Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs

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Religious Leaders Advocate Action for Affordable Housing

At Trinity United Methodist Church in Wilmette, on May 15, 2007, twenty-seven religious leaders gathered under Interfaith’s umbrella for inspiration and concrete steps to foster grassroots activism. What are the theological underpinnings for encouraging political action for open housing? What are the action opportunities in your community?

Father Bob Oldershaw, Pastor Emeritus of St. Nicholas Church, Evanston, Wilmette Village Trustee Lali Watt, and leaders from “Wilmette Citizens for Affordable Housing” urged us to heed the moral call of our religious traditions, move outside of our comfort zones and “disturb our congregations” to promote housing justice for all. Here is a hyperlink to Fr. Oldershaw's speech on faith as a motivator for action toward fair and affordable housing. Interfaith also provided “action sheets” with key housing issues and players in each northern suburb.

Fr. Bob Oldershaw in front of a portrait of Jim, a homeless man from Chicago whom he befriended.

There is no "right" or "wrong" way to advocate; the point is that "you do something" to express your support for affordable housing, says Wilmette Village Trustee Lali Watt.

Trinity United Methodist Pastor Kirk Reed moderates the discussion about moving from faith to action.

Religious leaders confer about housing issues in their own suburbs.

Celia Muench and Ed Miller of St. Francis Xavier Church’s Peace & Justice Committee founded Wilmette Citizens for Affordable Housing. In front of them is Gail Schechter of Interfaith and Fr. Bob Oldershaw of St. Nicholas Church, Evanston.

Photo Report Author: Gail Schechter

Interfaith Housing Center of the Northern Suburbs
www.interfaithhousingcenter.org
620 Lincoln Avenue; Winnetka, Illinois 60093-2308
phone: 847.501.5760
e-mail: ihcns@interfaithhousingcenter.org