Perkins Fellows in Richmond
Recently, our Perkins Fellows had the opportunity to travel to Richmond for the Christian Community Development Association gathering. Founded by their namesake, John & Vera Mae Perkins, this annual conference draws nearly 2000 people from around the country and even other countries. Participants come from many different backgrounds and denominations but the majority work in non-profits or churches that are seeking the shalom of their cities. Many people feel like it’s a taste of heaven given the ethnic diversity. This year’s theme was “Behold” and leaders from Richmond, especially East End Fellowship Church, took a major role in organizing and sharing about the good work that’s being done in Richmond to share truthfully about its past and work together to bring healing and repair. TH friends (and all UVA alumni!) like Mayor Danny Avula, Third Pres Pastor Corey Widmer and TH board member Nathan Walton all had a chance to share stories and inspire the continued work toward justice and peace.
One highlight was when our Perkins Fellows were invited into a special luncheon honoring John Perkins who passed away in March. They were directly addressed by the speakers to continue to carry on the torch of justice in their local neighborhood settings. One of the speakers, Grace Jackson, is a Perkins Fellow alumna! She implored our Fellows to: 1) Start now. This work doesn’t have to wait until you’re in the ‘real world.’ The real world is now and you can begin this work today even as a college student. 2) Call your Fefe (another Perkins Fellow alumna!). Find a friend who can walk with you through the hard times when you feel scared and alone and discouraged. 3) Be the Foreigner. Whether you can get abroad to a different country or just find places within the US where you can be a minority. Visit the mosque. Learn a different language. Eat schwarma. Whatever it is, be curious and willing to be uncomfortable.
This experience is often cited as a highlight for Perkins Fellows and gives them an opportunity to picture how a life of living for the good of your neighborhood is possible and can look different depending on your passions and gifts. Enjoy photos from our time below!
