How we roll

Last night a small army gathered at the Parks home. Twenty-five members of Church of the Redeemer shared a meal, a backyard fire and stories of our experiences with the "Take a Walk Campaign." If you haven't heard, this is a campaign to make our sidewalks accessible to wheelchairs so our disabled neighbors won't be forced into the streets as they are currently. Our team spent the summer surveying the damage, and mapping out the many problem areas. Our next project is to systematically gather petition signatures from the community and record personal stories from our neighbors who use wheelchairs. A very talented friend has offered to create a photo essay of both the sidewalks and the people whose wheelchairs can't get over them. We intend to put a very personal face, as well as specific narratives, on the abstract problem of "accessibility."

We divided up blocks for signature collection, and prayed for God to use our efforts in far-reaching ways. That we would become better listeners of, better friends to and better advocates for our disabled neighbors. That many of those we approach would offer not just a signature, but partnership in this cause. That we would find favor with the city agencies we approach. That our neighborhood would become a safer, more welcoming place for those who use wheelchairs. That sidewalk repairs would stand as a monument to God's love and power, and to his Spirit at work through our church. That this project would help our neighborhood come together in the future to solve even bigger problems!

Would you pray for these things as well? We plan to come together for brunch in three weeks. May we have many great stories to share!

If you would be interested in spending a Saturday or Sunday afternoon gathering signatures with us please contact Richard Parks at (323) 377-9686.