Iowa

Welcome to the Iowa Chapter of MFSA. We are passionate about putting our faith into action.  For the most up-to-date information, please visit our chapter website at www.mfsaiowa.org.

As a chapter our emphasis and actions reflect the national priorities of MFSA: peace, poverty, people’s rights and progressive initiatives though we also work on issues specific to our local communities, state and annual conference.  In the past year, we have been especially focused on issues of immigration and restorative justice.

Our next event is the Iowa MFSA Statewide Gathering on October 31st, with further exploration of prison and restorative justice initiatives.  More information is available here.

Chapter Contact Information
Eloise Cranke, Coordinator
Phone: 515-262-5974
Email: ecranke@mchsi.com

Annual Conference 2009

 A highlight of the Iowa Annual Conference was MFSA’s Awards Event on Saturday, June 6,th attended by over 400 people. Awards were presented to Sol Varisco and Jeff Abbas for their outstanding work with immigrants following the raid at Postville a year ago.  In addition two churches, St. Bridget’s Catholic Church in Postville and First United Methodist Church in Decorah, were recognized for their tireless work in the community of Postville.  A third award was given to Sharon Malheiro, who was instrumental in the case that ultimately led to the Supreme Court’s decision on marriage equality. 

The keynote speaker, the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright, was received enthusiastically and delivered a simple but powerful message.  To the award recipients and to MFSA he said, in essence, that our work fulfills scripture; it’s not in vain and does make a difference, and it’s not over.  He called the recipients “prophets,” and admonished all of us to keep on working.

Other highlights of Conference were the Rainbow Communion Service, attended by over 80 persons, and the celebration of the 10th Anniversary of Justice for Our Neighbors.

Eloise Cranke