Perhaps you’ve been to Target at Newport Pavilion on a random Saturday morning in December and noticed the place swarming with police officers and fire personnel leading children around. Perhaps you were initially alarmed, but then noticed the officers and firefighters were chatting easily with the children. Perhaps you then noticed that their shopping carts were full, not just with toys, but also with clothing, books, toiletries. Perhaps you overheard a child say to the officer, “I can’t wait to give this to my mom.”
What you would have witnessed is the charitable giving of Cops & Kids and Beyond the Call.
Newport police and fire departments raise money throughout the year to fund these programs and make it possible for less fortunate children in our community to enjoy a Very Merry Christmas.
This year you can help while attending a one-of-a-kind event on Newport’s East Row. The Yoga Bar (TYB) will hold Yoga Vespers, a special benefit class in partnership with St. John’s United Church of Christ in Newport. This special event will take place in the sanctuary of St. John’s Church, 415 Park Avenue, on December 11 from 6 -7 p.m.
All money raised will go toward the purchase of holiday gifts for families in need.
TYB Founder Rachel Roberts will lead the yoga class which will begin with a blessing by Lead Pastor Rev. Dr. Daniel Meister, and feature musical performances by Director of Music Ministries and Organist Michael Sullivan, the Chancel Ringers and various musical artists. Space for a mat and participation in the class can be reserved with a donation of $20 from www.theyogabars.com. Seated space in pews will be available by donation for those who wish to meditate or sit in quiet contemplation. Seated yoga cues will be provided.
Starting in 2014 TYB partnered with St. John’s Church to host summertime Yoga on the lawn outside of the church.
TYB Owner Rachel Roberts had this to say about the partnership: “St. John’s lawn is truly one of the most beautiful green spaces in the city of Newport. Pastor Meister and his parishioners have been so gracious to allow us a space for outdoor practice these last two years and so open to collaboration and community building. We are honored to call them a partner in, and to be their guests for, this beautiful event.”