Social Concerns Column for Sunday, August 21, 2011

I know that the LORD secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy. --Psalm 140:12

Open Heart Kitchen Needs Volunteers.
OHK needs many willing hands to chop veggies, ladle soup, clean up: they serve thousands every week here in the Tri-Valley.  Please call the Operations Director at 925-580-6793 to be assigned to a time slot with an existing team. You have a variety of choices for day of the week, and number of times per month to serve.  The kitchen is run by paid staff who are experienced in directing volunteers; many hands make light work! 

JustFaith Introductory Workshop, August 27, St. Joan of Arc, San Ramon.

Jack Jezreel, JustFaith Ministries

Jack Jezreel, JustFaith Ministries, will speak on Saturday, Aug 27, 10am - 1:30pm, St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon.  Our Christian faith extends an invitation to each of us to become agents of God's compassion and healing in a wounded world. JustFaith Ministries empowers ordinary people and their communities to act on that invitation.  Light refreshments will be served. $25 or free will donation.  Please RSVP to Meg Bowerman (LMJTBOW@pacbell.net).  To learn more about JustFaith Ministries: http://www.justfaith.org

Rachel's Vineyard Retreat, September 9-11, Menlo Park. 
Has an abortion left you with a broken heart?  Rachel's Vineyard Retreats renew hearts broken by abortion. A confidential interdenominational retreat will take place Sept 9-11, 2011 in Menlo Park, offering a loving and supportive environment where women and men can reconcile painful post-abortive emotions and begin the process of renewal and healing. Rachel's Vineyard is therapy for the soul. For confidential inquiries call 415-260-4406 or email christinew@firstresort.net ; for more information go to: www.rachelsvineyard.org 

Megan Mckenna:  What Will Be Remembered of You? (Sept 15, San Lorenzo). 
Based on the Gospel story of Jesus and the unnamed woman who anointed him for his burial, author Megan McKenna will lead us in a personal examination using stories of women from all religious traditions, both ancient and contemporary.  Join us for this unique opportunity!  Donation of $10 suggested at the door.  September 15, 2011, 7pm - 9pm, Maryknoll Center Chapel, 16642 Ashland Avenue, San Lorenzo.

Would you like to pursue a social justice project? The St. Michael Parish Social Concerns Ministry would like to help you to help others!  Call Joanne 443-1422.

Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. --Proverbs 31:9