This week’s Windy City Times included a story about Rev. Pieter Oberholzer’s current North American tour. Read more about the event and view a few photos here.

On Saturday, June 25 Rev. Pieter Oberholzer spoke at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church of Logan Square.  Rev. Oberholzer is the founder of Inclusive and Affirming Ministries (IAM) in South Africa.

“IAM advocates that the South African religious communities should become more welcoming and affirming towards Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people.

IAM works as a catalyst, interacting both with the religious faith communities and the gay community, building bridges through our programmes and projects.”

ELM is support IAM ministries this year through an ELM Grant. Though Oberholzer lives in South Africa has been active in the ELM community for many years. He is touring North America to build partnerships.

Rev. Jen Rude, ELM board of directors member and Proclaim member introduced Rev. Oberholzer and talked about ELM’s work. The event was held at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church of Logan Square. Rev. Erik Christensen,  ELM co-chair and Proclaim member is pastor at St. Luke’s. Additionally, St. Luke’s is a 2011 ELM Grant recipient–and home to the ELM office.