Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1997 - Rparchives.org

208 MINUTES OF THE 1997 SYNOD OF THE
In researching the beginnings of the Association, it becomes clear that the
founders envisioned a scope of service well beyond the care of aged persons. The
predicament of a disabled woman had spurred the women into aaion, and their
first petition to the Synod mentioned children. While their first step after
incorporation was to open a home for elderly persons, their overall plan had been
broader.
So it is with great excitement that we close out this century of service by
fulfilling, however modestly, the original intent of the founders by establishing two
more ministries: Robin's Nest, a child day care center, and the Board to Address
Disability Concerns.
At the beginning of 1996, Robin's Nest did not even have a name. It was just
an idea. Now we have a fully operational child day care center. In March of
1996, the Disability Ministry was formally incorporated into the RPWA and
became better known to the denomination through their activities on behalf of
disabled persons at the 1996 RPCNA International Conference.
As we begin a new century, we are looking for ways to extend our ministry to
older adults in other locations. We ask for your prayers, input and support as we
examine the opportunities and look for needs that we can serve.
This year has a peculiar feel to it. We are looking back, yet moving forward.
We are studying our history in preparation for the Centennial Celebration, and, at
the same time, we took forward steps by incorporating the Disability Board and
opening Robin's nest. The sensation is best compared to being aboard a train,
sometimes standing at the throttle of the engine and at other times in the caboose
watching the tracks disappear. But even in the caboose, we are moving forward.
The scripture at the beginning of this report admonishes us not to look back in
longing. We are to be future minded, expecting a new thing. God is opening a
road in the wilderness. But too often we look fearfully at the days ahead,
especially with regard to our society. We wonder aloud at our ability to meet the
great human need which seems to be opening before us. But did the founder face
a task that was any easier
To celebrate our centennial, we will dress in the clothing of the 1890's and
remember that generation's ability to enjoy life through song and laughter. But the
task of looking out for one's brother and sister was no easier then than it is now.
We speak almost nostalgically of the days when there were no telephones or motor
cars. But there was also no public support for a person without family or funds.
The firstannual report of the RPWA records the $.25 gift and a dozen eggs with
the dignity which we accord a $1,000 gift today. Inflation is not the reason. Back
when there was no public assistance, it was sometimes the poor who supported the
poor.
Today we may have Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid. But they are
hardly sufficient to supply the needs around us. Public assistance may keep the