Who Is Government? Faith, Public Service, and New York City
Lighting the Way: Faith, Values, and Civic Action is a four-part interfaith civic learning and engagement series hosted in partnership by B nai Jeshurun and St. Paul St. Andrew United Methodist Church. Together, our communities will deepen our understanding of American democracy, strengthen civic dialogue across
read more ▾
difference, and explore faithful pathways toward meaningful action during America s 250th anniversary year. Part One: Who Is Government? Faith, Public Service, and New York City October 19, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. | B nai Jeshurun Our series begins with an interfaith conversation featuring three public servants who spend their days building bridges between New York City s government and its diverse faith communities: Rabbi Miriam Grossman, Jewish Liaison to the Mayor s Office; Minister Chris Smith, Christian Liaison; and Brennan Peacore Brink, who leads the Mayor s Office Department of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships. Inspired by the congregation-wide read, Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service, this panel offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who make city government work. Through stories from their own experience, our guests will explore how local government serves New Yorkers, how faith communities and public institutions partner for the common good, and how everyday people can access resources, solve problems, and advocate for their neighborhoods. Participants will leave with a deeper appreciation for public service, a clearer understanding of city government, and practical tools for engaging civic life with confidence, compassion, and hope. On October 26th, the Social Justice Book Club will gather to discuss Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service, at 6pm.