Cross-cultural Programming, Women of the ELCA

As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America believes our diversity is God's gift. We believe the gift of diversity was intentionally given to us that we may manifest the love of God in and for the world.

Our cross-cultural programming reflects our commitment to celebrate God's created diversity in community, growth, and action. Our commitment to promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world is evident within our commitment.

Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is using this definition of culture: the values, language, and symbols people use to define and understand life's experiences. Culture gives us standards for how we relate to people and the world around us.

Within this definition of culture are the communities that are:
people of color (as stated in the ELCA's continuing resolution 5.01.C89: African American, Black, Asian, Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native, Arab, and Middle Eastern)
people with physical or sensory disabilities
gays and lesbians
women and children living in poverty.

Cross-cultural programming provides tools for effectively relating across the barriers that both define and separate us into racial and cultural groupings. Our cross-cultural programming energizes and expands our community and world views, providing opportunity for both growth and action.

We rely on God's grace and the mercy of Jesus Christ to direct us as we learn how to worship, live, and grow cross-culturally. As children of God, Women of the ELCA continues in our commitment to the intentional development of an energetic anti-racist identity.

As a result of this developing anti-racist identity, we are committed to developing cross-cultural relationships that are mutually strengthening. We are committed to discovering creative and cooperative responses within and between congregational units and synodical women's organizations that will use our gifts and resources. Women of the ELCA has committed itself to meet the challenges and lift up the rich opportunities of a world that continues to grow more diverse.

The above is a guide for the continued interpretation of cross-cultural programming of Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It provides:
A broad backdrop for the design and implementation of programming without specifically saying what the pieces of such programming will be.
Language useful for further use in additional resource materials (see, for example, the First Dialogue of Words).
Answers the question, "What is cross-cultural programming?"