Are we merely neighbors to the less fortunate or are we, as called by Christ, JUST neighbors? The mountains in the distance and the beauty of the Bishop Hodges Pastoral Center at Huttonsville, WV provided a sense of peace that contrasted sharply against the urgency and ugliness of the poverty issues being discussed at the “Just Neighbors Workshop” held August 24 through 26. The workshop presenter was Frank McCann from Family Promise. Pastor Craig Richter of Franklin/Moyer (Mountain Parish) served as chaplain and co-presenter. Nine sessions immersed participants into the lives of the poor, elements of decision making and and discussion of public policy that effect our most vulnerable neighbors. Through video and role playing workshop participants saw how the working poor struggle, how communities grapple with issues of housing for the poorest and how corporate decisions impact their employees as well as their bottom line. At the end of each session the group explored ways to become involved. In addition, the group traveled to the Tyrand Cooperative Ministries, Inc, community center and met with Director Belinda Toms and other staff persons. After a tour of the facility, the staff provided transportation up one of the hollows to visit John and his wife who are clients of the center. With typical mountain hospitality the group was invited into their aging mobile home where John talked not about his difficulties, but of his love of Christ. The event, sponsored by the Committee for Church in Society, was made possible by an ELCA Hunger Grant, Community Lutheran Partners and the WV-Western Maryland Synod. Highlighting that poverty is more than a local issue, the workshop was attended by representatives from the Upper Susquehanna and Lower Susquehanna Synods, WV Council of Churches, the WV Presbytery and several pastors and lay people from the West Virginia Western Maryland Synod. Several representatives from Community Lutheran Partners were at the event. Those wanting to schedule a “Just Neighbors” event to promote awareness within congregations or communities may contact the WV-Western Maryland Synod Office. The synod copy of the “Just Neighbors” material can be loaned out and , if desired, persons can be made available to help with the presentation of a workshop.