Transformative growth

Editor’s note: The reflection below is offered by parishioner Erika Johnson. She is a member of Saint Philip’s Vestry and is on the Board of Beloved in the Desert Episcopal Service Corps. 

There is nothing like pandemic life to remind you of how complicated the world can be. As we have collectively muddled through the last couple of years, it has been easy to become frustrated, confused, torn, hurt, or lost. Most of all, so much has felt out of our control.

The Beloved in the Desert program was in its first year when we entered lockdown and I have spent some time lamenting never having had a fully “normal” year and not being able to predict or control subsequent years.

Although I think all of us should have space to grieve the large and small losses of these past years, I have reflected recently on how this “out of control” feeling is exactly what we are trying to prepare our Beloved community members to face. No one is ever really in control and one of the most important skills one can develop is to craft one’s life with intention despite uncertainty.

The vision for the Beloved in the Desert is to create “an intentional community for young adults that fosters beloved Christian disciples through service, study, and prayer in the Tucson borderlands.” The rhythms and disciplines in the program all support living out that vision.

Each year the Beloved corps members have shown tremendous growth—as individuals and as a community. They have stretched themselves to learn leadership and humility in their roles at non-profits, in their service at Saint Philip’s, and with each other. They have chosen their next steps with the same intention they have given to their service year.

It has been a joy to witness how the Beloved members face an uncertain world. I hope you will join me at the Zoom fund raiser for the Beloved in the Desert program from 6:00pm-7:30pm on Friday, March 18. (See related article titled “3 years old.”)

Fund raising auction
From 6:00pm-7:30pm on Friday, March 18, Saint Philip’s will celebrate Beloved in the Desert—the Tucson chapter of the Episcopal Service Corps.

Over the past three years, 12 young adults have lived in intentional community, served the parish, and volunteered 32 hours each week for various non-profit partners of Saint Philip’s.

This event will offer a closer look at the program and its impact on the young adults and the Tucson community. Non-profit leaders will share their experiences working with the Beloved corps members and speak about the difference they make through their service.

You’ll also get a glimpse into what day-to-day life is like for these young adults, hear about opportunities for increased connection with them, and learn how you can support this program. AND there will be a fun auction with a variety of great items to bid on.

Register for the event by clicking here. If you have questions, email Alexander Swain, Assistant for Community Life—Beloved in the Desert Episcopal Service Corps, at alexanderd.swain@gmail.com.