Hunger Ministry Team

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Letter from Kathryn Sime to the Southeastern Iowa Synod Hunger Team

In a letter to Bishop Philip L. Hougen dated April 5, 2007 from the director of the ELCA World Hunger and Disaster Appeal, Kathryn Sime conveyed thanks to the congregations and members of the Southeastern Iowa Synod for work in raising funds in 2006 for the ELCA World Hunger and Disaster Appeal.

She noted the good news that across the ELCA $20 million was raised for ELCA World Hunger in 2006 and a total of $25 million if Disaster Response is included. She writes, "Thanks be to God for the generosity of ELCA members in their commitment to fight hunger around the world and close to home."

Citing the response of members of the Southeastern Iowa Synod she writes: "Please know how grateful I am for the role of the Southeastern Iowa Synod in helping us reach this giving milestone. Our records indicate that giving to the World Hunger Appeal from the synod, congregations, and individuals within the Southeastern Iowa Synod (this includes gifts received via the synod and those sent to Chicago directly) reached $357,732 this past year. That’s an increase of 35% over 2005!"

She concludes: "Thank you for the continued generous partnership of the Southeastern Iowa Synod in making a life-saving difference through the ELCA World Hunger and Disaster Appeal."

With the Bishop's permission to share a portion of Kathryn Sime's letter, the Southeastern Iowa Synod Hunger Team felt members of the Synod would want to hear the results of our 2006 efforts. The Southeastern Iowa Synod now stands at $3.70 per baptized member to World Hunger and Stand with Africa giving.

The Basics of Hunger Ministry

Congregations in the Southeastern Iowa Synod can participate in hunger ministry in three core ways:

1) Through Local Food Pantries and Meal Programs

A majority of the congregations in the synod support a local food pantry. Many also regularly serve a weekly meal or assist with a community meal program.

2) Through Financial Contributions to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal

The ELCA World Hunger Program is one-stop shopping for supplying help for those in need, providing assistance with domestic and international disasters around the world.

3) Through Bread for the World and their support of advocacy work

Congregations are encouraged to write members of congress on hunger issues. An Offering of Letters kit is available from Bread for the World that includes ideas and suggestions as to what to include in your letters. Consider supporting Bread for the World financially. A number of congregations include Bread for the World in their annual budget.

Members of the Hunger Ministry Team

The Southeastern Iowa Synod Hunger Ministry Team is available for adult forums and special events. Contact any of the following team members: