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Congress must work together to improve health care for all

 

Last week, President Trump signed an executive order directing several federal agencies to develop new regulations impacting the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Those regulations are expected to cause the proliferation of health care plans that, while potentially less expensive for some consumers, come at the cost of mandated coverage and protections that currently exist under the ACA.

The administration also decided to cut off subsidies—made possible under the Affordable Care Act—which helped lower income individuals access insurance. Consumers most affected don’t have health insurance through an employer, their parent’s health insurance, or Medicaid or Medicare. For many, these government subsidies were key to ensuring access to any health insurance at all.

Policy analysts and the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office warn that the Executive order will affect the U.S marketplace by eliminating nearly $7 billion from the individual market causing steep premium increases for many working low-income households across the country.  Congressional leaders on both sides of the isle are expressing concern, but what we need most is bi-partisan cooperation and urgent action.

The ELCA has for many years maintained a clearly defined value around health care:

“We of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America have an enduring commitment to work for and support health care for all people as a shared endeavor. Our commitment comes in grateful response to God’s saving love in Jesus Christ that frees us to love and seek the well-being of our neighbor.” (ELCA social statement “Caring for Health: Our Shared Endeavor,” 2003)

Over the past nine months, Lutherans—laypersons, pastors and Bishops—have engaged their Senators and Representatives with a simple message: Improve access to health care; don’t tear it apart. During congressional debate this summer, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton issued a statement that resonates today as much as it did then:

“I ask all Lutherans to pray for our leaders and to be advocates with me. Our collective voices make a difference, and we should raise them to call on our [leaders] to stand with the most vulnerable members of our communities. It is time for Congress to work together to find solutions that ensure health care for all in our nation of God’s great abundance.”

As Lutherans we believe that health is central to our well-being, vital to relationships, and helps us live out our vocations in family, work, and community. Caring for one’s own health is a matter of human necessity and good stewardship. Caring for the health of others expresses both love for our neighbor and responsibility for a just society.

We pray for those in our community who will be most affected by these recent actions, as well as for our leaders to work together to protect the most vulnerable in our country.

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Planning a Season of Creation (Part 2 of 2)

 

Today’s post is from Krehl Stringer, pastor at New Salem Lutheran in Turtle River, MN. This is the second in a series on why and how to initiate celebrating a Season of Creation in worship.

 

A good place to begin planning a Season of Creation is with a 4-, 5-, or 6-week series of lectionary readings—there are a variety of 3-year lectionaries to choose from.  The period from September 1 (the beginning of “Creation Time” in the Eastern Orthodox tradition) to October 4 (the Feast of St. Francis in the Roman Catholic (western) tradition) has become the ecumenical standard for introducing a Season of Creation into the church year. Local conditions, however, may indicate a better timeframe, or a congregation might select individual Sundays throughout the year. Themes on Sundays during creation time draw worshipers’ attention to various domains or aspects of creation (e.g., planet earth, wilderness, humanity, river, and world communion). At New Salem we have also added in an “Advocacy Sunday” each year to amplify particular callings for eco-justice (e.g., Fire/Energy Stewardship, Food/Water Security, and Sustainability).

There are many places online to access free worship resources for planning a Season of Creation.  To start, check out Lutherans Restoring Creation, Let All Creation Praise , and Season of Creation. Calls to worship, hymns, blessings, lectionaries, preaching commentaries, prayers, artwork, videos, and much more will ignite that spark of creativity in pastors and other worship planners to invite all of creation into worship and praise of God the Creator, Healer, and Sustainer of life.

Interspersed throughout this blogpost are several pictures from churches where we have celebrated a Season of Creation.  The idea is that a congregation would get to know the environment in which they have been planted, then develop a multi-faceted Season of Creation that reflects the local character of that context.  For example, in northern Minnesota in the fall, the tamarack trees burst into a bright golden yellow. So our church adopted tamarack yellow as the color for our Season of Creation; paraments, stoles, and banners were beautifully crafted. The night sky of rural northern Minnesota is spectacular, so during the week of Cosmos Sunday, we hosted a couple star parties open to the public.  The Saturday before Fauna Sunday, we held an annual Blessing of the Animals ceremony. One year, we invited parishioners to contribute to a progressive Season of Creation Art Gallery that by the end of the season had photos, paintings, sculpture, fiber arts, and mixed-media on display.  Special guests were often invited to preach or give a presentation after worship on various themes; opportunities were promoted for learning more about community supported agriculture, local recycling programs, political lobbying efforts, bird watching, prayer hikes, and so much more.

For any congregation, engaging a Season of Creation can be a profoundly revitalizing (and exciting!) experience for all generations in discovering how, “in Christ, there is a new creation [to explore and celebrate]: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” (2Cor. 5:17)

It would be a great joy for me to hear from you your stories of celebrating a Season of Creation in your place of worship.  You can reach me by email at lightstringer2@gmail.com.

 

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World Food Day 2017 – Change the Future of Migration

 

 

In its most recent report on food insecurity and nutrition around the world, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) highlighted a troubling fact: after a decade of decline, the rate of hunger in the world increased in 2016. Today, the FAO estimates that there are 815 million people in the world who do not have access to the nutrition they need for healthy lives. That amounts to about 11 percent of the world’s population. It is still lower than it was in 2000, when 900 million people faced hunger, but some experts worry that we may be seeing a trend toward increased hunger after a prolonged decline.

There are many factors driving this increase in hunger, but a few stand out. First, more countries are experiencing violent conflict and fragility, which increases their vulnerability to hunger. Conflicts in South Sudan and Syria, for instance, have driven many people from their homes in search of safety elsewhere. In fact, the FAO estimates that 489 million of the 815 million undernourished people in the world live in countries facing conflict, violence and fragility.

This is related to the second driver of increased hunger—climate change. As droughts worsen and access to food and water gets harder, the risk of conflict increases. This, in turn, leaves communities vulnerable to food crises. Even without conflict, though, the effects of climate change can be dire for communities dependent on agriculture for their lives and livelihoods. As the FAO points out,

Three-quarters of the extreme poor base their livelihoods on agriculture or other rural activities. Creating conditions that allow rural people, especially youth, to stay at home when they feel it is safe to do so, and to have more resilient livelihoods, is a crucial component of any plan to tackle the migration challenge.

Working with rural communities to build resilience through sufficient, sustainable agricultural practices is key in reducing hunger around the world. To bring attention to this, the theme for World Food Day 2017 is:

Change the future of migration. Invest in food security and rural development

You can join people around the world in marking this special occasion. Below are some ideas to get you started.

