When spring arrived this year, all of us had to contend with the pandemic in varying ways. In the midst of anxiety, uncertainty and unspeakable loss, many of us sought out refuge and safety differently. We were carrying mixed emotions of anger, sorrow, and hopelessness as our black brothers and sisters continue to experience senseless losses because of systems of racism and implicit bias in our nation. In our desire to lament, repent and bring healing, we were prompted to create spaces for WOW! friends to gather, to be still and to listen to God. This was the beginning of group contemplative prayer gatherings. Together, we've grown deeper with the gifts of faith, hope, and love which will remain when everything else might fade. 

We continue to witness many of you experiencing the Presence and assurance of God about our futures collectively and individually.  We hope summer has been a good reprieve for you to take what we've gleaned together and bring it to God personally.  Maybe you have stepped outside, taken part in some form of safe social distance gathering with family and friends, dined outdoors to support local places you've missed so much and overall give yourself permission to breathe freely. 

As we head into the fall, we are seeing the City still trying to plan opening up more services, renewing job opportunities but also maintaining safe spaces for us all. The work of bringing God's justice like a mighty river (Amos 5:24) remains urgent as we witness another shooting of an unarmed black man, Jacob Blake from the police in Wisconsin.  In solidarity with you, we carry the posture of prophetic prayer for change and holy lament to seek God's restoration of our communities.  We want to invite you to join us again in exploring God’s invitation this season. We believe there is much more faith, hope and love to discover as we come together and listen for the voice of God.

~ WOW! Team