As the Learning Lab, “Lessons From the District,” began, the Rev. Ben Roberts from Foundry UMC in Washington, DC, asked participants to consider how their churches can address broken systems, particularly those systems that have the greatest impact on persons in their communities who are already vulnerable. Roberts, who is an ordained deacon and a member of the NC Conference, shared from his experience as the Executive Director of Programs and Justice Ministries at Foundry and highlighted Foundry’s ID Ministry.

The ID Ministry, short for Imago Dei, is a ministry that seeks to help residents who are in need of vital documents, like a birth certificate or identification card. These documents which are necessary for jobs, housing, and other important services are also an opportunity to recognize in each person the image of God and to help them be more visible in the community. In fact, the tag line for the ministry is, “Where everyone is welcome!”

Currently, ID Ministry serves around 2,000 clients per year. They are able to do this due to a single-minded focus on this specific need in their community. Because of this focus, they serve as a subject-matter expert on the topic for the region and are the only ministry or agency which assists in identification reclamation. ID Ministry and Foundry have developed strong relationships with other agencies in the area to handle other types of needs, and they shifted their mindset from a mission mentality to a ministry mentality. ID Ministry seeks to not only help people claim their identity and get the help they need, but also to journey alongside them in the process.

Roberts explained that theology belongs in the world, not just the church. In fact, theology can give people direction and encouragement when realities of the world drive them toward chaos.

The ID Ministry at Foundry rises out of their core values and encourages those it serves. Roberts encouraged participants to consider what their church’s core values are and to find ministries which align with them.

Roberts reminded participants that no matter what ministry a church may engage in, the church can impact people and build up the community. Roberts also encouraged participants to look around for civic and community organizations with which to partner. He reminded the group to not be afraid to speak to government officials and representatives. Voices from the church are important to hear.