Accompanying rural communities is a key part of the ministry of ELCA World Hunger. From helping farmers use drought-resistant crops or improved irrigation, to providing access to seeds, tools, and livestock to increase the profitability of farms, our companions and partners are making strides toward ending hunger for good.

ELCA World Hunger’s Lifelines magazine and reproducible stories are great ways to learn about and share the projects supported by your gifts. Reproducible stories provide full-color and B&W bulletin inserts you can use to share stories with your congregation or group. In the latest edition, learn how Zulema Lopez and her neighbors in San Luis, Nicaragua, are leading the way in increasing access to safe water and teaching others sustainable farming practices. Download the stories here: goo.gl/Hgzdsv

To dive deeper into the problem of world hunger, you can read the FAO’s The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2017 here: http://www.fao.org/3/a-I7695e.pdf.

The FAO also has lots of resources on its World Food Day page, including videos, stories from rural communities around the world and an activity book for teachers or parents to use with children. Access all of this at the FAO site: goo.gl/u7F3Mv.

You can also check out these resources from the ELCA:

  • Hunger and Climate Change Connections Toolkit

ELCA World Hunger’s toolkits are easy-to-use, adaptable for a variety of settings and suitable for intergenerational audiences.  The activities can take as little as 15 minutes, or as much as one hour, depending on your needs.  Learn about climate-related disasters, the effects of climate change on vulnerable populations and actions your congregation can take.  Download this toolkit at goo.gl/x2JEBK.

  • Hunger and Climate Change: Agriculture and Food Security in a Changing Climate

From biofuels to gender justice, from political stability to farming in the United States, this fact sheet from the ELCA highlights the wide-ranging effects of climate change.  With ideas for what your congregation can do to support farmers and others impacted by climate change, this fact sheet is perfect for Lutherans concerned about agriculture and hunger.  Download it at goo.gl/aqnuLg.

  • Caring for Creation: Vision, Hope and Justice

The ELCA’s social statement on care for creation, adopted in 1993, remains an important reflection on our role as stewards in God’s world.  Read it here: goo.gl/0rFHQM.

 

 

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ELCA Advocacy renews call to protect Dreamers without harming vulnerable migrants

 

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, one of the largest protestant denominations in the United States with more than 3.7 million members and 9,300 congregations nationwide, has a long history of standing alongside migrants and refugees. Every day we see the gifts that young Americans without legal status, also known as Dreamers, and their families bring to our congregations and communities.

Following the Administration’s announcement that it will rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which gave Dreamers relief from deportation and the ability to work, the Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, Presiding Bishop of the ELCA, called on Congress to pass legislation to protect these young people:

“As we lament this change in policy, we call on members of Congress to pass long-overdue legislation to protect young people brought to the U.S. as children… Our churches, our schools, our communities and the country are enhanced by their presence and contributions. It is time that our immigration policy reflects their gifts to all of us.”

Recently released White House  Immigration Principles and Policies  outline changes in immigration policy to be considered alongside legislation to protect Dreamers. These principles take away trafficking protections for children, make it harder for people seeking protection to find refuge in our country, and reduce the ability of families to be unified. We urge Congress to reject these principles and instead pass legislation that provides a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers without creating policies that lead to family separation or crippling the ability for people to seek safety in our country.

Dismantling key pieces of our immigration system is not the way forward. No young person should have to choose between their own future and the safety of their family, friends or community.

As Christians, our call to welcome the stranger, feed the hungry, and care for the sick comes from our desire to carry on Jesus’ faith and practice. With fewer than 6 months until thousands more lose protection, we renew our call to Members of Congress to pass legislation that protects Dreamers without harming other immigrants.

 


Learn more about the ELCA’s commitment to work toward just and humane policies affecting migrants in and outside the U.S. by visiting ELCA.org/AMMPARO

To learn more about Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service’s work with refugees and other vulnerable migrants visit LIRS.org.

 

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October 15, 2017–Hope Beyond Violence

Herb Wounded Head, Brookings, SD

 

Warm-up Questions

  • How does it feel to be invited to a party?
  • How does it feel to be excluded from the party?
  • How does it feel to invite others to a party and not have them come?

Hope Beyond Violence

A horrific and horrible tragedy unfolded on the night of October 1st, 2017. A gunman opened fire on  a large crowd at an outdoor concert in Las Vegas for approximately 11 minutes wounding hundreds and killing 59 people. It’s been called the deadliest mass shooting in modern US history. Our nation has been left stunned as a result with many people asking “Why?” Why would someone do such a horrific thing? What would drive someone to believe that they needed to open fire on a crowd of innocent people? The massacre quickly turned into political discussions about gun control, background checks, and the National Rifle Association. The more troubling question beyond the “Why?” has been the “How?” How did someone go undetected to set up at a high point and open fire on so many people?

There is no good answer or resolution to such questions. While we can certainly talk about the need for more gun control or about our 2nd amendment rights, the fact of the matter is that people were left dead and even more left suffering. In the aftermath of such chaos, different stories begin to come to light, stories of people doing extraordinary things in order to limit the damage dealt by a person with an arsenal. First responders went against their usual training to wait for the gunfire to subside before helping people.  Instead, they waded back into the place of chaos to begin to save as many people as they possibly could, knowing full well that their own lives were at stake.

Discussion Questions

  • What was your reaction, your first feelings when you heard about the shootings in Las Vegas?
  • What are your feelings about gun control and 2nd amendment rights?
  • Has this tragedy changed your perception of firearms as a result?
  • What would your reaction be if you were placed in the same situation?

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year B at Lectionary Readings

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

 

Gospel Reflection

In our Gospel lesson for today, Jesus tells his followers a troubling parable about the kingdom of heaven which consists of two parts. A king invites some guests to attend a banquet.  Those invited don’t really care about the invitation; in fact, most of them kill some of his slaves. The king then responds in kind and destroys those whom he first invited.  Then he tells his servants to invite everyone that they can find to fill the wedding hall with guests. These guests probably never imagined that they would be invited to such an event. This invitation is extended to everybody.

But there’s a warning in the final section of the parable. One guest doesn’t appear to have it “right.” He’s not wearing the proper clothes at the wedding banquet. When he is asked why, he has no response and is cast out of the party. Jesus concludes the parable with this, “For many are invited, but few are chosen.”

