In November we visited Washington, DC, the culmination of our Servant Leadership course in the fall. Our visit was focused around Church of the Savior, started by Gordon and Mary Cosby in the 1940’s in the Columbia Heights and Adam’s Morgan neighborhoods. What I was struck by was the church’s (and the Cosby’s) incredible legacy in that neighborhood. There were so many amazing organizations that grew out of the compassion of Church of the Savior and still impact the people around them in positive ways today. Church of the Savior showed me about character, a church body that is all about deep, meaningful participation in their communities. They fought for change throughout tumultuous times in history, and continue to fight for change and justice today even as their neighborhood is shifting. The fact that Church of the Savior couldn’t and still cannot stay silent on issues that affect their neighbors and loved ones is a powerful example of what the church can be. That example is something I will be thinking about as I go forward in my faith journey.
–Elena Rivera is working for Dress for Success Triangle NC this year. Her journalism passion is currently being inspired by the podcast Serial.
Character is one of the 5 values we focus on during the service year. Here is the JSC definition:
Character: I am truly accountable to those served and approach opportunities for change with awareness of community assets. I meet commitments on time and act responsibly with public and personal trust. I am accountable for my words and actions.