Lutherans 'Make It Simple' during the economic downturn

by Melissa Ramirez Cooper, ELCA News Service

With the economic crisis it's a good time for people to reassess
their lifestyles and assets, according to Keith Mundy, assistant
director for stewardship, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
(ELCA). Mundy said economic downturns create anxiety and many
people feel like they are alone. Some move from a feeling of
contentment to wondering if there is enough, which can initiate a
downward cycle of scarcity thinking.

To help people understand they are not alone in this time of
recession and to recognize God's abundance, the ELCA has produced
"Make It Simple," a two-disc DVD resource that explores living
more simply while offering an opportunity for people to learn to
"live generously." It includes downloadable stewardship
materials and nine video segments that highlight the personal
stories of Lutherans. Mundy said for people "looking to
experience the joy of generosity, this resource provides three
events and three approaches to share." Each approach includes an
introduction, leadership roles, calendar, sample materials and
suggestions for using the video. There are specific materials
for children and youth. Make It Simple is available through
Augsburg Fortress, Minneapolis, the publishing ministry of the
ELCA, and the ELCA Web site.

"The resource can be especially helpful in these times as people
face difficult decisions about career changes and managing their
finances," Mundy said. "The resource is designed to help people
assess their wants and needs, reducing clutter and complexity in
daily life," he said. "It's about asking questions like, 'Do we
need that extra television, computer or car? How can we reduce
our travel or time shopping?' By discovering what enough is, we
discover God's abundance and the opportunity to share with others
through our generosity."