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The SEPA Synod Office is closed on Fridays through September 4.


July Ordination Anniversaries

Deacon Joyce F. Salter, 56 Years

The Rev. Dr. L George Detweiler, 52 Years

The Rev. James H. Wolford, 50 Years

The Rev. David M. Deal, 49 Years

The Rev. Robert T. Mylod, 48 Years

The Rev. Mary J. Konopka, 44 Years

Deacon Sally A. Simmel, 42 Years

The Rev. Karl M. Richard, 39 Years

The Rev. Ghislaine M. Cotnoir, 38 Years

The Rev. Rosa M. Key, 37 Years

The Rev. Marcia G. Bell, 37 Years

Deacon Dawn C. Stewart, 35 Years

The Rev. Stuart W. Luce, 34 Years

The Rev. Luther Martell, 22 Years

The Rev. Matt Staniz 22 Years

The Rev. Sozinho Alves, 19 Years

The Rev. Patricia G. Neale,19 Years

The Rev. Paula J. Lebo, 18 Years

The Rev. Erika L. Wesch, 18 Years

The Rev. Jennifer Casey, 18 Years

The Rev. Scott Staub, 16 Years

The Rev. Bryan J. Penman, 13 Years

The Rev. Jonathan Steiner, 12 Years

The Rev. K. Russell Crouthamel, 10 Years

The Rev. Leah Woehr-Grande, 9 Years

The Rev. Kathleen A. Kerin, 5 Years

The Rev. Dedra Florence-Johnson, 4 Years

The Rev. Kevin M. Tracey, 4 Years

The Rev. Taylor J. Walker, 2 Years

Deacon Grace Marcus, 1 Year

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Synod Communication Audit

SEPA Synod has contracted with LEAD Ministries to conduct a communication audit to learn how we can communicate with our Synod more effectively. If you haven't already, complete a quick survey (about 7 minutes) to help us.


COMMUNICATION AUDIT SURVEY LINK

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Don't miss the deadline!

2026-2027 Forward Together in Faith Grant Applications Open

The mission of the Forward Together in Faith campaign is to support the communities of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod as we enter the changing mission field of the 21st century, in order to more successfully share the Good News of Jesus Christ. The goal of the Forward Together in Faith granting process is to provide resources to the congregations and ministries of this synod, in particular as those resources relate to the four pillars of the campaign, which are Networking, Innovating, Communicating, and Equipping. A strong grant application will integrate at least one pillar into their project proposal. 


Networking: Creating and sustaining new networks and partnerships among congregations and leaders. Building bridges within the synod, and with other community partners.

 

Innovating: Prioritizing piloting new forms of ministry (such as worship, faith formation, and/or community service) and planting new communities of faith, particularly among underserved populations.

 

Communicating: Training/consulting for websites, social media, and use of other forms of media (e.g. video). Equipping the communication needs for events for communities, multiple congregations, and/or the larger synod. 


Equipping: Training for lay leaders, mission/outreach based continuing education for rostered ministers, supporting seminarians. 


The application deadline this year will be September 30.

COMPLETE AN APPLICATION

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Reminder of Scam Email

We have received reports of scam emails circulating that appear to come from Bishop Penman--even using his photo in the profile. These messages are not legitimate. Please do not respond, click links, or send money or gift cards if you receive one of these emails.


Unfortunately, scammers often impersonate trusted leaders to create urgency and trick recipients. If you receive a suspicious message, carefully check the sender’s email address and verify the request through another method.


For helpful tips on how to recognize and respond to these messages, readthis article from our friends in the NEPA Synod:

Recognizing Scam Emails Before It’s Too Late

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In God's Image Vendor Registration Open

October 10, 2026

9:00 am to 2:00 pm

Reformation Lutheran

102 West Rose Tree Road, Media, PA


In God's Image, an annual event in SEPA Synod will be held Saturday, October 10. 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at Reformation Lutheran Church (102 West Rose Tree Road, Media, PA 19063). The keynote speaker is the Rev. Carla Christopher. Vendors must register using this link by September 15. Participant registration will open in August.

Contact ingodsimagesepa@gmail.com with any questions. 

