Evangelical churches in Indiana offer support in a variety of ways to economically vulnerable families in their communities — whether through food banks, job training classes, English tutoring or other means. When it comes to policy proposals that impact the same families and individuals, it can be confusing to know what is most helpful. This Indiana-focused conversation will help you understand what is on the table and how you can be part of lifting millions out of poverty.

Kimberly Majeski, associate professor of biblical studies at Anderson University, hosted the conversation. Aaron Perry, associate professor of pastoral theology and leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University; Tim Streett, assistant director at Shepherd Community Center; and Zach Szmara, national director of Immigrant Connection, offered a framework and basis for considering bipartisan solutions to complex issues. You’ll also hear from Sen. Mike Braun and former state Sen. Jim Merritt. Policy updates from NAE staff highlighted information on tax credits, immigration, predatory lending and paid family leave.

 

Kimberly Majeski

Kimberly Majeski is an associate professor of biblical studies at the School of Theology and Christian Ministry at Anderson University. She is an ordained pastor and has been in full-time ministry for more than 20 years. Majeski lives at the heart of the justice movement as an activist and the leader of Stripped Love, a nonprofit serving victims of sex trafficking. In 2019, she launched the Preacher Girl School, an online community and academy for women called to ministry. Majeski completed her post graduate education at the University of Notre Dame, and obtained her doctoral degree from the Anderson School of Theology.

Tim Streett

Tim Streett is the assistant director at Shepherd Community Center in Indianapolis. Prior to serving the Shepherd Community Center, Streett was director of Jireh Sports. He served as minister of urban outreach for the East 91st Street Christian Church in Indianapolis. Streett uses his 30 years of experience to teach about issues of poverty, urban development and urban ministry. He is currently a doctoral candidate at Bellarmine University and holds a M.Div. in Old Testament studies from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and a bachelor’s degree from Purdue University.

Aaron Perry

Aaron Perry is an associate professor of pastoral theology and leadership at Indiana Wesleyan University. Perry is also an ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church where he has served as an assistant and associate pastor for over 10 years. He has authored and co-authored five books including his latest, “Biblical Theology for Ethical Leadership: Leaders from Beginning to End.” He is a frequent contributor to SeedBed’s online resources. Perry holds a Ph.D. in organizational leadership from Regent University, an M.A. in theological studies from Asbury Theology Seminary and B.A. in pastoral ministry from Kingswood University.

Zach Szmara

Zach Szmara is the national director of Immigrant Connection. In the seven years he has led the local Immigrant Connection site, he has served over 2,200 immigrants from 100+ nations. Szmara has served as an accredited legal representative for the Department of Justice since 2014. He is also the pastor of The Bridge Community Church, a multilingual, multicultural and multiethnic church in Logansport, Indiana. Szmara speaks nationally on the topics of immigration, diaspora, multicultural diversity and holistic outreach to immigrants and refugees.