Notes from 1st March: Ideas for connecting with the poor:

• Who are the poor? –  How do we define this? Vulnerable people? Not always financially poor but spiritually poor. Keep open mind.

• Besom projects are a good way into people lives – but not everyone is gifted at painting/decorating so why not use our creativity by using our gifts to connect with the community i.e if people are artists, do an art project in a community, if there are musicians do music activity with the community. This could lead to authentic relationships being built.

• Matt 10: sending of the twelve. Go to the communities. Find people of peace. Stay with them and receive hospitality - was this Jesus’ advice of ways to break down barriers? They bless people by bringing them the good news and through vulnerability of staying with hosts they break down any potential barriers of superiority or danger of feeling patronised.

• Finding friendship with people who are poor/vulnerable can be enriching as we discover what it means to die to self. However can be challenging and at times draining – there is a need for boundaries.

• Find rhythms of prayer / connecting with God in order to be resourced to love people more authentically.

• It is difficult to determine the effectiveness of loving our neighbour. We just need to be obedient.

Where do we go from here?  Pray listening to the Holy Spirit / Be proactive and creative / Move out of our comfort zones into communities / Build authentic friendship with one person

(Clare Smith)