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Public
Affairs &
Religious Liberty
A famous writer once said, "Liberty is one of the greatest
blessings that heaven has bestowed upon mankind." He was
correct. It is through liberty that the Word of God is proclaimed.
The office of public affairs and religious liberty (PARL) is
dedicated to "proclaim liberty throughout all the land
unto all the inhabitants thereof" (Lev. 25:10).
Religious Liberty Cases
PARL's service to church members is constant. While
the number of Sabbath accommodation problems has remained steady,
the specific problems and methods of resolution have escalated.
The department engages in intense mediation and conciliation
on behalf of members, filing charges with the federal commission,
representing members during mediation, and participating in
unemployment hearings.
Religious Liberty Offering and Liberty Magazine
The religious liberty offering remains strong. Each year the
Southern Union has led the North American Division in offerings.
The amount received over the last five years is $1,176,062.00,
a three per cent increase since the previous session. It is
this base of support that allows the department to continue
to maintain a current list of elected local and state officials.
In 2000 all elected officials received Liberty magazine
in four of the eights states that comprise the Southern Union.
Your offerings and prayers will help us reach the elected officials
in every state.
Government Liaison Representatives
There is an active government liaison committee of trained laymen
and pastors who live in or near capitals of each state. They
watch for impending legislation that may impair religious freedom.
State bills are monitored by Internet and personal visitations
to the capitols. Adverse legislation is reported to the department.
Southern Society of Adventist Attorneys
The department keeps contact with 133 known Adventist attorneys
and law students who are registered with the department. Annual
retreats are planned with devotional and professional exercises
for mutual fellowship among families. Adventist attorneys in
the Southern Union are a significant part of the resources and
counsel that assist the department in resolving legal matters.
2008 Liberty Cruise
Bulletin Insert Download
Cruise Poster Download
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