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36th Annual Saint Paul Area Synodical Women's Convention | |
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May 3, 2025
Holy Cross Lutheran Church
6355 10th Street North
Oakdale, MN 55128
Phone: 651-739-0643
We hold conventions to conduct the business of the Saint Paul Area Synodical Women’s Organization (SWO), elect officers and Board Members, approve the budget and to set direction for the future.
It is also a time for community. We meet to renew friendships and make new friends.
We are inspired and renewed by speakers and workshops, and we leave revitalized in our faith!
You and your church women are cordially invited to attend. May the Holy Spirit bless us as we gather in Christ’s Name.
To view/download the Convention Packet (details and forms) - CLICK HERE
To register online, click on the following link: https://bit.ly/3DNyt1i
Registration deadline: April 23, 2025
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President's Corner
by Becky Maier, President
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On February 15, I attended the conference of presidents, which was a zoom event. At that meeting, I learned a few things that I am excited to pass along to you.
As you know, the next Triennial Gathering is coming up in July of 2026 and the theme for the event was revealed to be "I Am Worthy". In a separate piece in the Bridges is more information about where the inspiration came from, as well as the logo for the event. I hope that since it is in Des Moines, Iowa, that we will have lots and lots of women from the Saint Paul area attending. There will be scholarships so be sure to take advantage of that. We will be needing some voting members from our SPAS women's organization. Perhaps that is something you would be interested in doing. The convention (not the gathering) will be virtual so our delegates will gather together to represent us at that meeting. Please let me know if that is something you would like to do or just fill out the form that is in the registration packet and send it on to Glenda Schnirring.
The churchwide board and staff have adopted a 2025 strategic plan - Connect, Create, Complement, Continue, and Celebrate. These five goals were compiled from discussions with staff and board, SWO presidents and participants, and those who participated in an online survey. Click here to learn more about this initiative. Under each heading is a list of goals that we can all embrace.
Note that there are changes with the Gather Magazine. It will now be a quarterly magazine and will arrive in homes the first week of the previous month. It will be a much larger edition than we are used to. Given the challenges of so many print publications, this will be a better fit for our own magazine.
In this edition of Bridges, you will find the registration packet for our May 3 Synodical Convention, which will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Oakdale. Once again, our convention committee has put together a day full of good and informative speakers, worship time, and just plain good time to be together. Please take note of the material offering, which will go to LSS refugee services. This is an especially difficult time for these services with layoffs beginning in those kinds of services. We can do so much more together than we can as individual women or congregations. I look forward to seeing you there.
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STILL WANTED: SWO Historian
We so very much are in need of a Historian. This position is perfect for someone who likes to put together Snapfish or Shutterfly books as we would like to move to electronically creating our history pieces. At this time, we will not be looking to put our past information online, just going forward from today. For more information or to ask questions, please be in touch with Becky Maier.
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Stewardship: Living by Jesus' example
by Glenda Schnirring, Board Member for Stewardship
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As we journey through Lent, the stewardship spirit within us becomes easily awakened. There are new altar colors and symbols, and dramatically somber readings and spoken messages, leading our thoughts to the word, “sacrifice”, which reminds us that we’re in an especially tender time of the church year.
While an easy explanation of stewardship is frequently described as the prudent use of our time, talents and treasure, Lent bends our conscience to a more humble configuration.
The depth of one's personal stewardship awareness expands by how one uses his/her time, recognizes the talents they're best at, and manages the treasure ($) set before them.
Rather than asking "What will I give up for Lent?", I have chosen to pivot my thinking to how am I going to dig deeper by being more generous and responsible with what God has given me to manage.
As Lent closes down, we will be hearing Jesus’ words from the cross in His final moments, from John 19:26-27. When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple (John) whom he loved, standing near, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold your son”, then he said to the disciple, “Behold your mother”.
In our world, we call this the ultimate example of stewardship. Let us work to live by Jesus’ example of releasing what is precious to the care of a recipient or purpose which will receive it with love and gratitude.
Unit and/or personal offerings to meet the goals of SWO’s last convention earmarked for Katie’s Fund, Global Refuge or Radio Furaha, remain very welcomed. They should be sent to SWO Treasurer, Karen Seaver, 30325 Newlander Trail, Lindstrom, MN 55045
Photo by Dev Benjamin on Unsplash
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Justice: What is Social Justice?
by Patty Todnem, Board Member for Justice
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The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) believes in social justice and works to address social and cultural injustices. The ELCA’S social justice views are based on the idea that “God created all people equally and calls them to love and serve their neighbors”. “All citizens have the responsibility to defend human rights to work for freedom, justice, peace, environmental well-being and good order in public life.”
God cares about justice and his law is clear - it tells us that all people no matter what their gender, skin color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability or disability, or anything else are equal. In the second greatest commandment, we are told to ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Our neighbor is anyone in our proximity with whom we can share God’s love.
