From the moment we began to imagine housing asylum seekers at Gloria Dei, we’ve been learning. The month of November was no exception, with education happening on many fronts.
– The Immigrant Justice Team hosted two Sunday Forums that detailed the experience of asylum seekers (Nov. 7) and provided an update on Room 99 (Nov. 21), as well as explained our process for selecting guests. If you missed these presentations, click the links here to view them.
– At the end of October, LIRS (Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services) led the Sunday Forum about the work this organization is doing globally.
– At its November meeting, we updated the Congregation Council on the permitting process and our fundraising. The Council voted unanimously to have the Executive Committee approve our selection of guests, allowing us to respond quickly when we identify an individual or family in need of immediate housing.
– Greg Fenton, the architect we’ve engaged to navigate the permitting process, is educating us on zoning, safety, egress and code requirements. Greg is doing a masterful job of identifying the key decision makers and making sure they have what they need so we can begin renovations—soon, we hope!
Even with construction delays, November has contained several instances of how grateful we are for the kindness and generosity of the congregation. Member Pam Sjodin reached out to us with a wonderful idea: she would offer a 3-pack of her hand-knit dishcloths for $20, with all proceeds going to Room 99. Check out the selection in the church office.
And a huge thank you to all of you who have supported the Room 99 Ministry with a donation. We are blessed to be part of such a caring community.
