WASHINGTON (ELCA) - Ten members of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America (ELCA) will travel Jan. 19-29 to Nicaragua to
examine the effects of climate change for people living in a
developing country. They will also study how extreme poverty,
hunger and climate change interrelate.
"Participants will learn about the scientific basis of
climate change and many of its anticipated and concrete
manifestations, with a special emphasis on those related to
hunger and poverty," said Mary Minette, director for
environmental policy and education, ELCA Church in Society. "By
seriously examining this important issue and listening to the
stories of our Nicaraguan brothers and sisters, the delegation
will participate in the church's mission of accompaniment and
companionship," she said.
To prepare for the trip the group participated in reflective
sessions. Participants also signed a covenant committing
themselves to group and individual goals, which include writing
stories, creating video, sharing photographs and presenting a
workshop for churches and communities. The participants'
projects are designed for them to share their understanding of
the implications of climate change on the poor.
Some participants will take part in Ecumenical Advocacy Days
March 13-16 here. The event offers an opportunity for Lutherans
to speak with members of Congress about their experiences and the
need to provide substantial funding for vulnerable communities
affected by climate change.
- - -
Information about the trip to Nicaragua is at
http://blogs.ELCA.org/09nicaraguatrip on the ELCA Web site.
Information about the participants is at
http://tinyurl.com/9fjbzw on the ELCA Web site.
Information about Ecumenical Advocacy Days is at
http://tinyurl.com/8g3yok on the ELCA Web site.
For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or news@elca.org
http://www.elca.org/news
ELCA News Blog: http://www.elca.org/news/blog
- - -
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