What did Jesus do? Jesus pursued justice; he physically and spiritually rescued those in need. In Matthew 25:40 it says, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Jesus is telling us that treating others well in his Name is how we love and honor Him.
Today, we are to do the same. Social Justice takes on many forms: advocating for equal education, employment, medical care, legal rights for physical protection. It may be standing up for immigrants, people with disabilities or mental illness, feeding the hungry or tending the sick. Whatever it is we are urged to do, do it in love. Love like Jesus would, with open arms and care in spite of sin or social status. Love is knowing that all people have value and worth in the eyes of God.
Info from:
- Social Justice and Advocacy Ministries, North Carolina Synod
- Jessica Brodie - What did Jesus say about social justice?
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
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International Women's Day
by Jacque Bieber, Vice President
International Women’s Day is Saturday, March 8th. The Women of the ELCA have been supporting this effort for several years.
Their recommendation is:
“We as faithful women observe International Women’s Day (IWD) (SWO Resolution 18-2) each year on March 8th. That we take time to learn and share with our congregations more about International Women’s Day guiding 10 values: Justice, Dignity, Hope, Equality, Collaboration, Tenacity, Appreciation, Respect, Empathy and Forgiveness.”
The IWD website is https://www.internationalwomensday.com/About-IWD. There is a list of things that can be done to support women of the world. Some of the ones that you might want to follow are:
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Discipleship: Living as the Body of Christ
by Linda Hayle, Board Member for Discipleship
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In I Peter 3:8, “Finally, all of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds.”
This is a call to live a life of holiness outside of the sinful world.
As Christians, we are to care for our fellow members.
The church is the Body of Christ, and it is made up of each of its members. This means each member represents the Body of Christ.
What a challenge and a blessing.
Free image by tuxwrench on ClipSafari
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What is World Day of Prayer?
by Karen Seaver, Treasurer
You could ask your grandmothers. Many Ladies Aid Women celebrated World Day of Prayer annually through the 30’s and into the 70’s.
World Day of Prayer is a worldwide, ecumenical movement of Christian women of many traditions who come together to observe a common day of prayer each year, and who, in many countries, have a continuing relationship in prayer and service.
• It is initiated and carried out by women in more than 170 countries and regions.
• It is symbolized by an annual day of celebration observed on the first Friday in March to which all people are welcome.
• It brings women of different races, cultures and traditions together in fellowship, understanding and action throughout the year.
• Through World Day of Prayer, women affirm that prayer and action are inseparable and have immeasurable influence in the world.
• The motto of World Day of Prayer is “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action.”
The March 7, 2025 World Day of Prayer service was written by women from Cook Island in the South Pacific. The theme is “I made you wonderful” Psalm 139:14. Through the World Day of Prayer USA website store, you can purchase and download the prayer service, music, and posters. If your church didn’t celebrate this year, consider next year or the next.
(Download the bulletin insert for an explanation of the Artwork at wdp-usa.org)
The March 6, 2026 World Day of Prayer service will be written by women from Nigeria. The theme will be “I will give you rest; Come,” based on Matthew 11:28-30. Start preparing to observe the World Day of Prayer by marking your calendars and ordering materials in January.
In 2027, World Day of Prayer will be celebrating 100 years of uninterrupted global ecumenical prayer. The theme for the Centennial is “United in Prayer for Justice and Peace!”
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The symbol for World Day of Prayer was developed by the women of Ireland and adopted as the international logo in 1982. Its design is made up of arrows converging from the four points of the compass, persons kneeling in prayer, the Celtic cross, and the circle, representing the world and our unity through all our diversity.
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Synodical Women's Convention
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Holy Cross Lutheran – 6355 10th Street N, Oakdale
Mark your calendars for the Saint Paul Area Synodical Women's Convention. The theme is "Rejoice in Hope" from Romans 12:12. It's a great way to connect with other women in our synod, enjoy wonderful worship, study the Bible with Bishop Lull, as well as learn through a choice of great learning sessions.
Details are available in the Convention Packet (see first article in this issue of Bridges).
Please note this year's Convention Assignments:
- Greeters - Southeast
- Ushers/pages - South
- Coffee and Treats - East Central
- Table Decorations - North Central
- Material Offerings - North
- Learning session hosts - City
Robin Kieffer, SWO convention chairperson
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Rachel's Day
Sunday, May 4, 2025
". . . Rachel is weeping for her children; she refuses to be comforted for her children, because they are no more. Thus says the LORD: Keep your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears, for there is a reward for your work, says the LORD: they shall come back from the land of the enemy; there is hope for your future, says the LORD: your children shall come back to their own country.” (Jeremiah 31:15–17)
Women of the ELCA remembers Rachel's Day on the first Sunday in May each year. It is a day set aside to remember to pray for and support the children facing violence. Today there are so many children, in both our own USA and around the world, who are facing violence. It is important that we always remember them.
