Letters

Lutheran, The, Nov 2002

Larry Hamm

Houston, Texas

Who gets exceptions?

Daniel Shaw (September, page 37) feels that in good conscience he cannot abide by the rules of Called to Common Mission. That certainly doesn't make him any less Lutheran or any less qualified to shepherd our ELCA members. How is it that this issue is different from the ordination of gay and lesbian clergy? Sincerity, where the call to ministry comes from, unusual circumstances and God's word: Apparently there are a select few for whom these standards apply. Lutheran gay men and lesbians aren't lucky enough to find themselves among them.

Michael Carson

Oakland, Calif.

Back to the Mideast

After "O, Jerusalem" (July, page 12), don't you think another article should be forthcoming that either shows the Israeli side, or perhaps a realistic history of the area? Joan Peters has a book called From Time Immemorial that would make a good interview and article. She started out researching with the idea of supporting the Palestinians.

Richard Gronning

Northfield, Minn.

For those interested in hearing another voice, may I suggest reading Blood Brothers by Elias Chacour, a Palestinian Christian. The roots of our present conflict are exposed and considered as this man's experiences unfold. All of us may benefit from reading his faith-- inspired insights.

Marie H. Lambeck

Phoenixville, Pa.

Ministry outside our walls

We enjoyed Arville Finacom's vision in "My View" (August, page 11). We all need to do our fair share, as she has, to keep our church operating. But too often we forget how much needs to be done outside our church walls. Any volunteer effort that helps people is Christian work, whether done alone or as part of a group.

Melvin and Lenora Ackers

Vancouver, Wash.

Clarification: An Aug. 13 Religion News Service report said a statement released by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the National Council of Synagogues had "concluded that targeting Jews for conversion is no longer theologically acceptable in the Catholic Church" because Jews "already have a saving covenant with God." The bishops' communication office says the statement "does not represent a formal position" but was intended to encourage reflection (October, page 55).

Reader Response

Do you think it's important that pastors make house calls? Why or why not? Does your pastor? Under what circumstances? If not, why do you think it's not happening? Would you like a call from your pastor? Why or why not? What should your pastor quit doing to make time for such visits? For our January story, please respond by Nov. 8 to jsevig@elca.org or Julie Sevig, 8765 W. Higgins Rd., Chicago, IL 60631-- 4183.

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