Oregon-Idaho
Methodist Federation for Social Action
Seeking justice in our region, our church, and the world.
A Faithful Witness in the West.
A chapter of Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) has been working in the Oregon-Idaho region since the 1920’s. Originally focused on workers rights, the organization today expands to use an intersectional lens for seeking justice, both inside The United Methodist Church and in the world.
The Oregon-Idaho MFSA is currently taking a specific focus on issues of Immigration Justice, Racial Justice, and ending Gun Violence.
The intersectional view of justice helps us see that these issues are connected and intersect with broader issues of Economic Justice, LGBTQIA+ Justice, Gender Justice, Reproductive Justice, and Climate Justice. No issue stands alone nor can any one issue ignore all of the intersections with other areas of life. MFSA stands ready to help move forward justice and equity in all areas of life. Please join us in this work. It is the work of all of God’s creation.
Oregon-Idaho MFSA News
Christian Nationalism is a troubling ideology that seeks to merge Christian and American identities. It distorts both the Christian faith and America’s constitutional democracy.
Save January 20, 2024, and register now for a conversation on Christian Nationalism.
Churches across Oregon and Idaho are addressing housing needs in a wide variety of ways. Two congregations are receiving significant resistance from their neighbors over plans to place transitional housing micro-shelters on their property. These churches would like our support as they continue in their processes working with local governments.
On April 22, 2023, Oregon-Idaho Methodist Federation for Social Action invited justice-seekers to its spring event, “Why Justice Matters – A conversation with Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth.”
Watch a recording of the Zoom session now!
Change is a comin’: How You Can Have a Say
Register today for the OR-ID MFSA Annual Meeting. June 7th, 6:30 PM via zoom.
The MFSA board reviews all the legislation coming to Annual Conference and makes recommendations on the issues that speak to social justice.
The newest MFSA chapter is in Kenya. Organizers in Kenya are working to train people in social advocacy. Read more about what is planned and how you can help.
How can we, as Christians and justice-seekers, open conversations about this gun violence? What are the facts, and what actions can concerned citizens take? How can we motivate our state legislators and Congresspersons to take appropriate action to reduce unwanted injuries and death? Just what kind of firearms is it reasonable for responsible citizens to possess?
We are only weeks/days away from the next general election and it is crucial that you check your voter registration for you and your family. Oregon-Idaho MFSA wants you to have all the information you need this November to get out and vote.
The October 2020 newsletter comes at a busy time for justice seekers. In addition to regular features like a word from our Chapter President and book reviews, you’ll find out about MFSA being present at public protests for justice and the justice impacts of Northwest wildfires. Our work on anti-racism continues, and it’s time to be prepared to vote in the upcoming election!
This Special Edition of the OR-ID MFSA Newsletter is highlighting news from our Annual Meeting including a conversation with Valarie Kaur, introductions from some of our Executive Board members, and focus on resources and action for the coming months.
Celebrate Thanksgiving with respect for Native Americans.Most of us now know that the "first Thanksgiving" was not much like we learned in elementary school. Make it part of your celebration this year to learn something more. The Smithsonian's Museum of the American Indian has many good resources on its website: Celebrate the holiday with a joyful and thankful heart!
Thanks to First UMC in Boise, there is now a global campaign "Love Beyond Borders" to support and fund vaccine equity.
You can contribute by giving through the UMC Advance #3022671.
You can help your church become a partner in this campaign. There is a webinar on November 16 for pastors and church leaders. The registration link is in this UMNS story.
Tell Congress to reform our immigration laws
If you live near Salem, consider attending the rally below.
If you live further away, write to your members of Congress. Remind them that just immigration laws should be a high priority.
Oregon residents: Lift Every Voice Oregon is preparing to collect signatures on two new initiative petitions. Visit their website to read the text of the petitions and sign up to be notified when signature gathering starts: https://www.lifteveryvoiceoregon.com
Idaho residents: Visit the website of Moms Demand Action for Idaho to find out what's happening and how you can connect:
https://www.everytown.org/state/idaho/