May 2020
"We are in the same storm, but not the same boat."
Dear Fri ends,
 
Our lives have changed dramatically in the last few months. I heard a quote recently that resonated with me. “We are all in the same storm, but not in the same boat.” 

Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon’s programs have seen dramatic increases in the numbers of people who are seeking food, shelter and other basic human needs during this crisis. Whatever situation we might be experiencing in these times, some things have not changed. God continues to be ever present with us in the storm, and we are given the sacred responsibility to love one another in very concrete ways.

I am moved by the generosity of so many of you who are committing time and resources to help our neighbors, even those of you who are unemployed or experiencing other hardships. This is truly sacrificial giving. I am grateful for your compassion.

In love and hope,
Jan Musgrove Elfers
EMO President
May 5 is #GivingTuesdayNow
On May 5, GivingTuesday is holding a global day of giving and unity as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19.

Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon's front-line direct services continue to provide food and other essential services at a crucial time for our most vulnerable neighbors. We can only continue this work with generous support from our donors. To keep these vital services running, please consider making a secure online donation to EMO. #GivingTuesdayNow
EMO supports Metro Measure 26-210 to address housing crisis
Vote "YES" on Measure 26-210!

On May 19, if we act together, voters in the Portland metro region will have the opportunity to change the chronic homelessness problem in our region and re-establish the true meaning of community.

By voting YES on Measure 26-210 for homeless services, we will ensure services in our region have the funding needed to match the scale of the problem without placing a burden on low-and middle-income families. #WeAreHereTogether
Wear Orange 2020 for Gun Sense
Friday, June 5, will be recognized as the sixth National Gun Violence Awareness Day, followed by Wear Orange Weekend, June 6 and 7 .

During #WearOrange, everyone who believes we can and must solve the problem of gun violence in America will take action and stand together in a bold statement of resilience and fortitude as we advance our efforts.

Wear Orange is organized by Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers, in partnership with the Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund.
Oregon Stats
In an average year,  509  people die by guns. With a rate of  11.7 deaths per 100,000  people, Oregon has the  31st  highest rate of gun deaths in the United States.
SOURCE: CDC, WISQARS FATAL INJURY REPORTS, FIVE-YEAR AVERAGE: 2014–2018.
Returning to Church: Ministries during the COVID-19 outbreak
The Wisconsin Council of Churches has developed a guide on how to phase a church re-opening. It in addition to a model for reopening church in phases, it includes questions for clergy to consider, and a list of resources.
Virtual Events
Three Clergy Conversations: Congregations in COVID
May 14 @ 7 p.m. 
Three Portland religious leaders in conversation about how the COVID-19 virus has impacted their faith communities, what its like to be a religious leader in these times, and how the nation's response to the pandemic may continue to influence religious life in America in the years to come. Join Msgr. Patrick S. Brennan (St. Mary's Cathedral), Rabbi Michael Z. Cahana (Congregation Beth Israel), and Dean Nathan LeRud (Trinity Episcopal Cathedral and EMO Board Secretary) for a live webinar version of their beloved annual dialogue. ACCESS LINK
Public Policy Advocacy
Learn the latest on EMO’s advocacy efforts at the Oregon State Capitol, in Washington D.C., and beyond on behalf of the most vulnerable, and how to contact your elected official to make a difference on behalf of all Oregonians.

View our latest issue of " Peace & Justice ."
Employment Opportunities at EMO
Join EMO's talented team making a difference in Oregon! EMO offers a generous benefits package. Visit our employment page for more details .
Sexual Assault Advocate (Russian Oregon Social Services) : Provide effective, culturally specific sexual assault services to the Russian-speaking population. Hiring for two part-time positions: 25 hours/week and 15 hours/week. Positions open until filled. View full position description and how to apply .

Assistant Cook (Food Services and HIV Services) : Provide support to EMO Food Service and HIV Services Program Managers. Full time with benefits. Position open until filled. View full position description and how to apply .

Second Home Regional Coordinator for Rural Clackamas County
Oversee and coordinate the operations of the Second Home program in rural Clackamas County. Recruit and support students and volunteer home providers in/near specified school districts. Half time position with benefits. Open until filled. View full position description and how to apply .
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
503-221-1054 | emo@emoregon.org | emoregon.org