The Adventure Continues

Our Church Council granted me a sabbatical for three months during the summer of 2010. My intention was to learn Latin American Spanish and to explore Latin American cultures here and abroad. Now that I have had some opportunities to lead mission trips to Yuscaran, Honduras, and to visit Mexico three times, the adventure continues.



Seeking New Horizons

Seeking New Horizons

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

World Hunger and Global Mission in Mexico

   I have accepted an invitation to be a part of a new event being held in Mexico and Washington, DC in the first week in April.  The event combines the interests of people working on the ELCA World Hunger Appeal, and those who work with the ELCA Global Missions.  This is good news for us in New England because our two Synod groups have been working this way for at least two years.  We attend the same regional workshops together, and promote each other's programs. 
   There is a natural link between these groups.  Most of the money given to the World Hunger Appeal is used for development projects in other countries, although about 25% is used for similar projects in the United States.  The Global Misson Team also works in countries all over the world, and helps people to make special connections through service and travel.  In New England, the trips are to Honduras and to the Holy Land.  Since I have an avid interest in both of these areas, I have joined both committees.
   This trip to Mexico will explore the links between hunger and justice issues that touch on the interests of both groups.  The end of the event is in Washington, DC, where we will participate in the ELCA Advocacy Days.  This is an effort to influence United States foreign policy in various ways that would actully help the people in the countries where we as a nation spend spend money.  Our church and the churches we work with in other countries have a unique perspective to share.  I will be learning more about this.
   I am thankful to Pastor Karen Goltz who will be leading worship in my absence.  I leave on April 1 and return on April 8.  This will be another adventure in faith where my fledging skills in Spanish will be useful.