Raised Up in Power
We are reminded of the profound message of hope and healing that lies at the heart of this sacred season, including observations of Ramadan, Passover and Easter — each respectively steeped in Abrahamic traditions. It is a time when we reflect upon the ultimate act of love and redemption — the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
In 1 Corinthians 6:14, we are reminded of the promise that "God raised the Lord and will also raise us up by his power." Just as God raised Jesus from the dead, so too do we believe in the power of resurrection — the power of new life in our communities and society.
Christ defeated the grave, and we too believe in overcoming oppression and resisting empire. Despite the challenges that we face, CRS holds to our faith-based roots and declares, “God is on your side! God is fighting for your freedom and liberation!”
To the migrants facing home insecurity, “God is on your side!” To the Palestinian civilians whose homes and lives are left in rubble, “God will raise you up!” To the Mothers who will spend this Easter mourning their children, especially sister Laterria Smith whose son, Jayden Perkins, was taken away by unspeakable violence in an act of bravery, “God seeks justice for the oppressed!”
The challenges we face today are as daunting as ever, and our communities both near and far are in desperate need of hope, healing and renewal. Not two weeks ago, our fight against homelessness was met with a challenge as the Bring Chicago Home referendum failed to pass.
That is why we need your help.
This Easter, we invite you to join us in our mission to bring about lasting change. Your support can help us continue our important work advocating for policy changes, like Bring Chicago Home, that promote justice and equality. We will continue to empower individuals and communities, like our migrant and Palestinian neighbors to create a brighter future for all.
Together, we can be agents of resurrection — bringing hope where there is despair, light where there is darkness, and renewal where there is brokenness. Just as God raised Jesus from the dead, so too can we raise up our communities by the power of love and solidarity.
Please consider supporting Community Renewal Society this Easter. Your generosity will make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve and in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
Thank you for your support and may the spirit of Easter inspire us all to rise together.
From our Beloved Community to yours,
Rev. Dr. Waltrina N. Middleton, Executive Director
Chris Groza, Communications Coordinator
And the Entire Community Renewal Society
Take Action & Resources
Fill out our Welcoming New Neighbors: Migrant & Asylum Advocacy Interest Form and find our migrant resources here
Join the American Friends Service Committee in Washington D.C. or virtually from around the world to fly kites for a ceasefire in Gaza on March 30
Find Anti-War Peace Efforts Resources
Resources in support of Haiti
Fill out our 2024 AMA Jerusalem Interest Form