In weeks approaching the election, we are awash in messaging. Not only are we seeing politician-approved ads, but likely also items in categories* including propaganda, lies, conspiracies, rumors, hoaxes, hyperpartisan content, falsehoods and manipulated media. Such misinformation undermines healthy democratic processes and discourages civic engagement. “The political health of our nation still suffers from the stain of antidemocratic exclusion. Efforts to restrict access to voting should be condemned and resisted,” warns the ELCA social message “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy.” Much misinformation feeds this problem. Guidance to advance our public life in the social message reads, “There is a sharp distinction between public service and private gain, a distinction measured by the straightforward question ‘Whose good is being served?’”

What’s the problem?

Material from The Episcopal Church* cautions: “Audiences that mostly consume mainstream media see far more false insider stories and conspiracy theories than they might realize. While mainstream media itself remains highly reliable, online algorithms that favor content with high engagement instead of content with high veracity make it easier to transmit misinformation to these audiences through widely-used platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.”

When Hunger Network in Ohio, part of our Lutheran state public policy office network, reflected on online engagement, they wrote: “Social media offers everyone a chance to help shape the news and the content that each other sees. This is both a blessing and a curse…” They continued, “False news hurts our ability for civil discourse and wrestling with difficult issues to find solutions.”

Consuming a blip of information may take just a moment, but taking extra moments to clarify that information’s source and intent can help keep us from fanning destructive tendencies that divide us. “It seems that we want to cut ourselves off from each other,” said Presiding Bishop Elizabeth A. Eaton in her video address “We are in this together” (9/25/20). “Not only do we disagree, but we say the other is wrong, or they say we are wrong, or we accuse each other somehow of mounting a platform – like we want to divorce each other. But this is not possible. In baptism, the Spirit has forged us together in a bond that is unbreakable by any human sin or even by our anxiety or our desire to get away from the other side.”

What can we do about it?

Check out the wide ranging exploration of a spectrum of misinformation, malinformation and disinformation, created and spread by “jokers, scammers, interest-driven entities, conspiracy theorists, ‘insiders’, celebrities, or your friends and family,” available from The Episcopal Church.

“Misinformation, Disinformation, Fake News: Why Do We Care?“

We won’t catch all that is streaming past us, but we can help stop contribution to the problem.

Among remedying tips in the piece is: “Consuming high-quality, diverse media improves our understanding of the world and equips us to identify and critically evaluate misinformation. Even if you don’t follow every trusted source closely, knowing where to go to find accurate information or a different perspective about a topic is extremely helpful.” Then there are the three questions to run through before you “re-share that tweet, or tell a friend about that surprising headline you saw.” Where’s it from? What’s missing? How do you feel? [See graphic for additional description.]

The feeling when we share should be the affirmation of contribution to constructive discussion. “We are one body in Christ,” proclaimed Presiding Bishop Eaton. “This is the witness we in the ELCA need to give to the world and to understand and live ourselves.”

*”Misinformation, Disinformation, Fake News: Why Do We Care,” post from Office of Government Relations of The Episcopal Church (May 21, 2020 update), content shared by permission

Following are updates shared from submissions of the Lutheran Office for World Community and state public policy offices.

U.N. | Arizona | Colorado | Ohio |Pennsylvania | Washington | Wisconsin

United Nations

Dennis Frado, Lutheran Office for World Community, New York, N.Y. ELCA.org/lowc

UN 75^TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION: The high-level meeting to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the UN was held on September 21^st.  The meeting adopted a declaration acknowledging both the UN’s achievements and its disappointments, such as: “Our challenges are interconnected and can only be addressed through reinvigorated multilateralism,” “Strengthening international cooperation is in the interest of both nations and peoples.” It also included twelve pledges “to ensure the future we want and the United Nations we need.”

CELEBRATION OF THE 25^TH ANNIVERSARY OF BEIJING WOMEN’S CONFERENCE: The UN General Assembly High-level meeting on the 25th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women was held on October 1^st. According to UN Women, no country has achieved gender equality. There has been progress since the Beijing Conference held in 1995, but gaps remain, and in some areas these gains are threatened and even reversed. The meeting was therefore being held under the theme “Accelerating the realization of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls”. It aimed to “demonstrate the political will and leadership that will bring about the transformative change needed to address root causes, structural barriers, discriminatory practices and social norms that underpin discrimination and inequality.” You can watch the meeting on UN Web TV.

