Community service is discussion topic at St. Bede’s beginning March 4

The Dalai Lama calls compassion a “global staple” — something we all need. In the Bible, God is described as having the kind of compassion and loving kindness towards humanity in words that suggest “gut feelings.” But what does this compassion look like when we share it with others, and what do we receive when we give of ourselves?

St. Bede’s Episcopal Church invites all those involved or interested in community service to explore those questions in Being the Hands of Jesus: Lenten Conversations, a month long discussion series led by volunteers and staff of local and international nonprofits. Parishioners active with Ecumenical Hunger Program in East Palo Alto and other  agencies working with the needy in our area will lead the inaugural  session  at 9:15 a.m. Sunday, March 4, while Lesia Preston, Ecumenical Hunger Project’s executive director, will continue that focus with a special presentation at  6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 7.

Upcoming topics include working abroad, working with “the other” and working with the sick and dying. All discussions are 45 minutes long, free and open to the public. For the Wednesday gatherings, an optional simple supper starts at 6:00 pm. ($5 donation requested.) The sessions take place in Lehman Hall, to the right of St. Bede’s parking lot at 2650 Sand Hill Road (off Monte Rosa). For more information, or to reserve a simple supper, call  the parish office at 650-854-6555.