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Reconciling a Culture of Peace and a Responsibility to Protect

Nicholas Jaech, Lutheran Office for World Community

“In a new millennium, let us rediscover faith. Not in order to use it against others like has happened so many times in our history, but to understand our reason for existing in this world. Peace is the name of God. “ – Professor Dr. Emil Constantinescu

This statement by Professor Dr. Emil Constantinescu, former president of Romania, was made during the United Nations High Level Forum on The Culture of Peace on Wednesday, September 9 .1 The Lutheran Office for World Community had the opportunity to attend this all-day event, which focused on fostering a “culture of peace” in our world today. This concept, “Culture of Peace”, is rooted in A/RES/53/243, a resolution passed during the 53rd Session of the General Assembly in 1999. In this resolution, “Culture of Peace” is a set of attitudes and values based on non-violence, dialogue, cooperation, the promotion of human rights, developmental and environmental needs, gender equality, and the freedom of expression, just to name a few. This resolution was further bolstered by resolution A/RES/56/5 in 2001, which declared 2001-2010 the “International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World.” Similarly, the General Assembly passed a resolution in 2012 (A/RES/68/125) reiterating the original “Culture of Peace” resolution passed in 1999. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America observed a “Decade for a Culture of Nonviolence” between 2000 and 2010.

The forum on the 9th continued in the tradition of continually reinforcing the “Culture of Peace.” Specifically, panelists, experts and national representatives focused on the upcoming 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs) and the role of the media in creating an international peace culture. Various national delegates also had the opportunity to express their visions of the future. The United States spoke of a future where freedom of expression and journalism contribute to this culture of peace, while Bangladesh spoke fervently about violence that stems from intolerance, as well as the violent division that occurs when walls between peoples are built.  Overall, the energy in the room was optimistic; optimistic for a future devoid of violence and hate.

However, just one day prior, on September 8, the Lutheran Office for World Community also took the opportunity to sit in on a General Assembly Informal Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the Secretary-General on the Responsibility to Protect. “Responsibility to Protect” is a concept that has been developing since 2005, which outlines three methods for dealing with atrocity and violence occurring in our world. The third method, arguably the most contested among Member States, provides the international community the opportunity to take collective action against crimes of genocide, ethnic cleansing, war crimes, etc.2 This third method was most recently utilized by the Security Council in 2011 in the actions it took against authorities in Libya, following the widespread violence against civilians.3

During this dialogue on September 8, the concept of the “Responsibility to Protect” manifesting in collective action was contested. The Russian Federation spoke out against international efforts to intervene. Citing Libya as an example, they argued that the situation in Libya has spiraled into chaos and instability – a direct consequence of this policy.4 On the other hand, the United States praised the “Responsibility to Protect” and invoked the current situation in Syria as reason for further attempts of international collective action.4 While the support for the “Responsibility to Protect” was noticeable, many concerns were voiced over the use of international collective force in the face of atrocity.

These two all-day events, occurring just one day apart from each other, were my first two official experiences in the United Nations. I left the building after the second event and asked myself the following questions: How do we as Lutherans, peacemakers and followers of a loving God, who are eager and willing to build a worldwide Culture of Peace, respond to the current reality of violence and atrocity in some parts of the world? Do we invoke collective action among UN Member States, often times using violence against oppressive regimes? Or do we rely solely on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, hoping that economic and social development will provide the seeds for peaceful cultures?

As a fresh-out-of-university 22 year old, I cannot begin to answer these questions. National delegates, humanitarian organizations, and international church bodies have been discussing this complex dichotomy for years. However, I have to return to the inspiring words of Professor Dr. Emil Constantinescu about using faith as a means for peace:

“… the world powers, international organizations, the United Nations, the UNESCO, the civil society, try to create a political culture of security through negotiation and cooperation, in order to promote peace and understanding throughout the world. We are looking for the lowest common denominator, on which everybody can agree. My opinion is that we should plan for more. If we want to make real peace and understanding between people, we must focus to identify, not the lowest common denominator, but we should relate ourselves to the highest common denominator – faith.”

I have been overwhelmed with admiration for how active faith-based groups are at the United Nations. Social justice is at the forefront of all conversations, faith is shared, and ecumenical working groups have formed to promote peace in its many forms – climate justice, gender justice, and hunger relief, just to name a few. These groups, many ecumenical and inter-faith, illustrate how justice and peace can be created in an ever-increasingly diverse world.

And while I unfortunately still cannot answer my questions posed above, I will attempt to answer them with another question: How can we use faith in this millennium to reconcile the security-based concept of “Responsibility to Protect” and the development concept of ”Culture of Peace”?

Let us continue to work to bring faith into all conversations here at the United Nations and use faith as a tool for advocacy, partnership, and understanding, not as a tool for division. Through this, I am already confident that change can be made and that people will see peace.

———

To view the recorded webcast of the General Assembly Informal Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the Secretary-General on the Responsibility to Protect, please click here.

To view the recorded webcast of the United Nations High Level Forum on The Culture of Peace, please click here.

  1. http://webtv.un.org/meetings-events/watch/part-2-high-level-forum-on-the-culture-of-peace-general-assembly-69th-session/4474285689001
  2. http://www.un.org/en/preventgenocide/adviser/responsibility.shtml
  3. http://www.un.org/en/preventgenocide/rwanda/about/bgresponsibility.shtml
  4. http://webtv.un.org/meetings-events/watch/part-2-the-responsibility-to-protect-general-assembly-69th-session-informal-interactive-dialogue/4473202361001
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October 4, 2015, Marriage and the Gospel

Brian Hiortdahl

​

WARNING!

This week’s Faith Lens examines a sensitive issue.  Before having a group discussion, please review the section “Productive Discussion in a Spirit of Mutual Respect” on pages 5-6 of the ELCA study Journey Together Faithfully, Part 2:

http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/Journey_Together_Faithfully2.pdf?_ga=1.240388932.652180860.1441935268

As a group, agree to the “list of behaviors” and share a prayer before beginning.

