Better Together

MULTIETHNIC & INTERSECTIONAL NETWORK

This network is a resource for ELCA congregations/ministries to become more multiethnic and intersectional. They assist in mentoring congregations/ministries on how to be warmer, more welcoming and better at creating a sense of belonging. In partnership with others, concrete, actionable, replicable steps for ministries to become a better embodiment of their neighborhoods is shared. Together we explore and create resources to train and educate each other to live into makers that reflect God’s diversity of all humanity. In partnership, we utilize all of the resources that already exist to share best practices and ideas. A phenomenal network that equips us all to flourish!

This past February, we were blessed to be invited and to participate in this life giving ELCA network that is bringing Holy Spirit inspired vision to our local congregations. With over 100 of us from throughout the US, we were gathered for a 3-day event at Peace Lutheran, in the Hilltop neighborhood of Tacoma.

God has planted our churches in all kinds of contexts. In these places we are called to bring full neighbor love to the community. Through shared story, Biblical witness, and powerful worship, we were built up for the work that each is called to do.

One afternoon, we took the time to walk the Hilltop neighborhood, where we learned that back in the 90’s this area in Tacoma had the 6^th most violent neighborhood in the nation. We stopped to reflect and pray at this small monument that was built by the competing drug gangs of the time. Even in the midst of violence, God reminds us of our true human identity – “No matter our chosen path – “ALL LIVES ARE PRECIOUS.” From the time that it was built until today, this monument has not been defaced, but rather, honored by all who pause to reflect, remember, and grow. Just like at Grace, with our year-long focus on Identity, Belonging, and Purpose, we dial into God’s vision and voice and that makes all the difference in the world. This is one of the ways that we can be faithful to God’s call to being church today!  Thanks be to God!