Southminster has been working on hunger locally through our support of the Grace Jordan Food Pantry, and nationally/internationally through our partnership with Bread for the World. This year, we’ve learned more about the systemic
problems that worsen hunger through a hunger simulation, and we’ve participated in letter writing to advocate for changes in the national legislature to help hunger.

If you are interested in pursuing advocacy further by participating in Bread For the World’s Advocacy Summit (Washington, DC, June 9-11, 2025) please visit the link below. It is the 50th anniversary of Bread For the World.

There is no deadline to register but the hotel blocks will only be reserved for the next month. Please also let Ann Agnew know if you want to attend (text her or email her). She is hoping to go and potentially share hotel expenses if acceptable.

To learn more: https://www.bread.org/advocacy-summit/

The PC(USA) Office of Public Witness is launching a new monthly series called the “Presbyterian Advocacy Hour.” These monthly meetings will gather virtually via Zoom on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 10:00am MST. Each session will begin with spiritual grounding before moving into in-depth analysis of key issues facing our nation and world. There will also be opportunities for net- working, movement-building, and community organizing efforts. Advance Registration is required, by visiting: pcusa.info/advocacyhourregistration

The Covenant Network of Presbyterians is profoundly grateful for Southminster’s continuing partnership, prayerful support, and generous financial gifts. The work of affirming LGBTQIA+ people in the church and world is as important as ever — and CNP is being called upon to lead in these difficult times. (You may not be surprised to learn that in the last two months of 2024, calls for support increased significantly!) Here’s a look at the past year, and what’s ahead:

• Held 3 highly-successful regional Covenant Conversations this year (East Iowa/Great Rivers; Twin Cities Area; and South Carolina) with plans for more in 2025.
• Celebrated the passage of several overtures at this summer’s General Assembly in Salt Lake City, and now working alongside advocates as they prepare for votes on constitutional amendments in their respective presbyteries.
• Collaborated in partnership with APCE and the Presbyterian Mission Agency on the creation of a new “Queer Theology” module on the Opening Doors to Discipleship platform.
• Addressed the unique challenges of LGBTQIA+ identity across the lifespan, through an online course for youth ministry and a video series and quicksheet for older adults in partnership with the Presbyterian Older Adult Ministry Network (POAMN).
• Supported our Executive Director Rev. Brian Ellison, who devotes countless hours consulting, preaching, teaching, networking, and offering pastoral support for ministers and elders in crisis on account of their sexual orientation/gender identity.

This work continues in 2025, and Southminster will have a view from the front row! Pastor TJ has been elected by the board of directors to serve as its Co-Moderator this year.