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So, I will step forward and say to FCCD, thank you for thinking of the kids regardless of if they belong to your church or not. Thank you for creating a space that is both safe and fun for people of all ages. Thank you for not ever considering a parking lot or commercial enterprise for what is a beautiful corner. Thank you to the committee members and volunteers for all the hard work they do to keep the park from becoming a gathering place for gangs and other unsavory types of behavior. Thank you for providing a place where kids actually learn what diversity, togetherness and unconditional love is all about. Finally, thank you for providing a place where there are no harsh rules of use but rather an expectation of decency and sharing.

Thank you for doing the very best you can for our neighborhood for indeed your faith in the neighborhood has made us well…thank you!

Where Have All the Toys Gone?

Children across these United States are entering a season of anticipation and great expectations. Young people from all walks of life are anticipating gifts of bright new toys under their Christmas tree. My parents hid in their bedroom closet Christmas gifts of toys and games, and it took my three brothers and I all of our will power to resist sneaking a peek. For every aunt who gave us socks or sweaters there was another who wrapped up a toy and put a nephew’s name on it. My own children are teenagers but that only means their wish list for new toys is higher tech than, say, a Little Tykes scooter. Which brings us to the latest hot topic in Decatur: Where have all the playground toys gone?

In 1998, First Christian Church of Decatur members, friends and community residents came together to design a park for children and youth in the city. Our vision was to create a safe place and sacred space for children and their families. We decided to work together to raise the $75,000 necessary to build a playground on church property. We formed a Playground Task Force (3 church members, 3 neighborhood residents, 1 senior pastor) which has met regularly ever since. We raised the funds every which way: barbecues, rummage sales, fish fry dinners, carnivals, a cook book, passing the hat a second and third time, chili cook offs, and a generous grant from the Decatur Beer Festival. The church/community network has been so successful that John Hashimoto, our Playground Task Force chairman, was recognized as Decatur’s Hometown Hero. And look at what we created together with our vision, sweat, resources, and faith! I love to point out that our red swing set holds the world record for constant activity. While the official name is “First Christian Church of Decatur Church and Community Park and Playground”, among its beloved nicknames are “Toddler Park” and “The Land of Misfit Toys”.

One of the playground’s many blessings has been the unplanned yet welcome donations of good used equipment and toys for sharing. Such generous gifts have enhanced the play and character of the sacred space. In 2009, we received a number of reports from families who love the park that it was overcrowded with toys and appeared messy. In response our church teenagers built a toy parking lot in August; afterward the small fence pieces were adopted as toys themselves and then eventually were lost, stolen or strayed. Two Saturdays ago all damaged or duplicate toys were removed. First Christian Church of Decatur respectfully reserves the right and will practice the responsibility to remove broken and/or an excessive amount of toys which may hinder or harm a positive play experience. Our custodians empty the trash cans five days a week. Feel free to help keep the park neat, safe, and clean. We do thank you for your understanding and ongoing support of this adventure.

People in the city have contacted me to ask what can be done. Here are some possibilities for you to prayerfully consider.

First, on Saturday, December 12 at 9AM bring a rake or shovel to the park to help clean up and spread mulch and wood chips. Secondly, donate to the restricted funds account called the Park and Playground Maintenance Fund. 100% donated to this fund is directed to the upkeep and improvements of the park. Third, come by our church lawn and buy a Christmas tree or wreath. Funds generated by the sale benefit the park and ministries in Greater Decatur. The Frazier Firs are fresh and ready to be delivered (free within five miles!).

For more information or to ask any question please feel free to contact me at jameslbc@bellsouth.net or call my cell (404-229-2326) or the church (404-378-3621).

May you connect with the gift of God that keeps on giving. As always, First Christian Church of Decatur and our neighbors across this fine city, I am delighted to be your pastor. Shalom, James Brewer-Calvert