CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The Rev. Kenneth R. Olsen, bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), will be one of the invited guests when Pope John Paul II elevates the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Chicago to the College of Cardinals. Cardinal-designate Francis E. George is one of 20 who will become cardinals Feb. 21 at the Vatican.
The Lutheran synod and Roman Catholic archdiocese have enjoyed a covenant -- a commitment to common witness and service -- since 1989. Olsen will travel to Rome with George, Feb. 18-25, also as a representative of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago.
The trip will include several activities planned to celebrate George's investiture -- two masses, receptions, a banquet and an audience with the pope. As a cardinal under the age of 80, George will be eligible to elect a new pope.
For information contact:
Ann Hafften, Director (773) 380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html
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About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.8 million members in more than 8,500 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands.," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.
For information contact:
Candice Hill Buchbinder
Public Relations Manager
Candice.HillBuchbinder@ELCA.org
