A house in the hood

Earlier this month Pastor Claudine and I had the privilege of visiting our special needs neighbours at the Robinglade group home.  Several residents of this home have been joining us for worship over the past years.   We learned that Hughie grew up a Lutheran and loves church music.  On a good day, he'll play the organ that dominates the living room.   In this home where residents are encouraged to be self-directed, Hughie sought out the church down the street and asked his house-mates to join.  Now we sometimes have two workers and four residents joining us for worship.  There is much to be learned from Hughie.  We also found out about their wish to better the appearance of their home with some plants and gardening.  Not long after sharing this information at St. Philip's,  Sabine and husband John came across several flats of annuals and went over for a planting party with the residents.  We found out about upcoming birthdays and other group homes in the neighbourhood.  The director and the care workers thought they might like to come to our pet blessing in September.  It was one small effort to connect but a big experience of engaging with our neighbours.