How Can We Lead Proactive Christian Lives in Our Interactions with Those In Need?

Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan raises questions for believers 2,000 years later: How can we interact with those who are significantly less fortunate than the general population? How should we respond to an individual in need, such as a homeless person? Many of us want to respond when we see someone less fortunate. But, we often don’t act because we are afraid or don’t know what would truly be helpful.

How can we be a Good Samaritan today? In this seminar we’ll address these concerns. We’ll provide useful information and options that will let you act on your desire to help neighbors in need. Several excellent panelists will guide our thinking in each of these areas. They’ll offer some tools that we can use to supply basic physical needs such as housing, food, health care and emotional support.

Our interactions with those in need can be on an individual basis, through small groups or associations, or as society as a whole.

‘Good Samaritan’ Panelists

We have invited local experts to discuss Being a Good Samaritan Today. Panelists include:

  • The Rev. Judith Morgado – Why should we address this topic of helping those in need, especially the homeless? What does the parable of the Good Samaritan mean to us today?
  • Ashley Quadross and Joe Naake of Hospitality House – What do those who are less fortunate need that we could provide? What can individuals do in personal interactions that is truly helpful?
  • Grass Valley Police Dept. – What are the risks involved with personal interaction with less fortunate individuals and how should we respond to negative interactions?
  • Regina Banks, director of Lutheran Office of Public Policy (Sierra Pacific Synod of the ELCA, based in Sacramento) – What is being done at the local and statewide level; how can individuals impact legislative or other actions?

What are your ideas for being a Good Samaritan today?

After the panelists’ presentations, we’ll break up into small groups to generate more ideas and voice concerns. These ideas will be shared with everyone. The seminar will last about two hours, with a break for refreshments. Please join us for an invigorating and thoughtful presentation — we want your participation!

Where?

We’ll gather in the PEACE Lutheran Church Fellowship Center, 828 W. Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945. Questions? Please contact the church office, (530) 273-7331.

PEACE has plenty of parking and handicapped spaces.