LOWC SPEAKS TO LUTHERAN STUDIES PROGRAM COLLOQUIA 2020-2021 AT YALE: In late September, Christine Mangale and Dennis Frado spoke via Zoom with Lutheran students at Yale University as part of the Lutheran Studies Program Colloquia theme “Public Church.” The LOWC presentations focused on the church’s presence at the United Nations (UN) and the history of the ELCA’s work on human rights, including at the UN.

Arizona

Solveig Muus, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona  https://lamaz.org/

GETTING OUT THE VOTE: In the midst of racial inequity, an upcoming election, a pandemic, and a climate gone crazy, we in Arizona thank God for forgiveness and mercy, and for the miraculous ways God works in us and through us.

This month, we’re all hands on deck to get out the vote. Every faith community and advocacy group in Arizona seems to be in step; all are publicizing the importance of voting and helping in any way to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. Arizona has an excellent track record for successful mail-in ballot counting. Rev. Mark Holman, Bishop’s Associate for Mobility and Leadership, wrote a study resource titled “How Would Jesus Vote?” for congregational use, and a member of LAMA’s policy team created a voter volunteer recruitment packet for congregations.

Like every other state office, LAMA continues to reach out to our 85 Arizona congregations, and are encouraged that several are considering adding an advocacy component to their social ministry teams. Building our network, producing a weekly newsletter, and feeding social media keep us busy.

UPCOMING EVENTS: We are planning LAMA’s first state-wide summit on November 7, which is to be a virtual event featuring Dr. Ryan Cumming of ELCA World Hunger. Together with Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center and Bread for the World Southwest, we are planning and promoting a Virtual Town Hall on November 17 featuring Rev. Eugene Cho, president and CEO of Bread for the World.

Colorado

Peter Severson, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado https://www.rmselca.org/advocacy

BALLOT MEASURES: Coloradans will vote on eleven statewide ballot measures this fall. Lutheran Advocacy is committed to providing Lutherans and all people of faith with comprehensive and detailed analysis of each measure from our perspective. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado’s positions on the eleven measures are available now. View them at https://www.rmselca.org/ColoradoBallot2020. Our 2020 Voter Guide with analysis and information will be available on the same site in the first week of October. Ballots will be mailed to all Colorado voters on October 9^th.

THEOLOGICAL CONFERENCE: The Rocky Mountain Synod met virtually for its annual fall Theological Conference from September 21-24. Lutheran Advocacy was present alongside hundreds of rostered ministers, lay professionals and other leaders to learn from expert presenters, engage in Bible study, and have in-depth discussions of anti-racism and building up God’s beloved community of liberation with all present.

Ohio

Deacon Nick Bates, Hunger Network in Ohio hungernetohio.com

HUNGER FOR JUSTICE VIRTUAL CONFERENCE: As voting begins in Ohio this month, we are all diligently working to discern the best candidates for all positions – including the Ohio Statehouse, State Supreme Court, and community leaders for school board and Township Trustees. Regardless of who wins at the local, state, or national level, our work remains the same – proclaiming God’s desire that all may be fed and have justice and peace in our communities.

Our two-hour conference will be held on zoom and feature theological reflection to help frame the election results and policy landscape moving forward. We encourage clergy, congregational leaders, judicatory staff, and people curious about hunger and poverty to attend. Register at www.hungernetohio.com/summit.

OHIO COUNCIL OF CHURCHES ANTI-RACISM SUNDAY: HNO is a proud partner with the Council and their efforts to educate and engage congregations throughout the state on issues of white privilege and racism. You can watch the Livestream online here https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=620062392203248

CROP WALK KICK-OFF: HNO Director Nick Bates will be the featured speaker at the Columbus CROP Walk virtual kick-off on October 11th at noon to discuss our call to advocacy and justice around hunger issues.

PROBLEMS WITH VOTING: HNO is partnering with the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition. You can check your voter registration and find your absentee ballot at https://ohvotes.org/. You can report a problem or concern to 1-866-OUR-VOTE or view their website, https://866ourvote.org/state-information/ohio/.

