Prayers For California

KPCC, Pasadena's local public radio station, aired a story this morning about state budget cuts which elected officials voted upon yesterday. Lawmakers in Sacramento cut $8 billion dollars from the state budget, and while that number is large, the budget deficit remains at $18 billion. Many of the cuts include the elimination of health and welfare services for low-income, elderly, and disabled Californians, and funds for mental health programs and children's health and welfare services are being moved into the state's general fund for a year.

Political opinions concerning this decision are likely to run the gamut, but we want to remain prayerful for all people who are directly effected by these cuts. As we do so often, we remind ourselves that we want to be a part of the very prayers we make.

How can we turn toward those who are experiencing economic vulnerabilities? How can we learn from them? How can we stand alongside them? How can we honor their needs? Their gifts?

Feel free to check out KPCC's story: "Calfornia State Lawmakers Pass Budget Cut Bills - But Fall Short on Key Bill".