Introduction of new "involvement-oriented" Episcopal animal advocacy group

Round Lake, IL -- September 1, 2004 --

A group of Episcopalian animal advocates from various dioceses across the United States have worked together to create a new grass roots network for ministry: the Episcopal Network for Animal Welfare (ENAW). We believe this was born as an answer to prayer, and out of a need to live out a call for mutual support and service,

- in accord with the mission, aims and objectives of Anglican Society for the Welfare of Animals in the UK;

- encouraged by theologians, bishops and others who take the topic of humanity's exploitation of animals seriously as a Christian concern;

- inspired by the pastoral letter from the bishops of New England, "To Serve Christ in All Creation" (with an emphasis on the understanding that Creation includes all sentient life);

- and holding the adoption of Resolution D016 at the 74th General Convention of the Episcopal Church last summer as a statement of consensus among Church leaders on issues pertaining specifically to domestic and captive animals,

"The Mission of the Episcopal Network for Animal Welfare is to create an inclusive and mutually-supportive venue for Episcopal animal advocates with a variety of interests and gifts; and to offer our presence, passion, enthusiasm and resources to help equip the churches to give meaningful voice to every creature under Heaven, especially where neglect, cruelty, degradation and commercial exploitation are concerned."

Animal advocacy dovetails closely with many existing ministries and organizations in the Church. But it also stands alone as a unique entity. Therefore, it is hoped that bridges can be built where common goals exist, to widen the scope of vision and mission. Beyond that, ENAW hopes to offer its presence as a resource to individuals and congregations for various types of information, education, and eventually for offering worship resources where none currently exist.

All Episcopalians who are interested in taking an active role in animal advocacy, according to their gifts, interests or opportunities, are welcome and encouraged to join ENAW by visiting http://www.enaw.org Membership is free. A listserv has been set up for communicating with other members. More information and resources will be compiled, as ENAW's membership grows.

From: Episcopal Network for Animal Welfare http://www.enaw.org 

"The creatures man uses and, so often abuses, are voiceless and helpless. We are not. We have pens with which to write to politicians and retailers, voices with which to speak out, shopping choices which can have a major impact..., organisations to join, even, on appropriate occasions, banners to carry."
-- Rt Rev Richard Llewellin, ret. Bishop at Lambeth