Pennsylvania

Tracey DePasquale, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry–Pennsylvania (LAMPa) lutheranadvocacypa.org

EQUIPPING LEADERS AND VITAL CONGREGATIONS FOR DISCIPLESHIP IN A DEMOCRACY: LAMPa staff and volunteers contacted Pennsylvania’s 67 counties to assess their preparedness for the Nov. 3 election and shared the results with synod leaders to target congregations so that they could support safe access to polls in areas of need. Read more.

POLICY COUNCIL RETREAT: The Rev. Amy Reumann, ELCA Advocacy Director, joined virtually to talk about advocacy as discipleship. She invited the council to imagine how congregational leaders could engage in LAMPa’s ministry as faith formation through the practice of testimony.

HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOW: Larry D. Herrold, Jr. joined LAMPa as our ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow. A member of Zion, Sunbury (Upper Susquehanna Synod), and active in hunger ministry there, he is discerning a call to ministry. Learn more about Larry.

ADVOCACY ON RENT RELIEF AND SURPRISE MEDICAL BILLS: LAMPa advocates urged state lawmakers to improve and extend the application deadline for the CARES Rent Relief Program and to end surprise medical billing.

UNITED LUTHERAN SEMINARY CONVOCATION: LAMPa Director Tracey DePasquale shared whys and ways of connecting with policymakers as a form of loving our neighbor.

GWOH: Congregations around Pennsylvania added their voices to God’s work. Our hands. Sunday by writing letters to lawmakers addressing issues to which they have been called in service of neighbor.

OTHER WORK: Opposed legislation rolling back clean water protections; Supported use of CARES funding to stop utility shutoffs; Garnered signatures in support of waivers for school nutrition programs; Increased SNAP benefits

Washington

The Rev. Paul Benz and Elise DeGooyer, Faith Action Network fanwa.org

ANNOUNCING FAN’S VIRTUAL ANNUAL DINNER: FAN’s Annual Dinner will be held virtually this year on November 15. We hope this change will allow more people from across the state to join in, expanding the traditions of our Renton and Spokane dinners! Our theme is “Rise Up Together,” which speaks to our current and future work in confronting the challenges of multiple pandemics – COVID-19, systemic racism, economic uncertainty, and environmental devastation. Learn more at fanwa.org/annual-dinner.

NEW REGIONAL ORGANIZERS: FAN is building our statewide outreach by creating a staff team of Regional Organizers! In Central Wash., we welcome Zahra Roach (pictured here) who is a Pasco City Councilmember and who worked on our Census Equity Team earlier this year. In Western Wash., we welcome Jaspreet Singh who has experience working with the legislative session in Olympia and is representing FAN at the Career and Technical Colleges coalition. More to come as we add University of Washington social work interns and a Spokane area organizer!

WORKING FAMILIES TAX CREDIT: FAN is part of several state policy coalitions – one is the Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC) coalition. Several years ago, our legislature passed this law to provide tax credits to low-income working families, but it has never been funded. Now more than ever in this pandemic where so many households are struggling, funding an emergency cash assistance program like this with an annual credit is critical. Another important piece to make this program more equitable is to statutorily include Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) filers so that ALL workers in our state receive this benefit. Learn more at fanwa.org/advocacy/advocacy-toolkit/working-families-tax-credit/ or budgetandpolicy.org.

Wisconsin

The Rev. Cindy  Crane, Lutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin (LOPPW) loppw.org

WELCOME TO LOPPW HUNGER ADVOCACY FELLOW KYLE MINDEN:  Kyle is with us full-time for one year thanks to a generous grant from ELCA World Hunger.  He graduated from Wartburg College with a B.A. in Religion and Business Administration and a Minor in Social Entrepreneurship. Kyle is passionate about solving the systemic inequities and injustices that stem from public policy at the local, state, and federal level.

VOTING: Kyle has developed two voting resources, the Comprehensive can be found at 2020 LOPPW Voting Guide, while the one-page summary can be found here: 2020 LOPPW Voting Overview. 

