I know that many of you are feeling frustrated, sad, disillusioned, and overwhelmed with all of the things that have been going on in our country over the past few weeks. That’s why this is a happy message, to give you just a small respite from it all and to let you see that there are indeed good people in this world who are doing amazing things to bless the lives of others.
This Friday night, Alexander will attend the annual Night to Shine prom for adults with special needs that is put on every year through the hard work of individual churches partnering with the Tim Tebow Foundation. This event means so much to those who attend and is truly making a difference in the world for people with special needs.
Their website states, “Night to Shine is an unforgettable worldwide celebration event, centered on God's love, honoring and valuing people with special needs.”
Over ten years now, the Night to Shine Event has taken place across 50 states, in 56 countries, on 6 continents, made possible by over 720 host churches and 150,000 volunteers, all for the purpose of making 80,000 honored guests feel loved, appreciated, accepted, and cherished, just the way they are.
Alexander will get to ride in a limousine, be crowned “king” of the prom, walk the red carpet to the cheers of hundreds of volunteers, take prom photos, do karaoke, snack on pizza and chicken nuggets, and dance the night away in a loving, safe, and accepting environment in which he can be himself and have a blast. Meanwhile, Paco and I will enjoy a catered dinner in another room while donated items are raffled off and we get to visit with other parents of special needs kiddos. None of this costs us a single penny. It is all the result of the donations and hard work of generous donors and volunteers.
Please take a few moments to check out the official highlight video from last year’s Night to Shine event. It always takes place on the same night all around the world. I know it will bless you. You can watch it here: https://youtu.be/0BKJKfcnTkI?si=wsVe9OWNLgZiuL8T
In this Sunday’s lesson, we will explore Unity’s 5th Principle, which is all about how we live the other four principles out in the world in a real and practical way in our daily lives. While I don’t agree with all of Tim Tebow’s theology or politics, particularly as they pertain to the LGBTQ+ community, I cannot deny the huge impact he has made by creating and sustaining this event for people with special needs. As you can see in the video, he participates in person in a hands-on way, interacting with attendees and carrying his message of God’s unconditional love and acceptance. This is truly a beautiful example of being God’s love in action in the world.
This Sunday we will also have our annual Calling the Circle meeting after the service. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. We need the input of every single one of you to make UMB the wonderful place it is.
Very Special Blessings,
Rev. Michelle
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