Guns, Violence, and Security in the U.S.: What Might the ELCA Say Now?

Posted on by jimvondracek

Lutheran Ethicists’ Gathering Invitation 

On January 4-5, Lutherans will gather in Chicago for the annual Lutheran Ethicists’ Gathering under the theme Guns, Violence, and Security in the U.S.: What Might the ELCA Say Now? The program will  consider what the ELCA teaches, the nature of U.S. gun culture today, practices for change, and what themes, ideas, practices might help reframe a comprehensive and effective conversation and action. 

The program will feature recognized thinkers including sociologist Dr. David Yamane of Wake Forest who has done extensive research and writing on U.S. gun culture and constructive ways forward.  It also will welcome activists from Chicago who are working on the ground to organize against gun violence. 

Who:  All are welcome! 

Cost: Registration is $25. If you need this fee waived, please email Heather.Dean@elca.org. 

Where:  Logan Room, Palmer House Hotel,  17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603  

When: Wednesday, January 4, 7:15pm-8:30 pm 

      Thursday, January 5, 8:30am-4:00pm 

Each day includes optional dinner together at a local restaurant and evening hospitality room.  

Registration opens soon with additional information including about hotel accommodations, if needed.  

To RSVP and receive an email when registration is open, fill out this form.  

Here is the agenda for the workshop:

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4
5:00 — Meet in lobby and walk to dinner out (optional)
7:15 – Session 1: An Assessment of ELCA Social Policy and Public Witness, Per Anderson,
Concordia College, Moorehead
9:15 – Hospitality Room

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5

8:30 Devotions
9:00 Session 2: Understanding and Misunderstanding American Gun Culture and Violence,
David Yamane, Wake Forest University
10:45 Session 3: Gun Violence Prevention, Locally & Beyond
Amy Lawless, Industrial Areas Foundation
Sheri Williams, Northwest Chicago Suburbs–Moms Demand Action
Yolanda Androzzo, Coalition and Programming Director from OneAIM Illinois
12:15 Lunch Discussion, for those who pre-register
1:45 Lutheran Ethicists’ Network meeting: next Gathering’s theme and other business.
2:45 Session 4: Identifying Elements to Reframe Conversation and Action
Conversation in break-out groups towards an informal report for ELCA consideration
4:00 Wrap up & farewell
6:00 Meet to Walk to restaurant (optional)