Jackson Jambalaya

The late Democratic Cong. G. V. “Sonny” Montgomery was a mainstay of the Congressional Prayer Breakfast. At Sonny’s memorial service in 2006, former Republican Congressman and Secretary of the Army Pete Geren called the breakfast “an island of fellowship.” Another former Republican congressman, Ed Pease, called it “an oasis for the spirit.”

Would that we had such affirming bipartisan gatherings in our political world today. Instead, we are beset by islands of conflict and oases for the bitter that yield too many perverse political leaders in both parties.

So, it has been heartwarming to learn about an island of fellowship and oasis for the spirit in downtown Jackson.

Grace Place is located on the grounds of Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church (UMC) right in front of the State Capitol.

What is Grace Place? A physical and spiritual haven for those who are homeless and others in need based on the following descriptions from some of the many volunteers:

“A judgment-free, safe place, Grace Place fills a critical need in the Jackson community by providing respect, dignity, and love to our brothers and sisters, some of whom struggle daily with poverty, mental illness, and addiction.”

“A friendly gesture, a loving prayer, and a helping hand greet our guests each morning. They are also afforded a hot, nourishing breakfast, warm and clean clothing, and can even earn their own bicycle for transportation.”

“Grace Place serves as a brief safety and comfort zone, the only such respite for many of our guests.”

“A place of grace, nourishing the spirit as well as the body through prayer and Holy Communion.”

“A tangible example of God’s love.” Who are these devoted volunteers? In addition to Galloway, they come from churches and organizations across the metro area including Parkway Hills UMC in Madison, St. Mark’s UMC in Brandon, St. Luke’s UMC in Jackson, Christ United in Jackson, area Rotary Clubs, the VFW, and more. Add to these others with servant hearts.

Since 2007, Grace Place has provided nutritious meals four mornings a week (St. Andrews Episcopal Cathedral covers the fifth day) to an average of 600 distinct guests per year and over 1,200 meals a month.

“Sonny nurtured the prayer breakfast like the master gardener his garden,” noted Geren. Galloway’s Rev. Lori Till nurtures Grace Place and its flock with similar diligence and dedication. “There is something radically transformational in friendship and love,” she says in describing Grace Place's mission.

“Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble; then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon” – Isaiah 58:10.

Crawford is a syndicated columnist from Jackson.