Planting seeds for Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona and Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada

$100,000 was raised in for the initial goal of our appeal. Through your generosity, we hope to raise an additional $83,333 by 12/31/2023.

LAMA: Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona

In our first year of the appeal, $70,000 was raised to establish a firm foundation for LAMA by supporting a staff person to lead and coordinate the advocacy work on behalf of the hungry and less advantaged people in Arizona. $58,333 will be raised during our stretch goal. Learn more at lamaz.org.

LEAN: Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada

In our first phase of the appeal, $30,000 was raised to strengthen our partnership with the Sierra Pacifica Synod for advocacy in Nevada. $25,000 will be raised during our stretch goal. Learn more at leanforjustice.org.

GROWING FERVENT VOICES FAQS

What are Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Arizona (LAMA) and Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada (LEAN)?

LAMA and LEAN are ministries of the Grand Canyon and Sierra Pacific synods, respectively (a portion of Nevada is included in the Grand Canyon Synod). They are intended to lend a Lutheran perspective to discussions of justice, peace and similar issues in the public arena. A director is responsible for the daily advocacy activities and reports directly to the bishop. A policy committee, a group of volunteers from throughout the synod, establishes the substantive policy areas of focus each year and assists the director in carrying out activities.

Why is the synod involved in advocacy?

Advocacy on behalf of, and with, those who may not be heard is a deep part of our Lutheran heritage. When we are baptized, one of the five promises that we make as we embark upon our faith journey is that we will work, with God’s help, to achieve justice and peace throughout the world. Martin Luther advocated to the rulers in Saxony to provide, outside the church, for education, food distribution, and health care for those who had no personal means to obtain them. Through advocacy, we stand with others whose voices might not otherwise be heard in the decision-making process.

What sorts of things are done through advocacy?

There are two main functions performed through advocacy. One is educational in nature. LAMA and LEAN provide sessions to train individuals about the legislative process, and how they may effectively contact their representatives in government on an issue of interest. They may also provide factual information on substantive issues, such as hunger, housing, or refugee resettlement.

The second is to urge support for positions that are consistent with Lutheran teachings, Social Statements, and other official documents. For example, while we may differ as to specific policy solutions on a given issue, one of the positions we share is that all people should be treated fairly and with respect. Through LAMA and LEAN the synod can voice that position when it is relevant and necessary to do so.

How can I learn more?

You can learn more at the LAMA webpage at lamaz.org and the LEAN webpage at leanforjustice.org.  On the webpages, you can sign up for periodic updates, find out when educational events are offered, and learn more about advocacy through both the synods and ELCA church wide.