CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTION

Heidi Gross, a member of the Chicago First congregation and managing editor for Brethren Press, wrote a reflection (based on the scripture below) that appeared on the April 27 bulletin cover in Brethren Press’ “Living Word” bulletin series (Learn more about this excellent resource for congregations at www.brethrenpress.com.) This is shared with permission from Heidi:

Among them (John 20:19)

Chicago First Church of the Brethren is in a neighborhood that many people consider to be unsafe. There are a lot of locked doors in East Garfield Park.

But First Church has been a presence (and at our best, an open and welcoming one) in this neighborhood for one hundred years.

We have strived to “cultivate love, peace, and justice in East Garfield Park, Chicago, and beyond,” as our vision statement goes. In the midst of empty lots, our church garden offers a place of respite, beautiful native plants, and tasty fresh veggies. Our building hosts two other congregations for worship and church life, as well as an arts group led by Black women. Not so long ago, hundreds of young people came through the doors every year, young Chicagoans taking part in after-school programming, and out-of-town youth groups visiting to learn more about the city.

On a recent spring Sunday, we noticed with delight that Chris, Sonji, and John were all wearing yellow, and Danielle snapped a photo of these brilliant folks on the church steps. These smiling faces are wonderfully representative of this small but mighty congregation striving to follow Jesus. In a city that, for many, is synonymous with violence, we are working to bring God's peace to the neighborhood, the city, and the world.

—Heidi Gross Chicago, Illinois

"When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors were locked where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you'" (John 20:19, NRSVue). Today's Bible readings from the lectionary: Acts 5:27-32; Psalm 118:14-29 or Psalm 150; Revelation 1:4-8; John 20:19-31.

April 27, 2025. Photo © Danielle Williams. Used by permission. Living Word Bulletin Series © 2025 Brethren Press. Printed in the USA.