National Right to Life had the honor of co-hosting, along with the Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty (LCRL), a reception on Tuesday, February 13, to introduce pro-lifers and Christian advocates in Washington to the new Center and its Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Greg Seltz.
The LCRL is an initiative by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod with the mission of celebrating, advocating, and protecting religious liberty to support its mission and ministry. The Center’s objectives extend beyond religious freedom, as it also aims to be a significant voice in political discourse concerning life issues, particularly those involving unborn children threatened by abortion, as well as the elderly and disabled individuals who are vulnerable to assisted suicide and euthanasia.
The reception was a well-attended event, bringing together a diverse group of advocates who share a commitment to defending life and religious liberty. Among the guests were representatives from several prominent organizations, including the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, the National Association of Evangelicals, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Association of Christian Schools International, American Association of Christian Schools, the Christian Medical Society, and March for Life.
Dr. Greg Seltz, the new Executive Director of the LCRL, brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to these causes. His leadership is anticipated to significantly bolster the efforts to advocate for life and religious freedom in Washington, D.C. During the reception, Dr. Seltz articulated his vision for the LCRL, emphasizing the importance of uniting faith-based organizations in a common cause to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
The National Right to Life Committee’s involvement in this event underscores its ongoing commitment to building alliances and strengthening the pro-life movement. By partnering with organizations like the LCRL, National Right to Life aims to amplify its advocacy efforts and influence public policy more effectively. The reception provided an opportunity for networking and collaboration among various pro-life and religious liberty advocates, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
The Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty’s dedication to both religious freedom and the sanctity of life highlights the interconnectedness of these issues. Religious liberty is not only about the freedom to worship but also about the freedom to live out one’s beliefs in the public square. For many, this includes advocating for the protection of life at all stages, from conception to natural death. The Center’s efforts to address issues like abortion, assisted suicide, and euthanasia are rooted in the belief that every human life is valuable and deserving of protection.
Dr. Seltz’s leadership at the LCRL is expected to bring a renewed vigor to these efforts. His background in theology and public advocacy positions him well to navigate the complex political landscape of Washington, D.C. His experience and passion were evident as he spoke at the reception, calling for a united front among pro-life and religious liberty advocates. He stressed the importance of remaining steadfast in the face of challenges and working together to create a culture that respects and protects human life.
The reception also served as a platform to discuss upcoming initiatives and strategies to advance the pro-life cause. Attendees shared insights and experiences, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas could be exchanged and partnerships formed. This kind of engagement is crucial for building a robust and effective movement capable of influencing policy and public opinion.
One of the key themes of the evening was the need for continued vigilance and advocacy. The battle to protect life and religious liberty is ongoing, and it requires constant effort and dedication. The collaboration between National Right to Life and the LCRL represents a strategic alliance aimed at addressing these issues on multiple fronts. By combining resources and expertise, these organizations can more effectively challenge policies that threaten life and religious freedom.
Moreover, the involvement of diverse organizations at the reception highlights the broad support for these causes across different faith communities and advocacy groups. The presence of representatives from various Christian denominations and pro-life organizations underscores the widespread commitment to defending life and liberty. This unity is essential for creating a strong and cohesive movement that can withstand opposition and effect meaningful change.
The Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty’s establishment in Washington, D.C., marks a significant step forward in the effort to protect religious freedom and advocate for life. With Dr. Seltz at the helm, the Center is poised to become a leading voice in these critical issues. National Right to Life’s collaboration with the LCRL reflects its commitment to expanding its reach and impact through strategic partnerships.
As we welcome Dr. Seltz to Washington and look forward to working with him, it is clear that the pro-life and religious liberty movements are gaining momentum. The reception on February 13 was not just an introduction to the LCRL but a reaffirmation of the shared values and goals that unite us. Together, we can advance a culture of life and liberty in our nation’s capital and beyond, ensuring that every human being is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Chelsea Garcia is a political writer with a special interest in international relations and social issues. Events surrounding the war in Ukraine and the war in Israel are a major focus for political journalists. But as a former local reporter, she is also interested in national politics.
Chelsea Garcia studied media, communication and political science in Texas, USA, and learned the journalistic trade during an internship at a daily newspaper. In addition to her political writing, she is pursuing a master's degree in multimedia and writing at Texas.
