Greetings from Pastor Karla 

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help. Again, if two lie together, they keep warm; but how can one keep warm alone? And though one might prevail against another, two will withstand one. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.  Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.

I've been learning a lot about partnerships lately, working together across institutions and agencies.  In mid-November, I attended a training on how to teach an approach to suicide prevention that was sponsored and paid for by the Commonwealth, but those especially

invited to the training were clergy.  You see, agencies that are working with people at risk realize that houses of faith are one of the positive supports in local communities.  

In the same vein, The Newton Partnership (TNP) consists of more than a dozen agencies working together to ensure that children of all ages are safe and healthy. This organization supports mentoring programs, parenting workshops and more in the city of Newton.  (http://www.newton.k12.ma.us/newtonpartnership/)  

TNP invited The Newton Clergy Association  (NCA) to be one of their partners, which the NCA was delighted to accept.  We all care about the same things-safe schools, environments where our children and students are nurtured and cared for,  support for families at risk.  It's sort of a gospel thing, isn't it?   Reaching out to those on the edge? Caring for those who might be underserved? 

Throughout the year, TNP and the Newton Clergy will be sponsoring several workshops, including one addressing the issue of bullying and safety.  Our first workshop will be held at Temple Shalom in Newton, on December 15th, entitled, "When Kids Push our Buttons and What We Can Do About It".   I hope that if you or someone you know might enjoy a workshop like this that you will attend.  I will see you there!

As we move into the spirit of Advent, I invite you to keep this concept of partnership in the back of your mind, as we wait.  How do you invite partnerships into your life?  What other kinds of partnerships might be possible for the church and society?   When I think of partnership, I think of sharing the vision, and the burden.  I think of unity and diversity-the warp and the woof that makes a tapestry strong.  

May the growing light of Advent, and the joy of partnership bless your journey to the stable this month.

Light and Love,
Karla