HUNGER: We made known information about people eligible for a stimulus check but who have not filed.  Kyle used the center to create this resource:  file:///Users/cynthiacrane/Downloads/Stimulus-Payment-Outreach-Resource-1-1%20(12).pdf

As part of our project to highlight at least one hunger ministry in each synod for others to learn from, we interviewed Bill Binroth, Director of Let’s Eat Community Meals of Chassell, MI in the NGLS.  https://www.facebook.com/LOPPW/videos/377521223250082

CARE FOR CREATION: Our LOPPW statewide climate task force continues to meet.  We sent this press release as a letter to the WI Legislature:  file:///Users/cynthiacrane/Downloads/Revised-Climate-press-release-Team-Bishops.pdf

WEDNESDAY NOON LIVE & IMMIGRATION AND DETENTION: The video of Attorney Mary Campbell, Ms. Marisol Fuentes de Dubon, and Dr. Stephanie Mitchell mentioned last month was published in September: https://www.facebook.com/LOPPW/videos/743410496506120

“LIFTING OUR VOICES DURING THE PANDEMIC”: This Zoom webinar, co-sponsored by East Central Synod Women of the ELCA and LOPPW, will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 from 6:30-7:30 PM. Register here: https://www.loppw.org/evrplus_registration/?action=evrplusegister&event_id=5.

By the Rev. Kaari Reierson, contractor with ELCA advocacy

The impacts of COVID-19 on U.S. citizens are simply unfathomable. Over 200,000 people have died. Unemployment is the highest it has been in the last 70 years. Tens of thousands of businesses have closed.

As difficult as COVID-19 and its many effects have been for those in the U.S., the effects have been multiplied in other parts of the world. As of this writing, the death rate in the United States is eleventh globally. The world’s economy is predicted to be pushed to a recession greater than any since World War II, putting millions more people into poverty.

As the U.S. Congress debates how to assist its citizens, Lutherans are reminded that whatever is happening on U.S. soil is happening elsewhere in the world, in many cases amplified. Unemployment is confronting people with no savings – and no social safety net. Illness is afflicting people with minimal health care. Food scarcity is threatening people with no resources.

In response to a desperate world in 1939, Lutherans in the United States founded Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service to assist Europeans displaced by World War II. Lutherans continue to participate regularly in international efforts to serve the neighbor and guard human dignity, through presence at the United Nations (U.N.), post-war relief in Europe, and engagement in development work and disaster response among many ways. ELCA social teaching recognizes that the U.S. plays a vital leadership role in world affairs and also has an obligation to share its resources with less wealthy nations.

Will our nation respond to the suffering imposed by COVID-19 outside of U.S. soil, or will we only take care of “our own?” Will the U.S. participate fully in international organizations working to quell the pandemic as our Lutheran history and social teaching would urge us to do?

To turn the tide of a virus as contagious as COVID-19 requires a coordinated effort by the international community. The pandemic respects no national boundaries. If the U.S. refuses to engage with and help resource multilateral organizations such as the World Health Organization and U.N., it is not only failing to fulfill its moral obligation, it is endangering its own future. “U.S. support through bilateral foreign assistance programs is also vital to heavily impacted low-income countries,” says Patricia Kisare, ELCA Program Director for International Public Policy. “As members of Congress work on the next COVID-19 stimulus package, they must include funding for international response to address the tremendous needs caused by this pandemic.”

Illustrated by the history of Lutherans in the U.S., expanded in our Lutheran teachings, and sourced in the words and life of Jesus, caring for others is God’s work. “For the Christian, empathy is one way in which love and compassion (Matthew 25:31-46) may be embodied in the world of civil authority, through God’s left-hand work,” reads the ELCA social message “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States.”

You are invited to use “Take Action on the Next Coronavirus Supplemental Bill” in the ELCA Action Center to ask Congress to incorporate international relief measures as it moves our nation’s pandemic response into law.

Sylvia Alloway, Granada Hills, CA

Warm-up Question

“My boss owes me for all my hard work.” “The company is insured.” “Nobody will notice.”

These are some of the excuses employees make to justify stealing money, merchandise, office supplies, and more from their employers. Incidents of employee theft are on the rise. Do you think there is ever a valid excuse for employee theft? If so, what might it be? If not, why do you think more and more people are stealing at work?

Is It Really Stealing?

A 2019 survey revealed that 75% of those surveyed admitted to stealing from their employers at least once and 37.5%, at least twice. Why do they do it? Some can’t be bothered to buy the product. Some blame lack of supervision and poor enforcement of consequences or a sudden financial need Others believe the company can afford it. But the most common reason is employees feeling overworked and under-appreciated.  They believe they deserve more.

