ENFORCER OF COMPASSION

For those of us who know Manny, our treasured security guard, 6 days a week, we know he is much more than a protector of rules. Manny takes the time to get to know our Meals with Meaning guests. He takes the time to get to know the staff team. And he has certainly taken the time to get to know our church. He prays with us before opening the community pantry. But not before greeting our pantry guests in line. He is quick to tell folks about our church services. Manny does this while upholding our rules and regulations.

As Christ followers, we are called to give love, kindness, and compassion to all because we all want to live into our true identity of God's beloved children. Manny exemplifies this in all he does. From patrolling the parking lot while offering a gentle and friendly hello to a parishioner as they walk into church, to listening to a Meals with Meaning guest who is struggling.

On most days, Manny is the first impression of our church to newcomers. I am proud to have him represent us. Whether he is directing someone to an Al-Anon meeting upstairs, Morning Prayer, or a pantry guest to helpful resources, Manny does so with intentional focus on the person in front of him.

We are in kind, capable hands when Manny is around. He keeps us safe while caring for those around him. Who does that sound like? Thank you, Manny, for being a beautiful example of how we can be the hands, feet, and heart of Jesus.

In Christ,

~Gena Vallee