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Warm-up Question

Do you want to be married someday?  Why or why not?

Marriage and the Gospel

This past June, the Supreme Court of the United States made a landmark and controversial decision to extend the legal right of marriage to same-sex couples.  The 5-4 decision, accompanied by strong dissent, sparked passionate reaction nationwide from objectors and supporters alike.  A county clerk in Kentucky has become a celebrity after being arrested for civil disobedience, refusing to comply with the new law on religious grounds, while other people of faith joyfully embrace the new freedom.  At the heart of the issue is the definition of marriage, a question not directly addressed by the U.S. Constitution.

Discussion Questions

  • Why do you think that the issue of same-sex marriage inspires such passionate responses in people?
  • What is your reaction to this news?  Why do you feel the way you do?
  • Should Christian churches perform marriages for same-sex couples?  Why or why not?  (On this question, see also the Suggested Activity section below.)

Lectionary 27/Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Genesis 2:18-24

Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12

Mark 10:2-16

(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

Those on both sides of the issue can find in this week’s gospel lesson support for their position.  Opponents of same-sex marriage point to Jesus’ citation of Genesis, which clearly, explicitly identifies the conjugal union of male and female as God’s design.  Proponents see Jesus consistently acting as a champion of those denied rights, power, and dignity in a patriarchal context where men had rights that women did not have (including the right to initiate divorce) and as a defender of committed, loving union.  Jesus does not specifically address the possibility of same-sex marriage; his silence on a question he was not asked is interpreted very differently by his present-day followers.

Almost all of us who read the Bible are at least somewhat guilty of looking for it to support what we already believe rather than allowing it to challenge our opinions and to reshape the way we think.  The latter is what Jesus is trying to accomplish with both the Pharisees and his disciples.  The Pharisees ask, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” Jesus moves the conversation from the legality of divorce to God’s intention for marriage—from a legal loophole to a sacred covenant.  He next chastises his disciples for trying to separate him from children, “for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.”  He elevates the value of children for his disciples in the same way he elevates the value of women for the male Pharisees (and later the disciples).  In both cases, he shifts the focus from separating people toward bringing them together.

Beneath all this is Mark’s broader story.  The Pharisees are testing Jesus because they are done with him.  Since marital breakdown was the undoing of John the Baptist (Mk 6:17-18), maybe the issue will work with Jesus too.  They are really looking for a way to write a certificate of dismissal and to divorce him!  Their strategy backfires.  Their divorce from Jesus—the cross—is transformed into the altar where the union of God and humanity is saved and secured forever.

Discussion Questions

  • What does this mean for people who disagree about the issue of same-sex marriage?  Which do you think is more important to God:  being right or maintaining relationship?  Does that depend on the issue in question?
  • Can you see faithfulness in the interpretation of those with whom you disagree?  What have they taught you?
  • What separates us from God and one another?  What can be done about it?

Activity Suggestions

  • In your group, stage a respectful debate.  (Invite members of the congregation council to attend, listen without speaking, and take notes.)  First, without anyone saying anything about the issue, divide the room into two sides:  yes and no.  Each person selects a side based on their answer to the question:  Should Christian churches perform marriages for same-sex couples?  Before anyone speaks, reverse the room.  Those who believe no:  argue for yes.  Those who believe yes:  argue for no.  After the debate, discuss:  what did you appreciate about and learn from the perspective of the other side?
  • Choose one item from the list of responses in your group to the question about what separates us from God and one another.  Plan one activity your group will lead to address this item in a positive way in your setting.

Closing Prayer

God our creator, our experience and understanding of you is limited and varies widely.  Draw and hold us together.  Teach us how to appreciate one another’s perspectives without compromising our convictions.  Move us from separation to healthy relationship with you and one another in the name and Spirit of the one who loves, challenges, restores, blesses, and unites us all, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.  Amen

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Nepal Earthquake: More than $1.9 million given for response

Megan Brandsrud

​Thanks to your generosity, Lutheran Disaster Response has collected more than $1.9 million to respond directly to the Nepal Area Earthquakes. Together, we were able to provide $527,700 to respond to the immediate needs of the people and communities affected, and we will continue to walk with our brothers and sisters in Nepal to rebuild lives and livelihoods as long-term response projects get underway.

We continue to work with our trusted partners, The Lutheran World Federation, Lutheran World Relief and United Mission to Nepal, to respond and provide assistance in the affected areas. Immediate response efforts have been in action since the day after the earthquake and many emergency distributions have been completed.

The Lutheran World Federation

Working with The Lutheran World Federation, we have distributed shelter repair materials, ready-to-eat food, blankets and hygiene kits to more than 21,000 households in 27 towns and villages in Nepal. Next phases of response are being rolled out, which includes distributing corrugated iron sheets in addition to tarps for families to use for shelter repair against the heavy monsoon rains.

While recovery of physical property is important for the safety of families who were affected by the earthquakes, care for the all-around well-being of those impacted is something that cannot be overlooked. With The Lutheran World Federation, we will provide community-based psychosocial support that will reach approximately 14,000 people. Working with community leaders, community-based psychosocial support will help people build their strength and build resilience in their villages, which will help improve their coping mechanisms.  These community-led groups will be able to serve as sustainable structures that will continue to help improve life for people who face hard times as recovery from the disaster moves into the future.

LWF_RMD_Bhirkot_Dolakha-04

Lutheran World Federation (LWF) delivers relief supplies in Bhirkot Dolakha area, Nepal

 

Volunteer distributes relief materials to earthquake victim at Jhaukhel in Bhaktapur. Photo: Dipesh Shrestha/LWF

Volunteer distributes relief materials to earthquake victim at Jhaukhel in Bhaktapur.
Photo: Dipesh Shrestha/LWF

Lutheran World Federation (LWF) workers distribute relief materials in Bhirkot Dolakha area, Nepal

Lutheran World Relief

Together with Lutheran World Relief, we have provided temporary shelter and emergency food assistance to nearly 30,700 individuals. Nearly 10,000 quilts, 1,000 personal care kits and 100 water filtration units have also been distributed. As we move into the next phase of recovery, soybean seeds are being distributed to families who rely on agricultural livelihoods to help support the livelihood recovery and food security after the monsoon season passes. In addition, a cash-for-work program focusing on repairing roads throughout the rural areas is being implemented. The program will not only provide families with much needed cash but will also help improve road conditions in the region.

