Solid Ground Ministry
From the Eyes of the People We Serve
A Franciscan Ministry with African American Family
St. Clare Friary - New York City
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What is Solid Ground Ministry? It has been described
in its original mission statement: "Solid Ground is a Franciscan Ministry of
evangelization and outreach to African American families. It is rooted in the
belief that since we are created in God's image, we are called to faithful
service to share God's abundant life. The message from Solid Ground Ministry to
the Black Community is to choose life and reject all forms of violence. Solid
Ground Franciscan Ministry always seeks to root those it serves in dignity,
faith, and strength."
Solid Ground Ministry is rooted in the Eucharist and
the Word. The mission statement defines the Eucharistic connection as follows:
"As Franciscans the Eucharist is at the heart of our mission at Solid Ground.
For we, who have encountered Christ in the Eucharist, are sent to bring others
to meet the Lord. This is accomplished by the love that Jesus commands that we
share with one another."
If we look to the Gospel of Matthew (5:1-12a) we
encounter the well known text of the Beatitudes and the Word connection to Solid
Ground Ministry is quite evident. The members of Solid Ground believe that they
are called to bring the presence of Christ to those in need. It is Christ
Himself who places those in ministry in situations in our beloved city of New
York where they can be His messengers.
The mission further states: "Solid Ground views
evangelization as an on-going ministry. Therefore, the programs that are created
continuously evolve as needs arise. The main thrust is always to choose life and
to reject anything which opposes life. Areas of rejection may include combating
things such as hunger, poverty, drugs, homelessness, health crises like
HIV/AIDS, domestic violence, racism, miseducation, damage to the environment, or
armed conflict."
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