February 18, 2011

CHICAGO – The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), said his appointment to a presidential advisory committee strongly affirms the involvement of ELCA members "in serving our neighbors."

On Feb. 4, President Barack Obama announced his intention to appoint Hanson to the President's Advisory Council for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, which makes recommendations to government on how to improve partnerships. The council brings together religious and secular leaders, as well as scholars and experts in fields related to the work of faith-based and neighborhood organizations.

"We are known as a church whose members roll up their sleeves, get to work, solve problems and give generously," Hanson said. "The council will provide new opportunities for us to expand partnerships in local and global contexts and to address priorities for our nation."

The council's makeup reflects the Obama administration's commitment to listen to diverse voices as people respond together to complex issues, Hanson said. He added that by working together, "our power and voice for good, and our commitment to restore vibrant communities will continue to flourish."

In 2009 Hanson was appointed to a White House task force on interreligious dialogue and cooperation, through the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships.

The advisory council and faith-based offices grew out of bi-partisan recognition by the Clinton, Bush and Obama administrations that people of faith deserve a voice in public affairs, said the Rev. Andrew D. Genszler, ELCA director for advocacy, Washington, D.C.

"Lutherans learn from the Bible and our heritage that government can be a way God is active in our world when officials are reminded to work to preserve creation, work for the common good and to build up peace," he said. "Presiding Bishop Hanson's seat on the council provides a direct opportunity to act on this belief – both by challenging and affirming public officials, and building relationships on behalf of people otherwise unheard."

Hanson said the advisory council speaks to the administration on behalf of people in local contexts, and it also imagines ways that people in local contexts can work together more effectively. For example, he said the previous advisory council worked to enhance interfaith partnerships in local communities.

"It's not just about policy. We can work together for the good of this nation in public-private partnerships and in interfaith partnerships," Hanson said.

Information about the President's Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships is at http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ofbnp/about/council, on the Web.

The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with approximately 4.5 million members in more than 10,000 congregations across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer, Martin Luther.

ELCA News Service