United Mission to Nepal

Working with United Mission to Nepal, all planned distributions of emergency food, kitchen utensils, tarps and blankets in Dahding district of Nepal have been completed. Community-based health trainings have also taken place in three Village Development Committees in Dhading.

Moving to long-term response, we are working with United Mission to Nepal to support 90 families that are members of a savings and credit cooperative that started in 1999. The ELCA has supported this co-op over a number of years. As part of the earthquake response, we will work to assist families in the co-op by:

  • Distributing hygiene kits
  • Distributing kitchenware and utensils lost in the quake
  • Providing for psycho-social counselling
  • Helping create income-generating activities
  • Providing financial support for home rebuilding and repair

We will also work with United Mission to Nepal to help with repairs and rebuilding projects for Elim Kids Academy, a Christian school that the ELCA helps support by providing for scholarships and teacher training programs.

As we transition from immediate relief to long-term response, we will continue to keep you updated as we work with our partners in the regions to assist those who were affected by the earthquakes to recover and rebuild. Please continue to hold the people of Nepal in your prayers as they continue on this journey of disaster recovery.

Please support the Nepal Earthquake Response by visiting the Lutheran Disaster Response giving page.

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Liberados y renovados en Cristo: 500 años de la gracia de Dios en acción

Amanda Lauer

El 31 de octubre de 2017 marcará el 500 aniversario de la Reforma luterana, el cual es una oportunidad que tiene la Iglesia Evangélica Luterana en América (ELCA) para dar testimonio de la esperanza y el gozo que tenemos a través de Jesucristo. Mucha gente estará preguntando sobre la importancia de lo ocurrido hace 500 años, cuando Martín Lutero publicó sus 95 tesis. Este acto inició un diálogo que cambió la forma en que recibimos y compartimos el evangelio, y que continúa hoy. Este aniversario es una oportunidad de comunicar la trascendencia de la Reforma luterana en la fe y la vida en el siglo XXI, y la libertad que tenemos en Cristo que nos libera para servir con gozo a nuestros vecinos.

Durante el período previo a 2017, se anima a todos los miembros de la ELCA que planeen y participen en actividades que preparen para el hito que este aniversario representa. Estas actividades nos permitirán agradecer el poder de la palabra para liberar, renovar y unir a toda la creación en Cristo. Al mismo tiempo nos darán la oportunidad de enfatizar la obra continua de reconciliación en la iglesia cristiana con nuestros socios ecuménicos.

EVENTOS DESTACADOS

El Jubileo de Adoración 2015 y la Asamblea de la Gracia 2016 incluirán información, recursos e inspiración para los líderes congregacionales que están haciendo planes para el 500 aniversario.

Jubileo de Adoración 2015 – “Llamados a ser una voz viva: Vocación, reforma y misión”
Una conferencia nacional colaborativa para que la ELCA y la Asociación de Músicos de la Iglesia Luterana se reúnan y presenten voces principales, talleres prácticos y diversas expresiones de adoración.
• Atlanta, Ga. | 19-23 de Julio de 2015 | LivingVoice2015.org

Asamblea de la Gracia 2016  – evento llevado a cabo junto con la Asamblea General de la ELCA 2016 a fin de inspirar y equipar a los líderes para las conmemoraciones locales del aniversario de la Reforma.
• New Orleans, La. | 10-13 de agosto de 2016 | ELCA500.org/grace-gathering

CENTRO DE INFORMACIÓN EN LÍNEA
ELCA500.org es un sitio web dedicado al 500 aniversario y que presenta una creciente colección de recursos, anuncios de eventos e información sobre las conmemoraciones del aniversario de la Reforma. Este sitio web brinda los cimientos y conexiones de manera que usted pueda planear actividades en su congregación, comunidad y sínodo. Aceptamos con gusto sus ideas y los recursos que usted mismo desarrolle para compartirlos con los demás.

MÁS ALLÁ DE 2017
El testimonio luterano no se detendrá el 1 de noviembre de 2017. Juntos podemos llevar el testimonio luterano en la iglesia y en la sociedad hacia el siglo XXI, arrojando luz sobre los escritos por los que hemos sido moldeados, como el Catecismo Menor y el Catecismo Mayor de Lutero. Se invita y motiva a todos a unirse a esta obra anterior al 2017 y que sigue más allá.

Para obtener detalles y la información más reciente con relación a este evento, visite www.ELCA500.org o la página de Facebook de ELCA Reformation 500.

Iglesia Evangélica Luterana en América
La obra de Dios. Nuestras manos.

OPORTUNIDADES Y RECURSOS

Apoyo para las conmemoraciones congregacionales

  • El Jubileo de Adoración 2015 y la Asamblea de la Gracia 2016 brindarán información, recursos e inspiración a los líderes que planean conmemoraciones locales del 500 aniversario.
  • El “Reformation 500 Sourcebook: Anniversary Resources for Congregations” (Libro de consulta de la Reforma 500: Recursos de aniversario para congregaciones) ofrecerá material de apoyo sobre la Reforma y contenido de planeación de la conmemoración para los organizadores congregacionales. Habrá un pequeño muestreo de este recurso en el Jubileo de Adoración; y el recurso completo podrá ser ordenado en la primavera de 2016.
  • “Baptized Servants” (Siervos bautizados) es un nuevo recurso para ser usado en “La obra de Dios. Nuestras Manos”. Domingo. Este recurso ofrece iniciadores de discusiones de grupo para conectar el día del servicio con la interpretación evangélica de la vocación.

Recursos para la conversación con otras tradiciones religiosas

Todos los recursos anotados a continuación están disponibles a través de ELCA500.org.

