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04423
September 24, 2004
GAC committee endorses ecumenical Advocacy Days
Event in nation’s capital examines urgent global issues
by Evan Silverstein
LOUISVILLE — The National Ministries Division Committee (NMDC) has endorsed next year’s third annual Ecumenical Advocacy Days for Global Peace with Justice.The measure was approved during an NMDC meeting here Friday.
The ecumenical gathering, which examines urgent global issues, will be held March 11-14, 2005, in Washington, DC.
The theme will be "Make All Things New," examining critical regions and issues including Africa, Asia, Latin America, Middle East, the United States, Jubilee and economic justice.
The action includes permission for the Presbyterian Washington Office and other division program areas to work with event planners. Previously, the PC(USA)’s support had primarily been through the Presbyterian Church (USA) Hunger Program.
The denomination will be among a broad range of churches and faith-based organizations supporting Advocacy Days 2005, including the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ,and the Episcopal Church USA.
Church World Service, the Africa Faith and Justice Network, and Peaceful Ends through Peaceful Means are also backing the event, according to a NMDC document.
Advocacy Days 2005 will feature speakers, issue briefings, advocacy training workshops and a Lobby Day on Capitol Hill where participants will speak with their senators and representatives or key Congressional policy staff.
Conference highlights also include common times for fellowship and networking, a keynote address and banquet dinner, and a special ecumenical service of worship for participants and the public.
No budget implications are involved with the co-sponsorship. However, fundraising will be conducted with a goal of netting $5,000 to $10,000 from each participating denomination.
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