My father’s family came to this country and settled in Dorchester. My father talked about family holidays in Dorchester with aunts, uncles, and cousins. I don’t know the address of where they lived, but given the family history, my ears perk up when I hear a news story about Dorchester.
And Dorchester has been front-page news in the Boston Globe now for awhile. In particular, the area where Roxbury, the South End, and Dorchester meet – the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard – the area now known as “Mass and Cass.”
Mass and Cass has become the face of the opioid crisis in Massachusetts.
An encampment of tents has developed in the area. Some have said that drug dealers openly shout out names of what they have to sell.
When I read the first story about the situation, I was directed to a Facebook group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/614033869236546) where family members post pictures and ask about loved ones:
“Has anyone seen my brother Mike? I got a message that he and his girlfriend were seen begging for change. If you’ve seen him please message me!”
“My beautiful son Chris was healthy and happy before relapsing and losing 60 pounds and nearly both his arms due to heroin. I have no way of contacting him. He lives on the streets at Mass and Cass and is slowly dying. I can barely get through the day.”
“Danielle please call home. I need to talk to you. Please.”
The situation at Mass and Cass has stymied city leaders, community activists, families, and individuals alike. As I write this, Acting Mayor Kim Janney has issued a statement with a plan to dismantle the tents on Tuesday. She states that no one will be forced to move without being provided an adequate alternative shelter.
Some are skeptical.
I don’t have an answer to the situation at Mass and Cass. My heart breaks for those who are living the opioid crisis. I am committed to reading the stories, staying informed, and offering up my own prayers for Mike, Chris, Danielle, and all the families who struggle with the unknown.
O blessed Jesus, you ministered to all who came to you. Look with compassion upon all who through addiction have lost their health and freedom. Restore to them the assurance of your unfailing mercy; remove the fears that attack them; strengthen those who are engaged in the work of recovery; and to those who care for them, give honesty, understanding, and persevering love; for your mercy’s sake. Amen.
From Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Copyright © 2006 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Published by Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. p 85.
In Christ,
Pastor Jen