  • “From Conflict to Communion” (Del conflicto a la comunión) – recurso para el diálogo entre luteranos y católicos en conmemoración común de la Reforma | Comisión luterano-católica para la unidad, de la Federación Luterana Mundial.
    • “From Conflict to Communion Study Guide,” (Guía de estudio para Del conflicto a la comunión) Sínodo suroeste de Pennsylvania (ELCA) y la Diócesis Católica de Pittsburgh.
      *Una versión impresa que incluye “From Conflict to Communion” y la guía de estudio estará disponible para pedidos en 2016.
  • “Why Follow Luther Past 2017?“(¿Por qué seguir a Lutero pasado el 2017?) – un enfoque luterano contemporáneo de las relaciones interreligiosas | Panel Consultor de la ELCA para las Relaciones Luterano-judías.
  • “One Hope: Re-membering the Body of Christ” (Una esperanza: Re-membrando el cuerpo de Cristo) – un nuevo recurso para la unidad cristiana a medida que las comunidades luteranas y católicas se aproximan al aniversario de la Reforma | Augsburg Fortress y The Liturgical Press.

Otros recursos y actividades
Para las actualizaciones de este listado, visite ELCA500.org.

  • The Luther Reading Challenge (El reto de lectura de Lutero) ha sido lanzado para establecer conexiones a nivel global y discutir sobre los escritos de Lutero.
  • El Seminario Lutero en St. Paul, Minn., estará realizando su festival anual del Día de la Reforma “Cantando la Fe” el 25 de octubre de 2015.
  • Entre 2016 y 2017 se planea transmitir dos documentales sobre la Reforma producidos independientemente: Una producción de Rick Steves y Tim Frakes, y otra de Steve Boettcher y Mike Trinklein.

OPORTUNIDADES Y RECURSOS

Sitio web: ELCA500.org
Este sitio web funcionará como un “hub” de recursos y punto de conexión para una variedad de información, incluidos:

  • Un centro de información de actividades y eventos regionales y locales auspiciados por las universidades y seminarios, sínodos y congregaciones de la ELCA y otras instituciones o grupos.
  • Artículos y publicaciones, artículos que pueden ser pedidos, enlaces útiles en la planeación de diferentes tipos de conmemoraciones.
  • Conexiones con diferentes socios y redes.
  • Un lugar para compartir con los demás sus recursos y eventos.​

Medios sociales
Únase a otros miembros de la ELCA y el resto de la comunidad para recibir y compartir información sobre las actividades y eventos. Estas plataformas también ofrecen un espacio para participar en discusiones sobre temas, lecturas y experiencias relacionadas con el 500 aniversario.

  • Página de Facebook: ELCA Reformation 500 comparte noticias, eventos, citas y recursos.
  • Grupo de Facebook: ELCA Reformation 500 promueve conversaciones sobre la planeación de la conmemoración.
  • Hashtags: #ELCA500 #Reformation2017.

Email: 500@elca.org
Para más información o para compartir ideas o comentarios, siéntase en la confianza de contactar al equipo nacional de la ELCA a esta dirección electrónica.

Esta información le es traída en parte por Thrivent Financial.

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Asamblea de la Gracia • 10-13 de agosto de 2016 • New Orleans, La.

Amanda Lauer

​Liberados y renovados en Cristo
500 años de la gracia de Dios en acción

Asamblea de la Gracia
10-13 de agosto de 2016 • New Orleans, La.

La Asamblea de la Gracia en 2016 da a todos los miembros de la ELCA la oportunidad de experimentar la misma inspiradora adoración, estudio bíblico, actividades de aprendizaje en el servicio, hermandad y demás experiencias que tienen los miembros votantes al asistir a la Asamblea General 2016 de la ELCA en New Orleans. Todos son bienvenidos a inscribirse para participar en la Asamblea de la Gracia, la cual se llevará a cabo del 10 al 13 de agosto, los cuatro últimos días de la asamblea general.

Un elemento especial de la Asamblea de la Gracia será la oportunidad de celebrar el 500 aniversario de la Reforma luterana que tendrá lugar en 2017. La Asamblea de la Gracia también ofrecerá talleres y presentaciones a fin de equipar a los líderes congregacionales y a los equipos sinodales de planeación para que se preparen para conmemorar el 500 aniversario en sus comunidades.

¿QUIÉN PODRÍA ESTAR INTERESADO EN LA ASAMBLEA DE LA GRACIA?

  • Cualquiera que desee ser un participante activo en la adoración, aprendizaje, comunidad, servicio y celebración.
  • Líderes laicos y ordenados que no han asistido previamente a una asamblea general.
  • Líderes sinodales y congregacionales, miembros y personal del concilio, comunicadores y planeadores de eventos que están dirigiendo actividades del 500 aniversario.
  • Familiares y amigos de los miembros votantes que asisten a la asamblea.

¿QUÉ TENDRÁN LA OPORTUNIDAD DE HACER LOS PARTICIPANTES DE LA ASAMBLEA DE LA GRACIA?

  • Participar en adoración inspiradora de fe, estudio bíblico, una actividad de servicio y aprendizaje, y hermandad.
  • Observar y participar en actividades relacionadas con la asamblea general.
  • Asistir a talleres y presentaciones, incluido un informe por parte de la Obispo Presidente Elizabeth Eaton.
  • Ser introducidos a recursos útiles en la preparación de conmemoraciones locales y regionales del 500 aniversario de la Reforma en 2017.

HORARIO TENTATIVO

FECHA

Miércoles 10 de agosto de 2016
Jueves 11 de agosto de 2016
Viernes 12 de agosto de 2016
Sábado 13 de agosto de 2016​
ASAMBLEA DE LA GRACIA

Sesión de apretura de la Asamblea de la Gracia
Sesión plenaria con informe por parte de la Obispo Presidente Elizabeth Eaton
Adoración con comunión
Aprendizaje con experiencia
Talleres
Adoración con comunión
Almuerzo
Estudio bíblico
Discurso principal
Talleres
Cena y celebración
Adoración con comunión
Sesión de clausura
ASAMBLEA GENERAL
Sesión plenaria*
Sesión plenaria*
Sesión plenaria*
Eventos conjuntos
Eventos separados

*Las sesiones plenarias podrían incluir informes oficiales, elecciones, memoriales sinodales, y saludos de invitados especiales.

