On March 10, 2014 Lutherans from all over the state of Iowa will descend on the State Capitol Building in Des Moines to speak with one voice on behalf of the poor and disadvantage in our state and in our communities. Lutheran Day on the Hill is an event held every March that is organized in partnership with the three Iowa synods of the ELCA and Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI).
The day is spent in prayer and discussion as participants learn about LSI and develop talking points to take to their legislators about critical issues facing children, families and adults.
As people of faith we are called to be advocates for people living in poverty, but sometimes it is hard to know how to do that. Lutheran Day on the Hill is a way for people to receive training, be informed, and combine their voice with others on behalf of our sisters and brothers who are voiceless. “When as a synod we participate in Lutheran Day on the Hill, it is an outward expression of our faith and commitment to be God’s hands in the world. I’m convinced that strengthening our connection, coordinating our efforts to be advocates will enhance the mission of this church.” Bishop Michael Burk.
The Southeastern Iowa Synod has participated in LDH for a number of years. To make it easier for people from all over the state to participate in Lutheran Day on the Hill, two years ago the three Iowa synods started providing transportation for people living in outlying areas of the state. In Southeastern Iowa, a bus from Iowa City travels to Des Moines picking up additional participants in Newton. “I want our synod to be a leader and an example in demonstrating the importance of acting on behalf of the poor and disadvantaged. It is inspiring and encouraging to see so many Lutherans together for a common purpose. You can feel God’s Spirit working through us.” Sher Jasperse, Holy Redeemer Lutheran Church, Cedar Rapids.
Learn more about Lutheran Day on the Hill and how you and your congregation can participate.
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This is one excellent way of giving witness to our Christian faith in the world. Our personal and collective input, as people of faith, into the political realm is important. There has to be a touch point between the Two Kingdoms. The temporal kingdom needs to hear from us such guiding principles as those enunciated in Micah 6:8, Matthew 5:6-7,9 and Matthew 25:35-36 (the 3-M’s).
