From the Editors July 7, 1997 Issue

TO OUR READERS

The Editors

Earlier this year a massive gathering on behalf of volunteering was held in the United States. It was particularly targeted at young people in desperate need of one-on-one interaction with adult mentors. As Newsweek put it, "... the United States has about 15 million at-risk kids—children from families that are poor and often dysfunctional. All start out brighteyed and full of potential. Half overcome steep odds to lead productive lives. The other half are question marks" (April 28, 1997).

In response to this great need, the Sentinel's focus this week is on a Christian perspective on serving and volunteering. The editorial that opens the issue points to a survey reporting a shift in values among students entering U.S. colleges over the past thirty years toward a more self-centered materialism. The editorial shows how this can be countered by bringing a spiritual commitment of genuine service to all that we do, including our jobs. In "Volunteer work: a Christian perspective," the author explains how her study of the Bible led her to a volunteer post that involved exploring the Scriptures with battered women.

In the "Dear Sentinel" section, three young people share their thoughts on doing good and also on making peace. The author of "Beauty ... here and now, everywhere and forever" writes of a time of sadness and disruption in her family and how the consciousness of God's beauty and goodness brought comfort. "A wake-up call" shows that spiritual healing is possible even at demanding times.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Editorial
Learning to serve
July 7, 1997
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit