Change catalyst
Editor’s note: The reflection below is offered by Luke Pearson, a Beloved member 2020-2021. As a corps member, Luke served at Interfaith Community Services (ICS). He is now employed by ICS as its Senior Services Coordinator. Luke is also active at Saint Philip’s as an acolyte and with formation at Wednesday night Mosaic gatherings.
When I arrived in Tucson to begin my year with the Beloved in the Desert program, I admit I was nervous. I had left my friends, family, and past career in hospitality management to participate in a year of service. I was anxious to come to a new place, join a new church, and to meet individuals who I would live with in an intentional community. On top of all that, I arrived in Tucson in the summer of 2020 when the Southwest was the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thankfully, my apprehension vanished after the first few days of being in the program. Nervousness was replaced by excitement about starting a new adventure. I was determined to serve my new community through my work placement at Interfaith Community Services. I was overcome with joy being able to build new friendships with the other Beloveds, volunteers at ICS, and parishioners and clergy at Saint Philip’s.
The Beloved in the Desert community is more than just a program. It is a place where individuals can be transformed. It is a place where strangers become friends, and new destinations become home. It is a place where peace can be found amidst the world's disharmony, and new relationships are built even if we are distant from each other. Beloved in the Desert is another example of Jesus’s invitation to grow closer to His mission; a mission ignited by love and service to others within our local community and the world.
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.