This sounds reasonable from the point of view of one person. But 75% of individuals taking what they think they deserve adds up. Almost a third of small and mid-sized business owners who declare bankruptcy say that employee theft was a direct cause. The more businesses fail, the more people are left jobless and unable to feed their families. Soon, the whole economy begins to break down.  Yes, taking an employer’s property really is stealing.

The Eighth Commandment says, “You shall not steal.” There is no “unless” – unless I’m not getting paid enough, unless I’m in terrible financial need, unless the boss isn’t paying attention. God wants Christians to fulfill our responsibilities no matter how we feel, no matter who is or isn’t looking. When God gives us a job, He expects us to give it our best. “So… whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NRSV). God’s economy isn’t based on deserving. If it were, no one would get anything but God’s wrath. Since Christians have received grace, let us behave graciously.

Discussion Questions

• If you are able, follow the links in the article above. Think again about the Warm-up Question. Most people would say that stealing is wrong. So, why are more and more people stealing from their employers?
• What do you think employers should do to prevent employee theft?
• What do you think it means to “do everything for the glory of God”?

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 A at Lectionary Readings.)

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

Gospel Reflection

Jesus is having another run-in with the religious leaders, the aristocrats of the Jewish culture. They challenge his authority. What right has he, humble carpenter’s son, to teach and preach to them, the ones who have studied God’s law all their lives? This upstart must be challenged!

As he often does when questioned, Jesus tells a parable, two in fact, and this is the second one. Both have to do with authority. We may think Jesus is using hyperbole, literary exaggeration, to make his point. How on earth could the tenant farmers of the story believe they’ll get away with beating and killing the owner’s servants and even his son? With stealing, not just a little produce, but the entire vineyard?

When the prophets of the Old Testament speak of a vineyard, they often mean the Jewish people, the ones God chose to hear and live out his words. So, as the leaders listen to the story, they can hardly miss the fact, that the keepers of the vineyard are them.  They are supposed to care for the people, using their knowledge of the law to help the people grow spiritually. 

At times, the Old Testament leaders did  beat, torture, and even kill God’s messengers, the prophets. They wanted to use their power as they saw fit. Instead of paying attention to God’s messengers, they abused and them. They thought they deserved the honor and power which belong only to God. So what if, for lack of someone to tell them the truth, the “vineyard,” God’s chosen ones, withered and died on the vine.

The ones hearing Jesus’ words are no better than their ancestors. Jesus’ words come true. They kill the Son rather than give up their positions of authority.  So who are the people who will receive the vineyard in the end? Those who, in following Jesus, do the work of tending God’s people, not for their own glory, but for God’s.

Discussion Questions

• Jesus tells a story about irresponsible leaders, who did not care for God’s people as they should. What would a good leader do? In what way would a good leader “tend the vineyard,” that is help God’s people to grow spiritually?
• The news article talks about how little thefts can add up and bring serious consequences. What wide-spread consequences for God’s people might result from an increase of selfish actions in the church?
• How did Jesus’ audience react to his parable? Why do you think they reacted as they did?

Activity Suggestions

• Have the class discuss and list what they think today’s leaders (political, school, or church) need to hear. Have them choose one idea and make up a parable about it.  A parable is a simple story with a spiritual meaning using two or three (no more) symbols to get a single point across. Act the parable out.
• In what ways, individually and as a group, can members of the class care for God’s people? Write down the ideas. Plan to carry out at least one of them individually and one as a group.

Closing Prayer

Father of All Good, we ask you to forgive us for the times when we have acted selfishly and hurt others. We thank you that we can be sure of your forgiveness because of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Turn us outward to see others’ needs and help us to meet them when we can. May the people around us see the love of Christ in our words and actions. In the Name of your Son, Amen

Be a part of the response:

Pray
Please pray for people who have been affected by Hurricane Sally. May God’s healing presence give them peace and hope in their time of need.

Give
Thanks to generous donations, Lutheran Disaster Response is able to respond quickly and effectively to disasters around the globe. Your gifts to Lutheran Disaster Response (Hurricane Response) will be used to support survivors of Hurricane Sally.

