- Pamela Atkinson, a prominent Utah advocate, inspired leaders to discuss Jesus’ teachings.
- Atkinson, hospitalized at 93, urged action over discussion, emphasizing community support.
- Faith leaders explored collaboration, kindness and active caring to honor Atkinson’s legacy.
SALT LAKE CITY — As seven community leaders gathered Wednesday to discuss “What would Jesus do?” and how they might further the legacy of Pamela Atkinson — Utah’s best-known advocate for those who struggle — she was present in the conversation and absent from the room.
Atkinson convened the group of faith and government leaders as a result of what she called a “heavenly shove,” a sense of urgency that she said felt like a heaven-sent assignment. She asked them to talk about the actions they could take to foster connections between people, embrace the needs of those who are disenfranchised and let the principles Christ taught guide actions toward others.
But Atkinson, who was to host the discussion, could not attend. She was hospitalized the night before.
At 93, the woman who has counseled five Utah governors and long worked with those who are homeless, refugees, and those who are impoverished or ill, has become increasingly frail herself…