By Helen Mansfield
Pastor and SSP Liaison
Federated Church of Placerville
Two Intel employees, one Christian and one Muslim, decided to take their friendship to a different level. Out of that relationship, Federated Church of Placerville and the Muslim Community of Folsom (MCF) began an exchange intended to promote understanding and dialogue, as well as dispel misinformation. While the adults had participated in several joint activities, there was a push to get both communities’ youth together. I instantly thought of SSP because one of the things I value about SSP is the project’s ability to build bridges.
“One of the things I value about SSP is the project’s ability to build bridges.”
The first thing we encountered was common ground on just how busy youth are in our culture. It took no less than twenty-two emails and multiple phone calls to get a day over winter break nailed down (pun intended). So, while many youth were celebrating a break from school by sleeping in, six youth from Federated and a youth and young adult from MCF came together to serve in Rancho Cordova.
Our first project involved removing an old chain link fence. We made short work of the project, with everyone wanting to take a turn at the over-sized jack to lift old fence posts and their concrete anchoring out of the ground. We enjoyed some conversation with one of the homeowners over coffee and donuts she provided. Then, we moved on to another site to finish building a fence.
Lunch was another highlight of the day. Sitting over food from California Kabob, we learned about halal. Muslims require that animals that are consumed for food must be raised and slaughtered humanely. My real treat from lunch was watching Laura Seiling, SSP Rancho Cordova Program Coordinator, and Aminah Habib, a UC Irvine student, excitedly share their take on the new Star Wars movie, only to be shushed by the rest of the group who didn’t want any spoilers revealed.
“This day of service filled me with hope. We have far more in common than we realize.”
At a time when we seem so focused on what divides us, this day of service filled me with hope. We have far more in common than we realize. Thank you Sierra Service Project for giving us this opportunity to work side by side, building bridges and community.
Editor’s Note: Helen Mansfield recently started collaborating to implement interfaith youth activities with the Muslim Community of Folsom. If you’re intrigued by Helen’s experience and story, consider building bridges of your own by serving in Rancho Cordova for a day this spring! Contact Laura Sieling for more information.