Faith Action Network

Saturday, September 24, 2011
8:30 am to 1 pm
Holy Trinity Episcopal Church
1832 W. Dean, Spokane

In this time of economic, political and social turmoil, people of faith have an opportunity to promote civil dialogue by offering gracious space to discuss and solve the problems facing those we are called to serve: the poor and unenfranchised. This gathering is designed to offer such a space and to facilitate such dialog.

FAN, the Faith Action Network, merges the common work of the Lutheran Public Policy Office of Washington and the Washington Association of Churches. In this workshop, FAN offers the effective experience of these two groups in advocating with the state legislature, and this workshop on the state legislative process brings together tools, experience, and an opportunity to connect with others in advocating for the poor in the legislative process.

The Agenda.  We will begin by looking at the state budget process, examining the highlights of the biennial budget passed in May. Following that introduction we will hear about the impact of cuts on the poorest of Washington citizens.  We will also talk with legislators about how they made decisions throughout the budget process.  Finally, we will discuss how, by entering into dialogue in gracious space, we can work together to seek justice and promote the common good.  Dr. Dale Soden of Whitworth University will moderate as we explore our common values and the ways they can guide us into decisions that foster the well-being of all.

Gracious space has been described as “a spirit and a setting in which the stranger is welcome, people learn in public and difficult conflicts can be resolved. It is an intentional space marked by curiosity, openness and hospitality that is co-created by the group to help them to do the work (including the most difficult work) in their midst.” [Bill Grace, Sharing the Rock] 

You are cordially invited to attend. A light lunch will be provided.  Suggested donation is $10, but all are welcome regardless of donation.
Spokane Fall Forum