Lutheran Church of Mahomet, The Invitation Summer Newsletter 2017 | Page 3

Faith Sexism Justice Conversations Toward a Social Statement July 12 – Why do we need to talk together about women and justice? July 19 – What problems do women face, and what does justice require? July 26 – How is sexism per- sonal, and how are we the body of Christ together? August 2 – What does eco- nomic sexism look like, and how can we seek equity for all? August 9 – How can we ad- dress violence against wom- en and girls? August 16 – Why do images and words for God matter? August 23 – How do we challenge the misuse of Scripture against women and girls? The ELCA regularly adds its voice to various issues facing our worshipping communities and partners. These Social State- ments, of which there are currently twelve published, are con- sidered to be "teaching and policy documents" in our national denomination. They are created through an intentional and com- plicated series of discussions, bible study, revision, prayer, con- gregational input, and finally a 2/3 vote of an ELCA churchwide assembly. The ELCA is currently working on a social statement regarding sexism, gender, and justice. At this stage in the process, the task force for Women and Justice desire direct input from ELCA con- gregations. We have an opportunity to offer our voice to the pro- cess and give the ELCA our direct feedback. Our Presiding Bish- op Elizabeth Easton says that we are "call[ed] to hear new things and to explore together how matters of justice and sexism inter- sect with faith." This study will not only help us do that here in Mahomet, IL, but our participation will become an integral part of our national body. The study is broken into seven discussions, which will be held on Wednesdays beginning July 12 with our final discussion tak- ing place on August 23: We will meet at the church at 6:30pm on those evenings to tackle one part of the discussion each night, which will be followed with a brief evaluative material, which will be your opportunity to tell the ELCA what you think of the process and issues at hand. Re- freshments will be provided. If you have any questions or concerns about this upcoming dis- cussion, please connect with Pr Nikoli at [email protected].