“Just Love: Empower Compassion”

Sunday, June 8

First United Methodist Church of Ann Arbor | 120 S. State Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan

As a community and nation, we are facing federal government decisions and program eliminations that will result in harm to many of our most vulnerable people. Historically, our Washtenaw county community has supported nonprofits on the front lines of meeting the needs of the underserved and marginalized.

We are already seeing the impacts of the funding cuts for a wide variety of social services. Some nonprofits are directly impacted, such as those addressing hunger and housing. We expect a ripple effect through the entire nonprofit community as funds from donors are redirected to the most urgent needs.

On Sunday, June 8 from 1-2:30 p.m. we are hosting a community gathering to let nonprofits know that we are behind them and to learn how we can help with our volunteering time and donations. This event will highlight the work of six nonprofits:

  • The St. Andrew’s Breakfast Program
  • IHN Alpha House
  • Immigration Law and Justice Michigan
  • Hope Clinic
  • House by the Side of the Road
  • Staying in Closer Touch
Learn about each nonprofit
 
Agenda

1:-2:30 p.m.: Main program to support nonprofits.

Noon-1 p.m., 3- 4 p.m.: Reflections stations will be available in the Green Wood Sanctuary on the main floor of the FUMC church building. We need to keep our spirits focused!

2:30-3 p.m.: Following the FUMC event we will encourage participants to march together to the 3 p.m. Washtenaw Congregational Sanctuary Vigil outside of the Ann Arbor Federal Building on Liberty and Fifth streets.

 

Questions?

Contact FUMC Ann Arbor at 734-662-4536 or email info@fumc-a2.org.

 

The FUMC program is hosted by the Justice League of FUMC Ann Arbor. Learn about FUMC’s permanent actions for Justice and Activism here

FAQs

Is there an admission charge?

Admission is free and no tickets or registration required. General seating for the 1 – 2:30 p.m. event in the main sanctuary of the church. The Reflections space in the 60 person Green Wood Sanctuary is free, self-directed and open from noon-1 p.m. and 2:45-4 p.m.

Is this a religious event?

No, this is a community event and we are grateful to have a large space in our main church with seating for hundreds. All are welcome.

Is this a political event?

The FUMC event is happening because we are concerned about diminished government funds for nonprofits. The Washtenaw Congregational Sanctuary Public Vigil at the downtown Ann Arbor Federal building is a peaceful protest of recent federal actions regarding detention of documented and undocumented immigrants.

How were the six nonprofits picked?

Social justice was and is a founding principle of Methodism. For this event, FUMC Ann Arbor has been guided by the direction of Jesus to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, care for the sick, visit those in prison and shelter the strangers in our land.

Is there a dress code?

No dress code, come as you are and be comfortable.

Is it indoors?

Yes, this event is happening rain or shine.

Is the event kid-friendly?

Kids are welcome and there will be card stock paper, markers and stickers for creating art. A Kid Zone in the main church will be demarcated for kids and families to relax, listen, draw, and be comfortable (shhhh….there will be snacks!). The suggested theme is “What do you Just Love?”, but let your little Picassos be creative! Kids going with their families to the Washtenaw Congregational Sanctuary Public Vigil after the FUMC events may enjoy drawing their own posters/signs.

Is it an accessible event?

Entering through the west parking lot and entrance (behind the church) offers an elevator option to the main floor. Ushers can assist with identifying wheelchair seating space in the front of the main church. There is also a driveway off State Street, on the south end of the block between Huron and Washington, for drop-off only (no parking).

Is parking available?

There is limited parking on the FUMC lot on the back side of the church. Parking is free on Sundays in the Liberty Square parking lot across Washington Street between State and Division.

Where are entrances to the FUMC building?

Enter from State Street, or from the West entrance. Follow indoor signage to the nonprofit event from 1 – 2:30 p.m. in the main church or to the quiet reflection stations in the smaller Green Wood Sanctuary.

Will food and drink be provided?

No, however feel free to bring bottles or cans of water and other nonalcoholic beverages into the FUMC building.