Reflections

Reflections

In my initial interview in 2022 with the Mission Committee of Nativity prior to becoming Vicar, I heard an overwhelming desire to develope a creative and supportive relationship with the local schools. Thus, with the guidance and direction of Kathryn York and assisted by Suzy Robinson, we began work to establish an after school tutoring program. We worked closely with Mr. James Watson, the principal at Davidson Elementary, and recruited tutor volunteers from Nativity and were set to begin. Unfortunately, the change of leadership at Davidson scuttled our planned program.

Nonetheless, we continued to stay in touch with the new principal, Mr. Lee Gray, who encouraged us to support the development of YCare. This multi-dimensional after school program, an outreach initiative of the Memphis-based YMCA, was looking to come to Water Valley, he said,  and needed strong community support. 

It has been over a year since that first conversation with Principal Gray, but YCare, led by a Water Valley native, Ms. Monique Bush, is now coming to Water Valley with plans to begin operation in the fall. The development of “sustainability partners” is now underway, and at its monthly meeting this week Nativity’s Mission Committee voted to provide a grant of $5,000 to become one of YCare’s first sustainability partners. I couldn’t be more excited!

YCare will be offering a variety of after school programs, including tutoring, that will need community volunteers, and there will be opportunities for folks from Nativity to participate in various ways as the program establishes itself at Davidson Elementary. Though I will not be around to see all of this come to fruition, I am thrilled that YCare is coming to Water Valley and know that its impact will be felt, not only in rising test scores, but in an improving of the quality of life for Water Valley’s children. I know that Nativity will be in the middle of it all!

Other Matters of Importance: 

May 25-Rogation Sunday Luncheon at Home of Vivian McKey

After worship on Sunday, May 25 we will travel to Vivian and her family’s home just south of town(3313 CR 90) for a potluck luncheon and the traditional Rogation Day blessing of the fields- in this case the commercial flower fields of Kris McKey, Vivian’s daughter. It will be a great time for food, fellowship and fun on a beautiful spring day. Vivian will provide hamburgers and hot dogs, and there is a sign up sheet in the rear of the church for others to indicate what they will be bringing. Make plans to join us!

Compassion Ministry Food Box Packing Monday, May 19-

Thanks to all who have signed up to pack food boxes this Monday. The work will begin at 6:00 pm at the Compassion Ministries warehouse at 1301 Highway 7 North.

See you Sunday!

Blessings and Peace,

Duncan

Dmgrayiii@gmail.com

(601)260-1937