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In Our Prayers

The people of Venezuela as they recover from the recent earthquake


Newly elected bishops and Synods as they prepare for transition


Those experiencing food or housing insecurity

NEW! A Wing and a Prayer Brass Ensemble

July 25 + 2:00 pm

Immanuel Lutheran Church

14100 Worthington Rd., Philadelphia


Immanuel Lutheran Church welcomes everyone to a fantastic (indoor-air conditioned) event! Come join us for this free event as we celebrate the nation’s 250th Birthday. Listen to the 30-piece brass ensemble as they pay tribute to American composers, singers, songwriters and an opportunity to sing along with some of the music! Stay afterwards for light refreshments in the Fellowship Hall. 

Admission is free, however, we will be collecting a free will offering to benefit the Wing and A Prayer Brass Ensemble Scholarship Fund.

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Freestanding Altar Needed

Christ Lutheran Community Church, Upper Darby is in need of a freestanding altar to place in front of the traditional high altar. If your congregation has something that could fill this need, please be in contact with Pastor James Thomas

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St. Paul's, Ardmore to Host Augsburg Fortress Summer Music Clinic

August 6-7, 2026

The Augsburg Fortress Summer Music Clinic will return to St. Paul's this year on August 6-7. These free events are a great opportunity to meet and network with other church musicians/worship leaders, attend workshops, and read through handbell, children's and choral music. More info and registration

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Trinity Lutheran, Coopersburg Celebrates 275th Anniversary with Activities

August 29: Faith Through the Generations Festival

November 8: Celebration Worship Service

For more information on any of these events visit Trinity's website

Trinity is located at 2170 Route 212, Coopersburg, PA


OPEN POSITIONS

Please visit SEPA's website for more information


Temple Lutheran

501 Brookline Blvd,

Havertown, PA 19083

Children's Minister

The Children’s Minister plays a major role in the faith development of children and families in the life of Temple Lutheran Church and beyond, both as a leader and as an example. This person should be familiar with or willing to learn ministry trends and practices for the church in the twenty-first century. We seek a creative, enthusiastic, organized, strong administrator who is self-motivated, and who appreciates the collaborative spirit of serving with a dedicated ministry team. READ MORE HERE

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St. Peter's Lutheran Church

211 S Main Street,

North Wales PA 19454 

Director of Music Ministry

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church (North Wales, PA) is seeking a faithful, enthusiastic, and collaborative Part-Time Director of Music Ministry (DMM) to lead and nurture the music ministry of our vibrant, historic congregation. Founded in 1776 and rooted in faith, hope, and community, St. Peter’s values music as an essential part of worship, spiritual growth, and congregational life.

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, cover letter, and references to: Ginny Bailey

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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

132 E. Valley Forge Road,

King of Prussia, PA 19406

Parish Administrator

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is seeking a Parish Administrator to support its ministerial staff and church office operations. This is a part-time position working Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (beginning in 2027, Monday through Thursday during the Memorial Day through Labor Day period). READ MORE HERE

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St. Luke's Lutheran Church

3206 Big Road Zieglerville, PA 19492

Part-time Office Manager & Communications Coordinator

The Office Manager & Communications Coordinator will support the administrative and communication needs of the congregation.


To apply, please submit a resume and salary requirements to stlukes.application@gmail.com Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. READ MORE HERE

A revolution starts with a clear vision

of a world different than the one we live in today.


Join The Love Revolution today. Complete an application


Faith Alive Worship Learning Lab 2

Saturday, August 15

9:00 am-3:00 pm

United Lutheran Seminary, Philadelphia


Another opportunity to gather and learn more about how our congregations can welcome and support our youngest friends. Make plans now to attend this informative and fun event.

Bear Creek Retreat Center Dedication -July 24th

This summer, we are honored to dedicate the Retreat Center in memory of Pastor Roy "PG" Gulliford, our founding Executive Director, as we mark 30 years since his retirement. Roy's legacy lives not in buildings, but in the generations of campers and staff whose lives were shaped by his vision, faith, and love for this place.


The entire BCC community is invited to join us on Friday, July 24th — dinner at 6:00 PM followed by a service of dedication at 7:00 PM. Registration is free, but required by July 12th. Gifts to the Gulliford Site Endowment will also be gratefully accepted.

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Save The Date!

