Glen Avon Presbyterian Church

From the Pastor

The building had stood empty for months. Windows were barred for fear of vandalism and trespassing. Blue siding hung in pieces and grass had grown tall. Two large dumpsters in front and back testified to the broken and desperate nature of times on Simon Bolivar Street in New Orleans. Those gathered in front of the apartment building in the warm breezy morning wondered what possible future this building could hold. Elder Malcolm of the Berean Presbyterian Church joined the group, leading them inside as he unlocked the door letting in fresh air and the voices of children playing next door at the thriving daycare center. As he walked he shared the dream the congregation had for the building to house transition apartments for unwed mothers and a space for a future pastor. Windows were opened and a new sound filled the place, one of voices sharing life stories and hands working together to reclaim broken space for a new purpose.

Parker Palmer writes “the mission of the church is not to enlarge its membership, get outsiders to accept its terms, but simply to love the world in every possible way - to love the world as God did and does.” And God has shown great Love in the giving and raising of a son that our barren and desperate lives may have walls torn down, windows and locked doors thrown open, and the breath of the spirit blown fresh and free into our lives.”Peace,” Jesus said to the women. “Peace,” he spoke to the disciples and to Thomas. “Peace,” he speaks to us reclaiming our lives and empowering our community to speak “peace” to all we meet.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you…”

John 14:27