The parable is troubling. On the one hand, it might leave us with a sense of anxiety. We may ask ourselves if we’re doing enough, or even if we’re wearing the right clothes. Most of us have enough of this anxiety already; do we really need more concerns? On the other hand, the parable does show us about God’s grace. The invitation is now for everyone.  Still, you’d best know who the party is for; the party is for Jesus. It’s in Jesus that we have our answer to the king’s question. When we are asked how we got in, our answer is simply, “Jesus.”

Discussion Questions

  • What troubles you about this parable?
  • Where do you find yourself in the story Jesus tells?
  • What gives you hope in this parable?
  • This parable has a great deal of violence.  Why do you think Jesus tells a story which includes such elements?  Does this story condone violence?  Why or why not?
  • With the shooting in Las Vegas in mind, what gives you hope in the midst of great tragedy?

Activity Suggestions

Mine Field is a team-building activity involving trust and teamwork.

Find a good large outdoor field or large indoor space.  Be sure there are no dangerous items or hazards nearby.  Set up the “minefield” by placing “mines” (large paper cups, empty plastic bottles, cones, soft foam balls, etc.) in many places all over the space.

Once the minefield is set up, divide players into pairs.  Create pairs carefully.  In each pair, one person will be blindfolded and will be not allowed to see or talk.  The other person is allowed to see and talk, but is not allowed to touch the other person or enter the minefield.  Have each pair decide which role they want to play and distribute blindfolds.

The goal is for each blindfolded person to get from one side of the field to the other.  He or she must safely avoid touching the “mines,” by carefully listening to the verbal guidance of their partners.

Give each pair a few minutes of planning and preparation for their communication strategy.  Then, have all the pairs go to one end of the minefield.  Once blindfolds are worn and everyone is ready, say “Go!” and the activity begins.  The blindfolded person can not talk; he or she just listens and walks.  The guider can’t touch his or her partner, but he or she can speak to his partner and use whatever verbal strategy he or she wishes.

After a pair successfully reaches the other side of the minefield, swap roles and repeat the process.

Note:

  • Be careful that blindfolded people don’t crash into each other.  The facilitator should ensure collisions don’t occur.  He or she can walk around and help keep people separated.
  • Create a penalty for touching a “mine”.  Perhaps a time delay, or a loss of points, or (worse case) a restart.
  • If a person prefers not to play, do not force a person to be blindfolded.

At the end of the time, debrief and allow for reflection; ask pairs what they learned from the experience.

Closing Prayer

Holy and gracious God, you have formed the universe out of chaos into your good creation. Help us to recognize your grace in our everyday lives. From the time that we rise, to the time that we rest, surround us with the knowledge that you have called us into Your presence where we can know peace, compassion and security, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Why a Season of Creation? (Part 1 of 2)

 

Today’s post is from Krehl Stringer, pastor at New Salem Lutheran in Turtle River, MN. It is the first in a two part series on why and how to celebrate a Season of Creation in congregational worship.

 

In a little drawer atop my dresser, there’s a post-it note on which I had written (some time ago I can’t remember when) two Hebrew words:  abad and shamar.  These two little words contain the essence of humanity’s purpose according to Genesis 2:15—“The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.”  At least that’s how most all of our English translations render this passage, but the words abad and shamar have a much richer, deeper meaning than what “till” and “keep” convey. Better is “serve” and “preserve,” which translation places humanity in extreme subservience to all that God has made, not in the more dignified dominion-bearing role we might prefer for creatures esteemed to be created “in God’s image” (Genesis 1:27), and “a little lower than God” (Psalm 8:5). Were we to allow subservience to capture the essence of what it means for us to be created in God’s image, how might this better conform us to Christ who was “the image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15), and “came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many?” (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45) Celebrating a Season of Creation can be an inspirational season of creativity when people learn to write abad and shamar in their own hand, allowing these words of Christ day by day to dwell in them richly (Colossians 3:16), and so remember their baptisms when they were clothed in Christ (Galatians 3:27), and born anew in the image of their creator (Colossians 3:10).

So how might a congregation begin to embrace and reflect the image of a church fully engaged in Christ’s mission: reconciling all things to God?  (Colossians 1:20) A congregation might proceed with its perceived strengths in ministry (focusing, for example, on adopting earth-friendly practices in the work of Stewardship, Pastoral Care, Social Justice, Education, Fellowship, or Property).  But my recommendation would be for a congregation to start with Worship, recognizing that for Lutherans, “worship stands at the center of our life of faith. Through God’s word, water, bread and prayer we are nurtured in faith and sent out into the world.” (www.ELCA.org/worship)  Imagine how a congregation’s core identity might be shaped and its gospel mission expanded by liturgical choices that honored the diversity of ecological relationships in which the triune God has placed human beings as created co-creators, co-healers, and co-sustainers with God.

 

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this post which will offer concrete ideas for celebrating a Season of Creation in your congregational setting.

 

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October 2017 ELCA Advocacy Update

Lutherans are taking action across the country! Below you will find our monthly State Advocacy Newsletter. Share with your friends!


ELCA Advocacy Office, Washington, D.C.

The Rev. Amy Reumann, director

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS: The October day of fasting and action is Saturday, Oct. 21. As the seasons transition and the days become colder, we answer the call this month by supporting action for people facing homelessness, unaffordable heating bills, and extreme housing insecurity. Only a quarter of the poorest households eligible for relief ever receive any assistance–creating barriers to success and stability for millions of households across the country. Christians have a long history of assisting people without housing by providing shelter and can offer a compelling voice in the public sphere through advocacy. Check out this month’s advocacy resource by visiting ELCA.org/prayfastact and look out for action alerts in upcoming weeks.  

HURRICANE RELIEF ADVOCACY: In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Irma and Maria, key lawmakers in Congress are calling for an immediate disaster-aid bill to help communities rebuild. Legislators hope to provide recovery assistance to recently hit regions like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, while also offering longer-term aid for states like Texas and Florida. ELCA Advocacy sent an action alert at the start of October in collaboration with Lutheran Disaster Response. Our message to Congress: Quickly take up a relief bill to ensure that low-income households are included in any assistance package.

GOD’S WORK. OUR HANDS.: Lutheran churches and volunteers sent in over a thousand letters to Congress last month during the “God’s work. Our hands. Sunday” day of service. The letters came as Congress negotiates critical decisions for programs that affect people facing poverty. Community leaders can help continue the conversations and find more advocacy resources at in the ELCA Advocacy Network!

