A: First of all, I have seen the increase in need whether it's the Burbank Temporary Aid Center, or the homeless, or people who come to the church looking for financial assistance. And it's not just homeless, it's people who have jobs and are working, but are having difficulty making ends meet, like paying the rent or putting food on the table. The economic downturn has certainly had a major impact. In turn, the members and people involved with this church recognize that and they are just as generous with their resources and their time. You see an increase in need and you see an increase in generosity to meet that need.
Q: What segments of society or places in the world are most in need of God?
A: My belief is that God is always there, that God is not just something from the past that we are remembering, but that God is still very active in the world no matter where we are. But we as human beings are searching for God and therefore always growing and changing in our belief and faith about God. I believe it's a constant and continuing process. If God is always there, it's a matter of where in our lives are we trying to intercept with that and have a relationship with God, and, just as important, with each other. For me the great commandment of "Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and love your neighbor as yourself," is the maxim to live by. If we can do that in whatever we are doing in our daily lives, living that out, we are making the world a better place for us.
