MNO Synod Convention 2010
April 22-25, 2010
Gloria Dei Lutheran, Winnipeg, Manitoba

Report of the Committee for Church & Society

Members:        Rebecca Ulrich, Chair                Ted Chell
                        Erin Dojack                               Bernice Rach

Committee meetings are electronic and in person.

1.   Highlights during the last biennium including information about ecumenical/wider church partnerships as well as tasks and/or events that focus on ministry that is fulfilling in God’s mission in the world, and what God has been doing through our committee work and mandate.
           
The committee determined a focus around environmental stewardship over the past two years. With that focus, the committee developed a synod, conference and congregational resource intended to increase awareness around environmental issues and inspire environmental stewardship. In addition, the committee provided workshops and presentations for congregations, conferences and ecumenical partners. Through one of the church’s partners, KAIROS, we also had synod delegates attend a national gathering in 2009 with a focus around acknowledging our unsustainable lifestyles and the need for change.

The committee distributed GHDA funds to initiatives throughout the synod that address the injustice of poverty and hunger within our local communities.

The committee has maintained relationships and offered financial support to organizations within the ELCIC including Lutheran Urban Ministries, Lutheran Community Care Centre and Lutheran Volunteer Ministries. The committee also continues to maintain partnerships with ecumenical social justice organizations and initiatives including KAIROS, the Jubilee Fund, Manitoba Interfaith Immigration Council, and the Interfaith Taskforce on Northern Hydro Development.

2.  Mission and Ministry initiatives in the next biennium that address our theme and vision:  In Mission With Others – Led by God’s Word:

The committee, through reflection and discussion, has determined a new vision for the coming biennium. In considering the mission priorities of the Synod, the Church & Society Committee has determined to focus on the priority of “tackling poverty”. The committee recognizes this as an important priority within the Synod and an opportunity for the committee to further support this work through developing awareness and inspiring action.

Due to the breadth of this issue, the committee is exploring ways to bring education and awareness about the level of poverty and the impact of poverty locally within our communities. The committee will be welcoming input and participation from Synod members on approaching this extensive issue as we follow our call to be in mission for others.