» Download the resource sheet: Called to Be Church
The ELCA Social Statement, The Church in Society: A Lutheran Perspective … commits us to work with and on behalf of the poor, the powerless, and those who suffer, using [this church’s] power and influence with political and economic decision-making bodies to develop and advocate policies that seek to advance justice, peace and the care of creation.
Foreword to Called to Be a Public Church, p. 6.
The following resources may be helpful as we prepare for another election year. These non-partisan resources can be used by individuals, small groups, and in adult education offerings. They will be important both before and after the November elections as a way to encourage conversation and discourse about our call as Christians to be a public church. Call the resource center for additional ideas.
Christian Principles in an Election Year is a two-page reproducible resource from the National Council of Churches. It offers ten principles for public discourse and a group study guide ideal for discussion and conversation.
An ELCA Voting and Civic Participation Guide, Called to Be a Public Church is a useful tool for congregations wishing to wrestle with faithful responses to difficult issues. It includes issue briefs intended for conversation, bible study, reflection on Lutheran theology and more.
Other advocacy resources for getting involved in the political process are available at two sites:
Eugene Peterson’s book Where Your Treasure Is: Psalms that Summon You from Self to Community focuses on eleven Psalms inviting Christians to prayer and action in response to the politics of our time. An introduction and study guide—pdf developed by Pr. Deanna Wildermuth, Holy Trinity, Mercer Island, WA is also available.
Cynthia Moe-Lobeda’s book Public Church: For the Life of the World (from AFP’s Lutheran Voices) is an excellent introduction to a Lutheran understanding of civic responsibility. Five short chapters with questions for discussion.
Called to be Political is a free two-hour program offering a fascinating glimpse into the teachings of Martin Luther on the role of Christians in politics. Topics include what the Bible says about faith, politics, and hope, what Luther said, and being God’s partners for justice.
The October 2012 issue of The Lutheran features an article about congregational preparation for an election year.
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He has told you, O mortal, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6:8
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