Dear Friends:

There is a story in the writings of India of Arune being asked by another person: "Why is there so much suffering in the world, so much pain, what is its meaning, and how can we solve it?" Arune replied: "It is a part of the Great Mystery. We must trust that there is meaning in all of this. Our task is to simply be present, to give a cup of cold water."

Recently I gave the last rites to an eighteen year old dying of an AIDS related condition. He died in my arms. The only answer I can give for this tragedy is that it is a part of the Great Mystery and ultimately all will be well. And my task is to practice the resurrection in the giving of the cup of cold water.

These seven years we have together practiced the presence in the giving of the cup of cold water, trusting in the resurrection. We have touched nearly 12,000 lives. We have rested in the Great Mystery, trusting in the One who goes before us into Galilee. We have practiced the resurrection.

I invite you this Christmas to continue with us on this journey. The need is great. We are strained financially as we have never been in the past. I invite you to give a cup of cold water. I invite you to practice the resurrection.

In Jesus, Street Person and Rebel,


Father River Sims, and the kids of Polk