We can all recognize this day in our congregations by doing something as simple as placing a white rose on the altar, a reminder in the bulletin and/or newsletter, and including the children in the prayer of the day. There are resources available on the Women of the ELCA website (Rachel's Day - Women of the ELCA).
Photo by Sarah Coates on Unsplash
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Salad Supper with anti-racism speaker
June 18, 2025
The SWO board would like you to mark your calendar for June 18 for a Salad Supper. The focus of this will be anti-racism with Pastor Tim Maybee from Amazing Grace in Inver Grove Heights talking to us on that subject. We will be at St. Mark's in North Saint Paul, and it will be an evening event. Stay tuned for more information on this event.
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Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering
July 16-19, 2026
Des Moines, Iowa
Theme: I AM WORTHY
In 2017, Leymah Gbowee, Nobel Peace Prize recipient, challenged gathering participants to reclaim space and place for women and girls. Finding our voice and using it gives way to the light we possess. The world has worn women thin by defining for us who we are, what we can do and be. We use these two words to introduce ourselves and establish our identity in the public square. “I am” is how disciples proclaim their identity, intent, and actions.
I AM WORTHY continues our journey with Jesus through the lingering effects of the brokenness this community of women created in the image of God— called to discipleship and the world
have endured.
Acknowledging what we have been through is the beginning of healing. These words are both an affirmation for the community of women as disciples. This proclamation reminds us of God’s promise to always be with us, and God is always with us, through devastation and division that will surely be present. God is a gifted power in claiming who we are and whose we are.
I AM WORTHY is the very basis of our spiritual nature. Repeating “I AM WORTHY” can reprogram our subconscious mind by reminding us of who God is and the Holy Spirit’s continual work at challenging negative daily chatter. The practice of this self-affirmation creates pathways for the opportunity to repair and bring healing to us, the church, society, and the world.
The ancient Japanese art of kintsugi embraces brokenness and restoring what is broken as gift— the opportunity to repair. The art of kintsugi uses gold to repair broken pottery. Using gold, the very best to beautify and strengthen redeeming the pot to better than it was. This symbolism of healing and resilience is exactly what Christ did for us on the cross.
When we say, “I AM WORTHY,” we align ourselves with God's promises. And there is power in our
resolve—
“In him was life, and that life was the light of all humankind. The light shines in the darkness, and
the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:4-5.
“I am fearfully and wonderfully made” Psalm 139:14.
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Treasurer’s Note
by Karen Seaver, Treasurer
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“Let not the needy be forgotten. And let not the hope of the poor be stripped away.” From All Creations Sing, hymn #1058 by Bret Hesla 1957
The St. Paul Area Synodical Women’s Organizational Units and members should be very proud of the generosity and support they have provided to hard working organizations within our communities, our nation and throughout the world.
Throughout this past year, your church units and individual members have sent $22,829 to our Synodical Treasurer through registration for events, offerings and specific designated gifts. From this amount, $19,369 was donated to various charities. The balance of $3,460 was used to host events, pay for speakers, and general software and administrative costs.
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Thank you all for your generosity. The need will be greater this coming year as we see federal funding cuts which result in staff lay-offs and reduced services. Continue to use your generosity to share God’s love. Let us all ‘Rejoice in Hope’ as we look forward to our Synodical Convention on May 3rd.
Photo by Sticker Mule on Unsplash
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BE AWARE OF EMAIL SCAMS!
SWO Board members will NEVER send you an email requesting that you send money or gift cards. These kinds of emails are always a SCAM. Please be alert to such requests and inform a Board member if you ever receive such a request. Thank you.
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Book Corner
A World of Praise by Deborah Lock
Review submitted by Vernita Kennen
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This is a beautiful book for the youngest children. It not only does a good job of reminding children of the value and need to give praise to God for all things, but shows how people and places all around the world do so.
A World of Praise almost reads and looks like a song. Reading it, with the various quotations from Psalms, highlights not only that God is the creator of all, but that all people and creation bring God praise. The illustrations are lovely and show not only a variety of people, but animals, plants, and settings from around the world.
This will be an interesting book to curl up with a child and share. There are a multitude of things to identify and reflect upon. The last pages help identify the country from which some of the pictures were taken, ranging from Kenya to Estonia, Nepal and more.
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In Case You Missed It... (Notes and Photos from Winter Events)
A Day for Making Comfort
by Becky Maier
Many thanks to the 27 women from 8 churches who attended A Day for Making Comfort on January 27. There were 19 quilts completed that day, quilts that will provide warmth and give love to 19+ people. This is such a great day for fellowship and stewardship. We hope you will join us next year for another great day! You might as well put the 4th Saturday in January on your calendar now!
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2024-2025 Saint Paul Area Synodical Women's Organization (SWO) | |
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Deadline: May 30, 2025
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