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Religious leaders in Minnesota said, "“We
believe it is the Creator’s intent that all people are
provided those things that protect human dignity and
make for healthy life: adequate food and shelter,
meaningful work, safe communities, health care, and
education.”
This commitment echoes Jesus’ call for us
to walk with the poor, the marginalized, and the
dispossessed. A growing number of our congregations,
both in the city and in other places, face opportunities
to engage in ministry among those living in poverty in
their own communities.
For too long, we have reflected our
northern European, now middle-class heritage. Bridging
the gap between congregational life and the challenge of
living in poverty holds potential for enriching the
lives of both congregations and people in the community.
This fund will provide financial support
for outreach ministries that build bridges between
congregations and clusters of congregations (both those
sharing a common community and coalitions of city and
suburban congregations) and persons living in poverty.
We will provide funding for several
models that have demonstrated effectiveness in
connecting congregations with people in low-income
neighborhoods:
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Neighborhood ministers,
arising out of the community, provided
a living wage and training, connecting congregation
and neighborhood;
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Summer
and after-school programs for youth,
providing learning, work, and leadership development;
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Parish
nurse,
health
and nutrition education and service, utilizing trained
nursing personnel working from a faith foundation in
community outreach;
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Employment assistance
for
unemployed and under-employed persons;
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Budgeting and finance assistance,
offered in collaboration between congregations and
agencies.
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 NEWS:
The
Executive Committee of the Synod Council has
allocated up to
$60,000
to start programs to help those
living in poverty in St. Paul.
(October 2007)
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