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A number of years ago the Downtown (Milwaukee) Parish Human Concerns Collaboration, in partnership with Repairers of the Breach, a daytime homeless shelter, began a faith journey. Central to this journey was the presence of the “Brown Bag Lunch” held at the Tony Lee Shelter. During the lunches, members of the homeless community and members of various faith communities came together as equals in reflection and prayer. The process still continues and uses an African method of reflection and prayer drawing on the Gospel proclaimed on the following Sunday.
This is a ministry of “being with,” not a ministry of “doing for.” It has proven to be a powerful force that brings together members of faith communities and the homeless toward a profound transformation of who God really is. It has broken down barriers between those who "have" and those who "have not." After five years it continues to grow.
The Gathering in the Upper Room is an adaptation of the “Brown Bag Lunch” and is held at Hope House on the near south side of Milwaukee. Each Tuesday evening, from 7:00 until 8:00 p.m., residents at Hope House join members from faith communities to reflect on the Sunday Gospel. This weekly gathering has taken place since January of 2002.
There is a call to welcome new members of faith communities to join in this gathering. It is both a welcome and a challenge to be evangelized by God’s special people. Faith communities interested in this pursuit would be asked to coordinate a gathering once a month. This includes attending, bringing the Scriptural reading, and providing light refreshments.
For more information about joining this meaningful ministry, please call Ted John at 414-332-6649.
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