Advocacy Team

Calling Statement

Our Faith calls us to follow the example of Jesus Christ by acting for social change to promote justice for all God's people.

"...and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God."
Micah 6:8

Confession of 1967: The members of the church are emissaries of peace and seek the good of all in cooperation with powers and authorities in politics, culture, and economics...their strength is in their confidence that God's purpose rather than human schemes will finally prevail. (9.25)

Guiding Principles

Fundamental

  • Act according to Biblical imperatives as we understand them
  • Address issues supported by PCUSA programs and statements
  • Integrate our efforts and support the priorities of the WGPC Mission Commission

Process

  • Strive to be a place of respectful dialog and learning giving each other grace in the process
  • Acknowledge and address our limited viewpoint as a predominantly white congregation
  • Always begin our efforts regarding any specific issue with educating ourselves and the congregation
  • Communicate regularly and clearly with session and the congregation regarding our actions and concerns

Phases of Action

Education: We will diligently and humbly seek to educate ourselves and the congregation about issues of justice including a diversity of viewpoints.

Activism: We will support and coordinate participation in public acts that raise awareness and call on officials and the community to act in ways that promote justice for all God's people.

Advocacy: We will work to influence those in power locally and on the state and federal levels to make legislative changes regarding issues we have identified as priorities that will help to complete God's vision of peace and justice on earth.

Organize: We value the long-term nature of organizing impacted communities to promote systemic change where needed. As we gain more experience and perspective, we will partner with other organizers to build bases of support and resources needed to change systems to favor the communities most adversely affected by social policies.

We seek to live Christ's love, welcome all people and joyfully serve God.