Para obtener detalles y la información más reciente sobre este evento, visite www.ELCA500.org o la página de Facebook ELCA Reformation 500.​

Iglesia Evangélica Luterana en América
La obra de Dios. Nuestras Manos.
MA0415​

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September 27, 2015–A Matter of Faith

Scott Mims, Virginia Beach, Virginia

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Warm-up Question

  • Do you have any personal heroes?  Any people in your life who have encouraged, inspired, or set an example you’d like to follow?  If so, who are they and why do you look up to them?
  • Have you ever helped to teach, guide, mentor, or encourage someone else?  What did you learn from the experience?
  • If you could snap your fingers and know that you couldn’t fail, what is one thing that you would do?

A Matter of Faith

[Note: As I write this, the case of Kim Davis, County Clerk for Rowan County, Kentucky, is very much in the news.  My intent is NOT to generate discussion around the appropriateness of same-sex marriage, but rather a conversation about how we, as Christians, can address together difficult and divisive topics.  You may find it appropriate to choose a different example for your own setting.]

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Kim Davis, County Clerk for Rowan County, Kentucky has been very much in the news lately for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples despite a U.S. Supreme Court decision in June that legalized gay marriage.  Citing her Christian faith as the reason for being unable to comply with a court order to begin issuing such licenses, Davis recently spent five days in jail.  She has been released under an arrangement which allows her deputies to issue marriage licenses which do not bear her signature.

Though the case of Kim Davis has ignited a national furor, drawing people and groups from all sides of the debate on same-sex marriage, she is not the only county clerk in Kentucky having to weigh their personal convictions against the requirements of the law.  Some have joined Davis in refusing to issue marriage licenses.  Others have reached different conclusions.  You can read more about the tension they face here: http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/religious-clerks-in-kentucky-follow-law-but-see-conflict/ar-AAej6u3?ocid=spartandhp&fullscreen=true#image=1.

Discussion Questions

Discussion Questions

  • Have you ever had to defend or “make a stand” on what you believe?
  • Do you believe that Christians can disagree, even on “big” issues, and still consider each other legitimate followers of Jesus?  Why or why not?  Are there any issues that you believe we must agree on?
  • Try seeing things from a different viewpoint:
    • For instance, if you agree with the position that Kim Davis has taken, how have her actions and the subsequent responses from other groups been a stumbling block for some people when it comes to Christianity and following Jesus?
    •  If you don’t agree with Davis’ position, how has her willingness to go to jail for what she believes been a witness to faith?
  • Is there any situation or matter of faith that you would go to jail for?  How about die for?

Lectionary 26/Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29

James 5:13-20

Mark 9:38-50

(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

On the Road with Jesus

We are on the road again with Jesus this week as he and his disciples travel through Galilee.  Jesus is trying to keep his presence a secret, for his focus at this point is on teaching his disciples. Yet Galilee is more than just a place.  In Mark’s gospel especially, Galilee is symbolic of our home turf – the everyday places in which we, as disciples, live and work and play.  Thus, Jesus’ teaching today is not so much for the world at large, but for those who seek to follow him.

Whoever is Not Against Us

And what is it that Jesus teaches?  In part, today’s gospel is a collection of Jesus’ sayings that have been woven together around a chain of word associations.  For example, having just argued with one another of who is the greatest (9:33 – 37), the disciples are confronted once more with what it means to welcome Jesus.  This time, the “welcome” that is offered has to do with using Jesus’ name to cast out evil spirits.  The irony here is that the disciples themselves had recently failed at such an attempt (9:17 – 18), yet want to stop this un-named exorcist because “he was not following us.”  That is, he was not following in the disciples’ footsteps.  Of course, even in the church today it is easy to get hung up on thinking that Jesus somehow belongs to us – that the ways in which we believe and do things are the only right way.  Yet Jesus forbids them to interfere.  Aside from using his name to work deeds of power, if even those who offer the smallest gesture of hospitality to a disciple won’t miss out on the reward, then perhaps the family of Christ is much broader than we often like think.

Stumbling Blocks, Millstones & One-Eyed Christians

Is sin a serious matter?  Yes, and a deadly one at that!  “Stumbling” is the connecting idea in this section, as Jesus addresses both the things that we might do to cause others to sin and the things in our own lives that lead us astray.  The “little ones” here are not just children, but anyone who is “young” in their Christian faith.  Quite simply, we are to be careful in our actions and words lest we put up obstacles to people believing in and following Jesus.  Jesus’ image of being tossed into the sea while chained to a giant millstone is over the top, of course, but it makes the point in no uncertain terms, as do the images that follow.

Are there things in your own life – perhaps even normally “good” things – that cause you to sin?  Are there attitudes, thoughts, or habits that are leading you away from God?  Again, like the millstone image above, the language of chopping off hands, cutting off feet, and plucking out eyes is not meant to be taken literally.  However, it is meant to be taken seriously.  The stakes are high, and living as God’s people calls us into a different way of life.  Discipleship – following Jesus – at times demands the sacrifices of repentance and self-discipline.

Low Salt, No Salt

The image of fire (in this case, the fires of hell) provides the final connection in this week’s gospel.  Here, Jesus encourages us to live as “salty” Christians.  What does it mean to be “salted with fire?”  In the sacrificial system of Jesus’ day, salt was commonly offered as part of worship, so early on someone wrote in the margin of Mark 9:49 a quote from Leviticus 2:13.  Later copyists included this note into the text, where it still appears in some versions of the Bible today.  Nevertheless, salt, like fire, was seen as a purifying agent.  A very precious commodity in the Ancient world, salt was used to preserve food as well as to season it.  Yet it often wasn’t pure, and so could lose its taste leaving only a useless white residue behind.  In a similar fashion, those who claim to follow Jesus, but whose lives are not characterized by service, care for others – especially those who are “young” in the faith – or by self-discipline and mutual love, are like this no-salt – empty of any true flavor.

