April Newsletter

 

March 25, 2026

The LiVE Project Info

Lay Ministry Formation (LMF) Info

Join Us on Mighty Networks

What is LiVE?

  • LiVE (rhymes with "give") is a lay ministry of the NW WA synod- ELCA, forming Christian leaders able to make sense of our place in God’s world.
  • LiVE is Theologically Thoughtful, Culturally Responsive, and Communally Engaged.
  • LiVE offers a flexible, hybrid-style of learning with various levels of engagement, including multi-week zoom courses, one-day in-person retreats, interactive cohorts, and the Lay Ministry 2-year formation program.


Mystics and Mysticism:

a Saturday Retreat with LiVE


Saturday May 2nd | 9am - 3pm

Edmonds Lutheran Church,

Edmonds, WA 



Building on our Lenten course, this retreat invites participants to move from learning about the mystics to living with their wisdom. Through in-person practice and reflection, we will extend and deepen what we explored together — bringing the contemplative insights of Christian mysticism into direct, embodied experience. 


Gathering in community, we will enter more fully into the stillness, silence, and sacred struggle that shaped the mystics we encountered.


Through guided contemplative practices, communal reflection, and time apart, participants will explore how mystical wisdom nourishes both the personal spiritual journey and the life of communities navigating uncertain times.


Together we will ask: how does this wisdom take root not only in our own souls, but in the congregations and communities we lead and serve?  




What’s Coming Up with The LiVE Project





  • Mar 26 - Session 6:

Where Do We Go From Here? Our Final Lenten Course Session



Looking Ahead:


  • Retreat 4: Mystics & Mysticism Saturday May 2, 9am-3pm Edmonds Lutheran Church - Edmonds, WA





Your feedback is very important to us as we continue shaping thoughtful, Spirit led experiences that support lay leaders across the synod.


Please take a few minutes to complete our end of course feedback form: 

HERE



Meet the Guest Facilitators:


We’re grateful to be joined by thoughtful leaders who will guide us through these conversations:

 

Dr. Jon Kersher


Dr. Jon Kershner has a Ph.D. in Quaker historical theology from the University of Birmingham, England, and has taught courses at Pacific Lutheran University since 2016, where he explores the impact of religious traditions in society. He is the author of numerous articles and books exploring the intersections of theology, spirituality, and historical Christian thought, including the edited volume Quakers and Mysticism: Comparative and Syncretic Approaches to Spirituality published by Palgrave Press. Jon's teaching and writing are shaped by a commitment to making the riches of contemplative wisdom accessible for personal transformation and faithful communal life through. 

Mandy Neill


Mrs. Mandy Neill is a trained spiritual director whose own journey of faith has been shaped by a deep discovery of the transforming power of contemplative and spiritual practices for the personal spiritual life. She finds joy in accompanying others in their spiritual journeys and to foster a commitment in others to creating space for people to listen, reflect, and grow in their relationship with God and others. Mandy is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Luther Seminary, where she is deepening her theological formation in service of her ongoing work as a guide and companion for others. 


🛠️ Build Your Own

Learning Path



LiVE is a learning community for everyday discipleship — grounded in scripture, responsive to culture, and rooted in community. Whether you're growing in faith, leadership, or connection, our courses, retreats, and meetups meet you where you are. LiVE is for EVERYONE. Join Us!


🔍 Did You Know?


Your congregation can still purchase a LiVE Project Bundle that gives unlimited access to courses and retreats for all members — with no added cost to participants! It's our way of making formation accessible, relational, and grounded in community.


Need help getting your church on board? We’re happy to talk with your leadership or communications team.

Just reach out anytime to live@lutheransnw.org

🌱 Join Us on Mighty Networks

The LiVE Project’s online home is more than just a platform — it’s our learning hub and community gathering space.


Whether you’re joining a course, attending a retreat, or simply staying connected between events, Mighty Networks is where it all happens.


On our platform, you’ll find:

  • All course materials and info (our full Learning Management System)
  • Event links, resources, and recordings
  • Reflection prompts and summer gatherings
  • A space to share insights, ask questions, and connect across the Synod



👉 Join the Community on Mighty Networks


Want to learn more or stay connected?

Reach out anytime with questions, ideas, or to explore how your congregation can get involved.


The LiVE Project team can be reached at live@lutheransnw.org

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