October 25, 2007

Slavery, both from a historic context and a contemporary view, is the focus of a series of events at La Sierra University on Saturday, October 27, sponsored by the university’s Stahl Center for World Service.

The annual Stahl Center liturgical worship service at the La Sierra University Church on Saturday October 27, at 11 am, will celebrate the heroic efforts of William Wilberforce in bringing the end of slavery to the British Empire, while reminding worship participants that de facto slavery continues in many parts of the globe, according to the university's Professor of Religion and Society Charles Teel.

"Wilberforce's successful campaign to end slavery in the British Empire to end by a parliamentary vote a full half-century before their American cousins ended slavery through a devastating civil war is to be lauded," notes Teel. "At the same time we must be agents of change in facing down contemporary expressions of slavery and human trafficking."

The day's homily, "Freedom—Discovered in 'The Other'"—is presented by Pastor Carl Wilkens, former Director of Adventist Development and Relief Services (ADRA) in Rwanda. Wilkens has received numerous awards for his refusal to follow orders to evacuate in the midst of violent and murderous times, but rather remaining with orphans and other school children and offering his presence as a source of protection and hope.

This day of remembrance begins at 9:30 am student reports of local, national, and international efforts by students involved in global service activities. The afternoon concludes with the screening of the 2007 award-winning film, "Amazing Grace" that documents the Wilberforce efforts. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion.

PR Contact: Larry Becker
Executive Director of University Relations
La Sierra University
Riverside, California
951.785.2460 (voice)