.
We are saddened by a delay in a peace agreement between Israel and its neighbors.
We decry the withholding of food, water, electricity, and medical supplies for people already devastated by isolation and embargo.
We decry the actions of Hamas on Israeli citizens and the violent retaliation of Israel against the Palestinian people.
We decry our own nation’s involvement in the region to provide peace and stability, but instead causes increased militarism and division.
For world powers to eagerly enforce peace between Israel and its neighbors, we pray.
In our lament we confess that we have not listened to our partners first nor the people of Israel and Palestine. We have leaned into our settler-colonial ways believing that we held solutions for other peoples and lands. We have trusted military might when God calls us toward diplomacy and peaceful protest. We confess that we are all too often egocentric putting ourselves, our families, and our nation’s needs before those of Palestinian people and Israeli peace and human rights organizations. In our lament we pause to pray and move to more just actions.
https://www.votervoice.net/mobile/PCUSA/Campaigns/108180/Respond?fbclid=IwAR2zKZ-UPVJ6ktXXzpWh7Bm4b12jt639vLh29gtwVyfrxklJEuReYi2QQIY

Statement of Lament for Israel and Palestine  Our televisions and social feeds are full of news from Israel-Palestine and the recent declaration of war. To people of many faiths this land is culturally rich, historically significant, and sacred ground. Scenes of explosions and sounds of...

We offer thoughts and prayers and are becoming conditioned to gun violence. It will not end without taking action. Let's learn together -on Tuesday, October 24, join us for a virtual event "Unmasking the Powers Behind the United States Gun Violence Epidemic."

Unmasking the Powers Behind the United States Gun Violence Epidemic Online registration for Unmasking the Powers Behind the United States Gun Violence Epidemic.