The calls of the eighth century prophets of Israel defining social justice as inseparable from righteousness, as well as Jesus’ explanation that all that we do “for the least of these” we do for him, guide our congregational ministries both in our community and beyond. We are guided and motivated by the belief that faith leads to action, and our partnerships with service organizations in our community is one way that we work to promote the kingdom of God. With Habitat for Humanity we build houses for those who do not have them; with Meals on Wheels we feed those who may not have a hot meal; with Arts n’ Autism, we provide place and support for programs that offer aid and appreciation for those in our community who are differently enabled. Believing economic justice is an important indicator of social equity, we seek ways to promote a tax structure in our state that is fair for all. We support education in our community by paying property taxes though we are exempt because we believe a good education is important for nurturing the spirit of our youth. These are specific ways in which we week to live out the gospel, but we do not limit our efforts to our community. Through support of the Living Waters of the World program we help install a water purification system in parts of the world where clean drinking water is not always readily available; through alternative Christmas Market we give presents of nourishment and medical care to communities around the world.