Discussion Questions

  • It has been reported that the fastest growing religious groups in America are those who have no association with any particular church.  What are some of the “stumbling blocks” that make it difficult for people in our time and culture to believe in Jesus or God?  How might you address some of these issues?  What do you think – can the ways in which you live your life truly make a difference?
  • Do we really need to worry about sin if we have grace?  Why or why not?
  • To borrow a phrase from a popular brand, what types of beliefs, actions, and attitudes do you think should characterize a Christian “Salt Life?”
  • In the Affirmation of Baptism we promise to:
    •  live among God’s faithful people
    •  to hear the word of God and share in the Lord’s supper
    •  to proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed
    •  to serve all people, following the example of Jesus, and
    • to strive for justice and peace in all the earth.
  • What do these things mean to you? Discuss how these promises can guide and shape us as “salty” Christians.  For example, what does it actually mean to strive for justice and peace in all the earth?

Activity Suggestions

  • What are some of the things that cause you to “stumble” in your walk with God? As a group, brainstorm a list of things, attitudes, or behaviors that cause you to sin. If your list needs some expanding, consider the Ten Commandments as Martin Luther explains them in the Small Catechism.  Don’t forget to think about the positive things that we often leave undone.
    • Look over your list. How many are things that “everyone” does? Does that make these things less harmful?  Any less of a sin?
    • Are there things on your list that you might support one another in actively resisting or addressing?
  • Be salt and let your lights shine:  What needs, issues, or causes do you feel strongly about?  Brainstorm some things that your group might do to make a difference in one of these areas, be it through prayer, advocacy, or direct action.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, you call us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow you.   Help us to do so.  Give us eyes to see the many ways that you act in our lives and the grace that you give to us day by day.  Give us feet to walk in your way, and catch us when we stumble.  And give us hands to reach out in love and action that we may be living signs of your grace. This we pray in your holy name.  Amen

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Get Ready for Churches’ Week of Action on Food!

ELCA World Hunger

​October 11-18, 2015, churches around the world will join in prayer and action with people facing hunger during theChurches’ Week of Action on Food.  This global event includes World Food Day (October 16) as well as the International Day for Disaster Reduction (October 13), International Day of Rural Women (October 15) and the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (October 17).

This year is the international year of soils, so this Week of Action will be a special opportunity to raise awareness about farming and food production, and to pray for the people who help bring food from the ground to our table.  It is also an important time to raise awareness about our role in caring for God’s creation and each other.

Below is a list of resources you can use with your congregation to be part of this important event.  You can find more resources on the website of the Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance.  You can also learn about an important way for your congregation to be involved in strengthening the United States’ support of small farmers, families and people in poverty around the world by visiting ELCA Advocacy.

Keep an eye out for more resources and news from ELCA World Hunger about the Churches’ Week of Action on Food!

Daily Bread: A Discussion Guide for Meal-Packing Events

This new resource from ELCA World Hunger is perfect for congregations and groups planning to do meal packing events.  With fun activities, prayers and stories based on real-life situations, this guide will help your group have deep, meaningful conversations about hunger, service and what it means to be church for the sake of the world.  Daily Bread will help guide your group along the way, from preparing to pack to celebrating and reflecting on the work you have done.  Download it for free at http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/ELCA_DailyBread.pdf?_ga=1.13041399.177232605.1439408545.

2015 Act 2 Day 4 Tomorrow

This adaptable program from ELCA World Hunger is perfect for Lutheran youth interested in learning more about hunger, faith and hope.  It is designed for an overnight, a retreat, or a multi-week session for youth groups of all sizes.  As the group takes part in the spiritual practice of fasting, they will be led through four themed sessions.  Each themed session has three activities for youth group leaders to choose from and can be adapted to fit a variety of schedules and settings.  Download it for free at http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/Act_2Day_4_Tomorrow_2015.pdf?_ga=1.13041399.177232605.1439408545.

Road Map to Food Drives: A By-Youth, For-Youth Guide to Feeding Communities

ELCA World Hunger’s food drive guide can help youth and adults as they exercise servant leadership in their context.  Written by youth with input from service providers, this guide is a step-by-step guide to planning, promoting and coordinating a successful, youth-led food drive for local pantries.  In it, you will find instructions for planning a drive, handouts for youth to lead the drive, information on best practices and much more! Download it for free athttp://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/ELCA_FoodDrive_online_version.pdf?_ga=1.13041399.177232605.1439408545.

Do-It-Yourself Walk for Water Experience

At the 2015 ELCA Youth Gathering, thousands of young people participated in ELCA World Hunger’s Walk for Water, an interactive track experience that brought them into the story of a person without access to clean water.  This Walk for Water Do-It-Yourself Guide has everything you need – discussion guides, instructions, posters, and signs – to host your own Walk for Water with your congregation. Download it for free athttp://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/ELCAWFWDoItYourself.pdf?_ga=1.125105482.177232605.1439408545.

Rooted in God’s Word and Lands: A Celebration of the Earth That Nourishes Us

This resource from Creation Justice Ministries encourages Christians to treat land as the special gift that it is.  It has ideas for sermons, Sunday School activities, and adult study and contemplation exercises. Download it for free athttps://salsa4.salsalabs.com/o/50750/images/rootedinland.pdf?key=62473672.

Sustainable Food in a Changing Climate

This 2015 resource from Creation Justice Ministries offers prayers and liturgies for worship, ideas for educational programs, and suggestions for personal food choices that raise awareness about and encourage action toward sustainable choices about the foods we eat.  Download it for free at https://salsa4.salsalabs.com/o/50750/images/Earth%20Day%202015.pdf?key=62473672.

Just Climate: Study Guide for Adult Christian Education

Creation Justice Ministries’ popular 2008 resource is as relevant today as it was when it was first released.  This three-session study guide is perfect for audiences new to studying climate change.  It has discussion and reflection questions, a leader’s guide to the issues, and fact sheets on several countries to help your group see the concrete effects of climate change around the world and in the United States. Download it for free athttps://salsa4.salsalabs.com/o/50750/images/Just%20Climat%202008.pdf?key=62473672.

