There was a full house at both showings of Walk On Water last week. There were many moments of hope, inspiration, and humor, and many offering the opportunity for sober reflection on the cruelties of slavery.
Coming together in acknowledgement of and with a willingness to learn from our shared history strengthens us as a community. Director Mike Wilson noted that this was “a community building project from the beginning.” Leslie Stone, who played the lead character Charlotte, wrote in her cast biography, “by acknowledging and learning about the history of slavery in St. Joseph, we honor the experiences of those who have suffered and help prevent such injustices from happening again in our community.” Assistant Director Jeremy Glenn expressed “faith that through healthy discussions and shared moments of grace, we will continue to grow as a community, as a family.”
Thanks to Gary Wilkinson for sharing his family’s story; to the director, actors, funders and others who made the production a reality; and to all who came together to watch the performances. May this shared experience help us build a stronger and resilient community.

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