From the Pastor's Desk Social Gospel
The Social Gospel movement was a Protestant based movement in the early part of the 20th century which stressed the application of Christian principles to social problems. The Social Gospel movement was characterized, in part, by active involvement and engagement in public affairs, including politics. In fact, one of the leaders of the movement, Washington Gladden, was an elected member of Columbus City Council where he advocated for safe working conditions and fair wages for Columbus workers of the time. Gladden was also the pastor of First Congregational Church in Columbus, a church which is now a member of our United Church of Christ. We will sing a much loved hymn written by Gladden on Sunday.
I think Gladden would be pleased this week as Governor Kasich authorized the extension of insurance benefits and full coverage in Ohio to individuals with autism. I think, perhaps, this important act would have resonated with his tradition of "social salvation", transforming social institutions in ways that alleviate suffering and promote general welfare.
Gladden might even have had a special twinkle in his eye as Kasich handed the pen to Sondra Williams to "dot the i" in his signature (see photo below). Sondra Williams is an adult with autism and has been a prophetic advocate for this and other issues impacting children and adults with autism. Sondra Williams assisted us at Zion several years ago during a session on how to make churchs more welcome to those with autism and other special challenges.
We should always be ready to engage social injustice where we find it. As we approach Dr. King's birthday we remember his prophetic words; "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." Amen! In Christ, Pastor Pete
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Chad Allen 
to serve your church! I am born and raised in Delaware, and actually grew up on Franklin St. many years ago. My husband, Archie and I have been married for 37 years and have three grown children and four amazing grandchildren. My background is in marketing. I worked as a realtor with Century 21 for 16 years, owned Apple Tree Cottage Tea Room for 8 years and most recently was Assistant Director and Program Manager for Common Ground Free Store. I thank you for this opportunity and ask that you all pray for me as I learn the "ropes" and get to know each and every one of you!
