Community Organizing Comes to Encinitas

When Rev. Richard Hogue first began work in community organizing while a Missioner for three Episcopal churches in Jersey City, New Jersey, he was surprised to learn that what the community surrounding his churches most needed was a place to present their art. With that, one of Rev. Hogue’s churches became a hub for local artists.

Now the Associate Rector at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Encinitas, Rev. Hogue is working to bring community organizing to Encinitas. The first event, entitled “Organizing for Allied Ministry,” takes place this Saturday, May 12, from 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.

Ernesto Cortés, Jr., a community organizer, Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF) co-chair, and executive director of the West/Southwest IAF regional network, will lead the discussion. In keeping with his church’s dedication to serving the needs of the communities, specifically where those who struggle desire allies, Rev. Hogue hopes the event will spur important discussion about how to best go about serving Encinitas and its surrounding areas.

Of the event, Rev. Hogue explains,

"Many people, devoid of political preference, feel democracy is dying. Community organizing, when structured through broad based organizations (churches, non-profits, community activist groups, etc.) can emerge as a source of hope in this seemingly dark hour. When we analyze elected and private sector leadership by understanding power and accountability as citizens, we can clear the path for communal change.

At a minimum, community organizing teaches us to listen to our neighbors with new ears, and plants the seeds of relationship that can become the fruit of cooperation. This is what we will learn to do together."

“Organizing for Allied Ministry” is open to all members of the community and takes place Saturday, May 12, from 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 890 Balour Dr., Encinitas.