Let's stand up for equality, justice and human dignity
Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation and Sun Lakes United Church of Christ
Sunday, January 20th, 11:15 am at Sun Lakes Chapel, 9240 E. Sun Lakes Blvd N
On Sunday, January 20th, Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation and Sun Lakes United Church of Christ will join together in an Interfaith service dedicated to the redemption of the human spirit and the fulfillment of the freedoms we enjoy. This year celebrates the 70th anniversary of the adoption of Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations. This Declaration is a milestone document that proclaimed the inalienable rights which everyone is inherently entitled to as a human being -- regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. It is the most translated document in the world, available in more than 500 languages.
Drafted by representatives of diverse legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration sets out universal values and a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations. It establishes the equal dignity and worth of every person. Thanks to the Declaration, and States' commitments to its principles, the dignity of millions has been uplifted and the foundation for a more just world has been laid. While its promise is yet to be fully realized, the very fact that it has stood the test of time is testament to the enduring universality of its perennial values of equality, justice and human dignity.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights empowers us all. The principles enshrined in the Declaration are as relevant today as they were in 1948. We need to stand up for our own rights and those of others. We can take action in our own daily lives, to uphold the rights that protect us all and thereby promote the kinship of all human beings.
January 20th also marks the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. His significance is important because he symbolizes the search for equality, not only racially, but also religiously. Our history records many instances of the struggle for connection, free from the bigotry that sometimes interferes in our desire to be equal, as we are in God’s eyes.
Music will be offered by the joint choirs of both congregations and Rabbi Irwin Wiener and Pastor Vernon Meyer will offer prayers and reflections on scripture. All are welcome to join them in Sun Lakes Chapel, 9240 E. Sun Lakes Blvd N., at 11:15am. Call Pastor Vernon at 480-895-6317 if you have any questions.