Last Thursday a group gathered for the Caring for Creation Taskforce meeting. After our devotion and introduction time, we turned to the agenda. Here are my notes:
1. Discussion and decision about contracting with an individual to assist with organizing and promoting the work of the task force. The position would be funded by contributions already raised and in hand. Tasks include: coordinating communication; working with synod staff on taskforce website design and content; planning and promoting task force meetings; meeting with synod cluster groups; available for congregational visits; coordinating work with other justice ministries of the synod (Anti-racism, Eliminating Poverty Raising Dignity, etc.); assist with planning major task force events (Earth Day worship, workshops at Synod Assembly, trainings, etc.). Position approved. Job description will be completed and posted by the next task force meeting in January.
2. Earth Day worship, April 22, 2009. Discussion focused on location and theme. Members from Atonement, Muskego will check on availability. Once confirmed, we will post times and dates in synod communications. Given the flux of major areas of public and personal life (economy, employment, politics, new administration), we felt it was premature to determine a theme. Brainstorm ideas included - simplicity, frugality, green jobs. Attention was given to creating a theme that does not assume that "simplicity" is a choice, and that for folks in poverty "simplicity" is not a lifestyle choice, it is a reality.
3. Goals for 2009. The following are our goals:
A larger planning/working group (those that prepare for the larger task force meetings)
Hiring an organizer within the first quarter of 2009 - job description posted by Jan 15.
Earth Day Worship and Events.
Synod Assembly workshops and presentations.
Participate in the Justice Summit, March 1, 4-7 pm at Jackson Park. This synod event will gather leaders of all the committees and task forces of the synod.
Stronger connections across the justice groups of the synod (and community)
Follow up with leaders from Tanzania concerning need/desire for renewable energy development
In May determine if we'll have a fall event.
The next meeting of the task force is Jan 15, 6:30 pm, at St. Matthew's in Wauwatosa.
If you would like to be on the working group, please contact me.
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