HEALTH CARE UPDATE: On Saturday, Sept. 30, the mechanism that would allow the Senate to pass repeal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expired. ELCA Advocacy’s efforts now focus on bi-partisan efforts to improve insurance markets and stabilize access to health care in the United States. We will remain vigilant, however, as a new budget reconciliation proposal to address tax reform in fiscal year 2018 could include efforts focused on repeal of the ACA. On Sept. 30, Congress also failed to reauthorize the Child Health Insurance Program (CHIP). We will continue to urge congressional action and are assessing ramifications in the short-term and long-term.

GLOBAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING: The Department of State and the United Kingdom’s government have announced matching awards of $25 million to the Global Fund to End Modern Slavery. Established by legislation in 2016, the fund is a grant-making, public-private foundation that will support international civil societies working to end human trafficking. The initiative seeks to raise a total of $1.5 billion from both governments and the private sector over several years.

UN FOUNDATION AND CLIMATE CHANGE: ELCA Advocacy participated in a roundtable discussion on “Could a new U.S. fund help support the international climate effort?” held at the UN Foundation. The roundtable included NGOs; faith-based organizations; state and city government officials; and financial institutions.  In the wake of the current administration’s decision not to fund entities like the Green Climate Fund (which was an ELCA priority matter); and the stepping up of sub-nationals and private entities — a mechanism is needed to be able get funding to those vulnerable populations that need assistance in adaptation and mitigation efforts in response to climate change.

Fund development is in its infancy, as numerous legal and  logistical issues must be resolved before moving forward.


Lutheran Office for World Community, United Nations, New York, N.Y.

Dennis Frado, director

PROTECTION OF RELIGIOUS MINORITIES IN CONFLICT: At a side event titled “Protection of Religious Minorities in Conflict” held during the opening debate at the 72nd session of the U.N. General Assembly, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, secretary for the Holy See’s relations with states, outlined seven essential elements needed to protect religious minorities, including: the need for action, interreligious dialogue, education and more. ZENIT has the full story.

SHARED RESPONSIBILITY FOR REFUGEES: In September 2016 the United Nations agreed to develop a comprehensive refugee response plan and a program of action in 2018. Among the objectives is addressing the educational needs of refugee children. At a meeting during the general debate at the United Nations General Assembly on Sept. 21, David Miliband, president and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, reflected on the need to advance these pledges by calling for changes in fundamental mindsets, institutional relationships and policy.

A former refugee on the panel pointed out the plight of refugees is not just overseas as refugee children are living in New York City and other relocated communities. Others noted that education is the key to the future for these children. The thing refugee children report missing most is school, yet for every month out of school, their chance of returning diminishes

THE OCEANS – A WEALTH OF OPPORTUNITIES:  Michelle Bachelet, president of Chile, stressed the need to raise awareness of work to protect, conserve and use oceans in a sustainable manner in her keynote address at a U.N. “High-level dialogue: The Oceans – A Wealth of Opportunities” on Sept. 20. More than 3 billion people depend on the oceans, which generate $3 trillion to $6 trillion in trade annually. Bachelet called for a stronger national framework regarding Sustainable Development Goals 13 and 14, enhanced conservation and sustainable use, and a change in consumption and production patterns.

Other speakers included Thomas Esang Remengesau Jr., president of Palau, who urged reversal of failed existing approaches to ocean warming and acidification and called on the U.N. to take a stronger role as a conduit for smaller developing countries, and Erna Solberg, prime minister of Norway, who stressed that a U.N. convention of law of the sea is essential and encouraged scientific development and common understanding. She noted the appointment of a U.S. special envoy.

Some speakers stressed the promotion of sustainable development for sustainable economies and called for a global effort to reduce plastic by 75 percent. Others called for long-term commitments in the public, private, and international sectors, with attention to strategies for off-coast tourism, biomedical research, and recognition of zone-based fishing.


Hunger Advocacy Fellowship Program 

WELCOME TO OUR 2017-2018 ELCA HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOWS

The ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellowship, a program made possible by ELCA World Hunger, is a year-long transformative experience that combines leadership development and faith formation with impactful advocacy that moves us toward an end to hunger and a just world where all are fed.   In September, the ELCA welcomed four fellows to this new program:

Amanda Silcox, Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy

Amanda Silcox is the inaugural ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow at the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy. Prior to joining the Interfaith Center, she worked as an ELCA Young Adult in Global Mission in Cambodia for one year, where she worked with a rural development organization and taught English. Amanda is native of Ohio and a recent graduate of the University of Dayton, where she studied Economics and Finance.

Kendrick Hall, Lutheran Advocacy Minnesota – Minneapolis

Kendrick Hall is a 2014 graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College and he currently attends Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN pursuing ordination. For the past three years, he worked for Redeemer Lutheran Church as a lay worker and mechanic, as well as was the Fellowship leader for one year. Kendrick’s passion for justice started in his undergrad years and his life between St. Peter, Min. and North Minneapolis, however, it truly stemmed from spending fifteen of the eighteen days occupying the fourth precinct after the killing of Jamar Clark in Nov. 2015; and has only grown deeper in justice work through Philando Castile and now Charlottesville.

Rebecca Schneider, Texas Impact – Austin 

Rebecca Schneider grew up in Katy, Texas. She attended Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and graduated with a degree in Social Work in the Spring of 2017. While in college she developed a love of traveling, spending time in Costa Rica, Guatemala, London, and Ecuador. Through her experiences in these countries and her classes she became passionate about fighting for social justice for all people and spreading cultural awareness. She is currently as Hunger Advocacy Fellow at Texas Impact.

Elena Robles, ELCA Advocacy Washington, D.C. officeD.C.

Elena Robles was raised in the Washington, D.C. area and is a recent Guilford College Graduate. In college, she studied Political Science and Religious Studies. She’s passionate about justice work that upholds marginalized communities. Elena is happy that she will be spending the next eleven months serving the ELCA Advocacy unit in Washington DC as a Hunger Advocacy Fellow.

 


California

Mark Carlson, Lutheran Office of Public Policy loppca.org

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: The Legislature concluded its consideration of bills for the year on Sept. 15, sending about 700 bills to Gov. Jerry Brown’s desk. He signed a package of bills to address homelessness and to increase the supply of affordable housing. LOPP-CA, as well as some members and congregations, supported SB 2, a fee on property recordings, which creates a permanent source of funding for development. It replaces a modest portion of the $1 billion annual loss when redevelopment funding was eliminated in the Great Recession. SB 3 places a $4 billion housing bond on the 2018 ballot. Supporting its passage will be a priority for us. 

