Testimony - Sue
I knew the first time I worshiped at Reconciliation that I had found a new church home. I remember the day clearly, because the sanctuary felt 
large and bare, but the people were warm and joyful. I was surprised to hear scripture read in Spanish and even more surprised that I understood some of it. I loved the sung communion responses - especially Cordero de Dios (although I had to go home to figure out that cordero meant lamb!). The Holy Spirit was so clearly smiling down on this congregation’s worship.
During the membership class I remember reading an article titled “I’m not a racist, but…” and truly beginning to wrestle with the sin of racism for the first time. Many years ago, when I first moved into an affluent neighborhood in northern Durham I assumed the African American mowing the lawn next door was a hired hand and not my neighbor. It still embarrasses me to admit this - he was a wonderful neighbor! It made me realize how deeply embedded racist assumptions are in our society. Reconciliation has given me a space to confront the sin of racism (and classism and sexism) with others who are different from me - with brothers and sisters in Christ who are all baptized into one body - with people I have truly come to love.
I have encountered Christ in so many different ways at Reconciliation. I love our worship - it is passionate and joy-filled! I come hungry each week, with hands open to receive Christ, and I always leave full. I also love going into the jail. Christ meets us there in men who are lost and broken and hurting - and longing for the healing found only in Christ. Working with the children and youth on Wednesday nights has also been a blessing. Many of them are searching for Christ’s peace in the midst of lives that often lack peace, and it is a joy to walk with them on this journey of discovery.
I cannot begin to express my gratitude for all that this congregation has given me. You have given me love and joy and friendship; you have challenged me to grow in ways I never imagined possible; you have given me a vision of the Kingdom of God that I will cling to and strive for no matter where God calls me to serve. Thank you!
May the peace of Christ be with you!
Sue Eldon
