Each week we feature one ministry from the many that make up the work and witness of All Saints Church … and Sunday, November 26 we featured the Alternative Christmas Market with this reflection from Dorothy Crist.

Oscar Romero, the Archbishop of El Salvador, was assassinated as he was in the pulpit in San Salvador on March 24, 1980. This event changed my life.

When I learned how much the U.S. had been supporting the war against the poor in Central America, I became involved in the Sanctuary Movement in Los Angeles, as well as working with the people in El Salvador. I have made several trips to El Salvador under the leadership of Centro de Intercambio y Solidaridad (CIS), and in 2012 was on a Transformational Journey with several members of All Saints.

Upon our return, we wanted very much to become part of a scholarship program which CIS sponsors in about 17 small communities throughout the country. The students want to remain in El Salvador with an education that is needed to help rebuild and work within their communities. The future of that country depends on the growth and education of these bright and enthusiastic young people. As Americans who are greatly responsible for the broken economy and violence in El Salvador, and as Christians I believe that we are called to help build a positive future for our brothers and sisters where there is such great need.

On December 10, All Saints will again host the Alternative Christmas Market. At that time there are many opportunities to support great non-profit organizations. Each year several thousand dollars are raised as a way to give gifts that are so meaningful and full of love and gratitude. There is an opportunity to support the CIS scholarship fund, as well as many other worthwhile projects. Please come!

See the Alternative Christmas Market Catalog.

See the Alternative Christmas Market Shopping List.

For more information on the Alternative Christmas Market contact Ada Ramirez at aramirez@allsaints-pas.org or 626.583.2734