ELCA Attitude Toward Hunger

"ELCA social teaching urges Lutherans to engage in service and advocacy for our neighbor in need of daily bread. These faith practices express our relationship with Jesus Christ, rooted in baptism that sends us out for the sake of the world.

"When we pray in the Lord's Prayer, 'Give us this day our daily bread,' we place ourselves in tension with economic assumptions of our society. Rather than being self-sufficient, we need and depend on what God gives or provides through people, practices, and systems. 'Daily bread' is not earned by efforts of individuals alone, but is made possible through a variety of relationships and institutions [note to Martin Luther's 'The Large Catechism']. God gives in ways that expand our notions of who 'us' includes, from people close at hand to those around the globe. In stark contrast to those who seek unchecked accumulation and profit, our attention is drawn to those who are desperate for what will sustain their lives for just this day." - From ELCA social statement Sufficient, Sustainable for All

"ELCA World Hunger works to change the systems that perpetuate poverty based on extensive ministry with our membership, congregations and communities, knowing we can't do it alone. Elected officials must carry out the essential role government plays to help people who need nutritious food."