Other bills still pending and supported by LOPP-CA include protections for immigrants, campaign finance reform, environmental protection and criminal justice. Bills to move California toward 100 percent carbon-free electrical energy by 2045, and to create a small fee on water bills to fund cleanup of contaminated drinking water supplies and support affordable access to safe water in low-income, disadvantaged communities, came up short and will likely be on our agenda in 2018.

EVENTS: LOPP-CA participated in the annual summit of the California Alcohol Policy Alliance in Los Angeles, joined by two Lutheran leaders from the Southwest California Synod. LOPP-CA Director Mark Carlson is on the steering committee.  LOPP-CA co-sponsored the Community Water Center’s annual Water Justice Celebration in Visalia, Tulare County, a county with a very high poverty rate that includes drought-stricken East Porterville, site of an ELCA delegation visit two years ago.

 


Colorado

Peter Severson, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry–Colorado  lam-co.org

HEALTH CARE ADVOCACY: The Rocky Mountain Synod Theological Conference was Sept. 18-21 in Colorado Springs. Leaders from ministries around the synod were asked to make phone calls to Washington regarding the proposed Graham-Cassidy health care bill. We requested that senators consider the drastic cuts in Medicaid and the proposed caps, which would severely impact the services available to many people, including the elderly, children, and people with disabilities. Thanks to all who called!

DREAM ACT: Theological Conference attendees were also asked to write letters to their members of Congress in support of the Dream Act (S. 1615), a bill to give young people who were previously protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program a pathway to legal residency. Colorado’s two senators are already among the bipartisan cosponsors of this act, and we continue to encourage leaders to speak out.

SPECIAL SESSION: The Colorado General Assembly will reconvene on Monday, Oct. 2, for a special session to address some of the unintended fiscal impacts of Senate Bill 17-267. We will be monitoring the session, but all signs indicate that a compromise will be reached by chamber leadership and the governor’s office prior to the convening, which would make the session a short one.

OCTOBER VISITS: We look forward to visiting a congregation in Broomfield and the campus ministry at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley!

SAVE THE DATE: Colorado Lutheran Lobby Day will be Thursday, Feb. 15. Registration opens Dec. 1.


Minnesota

Tammy Walhof, Lutheran Advocacy–Minnesota  tammy@lcppm.org

FAITH AND CLEAN ENERGY CAMPAIGN KICKOFF EVENT (OCT. 24): Be sure to join this downtown Minneapolis event in person 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. (including lunch and news conference) or via livestream beginning at noon. Location will be announced soon! Click here to RSVP!

Also, be sure to sign a letter and add a note for legislators in support of an improved Renewable Energy Standard (RES). Since the Legislature passed its current bipartisan RES 10 years ago for 25 percent renewably sourced energy by 2025 (which we are on track to exceed), most legislators in the House and many in the Senate are new and know little about clean, renewable energy. It’s time to educate leaders in our churches so that church people help develop legislative champions!

HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOWS: The Hunger Advocacy Fellowship is a new program made possible by ELCA World Hunger. Lutheran Advocacy-MN is blessed this year to have Kendrick Hall as our Minnesota Fellow! Kendrick is a graduate of Gustavus Adolphus College, a leader at Redeemer Lutheran in North Minneapolis where he has also worked over the last few years, a community-oriented entrepreneur who started a coffee/bike shop near the church with friends, and a full-time Luther Seminary student. Kendrick says the police shootings of Jamar Clark in North Minneapolis and Philando Castile near St. Paul helped turn him into a vocal advocate in the political and policy arenas.

STATEWIDE HOUSING CONFERENCE: Kendrick represented Lutheran Advocacy-MN at the annual Coalition for the Homeless statewide housing conference. Check out his summary on Facebook and our website!

 


New Jersey

The Rev, Sara Lilja, Lutheran Episcopal Advocacy Ministry of N.J.  leamnj.org

Lutheran Episcopal Advocacy Ministry of New Jersey hosted the first Justice Gathering. Almost 200 people of faith from all over New Jersey gathered to listen, learn, collaborate and worship. The event was at Cross Roads Camp on Sept. 16.

New Jersey Lilja
The Rev Dr. Traci West and the Rev Sara
Lilja at the Justice Gathering

The Justice Gathering began with a key note address from the Rev. Dr. Traci West, “We do this work because we live and embody the heart of the gospel,” she said and reminded those gathered, “Advocacy is not about making friends. It’s about loving our enemies and being God’s very agents.”

Following the address, participants moved into small groups. Led by issue experts and members of the LEAMNJ Policy Board, sessions focused on immigration, criminal justice, hunger, economic justice, environmental justice and violence prevention. Each group covenanted together to form a network of support for ongoing consultation and cooperation.

Bishop Mark Beckwith of the Episcopal Diocese of Newark declared during the closing worship, those gathered are “love-bearers and power bears” he also urged participants to continually use our power to advocate and organize and also to rely on the inexhaustible power of prayer.

 

 


Ohio

Nick Bates, Hunger Network in Ohio  www.hungernetohio.com

In Sunday, Sept. 24, the Hunger Network hosted its first Faith & Advocacy Summit in Columbus. The event opened with a panel discussion with judicatory leaders including Bishop Daniel Beaudoin from the Northwestern Ohio Synod, the Rev. D’Anieri (Episcopal Canon for Mission), the Rev. Stickley-Miner (Methodist Connectional Ministries), and the Rev. Tollefson (director, Ohio Council of Churches). They shared their growth and understanding of advocacy and justice as a ministry and faith issue. The panelists lifted up the importance of relationship with people in the community and shared the importance of stories to illustrate the need for justice in our world. Attendees were inspired by the personal stories of leaders in our denominations growing in their understanding of multiple issues and the complexities of the world in which we live.

The second half of the event was the official release of our “Advocacy Guidebook for the Faith Community,” which can be read online or downloaded at hungernetohio.com/Guidebook. This guidebook will help congregations, pastors, deacons and lay leaders identify “the next step” they can take in their ministries toward justice. Whether the next step is incorporating learning into service projects or organizing a letter-writing campaign to Congress, this guidebook has simple steps and starting places to consider. If you would like additional copies designed to be workbooks for trainings, please let us know!


