“Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me - you did it to me.'” Matthew 25:40 (The Message)
There are servants and then there are servants. Some servants make a more lasting impression, especially on a young associate pastor. Such was the impact that Blanche Culpepper made upon my life.
She was “only” a part-time employee at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, St. Petersburg when I as assigned to the church as their associate. I discovered in her an instant friend and encourager … as well as a guide to providing support to those disenfranchised by society. There was a big difference in providing support verses enabling destructive behavior. It was our desire to support, to assist, to meet the immediate needs of individuals and families, but not to the point of making them dependent on our assistance.
Blanche’s responsibility was to be the advocate for Social Concerns within the church and within the larger community. A unique position for a unique church.
St. Luke’s had always been on the cutting edge when it came to social advocacy. This was the church which was on the cutting edge in racial reconciliation – holding interracial meetings long before the rest of the Judeo/Christian community understood that was role that they should be fulfilling. Further, Cesar Chevaz was invited to stand in their pulpit and share his work with farm workers much to the protest of the citizens of the city.
St. Luke’s UMC was on the cutting edge with all social issues. Mrs. Culpepper’s position was a logical step in a long proud history. She served on a wide range and varied boards for social action in the St. Pete community. She advocated for the homeless, the hungry, the needy … the disenfranchised of society.
May you rest in peace dear friend. Your example will be long remembered, but your heart will not be matched by those who follow.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment