As religious leaders, we raise our collective voices to highlight the necessity for greater attention to the needs of the homeless, the incarcerated, the elderly and those already suffering from social isolation. We remember too those people, especially women and children who face abuse and violence, who are not safe at home and may suffer additional abuse and violence as stress increases.

I really think we put a smile on God’s face when we come together during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The more people do it, the better understanding we will have of one another as we truly are – as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Rather than succumbing to the fear of scarcity, the starting point for the healing of poverty must be the restoration of trust, beginning with a restored trust in God. As people of faith, we assert that God faithfully provides for creation where our limited needs are satisfied and resources are abundant.