June 26, 2009
Written by Tim Kershner

At a multicultural welcoming party Thursday, delegates and visitors to the UCC's General Synod 27 celebrated the rich diversity of our community and church.

St. John's UCC in Grand Rapids, Mich., hosted the Children and Families Multicultural Festival, complete with music, dance, food and a message of God's extravagant welcome. Also welcoming guests was Grand Rapids Mayor George K. Heartwell.

More than 40 groups representing church agencies, social service organizations and local churches shared crafts, information on multicultural ministries and guidance on support programs. The festival was sponsored by Office of Children and Family Ministries, part of the Congregational Vitality and Discipleship Team in Local Church Ministries.

Among those making connections was storyteller Waly Sene, a native of Senegal, West Africa, whose tales of his homeland told of universal themes of friendship and community. He was joined throughout the day by West African drummers, a mariachi band and a community sing-along of It's A Small, Small World.

Food vendors also helped the multicultural spirit with local and international treats. The festival screened The Peace Tree, a movie in which Christian and Muslim children learn the lessons of friendship and tolerance, and suggests that their parents do the same.

United Church of Christ News Service