Lisa Ward

Summer 2008 Fellow - Episcopal Public Policy Network

I applied at several of the Beatitudes Society Fellowship sites. EPPN was my first choice since it seemed to offer an in-depth view of The Episcopal Church operations on the national level; one that would be difficult to find any place except through direct experience. What I learned helped me better understand the entire network of relationships from the local communities where the congregations gather to the church's relationships across the globe. It will be my job in the future to help sustain and expand existing networks, and establish new ones. My faith is central to my life and to who I am. Through my Fellowship, I became more informed as to why both domestically and internationally social justice issues, social justice reform, and peace are critical to the future of humanity. One of the challenges will be to teach others what I have learned, while learning with others what is at the root of unjust systems.

My studies will continue at this time toward completion of my MDiv program for ordained ministry in The Episcopal Church.  This Fellowship experience provided me a foundation for learning more about faith and its relationship to public policy advocacy. I found the Fellowship experience particularly challenging for me as I was somewhat removed from the systems of political processes which drive public policy.  I envisage my faith as a motivational force to engage others who, in seeking the Kingdom of God, will find the face of Christ in everyone they meet, regardless of economic status, gender, sexual orientation, level of education, or any other type of perceived judgments.  Learning of this nature does not necessarily require a purely academic approach as much as it demands a mutual understanding of all involved as to the importance of breaking down the barriers between "us" and "them". After spending time as a Beatitudes Society Fellow, there is no doubt in my mind that the Christian Church must speak loudly as a voice for the voiceless along with its interfaith partners.  

Strengthening the progressive Christian network for justice, compassion, & peace