To the editor:

So another church in Lawrence is planning a multimillion-dollar expansion, following fast on the heels of several other churches that have invested a total of over $10 million in land acquisition, additions, new buildings, and other necessities for the devoted followers of Jesus.

Meanwhile, agencies and groups ministering to the poor and needy in Lawrence struggle to maintain food pantries and provide such life necessities as food, clothing, and a place to sleep at night. But, the hungry and homeless can rest easier at night, knowing the affluently religious in the city have their shiny new retreats, gymnasiums, playgrounds, offices, classrooms, and rural retreat and recreation centers in which to comfortably recite the words of Jesus.

Ponder the irony: Those who profess to devoutly follow the teachings of Jesus – indeed, call themselves Christians – sitting in their new sanctuaries, relaxing after a nice meal prepared in their new church kitchens, as their children play in the gymnasiums and well-groomed soccer fields, reading from passages of the Gospels – perhaps Matthew 19:16-30, Luke 18:18-30, or Mark 10:17-31? – and reflecting on what good Christians they are.

To borrow a catch phrase of the day, “What would Jesus do?” Build more playgrounds and soccer fields for the well-fed offspring of these fine Christian citizens? Or, perhaps, take those millions intended to make the pietistic churchgoer more comfortable, and devote them instead to making sure that no child in Lawrence goes to bed hungry and cold?

Mark Jakubauskas,

Lawrence