Pentecost is a Christian holy day that celebrates the coming of the Holy Spirit 40 days after Easter. Some Christian denominations consider it the birthday of the Christian church and celebrate it as such. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) has chosen the forty-day period to promote the Pentecost Special Offering supporting Children at Risk, Youth, and Young Adult Volunteers.
Forty percent (40%) stays with Hillside Presbyterian Church, 25% supports Young Adult Volunteers, 25% supports Ministries with Youth including the Presbyterian Youth Triennium, and 10% is devoted to children at-risk.
The insert, Rock the DREAAM (Driven to Reach Excellence and Academic Achievement) for males focuses my attention on how Hi llside might use its 40% to make a difference in the lives of young African Americans residing in zip code 30032. Did you know there are 9 public elementary schools in zip code 30032? The 2021 data reported 6 of the 9 public elementary schools in zip code 30032 have an average math proficiency score of 18% versus Georgia’s public schools average of 43% and an average reading proficiency score of 18% versus the 41% statewide average. The findings further revealed that the enrollment of students of color in the 6 schools is 99%.
Hillside is in the middle of these 9 elementary schools with at least 6 within a 3-mile radius. The 2012 Double Jeopardy Overview: How third –Grade Reading Skills and Poverty Influence High School Graduation findings revealed about 16 percent of children who are not reading proficiently by the end of third grade do not graduate from high school on time. Additionally, a Georgia report revealed or perceived that prison beds are predicted based upon test performance of third graders. When this pandemic is in check, Hillside might consider using its 40% to revitalize the Whiz Kids partnership with at least one elementary school in the immediate area.
The Pentecost Offering helps our children, youth, and young adults to begin life with a strong start and a solid foundation of faith.
Give generously--If we all do a little it adds up to a lot. Hillside’s 40% has the opportunity to brighten the corner where we are.
Peace and Blessings
Elder Alice Moore
Stewardship Subcommittee
