The ELCA has introduced a study guide for its newest social statement, “Faith, Sexism, and Justice: A Call to Action.” The guide features six interactive and flexible (45-, 60- or 90-minute) sessions that can be customized for in-person gatherings or virtual meetings. Each session incorporates prayers, videos, engaging activities, Scripture study and invitations to live out the call to gender justice in the world.
The ELCA Task Force on Women and Justice: One in Christ began its development of the social statement in 2012. In 2019, the proposed statement text was reviewed by the ELCA Conference of Bishops and the ELCA Church Council, which unanimously recommended it to the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly for consideration. On Aug. 9, the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly voted 863-26 to approve the statement and its implementing resolutions.
“I remember standing on the stage at the 2019 Churchwide Assembly when the social statement ‘Faith, Sexism, and Justice: A Call to Action‘ was passed by the assembly,” said Elizabeth Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA. “I was so proud of our church for acknowledging the reality of sexism and patriarchy and, at the same time, presenting a statement that shows a way forward, a way toward the abundant life that God means for all people.”
Eaton continued, “I urge you to make use of this study guide. It opens up the statement and helps us to understand each other and ourselves even better, and to address those realities of sexism and patriarchy that affect so many of us. It’s meant for women and girls, yes, but also for men and boys—for all of us, as we are freed in Christ now to love and serve the neighbor.”
Leader’s guides, handouts, videos and additional resources are available at elca.org/fsjstudyguide
