ELCA Schools Observe 'Day of Concern about Gun Violence'

CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's (ELCA) Division for Higher Education and Schools will participate in the fourth annual "Day of National Concern about Young People and Gun Violence." On October 21, young people in the United States will sign a voluntary contract or promise never to bring a gun to school, never to resolve a dispute with a gun, and to work to keep their friends from using guns to settle conflict.
"The national day of concern is not a final solution but a step toward resolving the violence to which children are subject," said John J. Scibilia, ELCA director for schools.
Scibilia said the division will encourage ELCA youth, leaders and congregations to "advocate actively for the 'Day of National Concern about Young People and Gun Violence' in their community and public, private and religious schools." The division will encourage students in the 2,300 ELCA schools and early childhood education programs to pledge against gun violence. It will also invite other ELCA churchwide units to support the national day of concern.
"The ELCA Division for Higher Education and Schools advocates for a quality education for every child in every public, private and religious school. Safety in the school house, the neighborhood and the home all contribute to a quality education. The number of children dying due to gun violence adds up to almost a 'Columbine experience' every day in the United States," Scibilia said.
The Day of National Concern about Young People and Gun Violence was called for by a U.S. Senate resolution and presidential proclamation in 1996, 1997 and 1998. Last year more than a million students participated in pledge drives and signed the Student Pledge Against Gun Violence.
"The day of concern provides a focal point for dialogue and church and community involvement in reducing violence, especially in schools, faith communities and other institutions," said Scibilia.
Through an initiative to help children, the ELCA has "redoubled efforts to aid children and youth at risk from racism, hunger, violence and poverty at home and throughout the world," said Scibilia.
The ELCA's "Help the Children" Initiative is one of seven significant areas of ministry for the 21st century approved by the 1997 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. The ELCA has begun planning for new ways to deepen worship life, teach the faith, witness to God's action in the world through moral deliberation and community renewal, strengthen one another in mission, connect with youth and young adults, provide leadership development, and provide a safe place for children.
The goal of the "Help the Children" Initiative is for each of the ELCA's 11,000 congregations to declare itself a safe place for children. To do this, congregations commit to creating a gospel-centered, faith-based teaching and learning environment of hospitality that welcomes all children and their families or care givers. They commit also to creating a community free from violence, advocating for policies of justice for children's issues, and using resources to provide a sanctuary for children for extended care hours. Another action plan may be for some congregations to open schools as "islands of hope."
"It is our sincere prayer that this Day of National Concern about Young People and Gun Violence will speak to all of our hearts and make progress toward creating a safe haven for every child," said Scibilia, a member of the "Help the Children" Initiative leadership team.

For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://listserv.elca.org/archives/elcanews.html