FAST AND PRAY

Fast and Pray

with Presbyterians around the world

as a response to

world hunger

"845 million people are going hungry in the world; as many as 100 million more risk starvation, while others live with plenty to spare."

- Ruth Farrell, Coordinator, Presbyterian Hunger Program

Sept. 18, 2008

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Because we are called by Christ to respond to the cry of the poor, we invite you to take action with us by joining in an important new churchwide initiative, which we pray will make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering in the wake of the global food crisis.
Starting this October, Presbyterians will be encouraged on a monthly basis to adopt the ancient spiritual practice of fasting, beginning on Friday evening, and ending with Communion on a Sunday morning, where the Sacrament is regularly observed. The year-long cycle of prayer and fasting – or the partaking of simple meals – will end October 16, 2009, on World Food Day. Interpretive materials for each month will be available through www.pcusa.org/foodcrisis.
Won’t you join us as we stand in solidarity with the poor and the hungry, discerning – with God’s help – faithful responses and meaningful coordinated actions to lift up our worldwide community through this global crisis?

Faithfully yours,

The Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow , Moderator of the 218th General Assembly

Elder Linda Bryant Valentine, Executive Director, General Assembly Council

The Rev. Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly

FAST Flyer containing this letter, letter from Presbyterian Hunger Coordinator Ruth Farrell, the General Assembly Resolution, and lists of resoures on participating in the year-long monthly fast from Hunger Action Advocate, Pat Plant

For many resources on the hunger crisis and responding to it, visit: www.pcusa.org/hunger