Seeking C onnection

by Rohini Drake, Director, Welcoming & Online Ministries

In May of 2023, United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released a new Surgeon General Advisory calling attention to the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in our country. Lack of connection to each other and our communities is now considered a national health crisis. What can we do to respond to this crisis? How can we help nurture connection in our community and to something greater than ourselves?

This fall, FUMCR is partnering with The Nearness to bring leaders and friends across the Richardson community together to build meaningful connections, host reflective conversations, and feel part of something bigger than us as individuals. The Nearness has been creating online conversation spaces across the globe. These spaces invite people from diverse backgrounds and experiences to come together in weekly small groups for six weeks to share their thoughts and experiences around spirituality in the hope of building empathy and friendship. Richardson is one of the first places these conversations are happening locally as we see how this type of connection can impact a community. We’re calling this new initiative the Richardson Journey of The Nearness.

As we recognize that divisions and disconnection often characterize the world around us, the goal of the Richardson Journey of The Nearness is to bring together organizations and individuals across the city to unite, discover common ground, and embark on a transformative journey together. Building authentic relationships and friendships are at the heart of this collaboration. Invitations to participate are being extended to houses of worship, non-profits, educational institutions, and businesses throughout the Richardson community. We’ve made 150 spots available for participants as a nod to the City of Richardson celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. The Richardson Journey runs online from the week of October 2 through the week of November 12, and all participants will gather for an in-person celebration on November 16. For more information about this collaboration or to attend an info session, visit thenearness.coop/Richardson or email Rohini Drake at rohini@fumcr.com

Thank you, FUMCR! Your generous contributions to UWF’s annual backpack drive will allow local agencies to support their clients with new, practical bags for any number of purposes. Organizations receiving backpacks through this year’s drive:

Network of Community Ministries

Agape Resource and Assistance Center

Dallas Bethlehem Center

Gateway of Grace

North Texas Welcoming Center for Migrants at Oak Lawn UMC

FUMCR Read With Me participants

FUMCR Single Parent Action Network members

FUMCR Zimbabwe congregation

Gratefully, United Women in Faith

P.S. If you haven’t had a chance to give, you have until July 31 at fumcr.com/givenow (Any excess funds will be used for school supplies.)

Memorial and honorary gifts are a special way to celebrate a life, birthday, anniversary, special occasion, or just to say thank you. Below are the gifts given March 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023.