R-1   Passed as amended

ENDING HUNGER AS A CORE CONVICTION

WHEREAS, over 800 million people on God’s earth continue to suffer from poverty, hunger, disease & unrest, particularly in the continent of Africa; and

WHEREAS, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America hears the concerns of the needy & responds to these by using a variety of tools including ELCA World Hunger programs, the One Campaign, Bread for the World & other programs; and

WHEREAS, our Bishops have called upon us for an even greater commitment to those who are suffering; therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the Northern Illinois Synod call upon its congregations to make ending hunger a core conviction of its ministry by:

• Requesting that each congregation resolve to make the concern about world hunger an integral part of its church life;

• Reading and studying Pastor Craig Nessan’s book, Give Us This Day: A Lutheran Proposal for Ending World Hunger;

• Encouraging each Sunday School child within our synod to learn about the issues of world hunger and participate in ELCA World Hunger projects;

• Praying for those who suffer and for those who provide comfort and support;

• Participating financially in the ELCA World Hunger Appeal, so that our Synod’s goal of 100% participation of congregations can be achieved; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the congregations of the Northern Illinois Synod strive to meet the challenge of increased giving, when possible, by 5% or more annually by encouraging congregations:

• To focus on the issue of World Hunger throughout the church year, e.g. by participating in programs such as Souper Bowl Sunday, special Lenten and Thanksgiving offerings, and World Hunger envelopes in the pews.

• When possible, give above normal contributions towards the Stand With Africa program to help that continent deal with AIDS, hunger and oppression;

• To consider participating in a Foods Resource Bank project with designated funds going to ELCA World Hunger programs. Contributions can be doubled by matching funds with the federal government through this program.

Submitted by: Northern Illinois Synod subcommittee on World Hunger

Contact person:            Deb Martin, Co-chairperson and Kent Terry, Secretary

Date Submitted:  April 22, 2006

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Action of the Resolution Committee

Date of Action:  May 16, 2006

Action Taken:  Recommend the Resolution