by Frank Imhof, ELCA News Service
Women of the ELCA, the women's organization of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), is one of more than 200
denominations, faith groups and religious organizations observing
Children's Sabbath each year on the third weekend in October.
The Children's Defense Fund's 15th annual celebrations of the
National Observance of Children's Sabbaths are held Oct. 20-22,
2006, with some congregations planning events for alternate
dates.
"The National Observance of Children's Sabbaths is an
intergenerational and interfaith event that unites thousands of
congregations and religious organizations in speaking out and
acting faithfully on behalf of children and families. The goal
of Children's Sabbath is to generate new, long-term efforts that
meet children's needs by raising awareness, serving children
directly and advocating on children's behalf," said the Women of
the ELCA resource on Children's Sabbath. "An annual Children's
Sabbath can help us -- parents, caregivers, faith community, all
who love the Lord -- set aside a time to take inventory, to
celebrate, and to act on behalf of our children of all ages," it
said. "Through worship services, educational opportunities, and
advocacy activities, people of faith learn more about the serious
problems facing children today and the responses needed to make a
difference."
- - -
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
