The Light of the World Has Come

a Christmas letter and blessing from Week of Compassion

​Throughout Advent we have been waiting, watching, preparing, getting ready. It is a spiritual practice to prepare our hearts and homes — opening a broad path and a clear response to the joyous heart of our faith: the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, at Christmas.

Watching. Preparation. Readiness. Response. 
All things we know a little about at Week of Compassion.

---

As the relief, refugee, and development mission fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Week of Compassion works with partners to alleviate suffering throughout the world. Whether keeping an eye on threatening weather in order to keep up with those in the path of a storm … working with local churches and ecumenical partners to have action plans ready when a community need arises … or sharing collaborative resources and imagination to empower sustainable development in the world’s marginalized communities … Week of Compassion envisions a world where God’s people transform suffering into hope.

2022 has been another year of challenge and tragedy throughout the world …
… a war in Ukraine has killed thousands and sent millions into other nations as refugees, with millions more uprooted and displaced within their own country. 
… billion-dollar disasters mount as hurricanes ravage still-recovering communities, and tornadoes tear through towns with little warning.
… devastating floods in Pakistan affected tens of millions of people, and will mean years of recovery.
… rampant drought continues in the Horn of Africa nations, while water is in full supply but absolutely unusable in cities like Jackson, Mississippi, and Flint, Michigan.

In the midst of every difficult moment, every time, Disciples are there … 
… serving refugees from Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, offering radical hospitality and abundant welcome.
… partnering to rebuild homes and communities, churches became work centers, food pantries, and even school libraries. 
… contributing both designated and ‘where most needed’ offerings so that immediate needs can be met and long-term plans can be made with confidence. 
… finding ways through ecumenical partners and networks both domestically and worldwide to meet  water and sanitation needs, tending to communities’ nutrition and health.

For all the many ways we serve, worship, and pursue justice and hope together, we are grateful. From all of us at Week of Compassion, we pray abundant blessings for each of you in this Christmas season.