Pennsylvania

Tracey DePasquale, Lutheran Advocacy–Pennsylvania Lutheranadvocacypa.org

Pennsylvania Lutherans added their voices to “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday, writing hundreds of letters to both state and federal lawmakers on the churchwide dedicated day of service on Sunday, Sept. 10. Among the issues addressed, participants spoke up against rollbacks of protections for waterways and on behalf of expanding protections of victims of child sex trafficking in Pennsylvania. Federal lawmakers received letters urging them not to eliminate the Differed Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) protections for young immigrants and cutbacks in environmental protections. Advocates also thanked lawmakers whose record included support for our most vulnerable neighbors.

Also in September, LAMPa’s Policy Council met for its annual retreat, with learning centered on the health of the state’s thousands of miles of waterways (more than any of the other lower 48 states). Prior to the meeting, members gathered water from a water source in their region, praying for it and for the people who affect and are affected by it. The water and those stories were lifted up in devotions on Sunday night.

LAMPa Director Tracey DePasquale, along with colleagues in the Washington Advocacy Office, traveled to the Lutheran Center in Chicago to participate in the Domestic Mission Unit’s discussion around development of the churchwide organization’s operational plan and was gratified to hear so much desire for collaboration.


Southeastern Synod

Hilton Austin, Director

The real excitement this month was in Nashville, Tenn., at The Inn at Opryland for the Women of the ELCA’s 30th Annual convention. We were there for the whole convention, which was fantastic. I set up our Advocacy/World Hunger exhibit and had great conversations about the importance of state advocacy. We continue to focus on developing congregational advocacy teams. After talking to Bishop Julian Gordy and Women of the ELCA Synodical President Louise Iconis, we have decided to add a representative from Women of the ELCA to our Advocacy Policy Council.


Virginia

Kim Bobo, Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy  virginiainterfaithcenter.org 

The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy met the threat of a white supremacy gathering in Richmond on Sept. 16 with a series of counter events, which turned out to draw exponentially more people than the original rally, planned for the statue of Robert E. Lee on the city’s Monument Avenue. Only about a half-dozen pro-Confederate demonstrators showed up, while many hundreds came to the VICPP-sponsored prayer services, rally and march. On the same day, VICPP sponsored two lectures by Dr. Nancy McLean, author of the book “Democracy in Chains.” All this, of course, was a follow-up to the tragic events in Charlottesville on Aug. 11-12, something that the people of Virginia continue to process and pray about.

Our “Welcoming All” efforts have been busy, as VICPP has been organizing the Central Virginia Sanctuary Network as well as asking supporters to help with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewal application efforts and to visit prisoners at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Farmville, Va. The White House’s decision to end DACA in six months has sent waves of fear and concern across Virginia’s 12,000 “Dreamers” and their families and friends.

VICPP also asked its supporters to voice their opinions on the latest “repeal and replace” legislation for the Affordable Care Act, a bad bill that was thankfully pulled before a vote. We remain sure that the effort to scrap the act instead of improving it will continue. And while the act remains the law of the land, VICPP continues to advocate for Medicaid expansion in Virginia.

 


Washington

Paul Benz, Faith Action Network   fanwa.org

POLICY: FAN’s main policy issues are now at the federal level. FAN celebrates the defeat of the Affordable Care Act repeal bill in the U.S. Senate and now focuses on the House budget resolution that will include the president’s tax plan. FAN will be asking our advocates in rural, Republican districts to urge our four Republican House members to vote no to protect vulnerable households and individuals from sinking further into poverty. FAN is also engaged on the two bipartisan DACA bills that provide a pathway to citizenship for the “Dreamers” and their parents. We are also watching the Second Chance Act and the Sentencing Reform and Corrections Act, both “smart on crime” bipartisan efforts in the House and Senate.

FAN Gathering DACA
FAN recently co-sponsored an event called “No Human Being is Illegal:
An Interfaith Response Supporting DACA.”

EVENTS: We are in the midst of our annual fall cluster gatherings across our state. These 22 geographic clusters meet to deepen relations with FAN advocates and friends and strengthen our advocacy efforts to make the social changes that we all desire. FAN’s Annual Fundraising Dinner will be on Nov. 19, when we will celebrate with 400 advocates and friends from different faith traditions. Our main speaker will be a state Supreme Court justice who is the first Asian American and openly gay person to serve on the court.

NEW STAFF: For the 16th consecutive year, we are excited to welcome a new ELCA seminary intern, Sarah Derrick, from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. We are also eager to have our new full-time organizer, Amber Dickson, start this month.


Wisconsin

Cindy Crane, Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin  loppw.org

WORKSHOPS AND ADVOCACY ACTIONS: LOPPW’s director preached and led workshops on advocacy and poverty at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Eau Claire and Kingo Lutheran Church in Milwaukee; participants filled out advocacy letters on protecting SNAP and child nutrition that LOPPW sent to our D.C. office. The director showed “ELCA Advocacy: Set free to do justice” during her sermon on “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday in Eau Claire; the service was taped for a television broadcast.

The director also led a workshop on advocacy and anti-sex trafficking to adults and another workshop on advocacy, healthy versus unhealthy dating relationships, and anti-sex trafficking to youth at First Lutheran Church in Gladstone, Mich. The adults filled out letters to their senators and representatives in Congress to support the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, which has passed in the U.S. Senate.

STRATEGIZING WITH LOPPW ADVISORY COUNCIL: The Advisory Council had an overnight retreat in September and decided to keep our same priorities, unless with new council members or other volunteers manage we can add an additional priority.

 

 

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October 8, 2017–Taking a Knee or Making a Stand?

Scott Mims, Virginia Beach, VA

 

Warm-up Questions

  • What are some of the most important symbols or images of the Christian faith to you and what do they communicate? (For example, what meanings does the cross convey?)
  • Think about your worship service, what symbolic actions, gestures, or postures do you notice? What do they “say?”
  • Can you think of any other important symbols at work in our daily lives? What do they communicate – what “stories” do they tell? Do they draw people together or push them apart?

Taking a Knee or Making a Stand?

Some stood.  Some knelt.  Some remained in the locker rooms or stood together in the tunnel, as an unprecedented collective action unfolded prior to the kickoff of all 14 NFL games on Sunday, September 24.  During the pregame ceremonies, in which the American flag is displayed as the national anthem is sung, players, coaches, staff, and

even some team owners locked arms with each other on the sidelines in response to comments made earlier in the weekend by President Donald Trump. The President had called for team owners to “fire or suspend” players who kneel during the national anthem.  As the acts of solidarity among NFL teams played out throughout Sunday’s events, President Trump continued to weigh in against those who knelt via Twitter, encouraging fans to boycott games if the protests continued.  The national conversation that was sparked by these events is ongoing.

