As the temperatures drop, we’re reminded of a simple truth: we must care for our youth, especially when they need us most. Last week, Sanctuary of Hope and our village community closed out Youth Hope Month with a heartfelt Multi-Faith Candlelight Vigil, where we gathered to pray for healing, comfort, and strength for our young people and communities.
During the vigil, we shared a hard truth: young people facing housing crises are at a much higher risk of dying young — from conditions like diabetes, sickle cell, strokes, heart attacks, violence, and even traffic accidents. It’s a sobering reminder that, for so many young people, survival itself is an everyday struggle.
The evening ended with a moving poem, “When Doves Fly” by Sidney Car, which touched on the strength and spirit of our youth. It was a beautiful moment of reflection, reminding us all of the resilience, hope, and dreams that still live in our young people — no matter the challenges they face.
As we move forward, let’s commit to standing with our youth, protecting their futures, and giving them the love, support, and resources they need to thrive.
When Doves Fly
When doves fly, let them fly freely, and let them soar high, ascending to heaven.
Earth angels have now taken flight, growing wings and leaving this lifetime behind.
A job that was certainly well done. You are free now. You are now at home.
Your wings cannot be clipped. Your wings have successfully outgrown. Now that you are a soaring dove.
A beautiful angel in disguise, watching from up above. We remember you tonight as the beaming light you was.
Thank you for gracing us with your everlasting love and gleaming presence. May you soar on our flying dove, soaring high into Heaven.
When doves fly, they fly high with not one ounce of fear. Thank you for serving your purpose.
You are now truly free from this earthly atmosphere.
Sidney Carr