Francisco Vera Manzanares visiting Trinity

God is creating something deep in the midst of us. That is why, on Sunday, September 29th, 2024, we will have the special opportunity to welcome Francisco Vera to our morning worship service at Trinity UMC. Francisco is a young Christian and ecological activist with an inspiring story to tell. He’s been making waves around the world as UNICEF’s First Climate Action Advocate and as a Children’s Advisor to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child. His work is not only vital for the future of our planet, but it also carries a deep spiritual message of stewardship, faith, and responsibility that resonates with our Christian values.

You may remember that Francisco was supposed to join us last year, but at the last minute, he was called to an important commitment at the United Nations in New York City. While we were disappointed at the time, we are thrilled that this year he’s confirmed and eager to be with us in person. His message will challenge us to think deeply about how we can care for God’s creation, advocate for justice, and support the next generation of leaders like him who are fighting for a better world.

Francisco’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. At a young age, he’s already making a significant impact globally, and it’s all rooted in his faith. He will share how his Christian upbringing has shaped his advocacy and what it means to stand up for the environment and the rights of children. This is a rare opportunity to hear from someone who is not only knowledgeable about the global climate crisis but is also grounded in Christian faith and passionate about connecting his activism with his beliefs.

In addition to joining us at Trinity, Francisco will be speaking at Princeton University Theological School on Thursday, September 26th, at 12:00 noon. He’ll engage with the theological community there, discussing how faith and action can come together to address some of the world’s most pressing issues. If you’re able, I encourage you to attend that session as well.

I hope you will make plans to join us for this special Sunday. It’s an incredible chance to be inspired by what God is doing through young people like Francisco, and it will encourage us all to consider our role in caring for creation and advocating for justice. See you there!

Warmly,

Rev. David Gaitan