Letter from Amy: Nov 5, 2025

One of the stations at our All Saints Cemetery Walk last weekend in Rock Creek Cemetery

Dear friends,

A Prayer in Times of Social Distress

Increase, O God, the spirit of neighborliness among us, that in peril we may uphold one another, in suffering tend to one another, and in homelessness, loneliness, or exile befriend one another. Grant us brave and enduring hearts that we may strengthen one another, until the disciplines and testing of these days are ended, and you again give peace in our time; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, Occasional Prayers #44)

Today marks the 36th day of the federal government shutdown, the longest in history. By now, the news cycle seems to have moved on, and the shutdown sometimes feels forgotten by the powers that be. But it is not forgotten by those who have now gone over a month without a paycheck, who have lost access to essential services, or who are wearied by nearly a year of vocational uncertainty.

God has not forgotten. And our church community sees and cares. Below are a few practical ways to give or receive help for those impacted by the shutdown, both within our community and beyond.

Monetary Assistance

Incarnation’s Benevolence Fund was begun earlier this year to support households experiencing economic hardship. Your generous response has been incredible. Over $24k has been given to the fund this year, and over $11k has been disbursed. If you would like to contribute to the Benevolence Fund, you may give here; 100% of your gifts will go directly to households in need. If you would like to request funds, please reach out to me (amy@incarnationanglican.org) or Katie (katie@incarnationanglican.org), or fill out this confidential form.

Food Assistance

1. The families of Holy Comforter (our Maryland church plant) are partnering with Homes Not Borders to provide food boxes for recently arrived immigrant families. Please sign up for specific food items here and bring them to church at Beverley Hills this Sunday, Nov 9. Holy Comforter will pack collected food during its weekly small group and deliver food boxes to the Homes Not Borders warehouse for distribution on Saturday, Nov 15.

2. Incarnation will soon begin collecting food and other grocery items to keep the Little Free Pantry at Beverley Hills regularly stocked (just outside the playground gate). This pantry is a lifeline for emergency food needs, and items go very quickly. Stay tuned for more details on how to contribute over the coming weeks.

If you are experiencing financial, emotional, or spiritual strain due to the prolonged shutdown — or due to anything else happening in your life or world — please reach out to me or Katie. We would love to listen and pray with you.

As David so beautifully preached a few weeks ago: “do not discount the gospel of showing up.” You are a church that shows up. It’s amazing to witness, and I’m honored to be your pastor.

We're in this together,

Amy