There really aren’t words for what happened today. For decades, Central has been the faith community for a large number of HHS/CDC and other federal employees. Throughout the day, we’ve carefully tracked news and checked in with many of you. Indeed, we know that several people in our congregation, their children, and/or spouses have been separated from careers that they loved. Many of our retired members have noted that colleagues and dear friends have received similar notices today.
For some of these folks, serving the CDC was their first and only place of work. Whether serving for 10 months or 20 years, we want to acknowledge what others may not:
They have made an incalculable difference in the lives of countless Americans and people around the world.
Their work has changed and saved lives.
Our nation, and future generations, owe them a debt of gratitude for the work that they have proudly and steadfastly performed.
Serving the federal government is a choice. And it often means working longer hours, earning less money, and having far less flexibility than what might otherwise be afforded in other settings. We are grateful for every person who made that choice to serve.
Our doors (and phones) are open to you and your family should you wish to talk or simply have a place to sit.
We also want to highlight our Parish Fund. Because the impact of these labor decisions are far-reaching and not yet fully known, please know that our Parish Fund exists to support people in difficult financial situations. We have been blessed in that this fund hasn’t been used very much in the past several years. As such, it has a healthy account balance. Nonetheless, if you would like to support our Parish Fund, you can donate online: Support the Parish Fund
