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Roots of the ELCA World Hunger*
Appeal
RMS
Hunger Network Home Page
*The
word “hunger” is here used in a generic sense, meaning not just lack of food but
also of clothing, shelter, health care, education, etc.
The ELCA World Hunger Appeal
was launched on January 1, 1988, when the ELCA came into being as a result of
the mergers of the American Lutheran Church, the Association of Evangelical
Lutheran Churches and the Lutheran Church in America. Many congregations of the
merging churches had begun giving to combat hunger soon after World War II.
Their efforts, and those of added ones, coalesced in the new structure, in which
all congregations are asked to care and share.
At its
outset the World Hunger Appeal sought modest annual giving averaging $2.50 per
baptized member, some $12.5 million. When that goal was reached in receipts,
the ELCA, in response to compelling needs, doubled the goal to $25 million
annually; an average of $5 per baptized member. Reaching that goal requires a
quantum leap in giving by most congregations, especially those that have been
content with token giving or giving not at all.
For decades
members of our Lutheran churches have been urged to help feed the hungry
wherever they are and to do so without discrimination based on race, color or
creed. Need is the overriding criterion! Hungry millions have been fed and
helped to where they can make it on their own and sometimes even help others.
While in the most recent half century, food production has vastly increased, so
has population growth. Overpopulation results in some places, causing much
suffering and even premature death. It is a little known fact that where people
are healthy, there are fewer births.
For the
annual World Hunger Appeal to succeed, it is imperative that the congregation
understands that it is a platform from which its members reach out to a hurting
world. More education nourishes commitment. Many of us can give more than we
have told ourselves that we can. “God loves people who love to give!” 2 Cor.
9:7.
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