Connect
To learn more about the situation and the ELCA’s response:

• Sign up to receive Lutheran Disaster Response alerts.
• Check the Lutheran Disaster Response blog.
• Like Lutheran Disaster Response on Facebook, follow @ELCALDR on Twitter, and follow @ELCA_LDR on Instagram.
• Download the situation report and share as a PDF.

Scott Mims, Virginia Beach, VA

Warm-up Question

• Take a few moments to check in with one another.  What have been some of the “highs” and “lows” of the past week?
• What is one thing you used to think or believe as a small child that you find funny now?

Another Alarm Bell

Recently, a massive section of Greenland’s ice cap broke off in the northeastern Arctic.  This section of ice, measuring 42 square miles, is a dramatic example of the accelerated melting of Arctic ice that scientists say is evidence of rapid climate change.  As one observer put it, “This is yet another alarm bell being rung by the climate crisis in a rapidly heating Arctic.”

In fact, the effects of global warming are so severe that they are reshaping the climate of the region. As one study in August concluded, Greenland alone lost a record amount of ice during a record-breaking 2019, resulting in a melt massive enough to have covered the whole of California in 4 feet of water.

Elsewhere, a rapidly warming climate is also being linked to conditions that make for more intense wildfire seasons in the American West, and more active hurricane seasons in the Atlantic and Gulf Coast regions.

For more:

https://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/dismay-huge-chunk-greenlands-ice-cap-breaks-rcna117

see also:

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/14/climate/arctic-changing-climate.html#:~:text=The%20Arctic%20Is%20Shifting%20to,a%20new%20study%20has%20found.

Discussion Questions

• Despite an ever-growing body of evidence that our planet is warming rapidly, why do you think some people have a hard time accepting that climate change is real?
• Who has the most to gain from people and nations working together to address climate change?  Who might have the most to lose from the actions and policies that could be called for?
• Are you optimistic about the future of our world and our ability to successfully tackle the complex issues around climate change?  Why or why not?

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32

Philippians 2:1-13

Matthew 21:23-32

(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 A at Lectionary Readings.)

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

Gospel Reflection

As we head into the last weeks of the church year, our gospel readings jump to Jesus’ final days before his crucifixion.  Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and “cleansing” of the Temple (Matthew 21:1-16)  set the stage for his confrontation with the chief priests and elders.

“By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?”  That is the question put to Jesus by Jewish leaders who are obviously upset at what they perceive as an attack against both the Temple and their own authority. Yet, their question is not an honest one.  That is, they are not really seeking knowledge and understanding, but are looking to trap Jesus.  Indeed, they are well aware of what his actions imply – that he is the Messiah, God’s anointed one.  They hope, in answering this question, Jesus will give them something they can use against him.

Jesus  is wise to their ploy.  And while his counter-question hangs them on the horns of a dilemma, it is more than simply a clever way out.  This question concerning John the Baptist is a clue to the answer Jesus would have given, had his questioners been open to the truth.  If they truly understood what John was about (see Matthew 3:11-17), they would know where Jesus gets the authority to say what he is saying and do what he was doing. 

In sharing a parable about a man with two sons, Jesus goes on to underscore the fact that they have chosen to ignore John’s message and, therefore, Jesus himself .  After all, what does it say that even people whose daily lives seem to be  a big “No!” to God believe John’s message of repentance and renewal, when the religious leaders do not?  What does it say that even tax collectors and prostitutes “get it,” when those who should most welcome the Messiah refuse to see God at work?

This is not simply a story from long ago.  Jesus continues to challenge us to open our eyes to what God is doing in the world, calling us to view our lives through our “faith lenses”.  How we answer the chief priests and elder’s question as it pertains to Jesus is critical.  What does it mean for the church that Jesus is Lord?  And, more personally, what does his authority as God’s Messiah mean to each of us?

Discussion Questions

• What do you know about John the Baptist?  Read Matthew 3:1 – 17 together.  Who was John, and what was he about?  
• Think about what you know about Jesus.  What are some of the other pieces of evidence that point to who he is and to the authority that he has?  
• Why do you think the religious leaders and authorities had a hard time accepting Jesus?  What did they have to lose?
• What does the word “authority” mean to you?  In what ways does Jesus have authority in our lives?  

Activity Suggestions

One Small Change:  How do we connect our faith to the needs and challenges of our world?  Where do you see God at work, and what do you think he may be calling us to care about and do?  Explore some possible actions, activities or service projects that your group might do related to your conversation.  Choose one thing and go for it!

