by Michael Hauck
Division for Church in Society

FROM TIME TO TIME I hold workshops and discussion groups on e-advocacy*  At first, I expected to be “teaching” people how to use the ELCA’s Web site to find out who their elected officials were and how to use that site to write to them about important issues. But I was surprised.

Every workshop has shown me that there is no end to the energy and enthusiasm of those standing beside me as faithful witnesses. Writing letters to government officials, speaking out about beliefs and values with a simple e-mail, is just a small piece of what “advocacy” means to them. Now, when I facilitate workshops on e-advocacy, the thoughts and emotions and ideas flow abundantly:

What if we got together and talked about current events? What if we supported one other in our local efforts to save Little League? To protect benefits for seniors? To lower the speed limit next to our school? To encourage local liquor-store owners to card? To support our school lunch program? What if we …?

The people of the ELCA are beautiful expressions of God’s wisdom, and passionate examples of our faith. When the ELCA e-advocacy program turns around 100 letters in two days, telling the Attorney General that Lutherans support the rights of women seeking asylum, I know who is writing those letters—faithful Lutherans in the ELCA.
(Inspired by today’s readings)