Review the Draft Statement on Gun Safety

The last few weeks have seen another bought of mass shooting across the country. From the recent attack at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas to the double shooting in Austin, Texas, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families everywhere.

However, we know that thoughts and prayers are not enough. As gun violence continues to be an escalating issue in our country, action is necessary. That action begins when we are able to have conversations around this issue, and it is time that our ELCA churches are able to faithfully and thoughtfully engage in discussions around gun violence and preventative action. That is why, as we have previously publicized, the church has spent the last several years working on a draft of a social message on gun violence and trauma.

Social teachings are carefully developed to help congregations, clergy, and lay leaders address issues and topics that are relevant to our comunities today. We invite and encourage you to read the new draft and respond to the survey. This is one of the most important ways we can advocate within our church to make sure that we are engaging in our communities in the best ways possible.

The comment period is now open through January 31, 2024.

Find the draft here: Social Message on Gun Violence and Trauma (DRAFT)