For Love of God and Neighbor

Background and summary


Pastor Kessinger’s May 28, 2020 email letter to the Redeemer community noted how

the response to the May 25th death of George Floyd in Minnesota has raised the many

issues of inequity experienced by people of color in this country. She offered the

opportunity of a shared discussion of the ELCA’s social statement* entitled “Race, Ethnicity,

and Culture” as a way to inform ourselves of the many issues involved and to identify ways

in which we can be part of the solutions in areas where we have special interests.


During the remainder of 2020 about 25 people participated in ongoing Zoom discussion

sessions; the sessions continue on a monthly basis. The group chose the name For Love of

God and Neighbor: Anti-Racism Ministry Team. Others who are interested can contact

Pastor Kessinger to be added to this discussion group.


Resources identified by participants have been added to this part of Redeemer’s

website; others will be added.


Book groups are reading and discussing some of the recommended books listed on this

part of Redeemer’s website. Interested persons can contact Pastor Kessinger to be added

to a current group’s discussion.


Plans are being made for 2021 Lenten Bible studies that will focus on Scripture passages

regarding immigration, separation and inclusion, and political/social/economic justice.


* ELCA Social Statement: “Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture”

Letter of commitment from the ELCA Metropolitan Washington, DC Synod Office


Goals for the ministry team and for Redeemer


Factors contributing to inequity

  • Climate/Environment [content to be added]
  • Education [content to be added]
  • Economy [content to be added]
  • Health [content to be added]
  • Immigration
  • Public policy [content to be added]

Actions to take