“PLANTING THE SEEDS OF HOPE”

One Spirit ~ One Call
Second Annual Celebration
September 25, 2011

Although dark clouds loomed, three hundred fifty hardy souls braved the threat of rain to gather in Portland’s South Park Blocks on Sunday, September 25. A broad spectrum of people from thirty-five parishes attended the prayerful public event, “Planting the Seeds of Hope,” including women, men, and children from Corvallis to Vancouver. 

Three women of diverse ages and life experiences explored the theme of hope, sharing their stories and how they have been able to keep hope alive. Maria Demaris, a member of the Hispanic community at St. Andrew, Emily Davis, a PCC student and member of St. Andrew, and Winnie Smidt of Holy Family parish spoke of how they were called to be disciples but found obstacles in their way, stemming mostly from not being valued. 

The keynote speaker, Paula Hamilton, St Clare parish member and a Benedictine oblate with a master’s degree in theology, said, “We are working within the Church for change—it is our Church and we don’t want to leave it.”

Music, prayer and sharing in groups of two rounded out the program. Edna Hicks, St. Andrew parish Gospel Choir soloist, led The Woman’s Creed, and then with the choir led the closing song “Lord, Help Me to Hold Out.”

We are holding on—to the Church and to hope.

 Happily, the rain held off until the celebration’s end.