“From this womb”

A reflection inspired by the conference “Awaken Chicago”[i]

 

View of the center aisle in Rockefeller Chapel, the University of Chicago, site that hosted the opening and closing plenaries for “Awaken Chicago” . mig

by Magdalena I. García

From this womb

I was birthed into church ministry

twenty seven years ago[ii]

and now the water breaks again

and the labor pains return

and the birth canal opens anew

and I am launched one more time

into this journey of ongoing awakening

to the power of all people TOGETHER[iii]

to disrupt systems of ignorance and oppression

both internal and external

that perpetuate the myth of separation

by teaching us to fear

who we are and the other.

From this womb

I am now sent forth into public service

renewing the commitment to spiritual activism

connecting, learning, and acting

in collaboration with partners across the city

so that TOGETHER we may alter

the enslaving narrative of worthlessness and greed

and deepen our understanding of dignity and respect

in order to change the conditions

causing isolation, inequality and violence.

Awaken, Windy City, 
and listen to the voices blowing from your streets.
Awaken, City of Broad Shoulders, 
and embrace the challenges ushered from your streets.
Awaken, City in a Garden, 
and invest to eliminate disparity from your streets.
Awaken, My Kind of Town, 
and celebrate the transformation emerging from your streets.
Awaken, Chicago, 
and see the light of hope emerging from your streets.

© Magdalena I. García

---

[i] awakenchicago.org

[ii] In June 1989, I received a Masters of Divinity degree from McCormick Theological Seminary, a requirement towards ordination as a Presbyterian minister. The commencement ceremony was held at Rockefeller Chapel.

[iii] This line is take from the “Awaken Chicago” conference theme.