Yet another farewell has been said at the Mission Homes. Over lovely desserts, the residents shared an evening of celebrating the Cook’s commissioning to France. In addition, on May 1st, Sally and residents took part in our traditional prayer circle to see them off. It’s always a difficult time to see changes in the community, but with every goodbye is a hello and a warm welcome to new residents and new members of the community.
On April 9th, Resident Appolo co-hosted the Berkeley & San-Francisco Rwandan Community’s Memorial Church Service for the remembering the one million Tutsi who were killed in the genocide against the Tutsi people of Rwanda in 1994. The memorial was a beautiful reflection of grace and reconciliation that the Rwandan people have pursued over these past 24 years. The theme of “Kwibuka 24” means “Remember 24” and the vision of the event was “remember, unite, and renew.” After a moving service of testimonies, a sermon, a speech by Rwandan Mr. Yehoyada, special music by Resident Jinhee Bin, and prayer, the group shared a meal together, solidifying the time spent in remembering together.
This year’s Intercultural Feast and Variety Show was a wonderful success in raising funds for the residents of the Mission Homes. We are grateful to all of our guests who attended as well as to all those who participated in the hard work of making a delicious array of food, planning for and taking part in the variety show, and helping with this year’s cookbook!
January 4, 2018 – 4:16 am
“Our annual Christmas party was a stellar event! It featured an excellent array of delicious foods, a wonderful new gifting game that involved whole families, our program of Lessons and Carols and the wonderful talent of Sewon Jang leading the singing and YongKook Ko playing his saxophone. We were grateful to YankOk (Esther) and Set Byoul who supervised the making of two different Christmas crafts with the children: decorated drinking cups and jingle bell bracelets. The latter was used in the party finale when all gathered to sing ‘Jingle Bells’ while the children did indeed jingle their bells with great enthusiasm. The final upbeat moments came with the joyous Saxophone sound of “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” filling the air. It was a marvelous party! Thanks to all whose attendance and participation created a memorable holiday event. Go to our website to see photos of the party that will be posted there beginning Friday evening.” -Reverend Sally Juarez
After nine years of residence, the community hosted a farewell gathering and time of prayer for the beloved Kim family. Their presence and beautiful music will be sorely missed at the Berkeley Presbyterian Mission Homes.
In the community last week, we had the honor of celebrating the graduation of many of our residents, from Kindergarten up through Doctoral Studies! During our graduation party, we also took the time to meet our newest family at the Mission Homes as well as prepare our hearts for some sad goodbyes of long-time residents.
