September 11, 2008&&
by Melissa Ramirez Cooper

More than 100 anti-racism leaders of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) are meeting Sept. 11-13 in Baltimore for "At the Intersection of Race and Poverty: An ELCA Capacity Building and Network Gathering." The gathering brings together ELCA synod bishops, members of the ELCA Church Council, churchwide staff, ecumenical partners and others to explore "the next stage" of anti-racism work in the 65 synods of the church, according to Shenandoah M. Gale, coordinator for anti-racism education and training, ELCA Office of the Presiding Bishop.

"This powerful networking and capacity building event is the largest gathering to date in direct support of the ELCA's commitment toward becoming an anti-racist church," said Gale. She said the purpose of the event is three-fold: to engage in reflection, mutual support, networking and team formation and strengthening; cultivate an increased analysis of race, poverty and wealth; and explore practical skills, resources and strategies for coordinated analysis and action.

Keynote speakers include Dr. Shakti Butler, executive director, World Trust Educational Services, Oakland, Calif., Dr. Paul C. Gorski, founder of EdChange, St. Paul, Minn., and Maggie Potapchuk, president, MP Associates, Baltimore. "They are nationally and internationally recognized leaders in racial and economic justice arenas," Gale said. rossroads, Lutheran Human Relations Association, and Paso Training and Consulting are hosting workshops. A blog about the gathering is available, and "Lazarus at the Gate," a new ELCA resource on poverty and wealth, will be introduced at the gathering.

ELCA News Service