1-25-17

1-25-17

Hello friends and follow UBFM'rs!

I hope you are all well and having a happy January. The weather has been relatively good to us so far this year. However, historically we see another winter mix before the season's end. I don't know about you but I wish we could get it over with so I can look forward to spring time. If or when it does arrive, let us hope that it is not so crippling for our weekly rides.

Currently I am doing some studies and research in regard to the needs of people on the street. I think there is a broad understanding for the obvious. In short term we know our neighbors need food and shelter. And, we have an understanding that the some of the longterm needs come in the form of housing, healthcare, employment, and perhaps counseling of sorts. But, these needs are just common perception. Yes, they are essential but there are various other needs that we do not perceive or understand. They are basic and simple things we take for granted such as friendship, a person to talk to, laughter, prayer partnership, or just community.

I am a strong believer that God gives us gifts and puts us in situations to use them. What might not seem like a gift to you might be the greatest gift to the person you share it with. For example, perhaps you are a good listener. I strongly believe that is a gift from God and a spiritual talent. It can be shared with anyone! To offer that gift to someone that doesn't often receive it is a service to them and a service for God. Some people have the gift of making other people laugh. I think this is also a gift of the sprit to be shared. Perhaps you have gifts and talents that can be shared with our friends affected by homelessness. Let me suggest, the next time you ride with UBFM (or volunteer with any similar organization) make the effort to create one friendship with a person you have never met before. Take a moment to get to know something about them. Ask them where they are from, what their favorite sport or team is, and simply ask how they are doing. Tell them you want to see them again and ask if there is anything you can bring them next time. You might discover that their need happens to be a spiritual gift God has blessed you with. And, your act of sharing might change a life.    

We will load up Wednesday at 7:30PM and ride out at 8:00. We will return around 9 -9:30. We meet at the Carpenter's House, same location as the FUMC (see below). If you would like to help prepare burritos, we will start in the kitchen of FUMC at 6:30.

Saturday we will start cooking in the FUMC kitchen at 7:00AM and ride out from the Carpenter’s House at 8:00. We will return around 9:00. If it rains, take caution on the trolley tracks! 

First United Methodist Church

204 N. 2nd St.

Memphis TN 38105

The Carpenter’s House

212 N. 2^nd St.

Memphis TN 38105

The Carpenter's House is the building beside the church. We meet in the back parking lot of the building.

Things you will need for the ride (must):

•   Bike

•   Helmet…It is a must!

•   Hydration for yourself

•   Flashers for front and rear of your bike

•   Backpack 

•   A giving spirit

Recommended for the ride (not necessary):

•   Bright or reflective clothing

·      Warm clothing (wind or water repellant)

•   old grocery bags (plastic) 

•   care packages (hygiene)

•   tools to repair a flat  

·      flashlight

Donations that we are in need of:

•   bottled water (always) 

•   light blankets (easy to carry) or sleeping bags

•   Monetary funds to purchase food and supplies Click Here

·      Bicycle helmets

·      Reflective vests

·      Cold weather gear (jackets, scarves, gloves, etc.)

·      Extra flashing lights (for bikes)
-   care packages (contact for details)