Offering of Letters

On Sunday, March 3, 2024, Paul Manganiello spoke during worship and invited participation in this year’s Bread for the World Offering of Letters.

Sunday was the kick-off of our annual Bread for the World (BFW) Offering of Letters (OofL)! OSLC is a Covenant Church with BFW, an ecumenical advocacy movement founded by the New York City Lutheran pastor Art Simon in the 70’s. This year’s OofL relates to the Federal Farm Bill.

The Farm Bill is usually re-authorized every 5 years. It was to be finalized in 2023, but a new Bill has not been formally enacted, so the 2018 Bill is being extended until an updated Bill is completed. The Farm Bill impacts every one of us in the US, anyone who sells, buys, or eats food. It also impacts those facing hunger internationally.

The Farm Bill covers specific areas of interest called chapters. The 4 major chapters include: 1^st nutrition, 2^nd crop insurance, 3^rd commodities, and 4^th conservation.

80% of the projected budget spending involves nutritional programs such as: SNAP (the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program); the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program; The Senior’s Farmer’s Market Nutritional Programs; The Community Food Projects; and the Gus Schumacker Nutritional Program (GusNIP).

SNAP supplies nutritional assistance to millions of Americans serving more than 40M individuals. It is the most effective tool to reduce hunger insecurity; GusNIP enhances SNAP providing benefits to purchase fruits and vegetables.

BFW is advocating for measures that will not only enhance nutrition but also assure equity and sustainability in the US and around the world.

Usually, we hold our Offering of Letters after the Easter Season, but this year we were encouraged to do it sooner. Lent is really a perfect opportunity to advocate for those who may not be able to advocate for themselves. All too often the season of lent becomes a “self-improvement project” giving up chocolate, alcohol, or some other vice. We might want to reconsider, rather than taking a negative approach, doing something positive for someone else. The simple act of writing to our elected officials, encouraging them to bring about public policy to enhance a sustainable, equitable Farm Bill will benefit all of us.

Because of delays in mail getting to our legislators, due to security screening, they are suggesting that they be sent electronically. All the information can be found here.

Also, please email me or Wendy when you have sent your letters so we can contact the national BFW office in DC.

Paul Manganiello