May 1, 2008

A Minnesota Without Poverty to Become Program of the Minnesota Council of Churches; the Rev. Nancy Maeker Called to Serve as Acting Director

The Minnesota Council of Churches announced today that A Minnesota Without Poverty will become a program of the Minnesota Council of Churches. As a result of that move, Pastor Nancy Maeker of our synod staff has accepted a call to become the acting director of A Minnesota Without Poverty.

A Minnesota Without Poverty emerged out of this synod’s ending poverty efforts in large measure because of Nancy Maeker’s vision, collaborative efforts, and diligence. A multi-faceted initiative supported by the six Minnesota ELCA synods, the Lutheran Coalition for Public Policy in Minnesota, Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota, and the Joint Religious Legislative Coalition, it focuses on shaping a state in which faith-based organizations, government, business, and community agencies work together to create a climate in which all children thrive—through access to health care, education, safe and permanent homes, and a strong economic base on which families can support and nurture children. While the initiative was statewide, staff and administrative support came through the Saint Paul Area Synod.

This initiative is now moving to become a program of the Minnesota Council of Churches, which will give it broader ecumenical visibility and wider resources. Nancy’s presence from the start will help launch the effort more quickly there because of her connections within the community and the vitality she brings to matters about which she cares deeply.

I am confident that within the Minnesota Council of Churches, A Minnesota Without Poverty will flourish and move into the next phase of growth and that important issues that affect the quality of life in this state and the dignity of people of all ages will receive wider attention within the ecumenical and interfaith community.

Poverty efforts will continue within the Saint Paul Area Synod as we continue to be a partner in A Minnesota Without Poverty and continue the commitment made in 2001 to be a church that seeks to ensure that no person is forced to live in poverty. The collaborations and ministries in our congregations and communities now being strengthened by our Crossing Bridges poverty grants are one sign of this continuing commitment.

A farewell reception for Nancy Maeker will be held Friday, June 6, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., in the Gathering Space at Christ Lutheran Church on Capitol Hill, 105 University Ave. West, St. Paul. A short program will begin at 3:00 p.m. All are invited to attend to thank Nancy for her service to the leaders and congregations of the Saint Paul Area Synod.

Peter Rogness