Care of Creation Lectionary Reflections

Lutherans Restoring Creation offers an online archive of commentaries on the Revised Common Lectionary that is perfect for developing a sermon, a children’s sermon, or an educational forum.  The archive can be found athttp://www.lutheransrestoringcreation.org/Home/care-of-creation-sermon-reflections-by-dr-dennis-ormseth.

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 http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/Climarte_Change.pdf?_ga=1.23057915.177232605.1439408545

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 athttp://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/Agriculture_And_Food_Security_In_A_Changing_Climate.pdf?_ga=1.48224999.177232605.1439408545

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: http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/EnvironmentSS.pdf?_ga=1.87350616.177232605.1439408545.

ELCA World Hunger Blog

ELCA World Hunger is a primary supporter of ministries that help local communities adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change, from using drought-resistant crops to learning about more efficient soil management.  Follow stories about programs your church supports, reflections on God’s Word and our Lutheran tradition, and updates on the latest hunger research by signing up for the blog.  Visit www.elca.org/blogs/worldhunger to learn more.

Dig It! The Secrets of Soil

The theme for this year’s Churches’ Week of Action on Food is soil.  The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History has a great website with activities for adults and children to learn more about this precious resource.  Start digging athttp://forces.si.edu/soils/!

The Dirt on Soil: What’s Really Going on Under the Ground

In keeping with the theme for this year’s Churches’ Week of Action on Food, Discovery Education’s interactive online adventure is a fun way to learn more about the ground beneath our feet.  Explore the layers of soil, read field guides or micro-size yourself for an exciting adventure!  Get started at http://school.discoveryeducation.com/schooladventures/soil/.

Land Governance

Who owns the land is an important question when thinking about food production.  Food and Business Knowledge Platform has an extensive website, with lots of information and easy-to-use fact sheets on land governance that can help you learn more about this important issue.  Visit http://knowledge4food.net/theme/land-governance/ to get started.

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September 20, 2015 We’re Number One!

Dennis Sepper, Puyallup, WA

​

Warm-up Question

Are you excited about the beginning of the school year and the competition it brings?  Yes or no and why?

We’re Number One!

USA Today—The air is getting crisp and some of the trees are showing signs of changing color.  Fall is in the air and the high school boys’ football rankings have been released.  You can find them at the following link:

http://usatodayhss.com/rankings/computer/boys/football/US/2015/1

Also, the Division 3 men’s football rankings are out and they include several of our ELCA colleges and universities.  This link can be found on the D3 website:

http://www.d3football.com/top25/2015/preseason

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The beginning of school brings the beginning of various forms of competition.  Not a football fan?  There is the debate team, the chess team, the dance team, not to mention the competition for the best GPA.  I chose football because in most communities the interest in competition goes beyond the high school or college and involves the entire city/town/village.  There is within us a desire to be associated with winners and so we want our teams to be number one (I still look online to see how my high school is fairing and I have season tickets to my college football team even though I graduated years ago).

Competition teaches us some valuable lessons about working together and contributing to the team effort.  It sharpens our critical thinking skills and our physical skills.  Those things contribute to school spirit and a greater sense of community.

However, the drive to be number one can tempt us down paths not so morally upright.  There have been scandals in the Little League boy’s World Series and just recently in the girl’s Little League Softball World Series.  Every now and then we hear of a test cheating scandal at the high school and college levels.  And no matter how you feel about quarterback Tom Brady someone deflated those footballs to give the New England Patriots an advantage in competition.

As we will see even the disciples of Jesus were not immune to the temptation to argue that one of the twelve was the greatest and number one among disciples

Discussion Questions

  • Are you a competitive person?  How do you resist the temptation to take shortcuts or cheat?
  • You’ll notice that a number of the teams in the two ranking lists above are church-related.  Are those teams and their fans any different from the other teams?  If you answered “yes” what might some of those differences be?
  • What role does social media (particularly Twitter) play in all of this?  Does it help nurture a healthy view of competition or does it feed the negative side?  How so?

Lectionary 25/Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Jeremiah 11:18-20

James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a

Mark 9:30-37

(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

Ever wonder why the Bible never mentions Jesus’ childhood?  There is a rather large gap between Luke 2:21 where Jesus is brought to the Temple eight days after his birth as tradition demanded and Luke 2:43 where we are told Jesus is twelve years old.  What happened during those 12 years, nobody knows as the Bible is silent on the issue.  One might guess from the tradition of first century society that we don’t hear about Jesus’ childhood because children were “invisible” to the adults until that time children became an adult at around age 12.  It is hard for us to understand that fact given our society places a value on children (we don’t do it perfectly, but as a whole we value children by what we say and what we do…such as requiring car seats for children, labeling games with warnings about possible chocking hazards, and having height requirements for amusement park rides).  But, if we are to understand the meaning of today’s gospel text we have to try our best to read this story through the lens of those first century folks. More on this in a moment but first:

Today’s gospel has three parts.  First, Jesus makes a second announcement of his coming suffering and death.  After the first announcement (Mark 8:31) Peter stepped forward and rebuked Jesus because in Peter’s view the Messiah should not die at the hands of humans.  This time we are told that the disciples “did not understand what he was saying and were afraid to ask him” (v. 32).  The Bible doesn’t tell us but maybe they were still wrestling with what it would mean for the Savior of the world to die at the hands of humans.  (If you wish to know, Jesus makes a third announcement in Mark 10:32-33).

