April 17, 2009
by Jodi Deike

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Washington Office released a resource guide on the war in Iraq, "Peace, Conflict and Public Church: A Case Study on the Future of Iraq." Kimberly C. Steitz, director for international public policy, ELCA Washington Office, said, "The guide comes at a crucial time as Iraq seeks to establish a sustainable democracy."

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop, wrote in the publication's foreword, "‘Peace, Conflict and Public Church: A Case Study on the Future of Iraq' explores a number of important questions about U.S. involvement and power in Iraq. For example, how can our country aid the Iraqi government in improving security, reducing conflict and promoting reconciliation in Iraq? In what ways can we witness to the unity shared by all people as children of God?"

According to an introduction in the publication, the intent of the guide is to aid Lutheran congregations and other communities of faith as they discuss difficult issues related to the war in Iraq. The resource guide is divided into five sections: moral deliberation, role in nations, current situation in Iraq and U.S. policy, challenges of global terrorism, and group reflection. Each section includes discussion questions. The guide is available through Augsburg Fortress, Minneapolis, the publishing ministry of the ELCA.

ELCA News Service