Homeless Prayers
Last week was the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. Siouxland homeless advocates met to pray for those who have died on the streets. Siouxland Public Media’s Mary Hartnett has this report.
“For all who . . . “
About a dozen people huddled in a circle in the biting wind as the darkness fell in front of the Nebraska Street warming center last night. As the group prayed, men and women started showing up to find a place to sleep. On cold nights, like this one, the center is usually full. Theresa Gerke-Herwienen coordinates spiritual care services at Mercy Medical Center. She hopes the event reminds every one of the plight of the homeless.
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“And it is the longest, coldest night of winter, and an appropriate day to remember that light comes, and that we can be that light in the world, to make life better for others.”
Theresa led a closing prayer in remembrance of the homeless people who have died on the street this year.
“And we remember them by the tolling of the prayer bowl we remember one-thousand people who have died (bell rings).”
For Siouxland Public Media, I’m Mary Hartnett.