Closing Prayer

Gracious God, in your love you have given us gifts of abundance – ourselves, our time, our abilities and possessions.  Help us to say “Yes!” to your call to share these gifts in the work of your “vineyard,” that we may be signs of your gracious love.  Give us wisdom and reverence for our planet, and help us to work for a future in which generations yet to come may continue to praise you for your bounty.  We pray this in Jesus’ name.  Amen.  

As COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the world the disease is challenging individuals and societies in new and varied ways. Our social interactions, economic wellbeing, and community engagement have all been strained over the past six months. Churches are also experiencing challenges as they seek to adapt.

The National Council of Churches USA and the Orthodox Christian Studies Center of Fordham University are presenting the second in a series of webinars highlighting some of these ecclesial challenges. The discussion will also examine how churches are striving to meet these challenges, as well as the opportunity to do this ministry together.

The webinar will be livestreamed and is free and open to the public, though participants will need to pre-register for the event here. The event will include some time for audience questions and will feature the following speakers:

• Metropolitan Nathanael of Chicago – Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
• Kathryn Lohre – Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
• Senior Bishop Lawrence Reddick, III – Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
• Rev. Monsignor J. Brian Bransfield – General Secretary of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops

We hope you’ll join us on September 30, 2020, 5 pm ET

Register today by following the link: REGISTER

According to data presented by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, over 230,000 polling places were used in 2018. Less than 1% of those were located at election offices. Most were at schools, community centers… and churches.

The need

Experience during primary elections in our nation have led some to conclude more polling places are needed before the November 3, 2020 general election. Myrna Perez, director of the voting rights and elections program at the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law, is quoted in an AP news article saying, “In the best of times, really long lines are deterring and disenfranchising. In the time of the coronavirus, long lines can be deadly.”

Several ELCA congregations have opened their facilities as polling places in previous elections. Is this a way your congregation wants to steward its building in 2020? State laws govern where polling places can be located, but ELCA Legal and Risk Assessment colleagues also have some advice to share on churches serving as polling locations.

Some considerations

Before your church responds to a request or steps out to offer to be a polling place, key issues must be considered in addition to operating by COVID-19 guidelines and mandates: (1) accessibility, (2) security, and (3&4) insurance/liability.

(1) If the municipality uses the church as a polling place, it should be accessible. Officials should make an accessibility determination in the portion of the building and parking lot being used for voting. Additionally, it is always a good idea to inventory the property for safety hazards.

(2) If the church has a preschool, school or similar activity in the building that is still open, security steps must be taken to make sure that there is separation between the operating school and parts of the building accessible to the public. For example, voters may be directed to a specific door and part of the building but not be allowed access to the other portion. Some churches just close the school for election day (like many public schools do).

(3) Make sure the congregation’s insurance carrier is aware of the facility’s use as a polling place to assure coverage if something happens. The aforementioned safety hazards inventory of the area being made accessible to the public can be assuring.

(4) Proof of insurance for a location as a polling place should be available from the voting authority.

• • Request that the voting authority provide the respective church with a current insurance certificate evidencing the following type of insurance and coverage.

Commercial General Liability:

(a)  Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability with a $1,000,000 limit per occurrence
(b)  Personal and Advertising Liability with a $1,000,000 limit per person or organization
(c)  Products and Completed operations with a $1,000,000 limit per occurrence and in the aggregate
(d)  General aggregate with a $3,000,000 limit

• • It is very important to confirm that the church is indicated as being insured on the certificate. This confirmation may look something like: (INSERT Name of Church) is named as an additional insured under the (INSERT Name of Voting Authority’s) commercial general liability policy.

Uniquely this year, being a polling place means observing best practices in this time of pandemic. Request that the voting authority comply with all federal, state and municipal COVID-19 guidelines and mandates including those regarding masking, social distancing, equipment wipe down and sanitizing product availability. Guidelines to minimize the risk of transmitting COVID-19 at the polls are discussed in a joint release from The Brennan Center and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

Taking the next step

“For Lutherans, one way Christian vocation finds expression is through dedicated, competent public service,” states the ELCA social message, “Government and Civic Engagement in the United States: Discipleship in a Democracy.” No voter should have to choose between their safety and their fundamental right to vote in November states BrennanCenter.org which shares the joint guidelines. The ELCAvotes initiative grew from the social policy resolution, “Voting Rights to All Citizens,” which calls on us to engage in local efforts and support legislation guaranteeing the right of all to vote. With planning and awareness of best practices, your congregation may be just the place to help facilitate democratic expression in your community and be of public service.

