OREGON FAITH MOVEMENT

Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (EMO) brings together diverse communities of faith to learn, serve and advocate for justice, peace and the integrity of creation.

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About Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (EMO)

MISSION
Committed to mutual respect and understanding, Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon brings together diverse communities of faith to learn, serve and advocate for justice, peace and the integrity of creation.

VISION
Striving for unity in Jesus Christ and seeking to honor our sacred traditions, Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon envisions communities of faith in ministry together creating a more peaceful, just, sustainable and compassionate world.

HISTORY
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon traces its roots back to 1917 with the formation of the Home Mission Council, established to promote evangelism among the churches of Oregon and to provide a means for the churches to cooperatively work together. In 1919, the Portland Council of Churches was established by 25 Protestant, Anglican and Orthodox congregations of Portland. EMO was founded in 1974, following the merger of the Oregon Council of Churches and the Portland Council of Churches. EMO remains one of the longest established ecumenical organizations in the United States. 

Learn more about EMO by watching a short video with EMO President Jan Musgrove Elfers. (SoundView Recording & Films)

LIGHT IN THE TUNNEL: Stories of hope and resilience from Oregon’s faith community

EMO PRESENTS A FREE ONLINE GALA ON MAY 19
It seems like all we hear about is the negative. We too often miss the simple stories of people helping one another, the remarkable stories of Oregonians living their values and serving their neighbors. This event will inspire and encourage while offering you the opportunity to financially support the ongoing work of Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon in direct service programs, advocacy, education and unity-building. We will also honor EMO’s “Ecumenists of the Year” Randy and Edith Woodley.

LEARN MORE & REGISTER

advocacy & action

We bring the faith community’s voice to the policy-making process at the Oregon Legislature to ensure a life of possibility for all Oregonians. Learn more

community service

Our diverse direct service programs offer hunger, nutrition and social support; affordable housing opportunities; and refugee and immigration services. Learn more

creation justice

We connect, inform and empower people, congregations and religious institutions to work for care and renewal of the earth through education and advocacy. Learn more

education & dialogue

We offer opportunities that celebrate Christian unity, foster interfaith relations, and explore ethical and moral issues with workshops, lectures and prayer vigils. Learn more