Bishop Farr Reaches Out to Connect to Communities

News December 20, 2016

Last fall Missouri Bishop Bob Farr announced his desire to dedicate one day per month for intentional prayer within a community standing on the cusp of the great social challenges of racial justice, poverty and violence. The purpose is to be in conversation with local community leaders and to listen to the experiences of people of color in Missouri.

“There has never been a more important time for us to strive for unity in service to those who hurt and those who do not know the love of God,” Bishop Farr said. “I invite you to discover opportunities in your own neighborhoods that transcend the boundaries that normally divide us. Jesus broke all sorts of cultural and social boundaries to share God’s grace. As disciples of Jesus, we are called to do the same and be transformed through the deepening of relationships.”

The first day of the monthly outreach experience was at Wilkes Blvd. UMC in Columbia on November 18. The Conference staff joined him and provided a noontime early Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless community that comes to the church for its drop-in center, Turning Point. The meal was followed by a short talk by Wilkes pastor Rev. Brad Bryan and Turning Point Director Marcus Reynolds. Bishop Farr then participated in a prayer walk around the neighborhood with those in attendance.

“I invite you to discover opportunities in your own neighborhoods that transcend the boundaries that normally divide us. Jesus broke all sorts of cultural and social boundaries to share God’s grace.”

On Friday, December 9, Bishop Farr visited St. Andrew in Kansas City. There was a 45-minute prayer service at 9 a.m. that was open to the public. Following the prayer service, Bishop Farr joined the leadership of St. Andrew and community leaders in an invitation-only discussion about the neighborhood. The morning concluded with a prayer walk in the community.

On Monday, January 16, Bishop Farr will participate in the Unity Walk to honor the birthday of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in Wentzville.