Through the Woods Trail Run

Saturday, September 26

10:00am


Something new is coming to the Through the Woods Trail Run this year — we're expanding the event to include a 10k, a 5k, and a 1-mile fun hike!


Wind your way through forest paths, over hills, and through streams on 3,000 stunning acres. There's a distance for everyone! Families welcome, playground on site, and post-race lunch available for purchase.

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Bear Creek's Summer Theme

"Go!" is about being empowered to step up and explore the world- genuinely and authentically. To bring how we live at camp into our communities- taking action with intention, curiosity, bravery, and empathy.

Register today! Last day to register is July 26 for Session 8.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CAMP

REGISTER FOR SUMMER CAMP


Partner Opportunities

NEW! Lay Eucharistic Visitor Training

Saturday, July 18, 2026

Advent Lutheran Church

1601 Green Lane, West Chester, PA 19382

9:30 am - 4:00 pm 

Cost is $30.00 per person


Are you called to serve members of your congregation who cannot attend worship in person?

 

Join Lay Eucharistic Visitor Training and learn how to faithfully bring the sacrament of Holy Communion to ill and homebound members of your church community. This training explores the Biblical and theological foundations of Holy Communion and provides guidance on meaningful visitation and sacrament administration.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

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NEW! ELCA Global Mission Global Links Newsletter

Lutheran Disaster Response is working with partners in Venezuela to respond to the recent earthquakes and on a Donor Immersion Trip to Indonesia, Dr. Phyllis Cavens saw firsthand the impact of the ELCA in local communities.

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NEW! Lutheran Disaster Response In Venezuela

Recently two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela. Entire communities have been shaken to the ground. More than 1,700 lives have been confirmed lost so far, thousands more are injured, and countless families are now without shelter, safety or access to necessities.


Lutheran Disaster Response is already responding through trusted, long-standing partners in the region, including the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela (IELV). ELCA partners have deployed assessment teams to affected areas, working together to identify urgent needs, provide immediate relief (e.g. food, shelter, water) and coordinate a plan for long-term assistance.


Your gifts enable this church to provide fast and effective support to communities in need and to remain for as long as recovery takes, whenever and wherever a disaster occurs.

Give Now to Lutheran Disaster Response

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ELCA Reconsideration of Social Statement

In May, the task force leading the ELCA in reconsideration of the social statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust shared an update and video. The task force has released a new study to foster conversation across the ELCA and generate feedback that will guide its work. The study, “Conscience and Conversation: A Study During the Reconsideration of the Social Statement Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust,” invites reflection on agreement and disagreement in a church called to pursue justice and peace together through “the unity of the Spirit” (Ephesians 4:3).


Please prayerfully consider leading your congregation or small group in this study. Your feedback is essential as the task force prepares a first draft of the social statement for the church to consider. There is a survey for participants to share feedback with the task force. 


Learn more about the process and access the survey link.

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Lutheran Summer Music Events Streamed Live

Join Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) online through Live from LSM and enjoy more than 30 free concerts, recitals, and worship services streamed live from St. Olaf College. Highlights include a special guest performance by Cantus, Bach's St. Matthew Passion, the Bach Cantata Eucharist, the Festival of Hymns, and joyful performances by the Festival Band, Choir, and Orchestra.

VIEW SCHEDULE AND WATCH LIVE

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Lutherans and the Revolutionary War

July 24

Location: Meet at the Dewees Tavern,

301 W. Main St. Trappe, PA

Cost: $25 per person

Tour Times: 10 am to 12 pm and 2 to 4 pm


Celebrate 250 years of history with a special guided tour hosted by the Lutheran Archives Center at Philadelphia in partnership with Historic Trappe, exploring how Lutheran families such as the Muhlenbergs were integrally involved in the Revolutionary War.


Learn how the war directly impacted Lutherans in southeastern Pennsylvania and enjoy rarely-seen artifacts from historic congregations including Augustus Lutheran, New Hanover, St. Michael's Germantown, and St. Michael's and Zion in Philadelphia. Co-hosted by Historic Trappe and the Lutheran Archives Center at Philadelphia, this anniversary program highlights the faith, community, and cultural traditions that shaped life during the Revolutionary era. Tours are led by a combination of staff including Lisa Minardi, executive director; Christopher Malone, curator; Sheila Joy, archivist; and Haley Wrye, assistant archivist.


