Safer Together: Beyond the Gun Control Debate
Tuesday, Oct. 27 – 6:30-8:45 p.m. | Transfiguration Lutheran Church, Bloomington & Online

Minnesota and the U.S. continue to face an epidemic of violence and harm involving guns. Too often, public debates around firearms devolve into a standoff between personal rights and government control. This pattern fails to address the many ways that each of us can act to reduce gun-related violence and trauma in our homes, workplaces, schools and communities. As Lutherans, how do we respond to this ongoing reality? What does our social teaching say? How might we foster the kind of moral deliberation and call to action that can lead to meaningful change?  

The Region 3 ELCA synods of Minnesota and North Dakota are offering a time of shared learning, discernment, and collective action toward solutions to the harms of gun misuse. We hope to move beyond the gun rights-gun control debate and to promote safer communities with the conviction that we are safer together. This event is for lay leaders and rostered ministers.

The presentation and conversation will be led by Dr. Jillian Pederson, professor of criminology and criminal justice at Hamline University and the executive director of The Violence Prevention Project. Dr. Pederson will reflect on her research into mass shootings as a public health concern. Following her presentation, participants will discuss the ELCA’s Social Message on Gun-Related Violence and Trauma and the unique ways their own communities are impacted by gun violence.  

Congregations may wish to organize local gatherings and individuals are welcome to attend in person or online. We hope that this event can be part of a movement across our region for moral deliberation and collective action that will reduce gun violence in our communities and contribute to communal healing and the common good. Register here.

Whimsical Wigs – Making Smiles Workshop
Thursday, Oct. 29 – 6:30 p.m. | Our Savior’s, Circle Pines

Bring smiles to kids by helping create wigs for children who are undergoing cancer treatment. This is a free event and no crochet experience is necessary! While some volunteers will crochet, there are plenty of other ways to help, including: bedazzling flowers, cutting yarn, and decorating envelopes. All wigs and beanies are provided free of charge to children staying in hospitals, bringing comfort, confidence, and a little extra joy during a difficult time. Learn more and register.