God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters rage and foam, though the mountains tremble at its tumult.     (Psalm 46:1-3)

On Sunday, a small group from Abiding Presence will gather to celebrate a graduation and bid farewell to a family we have known for about 5 years. Their older daughter was graduated from High School on Friday and the family will be moving to California.

For those who do not know this family, the family is from Afghanistan. Our congregation, working through Lutheran Social Ministries of New Jersey helped to resettle them. After living through devastating times in Afghanistan, the family started over in Trenton. They had already been displaced to refugee camps, met with aid workers through Lutheran World Relief, and lost family members to war and violence.

When they arrived in Trenton, our congregation had a furnished apartment awaiting them. Food was brought in and transportation provided to doctors, stores, social service agencies and work. School forms were completed, English classes taken and friendships formed. Through the generosity of the congregation, the family was welcomed and fully supported for their first years here.

Miracles, big and small, were witnessed by those who came to know the family. Contact was made with sons that had been assumed dead back in Afghanistan. Friendships and relationships deepened and life has become "normal". Members of our congregation have remained constant supporters and surrogate parents for this family.

So on Sunday, what would be a routine gathering to celebrate a graduation and bid farewell to a family moving on, will be much more. It will be a celebration of what God has done and continues to do through the church. It will be a celebration of our partnerships globally and locally through Lutheran World Relief and Lutheran Social Ministries. It will be a celebration of accomplishments of 3 courageous and strong women. It will be a vivid reminder that God is our refuge and strength and because of that, no matter what our circumstance, we do not fear.

We give you thanks, Almighty God, for your constant care for us. We pray that you would continue to give us generous hearts, open arms and willing feet to go where you send us and serve our neighbors near and far. We pray for the family in their new ventures. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Contributed by Pastor Tracie
Sunday June 18, 2006
Liturgical Year B Week 30