Augustus Lutheran Church will also be open for tours from 12 to 2 pm both days included with your purchase of a ticket.


More information and to sign up

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ReconcilingWorks Monthly Bible Study

ReconcilingWorks is starting a monthly online Bible Study, meeting every third Thursday of the month, led by a rostered leader. Upcoming dates include July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15, November 19 and December 17. The Zoom link will be emailed to registrants two days in advance. The text for the study is for the Sunday 10 days after the Zoom gathering. Sermon notes will also be available on the website. Learn more and register. ReconcilingWorks: Lutherans for Full Participation advocates for the welcome, inclusion and equity of LGBTQIA Lutherans in all aspects of the life of their Church, congregation, and community. The study is free to participate, as is a book club series. 

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Equipping the Church to Dismantle White Supremacy: A 5-part Webinar Series

In partnership with the ELCA Strategy for Authentic Diversity, the Albert “Pete” Pero, Jr. and Cheryl Stewart Pero Center for Intersectionality Studies at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, and the ELCA Association of White Lutherans for Racial Justice, presents a 5-part webinar series running May 12, 2026 - January 12, 2027 surrounding the topic of equipping the church to dismantle white supremacy. Register for these remaining webinars: 

  • Webinar 3: September 8
    
    Dismantle: Using the Devotional in Congregational Life
  • Webinar 4: November 10
    
    Now is the Time: Living into our Church’s Declarations and Statements
  • Webinar 5: January 12
    
    Commemorating the Emmanuel Nine and George Floyd: Sacred Memory as Call to Action


REGISTER

ELCA Youth Gathering 2027:

Imagine More

June 27-28, 2027

PRE-EVENTS

Multicultural Youth Leadership Event + the tAble

June 28 - July 2, 2027

THE MAIN EVENT

ELCA Youth Gathering + Young Adult Gathering


The 2027 ELCA Youth Gathering is more than an event — it’s a movement where young people and leaders come alive in faith, grow in hope and move with purpose. This is where the church comes to life.


Stay up-to-date with ELCA Youth Gathering news and deadlines by subscribing to the Gathering newsletter.


Region 7 Gathering Facebook Page

Get connected to others in our region who plan to attend the Gathering.


SEPA's Regional Representative for The National Youth Gathering is Pastor Cassie Hartnett. Congregational representatives can email her with questions.


UPCOMING WEBINARS

More information and registration

LAMPa July E-News Now Available

Stay up to date with the latest from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa), including updates on the state budget, opportunities to advocate for hunger relief and energy policy, resources for congregations on faithful civic engagement, and ideas for planning God's Work. Our Hands. Sunday this fall. You'll also find new faith formation resources, advocacy tools, and ways to get involved in public witness.

Read July E-News

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LAMPa Seeks A Communications and Advocacy Engagement Manager.


Do you (or someone you know) have professional communications experience, a passion for justice and a call to serve God's mission in the world -- especially in the public square? LAMPa is seeking a communications and advocacy engagement manager. Learn more here, including how to apply for this full-time position within ELCA Witness in Society.

Kindling Faith Events and Training

Kindling Faith of United Lutheran Seminary has a new website with events and training listings updated regularly. Visit their site to register for informative events and continuing education.


Kindling Faith Spark Newsletter July Issue

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Aging Gracefully Series

Author Rosella Haydee White

July 30 + 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Rozella Haydée White is an author, public theologian, and executive leadership coach whose work invites leaders to live and lead with

courage, wholeness, and a deep love ethic. She is the founder of RHW Consulting LLC and The Waymaker Agency, where she partners with mission-driven organizations and faith leaders

navigating change, conflict, and growth.


Rozella is the author of Love Big: The Power of Revolutionary Relationships to Heal the World and a contributor to multiple publications exploring leadership, justice, womanist theology,

intergenerational wisdom, and embodied faith. Her writing weaves personal story, theological reflection, and practical application, helping readers reconnect to their beloved-ness while doing demanding public work.


With more than two decades of experience in nonprofit and church leadership, Rozella brings both pastoral depth and strategic clarity to conversations about faith in wilderness seasons. She writes and teaches about spirituality that sustains leaders over the long haul — spirituality rooted not in performance, but in presence.

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