By Walt Wiltschek
“For we are strangers no more, but members of one family.” With these words, borrowed from a popular Brethren hymn, Miami (Fla.) Haitian Church of the Brethren pastor Ilexene Alphonse summed up the spirit of Atlantic Southeast District’s first Multicultural Festival.
Held at the Miami Haitian church on Jan. 31, the event brought together about half of Atlantic Southeast’s 18 congregations to share in a joyful celebration of the district’s cultural tapestry. Many members of the denomination’s Council of District Executives (CODE) and several other agency representatives also were present.
The afternoon included dances by several groups, including one started by an elderly member of the congregation who was soon joined spontaneously by a whole line of others. There also were songs shared in Haitian Creole, French, Spanish, Bassa, and English; poetry; a performance by Ted Swartz of acting troupe Ted & Co.; and even a fun-filled group participation version of “hot potato” titled “Tick, Tock, Boom.” The afternoon concluded with a rousing congregational rendition of “How Great Thou Art” in four languages and a potluck meal held in a tent set up in the parking lot.
The Atlantic Southeast District ministry team organized the event. It was set amidst a larger continuing education event for CODE in the Miami area that included multicultural Bible studies on Acts 2, visits to other area congregations, conversation with Church of the Brethren Intercultural Ministries director Founa Badet, and meals featuring local cuisine. A number of others attending the Multicultural Festival also stayed for worship Sunday morning.
“What a glorious time we have had,” said Beth Sollenberger, Atlantic Southeast District interim director of administration, sharing her gratitude at the end of the weekend. “It has been wonderful.”
As Ilexene Alphonse added, smiling broadly, it was “a taste of heaven” to be “united in Christ.”
— Walt Wiltschek is district executive minister for the Church of the Brethren’s Illinois and Wisconsin District.
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