At the heart of the issue is the meaning and power of important symbols, and of the postures one assumes regarding those symbols. Do you stand or take a knee?  Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid of the San Francisco 49ers originally decided to kneel during the anthem as a protest to what they understand to be issues of systemic racial injustice.  You can read a recent opinion piece by Eric Reid outlining their reasons and intentions here: https://nyti.ms/2yoJqPU.

On the other side of the debate are those who believe that the players’ refusal to stand during the national anthem shows great disrespect for the flag, and, therefore, for America, itself.  This is the President’s stated objection, also tying the symbol of the flag to the service of those in our military, and to their sacrifices on our nation’s behalf.  For President Trump, the issue is not about race.  (You can read one of many articles outlining the President’s position here: http://www.latimes.com/politics/washington/la-na-essential-washington-updates-trump-on-his-role-in-kneeling-protest-1506289872-htmlstory.html)

So, what is this moment in our national conversation really about?  Is it about confronting injustice or disrespect for the flag?  Is it about standing with those who have given of themselves to create a nation characterized by values such as freedom, justice, and equality?  Or is it about taking a knee in critique of how far we have yet to go in the struggle to make those values a reality in the lives of many people of color?  How can our interpretation of certain postures be so different? And finally, who gets to decide what the real issues are?  Perhaps it is the symbols that are in play, and the power they have, that make it hard for us to know.

Discussion Questions

  • Flags are potent national symbols, and can impact us at deep, emotional levels. Have you ever experienced a time when the sight or use of the American flag stirred you emotionally?
  • How would you answer the questions in the final paragraph above?
  • What issues have threatened to destroy our unity as a nation in the past? What issues divide people today?  How are these issues the same?  How are they different?

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Isaiah 5:1-7

Philippians 3:4b-14

Matthew 21:33-46

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year B at Lectionary Readings

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

In our gospel lesson for today, Jesus is also dealing in some very powerful symbols.  Jesus’ “Parable of the Wicked Tenants” follows his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, an event we celebrate on Palm/Passion Sunday as the beginning of Holy Week.  The

 

donkey and the route that Jesus takes in this procession are not accidental.  Jesus makes use of potent national symbols to make a statement about himself, as the gospel writer makes clear in Matthew 21:1-11.  Jesus then attacks the powers that be through “cleansing the Temple,” itself a central symbol for the Jewish people. Among other things, Jesus’ actions lead to the setting of this story, a series of confrontations with the Jewish religious leaders and authorities. Last week’s gospel reading (Matt. 22:23-32) presented the first part of the conversation we rejoin today.  In this conversation, the Jewish leaders challenge Jesus’ legitimacy and authority to do the things he is doing.  He, in turn, calls into question not only their legitimacy as leaders of the true Israel, but also their loyalties and motives concerning God and God’s purposes and desires for the people.

One of the well-known symbols that Jesus uses in these confrontations is that of a vineyard, long an image for Israel and Israel’s special relationship as God’s people.  The prophet Isaiah’s “Song of the Unfruitful Vineyard” in today’s first lesson (Isaiah 5:1-7) is but one example of this symbol’s use in Scripture, and is well worth reading over.  The point of Isaiah’s message is Israel’s unfaithfulness.  What more could God have done?  God prepared in the very best ways, planting and cultivating a people through whom a harvest of faithfulness, justice and righteousness was expected.  What God received was something else altogether.

Jesus’ parable follows a very similar plot.  Here a landowner prepares a vineyard and leases the vineyard to tenant farmers, expecting to receive his due – a share of the harvest.  They in turn are not faithful to their responsibilities, but instead treat the landowner’s representatives (and therefore the landowner, himself) with great contempt and violence.  Now given that Jesus’ opponents were also experts in the Scriptures, it is easy to imagine that they made the connections right off the bat.  The landowner is God, of course, and the tenants are the leadership of Israel.  The long-string of servants which the tenants mistreat are the prophets who were beaten, stoned, even killed for declaring the word of the Lord and pointing Israel back to her true purpose and vocation.  But who then is the landowner’s son in the story?  That is the question.

Lest we think the answer to this question is obvious – Jesus, of course – remember that the whole issue behind these confrontations and the increasing animosity towards Jesus centers around his true identity and by what authority and power he is doing the things he is doing.  In answer, Jesus points them to two places in the Scriptures, Psalm 118:22-23 (Matt. 21:42) and Daniel 2:44-45 (Matt. 21:44).  In the first, Jesus makes use of a play on words in the Hebrew language between the word for “son,” ben, and the word for “stone,” eben.  Though they are rejecting Jesus and his message, and indeed will ultimately reject him through the cross, God has something else in mind and will vindicate Jesus in the end.  The second passage from Daniel serves to underscore Jesus’ point.  Here again the image of a stone is used, but this time from an important passage in terms of the hope of a time – a messianic age – in which God would defeat all the opposing kingdoms and restore Israel.  God is doing that, Jesus claims, but not in the way that many, including his opponents, were expecting.

In the end, the chief priests and the Pharisees who have come to confront Jesus get the point.  They are the tenants in the story and Jesus is the son.  Enraged by such a challenge to their legitimacy and authority, they want to arrest Jesus – and will eventually – but for now they can only stand by helpless because of the crowds around them.

It is easy, of course, to read this passage from the perspective of being on the right side of things.  After all, we know who Jesus is.  We believe in him, “unlike those stubborn, hard-hearted people who put him on the cross.”  Sadly, the history of the church has been to do just that, to read such passages and find in them a reason to hate and persecute our Jewish brothers and sisters as “Christ killers.”  Yet if we are to listen carefully to our own experiences – to conversations such as the ones we are having now around taking a knee or making a stand – then perhaps we can come to a deeper understanding of what is happening in this passage, especially in light of its  use of powerful symbols of faith and national identity.

One final thought concerning the ending of this parable: if Jesus is indeed the Messiah (and I believe that he is), and if we are “joint heirs” with him of God’s kingdom as Paul says (Romans 8:15-17), then are we not also accountable to God for producing the “fruits” God expects to see?  Perhaps then another issue this passage calls us to think about is this, if we, as followers of Jesus, have been given the kingdom as Matthew declares (Matt. 21:43), then what sorts of “fruit” is God looking for from us?  What sort of “kingdom” is God calling us to be?

