The ELCA through its congregations, synods, churchwide organization, and in its breadth of individuals, groups, institutions, and agencies assumes a leadership role in small town and rural life to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. Sharing God’s gift of hope and promises of justice and healing this church will develop and mobilize its assets to:

• Work for economic justice and alleviate and prevent poverty;

• Embrace diversity, promote harmony and challenge discrimination in all its forms (racism, sexism, classism, sexual orientation, and xenophobia);

• Care for the land and all of God’s creation;

• Create a forum for raising rural issues for moral deliberation and advocacy;

• Evangelize the unchurched and reach all with the good news of God’s love care through Jesus Christ;

• Develop and nurture leadership for small town and rural churches and communities; and

• Support and sustain small town and rural communities and congregations.