In general, the season leading up to Christmas is full of cheer. We sing carols, decorate trees, give gifts and participate in creating an environment of joy. It’s a really good thing to cultivate some joy in the waiting.
At the same time, this is a hard season for many of us. We’re reminded of a loved one who won’t be with us this Christmas, and we remember them as we set the table and serve the meal. That remembering is an important part of how we honor those who have passed away, but in San Francisco, there are many people who have died this year who are not remembered at all: our city’s homeless population.
Co-sponsored by the San Francisco Interfaith Council and the San Francisco Night Ministry, the Interfaith Homeless Memorial Service is a gathering of San Franciscans who seek to remember the lives and deaths of those who have too often been forgotten. The service itself is brief—probably about an hour—and might sound like a downer during the celebratory days that come before Christmas. And of course, in a sense, it is. This is a deeply sad event. As Wendi Digerness wrote,
Why would I purposefully attend an event that will bring me sadness and possible pain? And, WHY would I also bring my kids along? Well, I don't know how much time I spend thinking about the poor, the homeless, the helpless during the year. Out of 365 days, not that much. But for this one hour, will be fully present. I will be still, silent and sad...I will obey my sadness—for one hour.
When I went for the first time, I was struck by how solemn the event was. There were kids running around and cars passing by, but in the midst of chaos we stood still and heard the name of each homeless person who had died in San Francisco that year. The sky grew darker and the candles shone as we listened to name after name after name being called out. We use a lot of platitudes to talk about the dead, I remember thinking—”lost,” “passed away,” “departed.” But on this cold night, we were made to face the reality that life ends, and it had ended for many people that year who I had never known, yet had something in common with. It both was a lament and a recognition of connection.
Whether you bring children or a spouse or yourself, the Interfaith Homeless Memorial is the kind of event that will stay with you long after the holidays have ended. It has helped me to be a better citizen of San Francisco, and remains on my mind as I pray for the homeless here. It has inspired me to serve more and to ask questions of God when I don’t understand why the world is the way it is. As much as the holidays are a season of joy, joy does not always mean comfort and ease. The truest joy I have seen has been in people who have suffered, often greatly, and are aware of God’s constant companionship. That is something we can bring even into the darkest places. I hope you’ll consider joining us this year.
Wednesday, December 21 | 5:30 PM
City Hall Steps on Civic Center Plaza | Polk St