Discussion Questions

  • When we pray in the Lord’s Prayer, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven…” what do you think we are asking? What does God’s kingdom look like to you? What pictures or images come to mind?
  • What is the “harvest” that you think God wants/expects to see from God’s “kingdom people?” Perhaps make a list together.  Some passages you might investigate for ideas include: Isaiah 58:1-14; Micah 6:6-8; the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7).  What other verses, stories, or parables come to mind?
  • If you talked above about the issues that divide people today, what do you think would be a Christian response(s) to some of the things you discussed? Or if there are other issues, anxieties, or needs particular to your group or community, talk about how you might respond in ways which bring God’s love and light to bear.  What is one small step…one small action that you could take today to make a difference?

Activity Suggestion

Take a tour your worship space together. What symbols do you notice? If your space has stained glass windows depicting biblical people or stories, for instance, why do you think those themes were chosen?  Does the shape of your worship space or the way that the altar is arranged communicate something?  For example, many older sanctuaries are built in the shape of a cross, and altars are often placed in the round.  What are the messages?

Closing Prayer

Gracious and loving God, in the waters of baptism you name us and claim us and make us your very own.  Thank you for the gift of faith, and for your relentless love that will not let us go, no matter what.  Empower us by your Spirit to be the kingdom-people you call us to be, and lead us to be living signs of your grace in the lives of those around us.  In Jesus’ name we pray.  Amen.

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The Journey to Right Relationships…a Christian Response by Rev. Robin McCullough-Bade

New Free Resource on Race Relations

The Journey to Right Relationships … a Christian Response

 

When it comes to race relations, those of us who follow Christ have a responsibility and calling to be engaged with others in significant conversations about race relations. But where do we begin?

 

Race Relations: The Journey to Right Relationships is a new, free online resource which promotes change—a re-formation of heart, mind, attitude, and behavior. Designed for facilitator-led small groups, the 4 Bible-based conversations can be used in a weekly series or a 4-hour mini-retreat.  Go to ELCA.org/RaceRelations to find this free resource.

What’s the approach?

As Christians, we confess God has created every person in God’s image. No matter the color of our skin, you and I are made in the very image of God.  That core Christian belief is intended to shape how we treat others. Jesus himself taught us to love our neighbor as ourselves.

 

Imagine if all Christians would treat others—no matter the color of their skin—with respect and dignity. Imagine the ripple effect if this core belief became lived out in daily behavior.  Imagine the impact on our policies and practices.

 

We do not know what we do not know

This resource also begins with another simple reality.  We do not know what we do not know. We do not know what it is like to experience life with a different color of skin.  We do not know what doors might open or be closed—all because of the color of skin. And so we listen.

 

Greek Orthodox priest Rev. Anthony Monteleon believes the section titled Entering into the Lament is the heart of the conversation. After finishing the series, his question was simple, “How did you think to invite people into the lament? That seems to be the core of everything!” As the author, I replied, “The question seems to be, ‘Do I love God enough to enter into someone else’s lament?’ Just as God is present in my lament, am I willing to be present with others in their lament?”

 

In regards to the lament concerning race, there are questions to ask.  Is the lament too loud? Is it not loud enough? How might God be stirring each of us to enter into the lament of race relations? What are the opportunities to show up, learn more, network, speak the truth to power, challenge institutional racism, and advocate for change of policies?

 

Field tested in Baton Rouge

Over 150 people from over 22 different Baton Rouge congregations have tested this resource. Participants have included Baptists, Roman Catholics, Episcopalians, Lutherans, Methodists, Unitarians, Greek Orthodox Christians and others. People are hungry to be part of a significant faith-based conversation.  There is a deep cry to better understand each other. There is a fervent desire for talk which leads to action and change.

 

Writer: Rev. Robin McCullough-Bade serves as Executive Director of the Interfaith Federation of Greater Baton Rouge. For over 30 years, the Interfaith Federation has been cultivating unity, justice, and peace.  She and her husband Rev. John McCullough Bade have written over 300 lectionary-based Bible Studies for the ELCA using a small-group conversation format.  All these resources are free and online.  See below for more information:

Resources:            Journey to Right Relationships:        ELCA.org/RaceRelations

Bible Studies on Gospel Lesson:           ELCA.org/DailyDiscipleship

Bible Studies on Second Lesson:      ELCA.org/DailyFaithPractices

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Worship Behind Prison Walls

 

Today’s post is from Ben Blobaum, Program Director at the Inside Out Network in Chicago, IL.

 

Prisons are places where profound spiritual growth is occurring. In fact, many men and women in prison are thriving spiritually, their faith tested and forged in the crucible of incarceration. For those inmates who allow the experience to pierce their illusions of self-sufficiency, incarceration holds up a mirror, exposing one’s truest and deepest need: mercy. Many turn to Jesus with that explicit plea.

By its announcement of God’s mercy, the gospel of Jesus Christ sets the captives free. Paradoxically, some of the freest people I have ever met are currently locked in prison cells. Though physically confined, their hearts and spirits soar, weightless, into the unending expanse of the infinite God. Doxological worship is the natural expression of one who has been set free.

Who, having received of the riches of God’s grace, can keep from singing?

Worship is not only a response to freedom in Christ; it is a necessary condition for it, if freedom is to be sustained. Volunteers from local congregations can play a vital role in the life of the church “on the inside,” by leading even simple elements of worship, incorporating Scripture, prayer, and song. The principle aim is to develop a format that nearly anyone in your congregation is capable to lead. Musical instruments can be a nice touch, but they are optional (it’s easier to clear security without them anyway). Leading songs a cappella in call-and-response fashion is really quite effective, and, logistically efficient, as it eliminates the need for distribution of lyric sheets.

Many prisoners know both their deep need for mercy and the extravagant abundance of which they have received.

Experience and know-how are not essential (both will develop over time); the key imperative is a willing heart. Worship is our response (prayer and song) to God’s Word (Scripture). Music, especially, is uniquely able to invoke and elevate the human spirit, expressing what is beyond the reach of spoken words. Many prisoners know both their deep need for mercy and the extravagant abundance of which they have received. Should you have the privilege of participating in, or leading, worship with prisoners, just wait ‘til you hear them sing!

If you or others from your congregation are interested in the opportunity to lead worship in a correctional setting, or if you would like to learn more about prison ministry and visitation, please feel free to contact Ben Blobaum or Pastor Fred Nelson of Inside Out Network (ION). Inside Out Network is a congregation-based prison and re-entry ministry in Chicago that seeks to address the missed connection between “returning citizens” and the local church. Or, to connect with a prison ministry in your area, contact your synod office, or your local Prison Fellowship representative.

 

 

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