In October, Presbytery of the James welcomes from El Salvador PC(USA) International Peacemaker Carmen Elena Diaz Anzora and interpreter Joseph Russ.
Carmen is an executive committee member of the Calvinist Reformed Church of El Salvador (IRCES), a PC(USA) partner for more than two decades. Joseph is PC(USA)’s coordinator for migration issues, advocacy, and mission in northern Central America.
Nationwide, El Salvador suffers from low economic growth, poverty, and violence.
In addition, the business and government center of El Salvador, where Carmen lives, faces gangs and environmental concerns.
“Due to population [and] commercial and industrial growth, the municipality has high rates of pollution from industrial waste and sewage,” she shared.
Carmen works in social projects, especially in community formation, peacebuilding and conflict transformation. Her work aids migrants, people in emergency situations due to disasters, and children and youth.
Joseph ministers with and supports the Calvinist Reform Church in El Salvador and their education and development agency, Alfalit, while strengthening a network of partners working on migration issues. He also helped found the Santa Marta Anglican Center to provide shelter and support to unhoused LGBTIQ+ youth and young adults.
Opportunities to Meet Carmen and Joseph
October 5, 7:00 p.m.
- Bon Air Church
Dinner starts at 6:15 p.m., program begins at 7:00
Register for dinner by Monday, October 3, by emailing debho@comcast.net
October 6, 11:00 a.m.
- Gayton Kirk
Lunch and program
Register for lunch by emailing maggieheistand@gmail.com
October 6, 7:00 p.m.
- Zoom
Join
October 7, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- Union Seminary
Conversation with Seminarians at Richmond Hall
Bring a lunch or purchase lunch at the seminary ($9)
October 9, 9:30 a.m.
- Second Church, Richmond
Sunday School Forum
October 9, 6:00 p.m.
- Salisbury Church
For presbytery youth groups only
Youth group leader must register with Associate Pastor Nate Taylor by October 2. Adult leaders must have background checks completed by their respective church. Event includes dinner.
