by Annie Lynsen*, ELCA Washington Office
As the Gulf Coast transitions from immediate relief to long-term
rebuilding and recovery following the hurricanes of 2005, Andrew
Genszler, director for domestic policy, Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America (ELCA) Washington office, is traveling along
the Gulf Coast on a fact-finding mission June 13-23. As he
travels, Genszler is keeping a Web-based journal or blog titled
"Rebuild to Renewal: The Gulf Coast Through an Advocate's Eyes."
"The ministry of advocacy, of speaking out for the voiceless, to
seek justice in our communities and in our world, is part of the
Christian call to love our neighbors," Genszler said.
"Recognizing that the Gulf Coast is at a pivotal moment, this
trip is important for our shared advocacy ministry in the ELCA.
By giving voice to the voiceless in the Gulf Coast, we can help
inform effective, accountable federal initiatives for long-term
recovery."
Focusing on the knowledge, contributions and needs of Lutheran
individuals and organizations in the Gulf Coast, "Rebuild to
Renewal" will share how Lutherans outside the Gulf Coast can use
their voices to help improve the situation. Among the nonprofit
organizations working toward long-term recovery along the Gulf
Coast is Lutheran Disaster Response, a ministry of the ELCA and
Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
* Annie Lynsen is director for grassroots advocacy and
communication, ELCA Washington Office.
- - -
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
