What are we supposed to be ready to do? Tell our story! It’s as simple as that. And it’s as complicated as that. Peter says that we are always “ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). But what does that mean, and who demands such an account these days? This is where we learn to interpret opportunities. We aren’t often in danger of going to jail on account of our faith; we aren’t likely to lose our jobs or get kicked out of school, at least in most parts of the world. So, we look for opportunities to tell our story when questions are asked. When we are asked about our Sunday morning habits, for example, or why giving is so important to us. Questions like these are great opportunities to share faith and to tell our story, if we are prepared.
On May 14, 2022, a mass murderer motivated by racial hatred killed ten African Americans and injured three other individuals. A group of clergy and laity from the Niagara Frontier District gathered to discern ways to address the systemic racism that continues to impact residents of the East Side of Buffalo and elsewhere in our region. The Buffalo 10 Scholarship (UNY-Buffalo 10) was adopted at the 2022 Upper New York Annual Conference and is dedicated to helping youth in identified communities of Buffalo, New York succeed in higher education.
The Mission of the Buffalo 10 Scholarship is to improve educational opportunities in the zip codes adjacent to the Jefferson Avenue Tops Market (14208, 14211, 14214). Specifically, the scholarship helps youth in these areas address persisting inequities by resourcing them to complete their college education.
The Vision of the Buffalo 10 Scholarship is more educated and empowered young adults serving in the designated area to create communities characterized by love, justice, and peace.
You can give by adding “Buffalo 10 Scholarship” to your gift online.
Raise A Hallelujah
Since Jesus Came Into My Heart
Go Light Your World
O Come To The Altar