08/22/2026
Sunday August 9 Recap: Back to School edition! Check out the following update from Min. Jonathan on this annual event:
Dear Riverside,
The SW Back to School Community Festival 2026, was a success because we did the work in a collaborative way. Our team was four congregations: St. Matthew’s ELCA, Westminster Presbyterian, St. Augustine Episcopal and Riverside Baptist. Each community exceeded their donations from last year, or participated for the first time.
We began planning in late June, with goodwill and faithfulness. The Saints who helped set the event up reflected the diversity of each community. The largest contingent was made up of our “Sages”. They exuded care and were full of energy, graciously doing whatever was needed, lovingly preparing a table of goodies for our youth.
On the day of the event many of those same people were welcoming students, cheering them on, encouraging them to get ready for the school year. We danced, listened to music, ate pizza, and most importantly made connections. In total we ended up giving away over 180 backpacks, full of school supplies, books, toys for our youngest and hygiene and sanitary items for all. That alone is worthy of recognition, but that was not all. In addition our neighborhood partners showed up ready to support, with onsite representatives from DC Parks and Recreation and SWBID. Our welcoming spirit and enthusiasm made a real impact that day. We exemplified who the church is called to be, and what work we’re commissioned to do. For me it seemed that these weren’t just children going back to school, they were our children. Thank you all for making this event possible and for sharing the light and love of God with our neighbors.
- Min. Jonathan