That issue is dropped and they continue their walk to Capernaum to the house where they will be staying.  Once there Jesus asks the disciples what they were arguing about on the way.  The disciples are ashamed because they had been arguing about who was the greatest among their group.  Jesus knows this and calls them to his side.  Notice that Mark tells us that Jesus “sat down”.  That is a move a teacher would make when about to teach something important.  Once seated, Jesus does not yell at them but simple teaches by saying “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.”  Jesus is teaching the disciples that the ways of the Kingdom of God are different from the ways of the world.  In the Kingdom of God Jesus will lay down his life for everyone and even the world out of mercy and love.  In the Kingdom of God service to others is valued more than being number one.  Take a moment at this point and read the words of James in our second reading (James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a).  It seems that even the most faithful followers of Jesus have problems getting this straight.  Because of that we shouldn’t beat up on ourselves or others if we put ambition and being number one ahead of our call to service and love.  We should simply read today’s gospel text again, ask for God’s forgiveness and for the strength of the Holy Spirit to set out again as disciples of Jesus showing forth the values of the Kingdom of God in word and deed.

Finally, in the third part of today’s gospel, Jesus illustrates what he is teaching by taking a little child into his arms and saying “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me”.  We might hear this story and sigh “Ah” at its sweetness or we may ignore it because it seems so sugary but remember that we want to look at this text through the eyes of the disciples and those first century folks.  They would have been thinking “whoa” because it was a very radical move and an even more radical statement.  But this is how serious Jesus is about our servanthood to all people, not just to people like us, not just to people we like, but to all.

Power, success and winning are not bad things in and of themselves but over the centuries they have been strong temptations to serve oneself first and ignore the needs of those right around the corner.  Over the centuries many have fallen into that temptation and things did not end well.  However there have also been powerful, successful Christian disciples who have used the gifts God gave them to serve their communities and others in the world.

Discussion Questions

  • Think of a successful, powerful person who, in the midst of that success, used their talent for the good of others?  What do you think motivates them to do so?
  • Name a person in your congregation who lives a life of servanthood in the Church or in the greater community?  What do you think motivates them to do so?
  • Who might be the “children” of our day…those whom society generally does not see or value?

Activity Suggestions

Sportswriter Henry Grantland Rice wrote: “When the Great Recorder comes to mark against your name, he marks not if you won or lost, but how you played the game.”  Of course that is not the conventional wisdom of our day.  In our society most agree with former great football coach Vince Lombardi who once said ‘Winning isn’t everything, it’s the ONLY thing.”  Opposed to that conventional wisdom there has been for many years a group of voices who advocate for noncompetitive games.  Check out the website below, choose a game, play it and then discuss how it made you all feel.  Did you enjoy it or do you prefer to have a game be competitive?

http://www.partygamespond.com/tag/noncompetitive/

Closing Prayer

For our closing prayer today I offer you a prayer from Brennan Manning, a Franciscan priest, theologian and writer:

May all your expectations be frustrated, may all your plans be thwarted, may all your desires be withered into nothingness, that you may experience the powerlessness and poverty of a child and sing and dance in the love of God who is Father, Son and Spirit.  And today on planet Earth, may you experience the wonder and beauty of yourself as God’s child and temple of the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

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Index of September 2015 issue

Issue 42 of Administration Matters

​Serving on your Congregation Council
Looking for leadership position descriptions for Congregation Council and officers? Here are some suggestions that could be added to your congregation’s bylaws. They can also be presented as covenants to sign. >More

Don’t get burned by a roofing contractor
Need roof repairs or replacement? Be careful. Here are several important ideas for getting the job done safely and professionally. >More

Congregational mission planning
As people of faith, we trust that God is doing a new thing in the world and we long to be part of this work. Mission planning is the process of discovering how your congregation is called to live as the body of Christ. Equipping congregations to create mission plans is one of the highest priorities of our church. On this page, you’ll find resources that have been created across the ELCA as well as by other sources to help your ministry create a mission plan that fits your gifts and context. >More

Prepare for Portico’s 2016 annual enrollment
It’s time for your organization to consider which ELCA-Primary health benefit option to provide in 2016. Use your congregation’s Custom Comparison Report on EmployerLink to determine which option will best meet the needs of your plan members, your organization, and the ministry you share. >More

Church rain gardens help control flooding, improve watershed quality
Rain gardens are not only an attractive addition to your church property, but are also good for the local watershed. They mimic nature in places where pavement gets in the way and assist in keeping water away from church structures. >More

Make beautiful music with a well-maintained pipe organ
Pipe organ music can uplift a congregation, but the instruments are complex mechanisms that need regular maintenance. >More

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Ohio: Responding to spring and summer flooding

Megan Brandsrud

​Ohio experienced 20 consecutive days of rain and 3 major storms that produced flash flooding during those 20 days this spring and early summer. On May 29, heavy rainstorms hit Ohio that caused flooding in 6 counties. On June 14, another series of storms swept across Ohio, causing flood damage in 3 different counties. 17 homes were left totally inaccessible due to damage of private bridges. In total, 365 homes were destroyed or suffered major damage, and 1,598 homes experienced minor damage.

Local long-term recovery groups have been meeting to make plans for recovery efforts, and our affiliate in the area, Lutheran Social Services of Central Ohio, has been a part of these meetings. Working with our affiliate, Lutheran Disaster Response is providing for three case managers to help families who were affected by the severe weather navigate their way through the recovery process. There are many components to managing one’s recovery from disaster, and processes can be overwhelming and confusing. Case managers help people with some of these processes, such as filing insurance claims and helping arrange for unmet needs.

 

MaryB 185

Ohio’s Lutheran Disaster Response volunteers rebuild a survivor’s house with their Thrivent Action Dollars

The three case managers that will be working with our affiliate will provide assistance to approximately 365-400 families over the course of 6-12 months.

When disasters occur in the U.S., Lutheran Disaster Response works with a network of social ministry organization affiliates that are located around the country. Because Lutheran Disaster Response believes that every disaster is local and every response should be rooted in the community, our affiliates help Lutheran Disaster Response to respond on a local level as they are based in communities around the U.S. where our disaster responses occur.

We will continue to work with our trusted affiliate in the area and will keep you updated on new response developments. Please hold the people in Ohio who were affected by the severe weather in your prayers as they navigate their way through recovery to post-disaster renewal.

Please support the disaster response work in Ohio by visiting the Lutheran Disaster Response giving page.

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