Written by Josephine

Dear Beloved Family in Christ,

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is a joy to bring you the latest updates from our beloved town of Topeka, where God’s grace and mercy continue to abound. As we gather each week in fellowship and worship, I am reminded of how blessed we are to live in a city that offers not only political significance but also a rich cultural and historical heritage that glorifies God in ways we may not always see at first glance.

Topeka, Kansas’s capital, stands at the helm of state governance. As the seat of our government, it is a place where decisions are made that shape the future of our great state. Yet, beyond the hustle and bustle of politics, Topeka is so much more. It is a city that reflects the values of our faith—community, service, and justice. For those who call Topeka home, we know that it is a city rich in culture, leisure, and most importantly, the spirit of Christ.

Our historic downtown serves as the heart of the city. The brick-lined streets and charming architecture reflect Topeka’s long-standing legacy, yet they also embrace the modernity of today. This blend of old and new is a reminder that, as Christians, we are called to honor the past while stepping forward in faith.

Downtown Topeka has much to offer beyond the political discussions and meetings that often take place in the state’s government buildings. It is a place of connection—where people gather, celebrate, and share their stories. In recent months, downtown has seen a revival of its arts scene, which is a beautiful testament to the creativity and beauty God has instilled in us all. Through galleries, local theaters, and outdoor performances, we see firsthand how God uses art to inspire, uplift, and bring communities together.

I encourage each of you to take a stroll downtown during your free time and experience the sights and sounds of our vibrant city. It’s not just a place to shop or dine; it’s a place to reflect, pray, and find peace amidst the busyness of life. As you walk through these streets, think of the many ways God has used this city to bless His people, both in the past and today.

Topeka’s arts scene is thriving, with local artists and performers bringing fresh perspectives to our community. From sculptures to paintings, to plays and music performances, the city is alive with creative expression. It is a reminder to us all of the Creator who made everything beautiful in its time.

This season, we had the privilege of attending several performances showcasing the talents of our community members. It was such a joy to see how God is using the arts to draw people closer to Him. Art has a way of transcending words and speaks directly to the soul. It has the power to challenge, encourage, and comfort, much like the Word of God.

In this season, we as a church are being called to embrace the creative ways God is speaking to us through various forms of expression. Whether it’s through worship, writing, or other creative outlets, we must remember that all of our talents, no matter how small, are a reflection of His goodness.

As we engage in the arts and support our local artists, let us remember to pray for them. Their work often brings light into dark places and opens up spaces for dialogue about our faith, our community, and the world we live in. May we continue to support and nurture this vibrant sector of our city.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Topeka is the number of parks and green spaces that surround us. Whether you are enjoying a quiet walk through Gage Park or taking in the serene beauty of the Kansas River, God’s creation is on full display. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of a busy city, there are always opportunities to connect with nature and take a moment of rest.

I know many of you take time each week to visit these parks, whether for a peaceful reflection or a family gathering. The parks serve as a refuge from the stresses of life and a place to breathe deeply of the peace that only God can provide. As we sit by the water or walk among the trees, we are reminded of the goodness of God, who created all things for His glory.

This spring, I invite you to take some time to visit a park, enjoy the beauty of nature, and take a moment to pray for our community. As you walk in the midst of God’s creation, may you feel His presence near, knowing that He is always with us.

A City of Justice: Honoring the Legacy of the Civil Rights Movement

Topeka is also a city with a deep history of standing for justice and equality. As many of you know, our city played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, particularly through the landmark case, Brown v. Board of Education. This historic case challenged the doctrine of “separate but equal” and ultimately led to the desegregation of schools across the nation.

The Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site serves as a powerful reminder of the strides our country has made toward justice and equality. It is an educational and inspiring place that reminds us of the sacrifices made by countless individuals who fought for freedom and equal rights. The legacy of the civil rights movement continues to shape our community today, and it is something we as a church must honor and continue to build upon.

As followers of Christ, we are called to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). We must continue to support efforts to promote equality and justice, especially in our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. May we always remember that we are all equal in God’s eyes, and His heart beats for justice and compassion for all people.

As we look to the future of our church and our city, I believe God is calling us to arise and build. There is much work to be done, both within our congregation and in our community. Whether it is through supporting local initiatives, volunteering at the Brown v. Board of Education site, or simply taking time to pray for the leaders of our city, we all have a part to play.

In the coming weeks, let’s commit to supporting one another in prayer and action. Let us be a light in our community, reflecting the love and grace of Christ wherever we go. May our actions be a testimony to the power of God’s love, and may we continue to build a city that reflects His glory in all things.

As we move forward in faith, may God continue to bless Topeka and our church family. Let us stand firm in His promises and continue to walk in the path He has laid before us.

With love in Christ,
Josephine.