Wichitans show their love

It’s hard to imagine a more direct or productive expression of community self-esteem than Love Wichita.

The faith-based event, launched in 2009 by Eastminster Church in partnership with then-Mayor Carl Brewer, has only grown in participation and impact.

Saturday’s annual day of cleanup and repair projects throughout neighborhoods aims to involve thousands of volunteers representing more than 25 Christian churches – in answer to God’s call to “seek the peace and prosperity of the city” (Jeremiah 29:7). The day of service will end with music and ice cream at 4 p.m. Saturday in Central Riverside Park. (The Love Wichita rain date is May 2.) For more information, call 316-247-2399 or visit lovewichita.org.

As Brewer said in announcing a city proclamation last year, the day stands out as an opportunity for multiple denominations to work together to help their neighbors.

Thanks are due to all those who volunteer their time, energy, sweat and skill to this outpouring of faith and community pride. May the show of love continue to bless Wichita for many Aprils to come.

For the editorial board, Rhonda Holman

This story was originally published April 23, 2015 at 7:07 PM with the headline "Wichitans show their love."