Spring Peace Night Draws 30 Families
to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit

Rochelle Riley, Detroit Free Press

April 29, Detroit, Michigan – More than 30 families gathered on April 8 in the art studio and library of the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit to celebrate their Spring Peace Night. The event was sponsored by the Rosa Parks Children Youth Program, founded 10 years ago by Sister Nancyann Turner, OP.

After listening to music from the children and the Capuchin Community Choir, the crowd heard a motivational message from columnist Rochelle Riley, of the Detroit Free Press. In her talk, “The Power of One,” she emphasized the importance of making contributions of any size to society. Connecting with the youth in her audience, Ms. Riley looked at them and said, “I see a room full of hope, possibility and change.”

Following her talk, children and mothers from the Rosa Parks program read poems about peace and forgiveness. 

“Forgiveness to me means to relate to others
and see how they feel. 
Give up the hurt,
we both can heal”
- Kamaria Norwood

“To this day, I know I will not always be forgiven. I feel that as long as I am willing to forgive, that’s what counts.” – Charlene Cook

In a thought-provoking program, five mothers of youth in the after-school program contributed their gifts of poetry, gratitude, song, leadership and prayer to the event, moving many people with tears of joy. The hope that the whole village will carry the message of hope, forgiveness and charity to others throughout the Easter season and beyond.

The Rosa Parks Children/Youth Program seeks to nurture and heal young peacemakers so that they can spread positive ideas and love to their families and communities. Youth ages five to 15 attend art therapy and creativity classes as well as after-school tutoring sessions. Three times a week, the Rosa Parks Children’s Library is transformed into an art studio focused on feelings. Twice a week, the library is open for reading and educational game-playing to stretch the minds of the youth. The program has been running for 10 years inside the Capuchin Soup Kitchen on the East Side of Detroit.

Submitted by Clara Hardie and Sister Nancyann Turner, Capuchin Soup Kitchen and Rosa Parks Children Youth Program