With steady hearts

Updated on

Dear Friends,

As we continue to face global upheaval on many fronts, we lean again on the pillar of prayer trusting the Psalmist who said, “I cry out to you because you answer me.” Knowing this, we petition God ourselves: “Tilt your ears toward [us] now; please listen to [our] words…” (17:6).
Pressed on every side, we are not despairing.  We are trusting that God will grant us peace as we navigate this time of pandemic, social/civil unrest, and economic uncertainty.
As always, we give God thanks for your continued prayers and support, and pray that you will remain safe and in good health.

What’s Happening Now:

  • Phased Reopening – we are in Phase 1 of our reopening process which includes the return of non-residential employees to the property.  Phase 2 is scheduled to begin Aug. 4 and will include welcoming back key volunteers and council members for meetings on site.  Our phased reopening is subject to change depending on health reports.
  • Construction Started – capital campaign work began in earnest this week with our contractor arriving on site to start projects that include restoration of masonry throughout the property, the porches, and other exterior finishes. Improvements include new pathways through the garden, the addition of an outdoor deck on the refectory, and re-working the function of the kitchen and pantry.  We anticipate these projects ending by March 2021.
  • Saying Goodbye – we’re experiencing a number of changes to our roster of residents and employees this summer as a result of the financial impact of Covid-19, re-discernment, and new opportunities.  We’re grateful for and will miss the contributions of Ross Catrow, Addan Jones, Aria Kirkland-Harris, Marvette Tate, and Yohance Whitaker.  The roles of James Byrd and Keith Smith have been suspended for now, but we anticipate their return in connection with Phase 3 of our re-opening plan this fall.
  • New Responsibilities – Richard Rumble and Anthony Gaboton have begun new roles in the community.  Richard is now our Small Group and Creative Design Coordinator, helping to manage and develop small group ministries while continuing to share his graphic design abilities in support of programs and offerings.  Anthony has shifted from the Urban Service Corps to a full-time residential role as Marketing Coordinator, guiding our on-line and social media presence and communications.  Both roles began July 1.

What’s Coming Up:

  • Listening to the Silence – Tuesday, July 14, from 10 AM – 3 PM with Rita Ricks – a virtual framework for deepening into silence wherever you are. Sign up here or with  Rita directly.
  • Tuesday Community Worship – continue to join us at 5:30 PM on Tuesday evenings on our Facebook page for a brief service of worship led by members of our staff and community.
  • Centering Prayer – join the weekly group on Tuesday, July 14, at 7:30 PM or another group in the city by contacting Becky Robinson, Chapter Coordinator of Contemplative Outreach of Richmond and Co-Leader of our Tuesday night group, at bbtsmi@aol.com.
  • Annual Community Retreat – residents, staff, council members and key volunteers will meet mid-August to organize for the coming year. Our theme this year is borrowed from the Martin Luther King, Jr. book, Where Do We Go from Here? Chaos or Community and will provide a chance for us to reassess our commitment to racial justice in light of the pandemic and the on-going civil unrest in our city and beyond.

To learn more about any of the above opportunities or to be connected with a prayer partner or spiritual director, please contact us at (804) 783-7903 or info@RichmondHillVA.org.  Visit our website or Facebook page for updates.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement with Richmond Hill during this time of separation.

Prayerfully yours,
Lisa and Joel

You may donate to our Annual Fund by clicking here or mailing a check to Richmond Hill, 2209 East Grace Street, Richmond, VA 23223.