Contact your county Board of Elections to find out how to designate a place you are connected with as a polling site. The American Association of People with Disabilities also has tips on making this connection.

“We’ve been a polling place in this precinct for more than 40 years,” said Jeff Garrison, Church Council President of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fairfax, Virg. “It is just part of what we do. We feel it is a ministry to our community to make available a safe environment to vote.”

This text will soon be available as a pdf from ELCA.org/votes and ELCA.org/resources/advocacy.

Issue 72 of Administration Matters

“Stories of Faith in Action”

Congregation council roles and responsibilities

Take a fresh look at health benefit options during Portico’s 2021 annual enrollment

Why write policies and procedures?

IRS update: Financial safety in times of disaster

Preventing theft and embezzlement in your organization

Scripture invites us, creatures of God, to join the whole creation in singing. Psalm 96 calls us to “Sing a new song… all the earth.” Our songs join the trees of the wood, the thundering seas, and the joyful fields.

As we approach the October 4th commemoration of St. Francis of Assisi, worshipping communities may be considering how best to focus on creation care in worship and in daily life. Although we often highlight ecological concerns on specific days and seasons, raising our voices with and behalf of creation is best an on-going practice.

Several hymns and songs in All Creation Sings call forth our praise for the wonders of the natural world. Yet creation also cries out in lament (Romans 8:22-23). Hymn writer Jeannette Lindholm has written the hymn “Before the Waters Nourished Earth.” Included in the Lament section of ACS, its creation imagery abounds.

Before the waters nourished earth or night imagined morning,
a Love conceived the universe and reveled in its forming.

This Love remained as time revealed the loss of Eden’s glory
and, grieving, holds in memory each tragic human story.

Lindholm wrote this text for a memorial service of a friend who had died by suicide. At this friend’s funeral, Psalm 23 was read. Lindholm chose the tune ST.COLUMBA to pair with her new hymn with the hope it would call to mind “The King of Love, My Shepherd Is.” Perhaps singing that tune suggests the verdant pastures and still waters of Psalm 23. Indeed, the universe formed is one of beauty even amid tragic loss. This is the universe that holy Love conceived and in which Wisdom delights. (Proverbs 8:22-31)

Yet as this hymn’s origin and its words convey, we grieve. Waters dry up. Pastures flood. Fires decimate forests. Our delight turns to horror as we witness the catastrophic effects of climate change, especially in places around the world too easily forgotten or neglected. And as creatures, we grieve for ourselves and those we love, especially when death comes too soon. Holy Love, though, holds every story, even the ones we skim over or want or omit entirely.

Despair, so deep it bears no name, or sorrows paralyzing
cannot revoke Love’s faithful claim to dwell within our dying.

When hearing the groans of creation, we too readily tune out. Sorrows can keep us stuck in patterns of injustice; climbing death tolls from a pandemic become numbers on a page or screen. It is all too much. And yet: there is nowhere we can go where God does not dwell. (Psalm 139)

The final stanza of this hymn expresses hope amid another grief: our inability to join creation’s song as a full body of singers, gathered in community, delighting in one another’s presence.

The Love that called creation good all goodness still is bringing.
This Love turns death again to life and silence into singing.

The hopeful, soaring quality of ST. COLUMBA renews our faith that silence will not be the end. The friend of the hymn writer who inspired this hymn’s creation was a choral director and singer and Lindholm had her beautiful singing voice in mind as she wrote this final stanza.

As promised in Revelation, at the end all creatures will gather in song. Our songs of lament tell the truth of the despair and destruction within and without. We need to voice such lament to God in prayer and song. Yet we pray that as God promised, Holy Love dwelling within and among us will do a new thing. That new songs will spring forth. May it be so.

Before the Waters Nourished Earth
Text: Jeannette M. Lindholm, b. 1961
Music: Irish Melody
Text © 1996 Jeannette M. Lindholm,  admin. Augsburg Fortress.
Permission required for further use by contacting Augsburg Fortress or One License