NENA (2019)

Loving our neighbors is a priority of Crosstown.  Our core value of Compelling Mission says:
Knowing God’s compassion and mercy in our own lives, we participate in God’s mission of healing love.  “Jesus said, “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” John 20:21



What does that actually look like?  It looks like a friendship with the Nokomis East Neighborhood Association.  We have been blessed to be able to come alongside and partner with NENA in various ways.

One way is happening this week.  We are opening our doors (specifically our kitchen) to cooking classes.  Yep, cooking classes.  Often low-income families and refugees did not receive health and dietary information when growing up.  What is a "balanced meal"?  And how do you properly use American food prep tools like knives and pans?  We are thankful to be able to open our doors for them.

Another time we open our doors for NENA is hosting their neighborhood meetings in our Commons.  Did you know that the voting for NENA board members happens within our walls?  It's a good thing those walls are wallpapered in prayer.

As a church we also support events that NENA hosts like the Bossen Renters' Party, but they also support our ministries.  Did you know that once a month a member of NENA passes out food at Keewaydin through our Sheridan Story program?!    And later this winter we will partner with NENA on a follow-up event to the Mapping Prejudice project.
It's great to have such a wonderful neighborhood association that advocates for their constituents but also is open to partnering with faith communities.