wfn.org | ELCA Explores Other Faith Traditions

[NEWS <NEWS@ELCA.ORG>]

ELCA NEWS SERVICE

April 10, 1999

ELCA EXPLORES OTHER FAITH TRADITIONS
99-87-MR

     CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America (ELCA) plan to explore the differences and similarities within
Christian and other faith traditions.  In a new resource called
"Honoring Our Neighbor's Faith," religious groups tell "their own
stories" about who they are, what they believe and how they practice. 
The book was presented to the ELCA Church Council at its meeting here
April 9-12.
     The council is the ELCA's board of directors and serves as the
legislative authority of the church between its meetings of the
Churchwide Assembly.  Assemblies are held every other year; the next is
August 16-22 in Denver.
       "Honoring Our Neighbor's Faith" features more than 30 faith
traditions found in North America.  The faith traditions are placed in
four categories: world religions unrelated to Christianity, such as
Hinduism (or Vedanta) and Buddhism; non-Christian world religions, such
as Judaism and Islam; Christian denominations; and non-Christian
denominations with Christian roots.
     The book was developed by leaders of "Teach the Faith," one of
seven ELCA "Initiatives to Prepare for a New Century."
     In 1997 the ELCA Churchwide Assembly selected seven Initiatives --
significant areas of ministry for the 21st century.  Leadership teams
were formed early last year to provide overall guidance for the work of
congregations, the ELCA's 65 synods and churchwide organizations.  Team
leaders help provide an overall picture of how the church may be
different as a result of the Initiatives.

For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html