Resolution Sixteen ...

A Resolution to Declare the Synod a "Community of Respect" under the Anti-Defamation League's "Coalition for Mutual Respect"

WHEREAS, religion has often been used divisively to set people against people, nation against nation, and religion against religion; and

WHEREAS, Jesus clearly teaches that religion should not divide people, nations, and cultures but rather should break down the walls of differences and build bridges between people of all nations, religions and cultures, and

WHEREAS, the ELCA has affirmed over the years, its commitment to work for peace and justice in the world;

WHEREAS, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has been a leader in bringing together people of different religions and cultures by creating the inter-religious “Coalition for Mutual Respect” where pulpit and educational exchanges can take place among people of diverse backgrounds in order to learn to know and respect one another, and

WHEREAS, many ELCA congregations, other Christian denominations, and other religious groups in our TX-LA Gulf Coast Synod area have been a part of the Coalition for Mutual Respect’s pulpit and educational exchange over recent years, and

WHEREAS, the well being of our communities depends on religious communities coming together publicly to show solidarity and commitment toward peace and respect: now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the TX- LA Gulf Coast Synod join the Anti-Defamation League’s “Coalition for Mutual Respect” by declaring that this synod is a “Community of Respect”; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod of the ELCA will encourage each congregation to join in the exchange program offered by the ADL in their respective community.
 

Persons Submitting Resolution: Pastor Steve Quill, Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, The Woodlands, TX
 

Implications of Resolution (if adopted)

1.   What is the financial impact of this resolution on the synod budget?

none

2.   What are the personnel implications within our synod (or churchwide)? Who will be responsible for implementations of the resolution?

No personnel changes. If any is needed it would fall under the Leadership Team. Individual congregations would take responsibility for contacting the ADL: www.adl.org/southwest or 713-627-3490

3.   How does this resolution enhance and forward the mission of the church and our synod?

This is a program of ADL. We are in conversation with our brothers and sisters in the Jewish community and always seeking ways to enhance our relationship. Many of our synod congregations are members of ADL and support this Community of Respect effort.

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