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 Dear Friends:
Values-they
motivate us, help guide the choices we make in our lives, and they can either
bring us together or pull us apart. As part of Twin Cities Habitat for
Humanity's strategic plan, we sifted through dozens of statements to capture
those values that inspire us and reflect what is unique about the Habitat
community. We think our values represent you-- the remarkable volunteers and
donors who share their time, talents and resources with us.
I
have been reflecting on the Twin Cities Habitat value of Faith in Action:
"We are called by our faith in God to serve families
in need with generosity, humility and love. We welcome people of all faith
backgrounds and beliefs to join us in our common goal of eliminating poverty
housing."
Our
Christian ministry is an important part of our history and who we are-many of
our first sponsors and volunteers joined us because of their belief that Jesus
Christ calls us to love our neighbor as ourselves and we demonstrate that love
by building homes for families in need of safe, decent and affordable housing. As we listen and learn from the many faith
traditions and religions practiced around the world and right here in the Twin
Cities, we see that Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and many other religions
share a common value that we show our love for our neighbor by how we act.
To
better reflect our shared values and to celebrate the rich diversity of our
community, we now dedicate new Twin Cities Habitat homes not only by presenting
a bible to a new homebuyer to represent the Christian roots of our work, but by
also presenting a gift that reflects the universality of our common values-the beautiful
words of the "Golden Rule" as shared by the world religions. I am sure you will
be as moved as I am by reading these unifying and sacred expressions of love in
the language of faith across the globe:
Christianity:
"In everything, do to others what you would have them
do to you"
Judaism:
"What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor"
Islam:
"No one of you is a believer until you wish for others
what you wish for yourself"
Hinduism:
"This is the sum of duty; do not do to others what would
cause pain if done to you"
Native American:
"Respect for life is the foundation"
We
are grateful for each individual expression of your faith in action and for
your love for your neighbor. Thank you
for living your values through Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity.
Warmly,
Sue
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