LAMPa is pleased to announce two fellows for the Isaiah 58:12 Fellowship for 2024-2025! Annamary Oslikova and Liliyana Beck will begin their projects in their congregations and communities to further racial justice and reconciliation.
Annamary Oslikova, member of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Waynesboro, is beginning her project, “Racial Disparities In Education,” that will feature a video highlighting the inequalities immigrants and minorities face in the education system and what we can do to take action. She will be mentored by the Rev. Elizabeth Peter Eckman of St. John’s Shiremanstown.
“I have been called to the Isaiah 58:12 Fellowship so that I can seek social justice through Christ,” said Oslikova. “I am honored to be producing a documentary on the rights of immigrants in our community. The injustice many immigrants face on an day-to-day basis is linked with the need for racial reconciliation. Through this project, I’m looking forward to the opportunity to collaborate with an equipped mentor, receive further access to resources, and guidance to help this project reach its full potential. Being involved in projects like this one can broaden my perspective and knowledge on social issues, so I can build all the more meaningful connections and relationships in this field. I am very thankful and excited to participate in this program, and I am looking forward to the learning experiences yet to come.”
Liliyana Beck, member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Perkasie, is beginning her project, “REBUILD-Renewing Every Bond, Understanding Individual Lives and Dreams.” The program will aid youth reintegration into the community post-incarceration, offering Bible studies, financial and job search seminars, and support groups. Her mentor will be the Rev. Dr. Patricia Davenport, former bishop of SEPA Synod.
Beck is a sophomore at Pennridge High School. “In addition to playing the cello in the Pennridge High School Orchestra and with the Youth Orchestra of Bucks County, I am also an active member of St. Andrew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, where I have been a worship leader and member of the choir, Beck said. “I participated in the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans in July. When I am not studying, playing my cello, or helping with my church duties, I participate in fencing. Finally, as you can see from my photograph, I love Halloween. I am excited to be a part of this year’s Isaiah 58:12 Fellowship project and am looking forward to completing my project.”
The goal of REBUILD, Beck said, is to help reintegrate formerly incarcerated youth into their communities.
“My project will include classes to help prepare them for practical problems they may face and whatever the future will hold for them, recreational get-togethers, and Bible studies. I am very excited to be sharing my journey with all of you and I ask for your prayers and support while I make my way through this project.”
LAMPa is incredibly excited for these two fellows, their mentors, and the impact their projects will make on their communities. Please join in praying for them as they begin and be sure to check out their progress at Lutheran Day 2025!