Press Release: Fresno

A Lutheran Day of Service Comes to Fresno

Justice project celebrate the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation

Fresno, May 1, 2017 – 100 Lutherans in red shirts will be volunteering throughout Fresno on May 3^rd in celebration of the 500^th anniversary of the Reformation.    Activities include: handing out free “Lutheran coffee” at the corner of Shaw and Fresno, a food pantry at Our Saviour’s Lutheran, sandwich making and distribution to local homeless individuals and a free performance and talk by Agustin Lira at Hope Lutheran Church.

"Feeding the hungry and advocating for our neighbors is how Lutherans make our faith visible in the world.” said the Rev. Dr. Megan Rohrer, Executive Director of the Welcome Ministry. "Lutherans throughout Fresno will also be visible in their red shirts that celebrate the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation,"

The Reformation, which began with Martian Luther’s nailing of the 95 theses on October 31, 1517, inspires Lutherans to support their neighbors and care in gratitude of God’s love for them.  This year, Lutheran’s throughout the world will be celebrating the 500^th anniversary of the Reformation. 

The Lutheran Day of Service in Fresno, was made possible by a grant from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to promote a wider understanding of the Reformation message and its significance for faith and life in the 21st century.

"Far too often the only Christians who are visible are the ones who are angry, Lutherans want to be known for their service, justice and celebrations," said Pastor Rohrer.  "The Reformation reminds us that God loves all people in this beautifully diverse world, regardless of politics, immigration or economic status.”

Schedule of Events:

May 3^rd Lutheran Day of Service:

            6-8am   -  Free Lutheran Coffee Giveaway - @ Shaw and Fresno intersection

            9:30   -  Coffee Reception and Registration – Hope Lutheran Church

            10am – 10:30 am  - Blessing of Hands with Bishop Mark Holmerud

12:30-4 PM – Lutheran Hunger Network Food Distribution – Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church

3:30-4 PM – Visit to Rep. Devin Nunes’ Office

5 PM Community Dinner - @ Hope Lutheran Church

6:15 PM  6:15 PM  Musical Keynote - Agustin Lira  (@Hope Lutheran)

May 4^th – 6^th: SPS Synod Assembly at the Convention Center

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The Welcome Ministry seeks to provide a faithful response to poverty and to improve the quality of life for individuals in our community through hospitality; the arts; education; food; and referrals.  Their health and vision projects have provided over 4,000 pairs of prescription eye glasses to homeless individuals in San Francisco and Kailua-Kona.     Learn more at: www.sfwelcome.org

More information about the 500^th Anniversary of the Reformation: https://www.elca500.org/about/

More information about the Sierra Pacific Synod Assembly in Fresno:

http://spselca.org/index.php/2017-synod-assembly-tabs-2/

Press Contact:
Rev. Dr. Megan Rohrer: streetvicar@gmail.com, 415-827-2587