About the Office of Public Policy & Advocacy

Office of Public Policy & Advocacy

For more info call 651/969-2274 or 800/582-5260

About the LSS Office of Public Policy & Advocacy
This office is developed to advocate for public policy that enables healthier, more satisfying human relationships within the context of the agency's mission and services. The director receives counsel and direction from the Board of Directors, and the president and staff of the agency, along with church units and other community leaders. The objectives of the office are to:

Promote enactment of legislation and administrative rules which are responsive to the mission of LSS;
Engage LSS staff and constituents in discussion and study about policy issues and governmental processes which affect the agency's mission;

Develop and communicate in a timely and thorough way reviews of legislative, administrative and judicial actions which may have an effect on LSS' mission;
Facilitate regular communication between LSS and units of government;
Develop a comprehensive and integrated agency posture on proposal or potential legislation or rules;
Create and maintain positive relations between policy makers and administrators, and LSS staff members.

What about church/state separation?
LSS and its partner synods and congregations honor the cherished American Principle of separation of church and state. However, they are also committed to honoring a historical and biblical imperative to address social and political issues involving questions of justice, liberty, and equality in Christian responsibility.

From the time of the Old Testament prophets to the ministry of Jesus Christ and the founding of the church, justice has been a cornerstone of social responsibility for people of faith.

These words from the prophet of Isaiah summarize well how the LSS views its mission: "I, the Lord, have called you and given you power to see that justice is done on earth". (42:6)

The issue for the church and its agencies is not whether they will be related to government, but how they will be related and for what purpose.

Office of Public Policy & Advocacy staff are available to provide informational workshops to help individuals develop advocacy skills and learn more about public policy development and implementation.For more information about the governmental relations work of LSS, or about becoming involved in an advocacy network for justice issues in the Lutheran tradition, please leave a message in the guest book!

Office of Public Policy & Advocacy
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota
651/969-2274 or MN WATS 800/582-5260
FAX 651/969-2360