Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Because we are called by Christ to respond to the cry of the poor, we invite you to take action with us by joining in an important new churchwide initiative, which we pray will make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering in the wake of the global food crisis.
Starting this October, Presbyterians will be encouraged on a monthly basis to adopt the ancient spiritual practice of fasting, beginning on Friday evening, and ending with Communion on a Sunday morning, where the Sacrament is regularly observed. The year-long cycle of prayer and fasting – or the partaking of simple meals – will end October 16, 2009, on World Food Day. Interpretive materials for each month will be available.
Won’t you join us as we stand in solidarity with the poor and the hungry, discerning – with God’s help – faithful responses and meaningful coordinated actions to lift up our worldwide community through this global crisis?
Faithfully yours,
The Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow
Moderator of the 218th General Assembly
Elder Linda Bryant Valentine
Executive Director, General Assembly Council
The Rev. Gradye Parsons
Stated Clerk of the General Assembly