REMINDER! Complete Your Annual Ministry Reports

Each of these reports is important.

Please complete today.

Each January congregations and rostered ministers/SALMs are to complete annual reports. Please take time to complete these important forms TODAY.

Rostered Minister / SALM reports go to the Synod Bishop - find and select the correct form here

Congregation Annual Reports are completed online for our Churchwide partner - go here to complete your form

Support Holden Village - Jubilee Auction!

One of the best ways you can support Holden’s recovery right now is by taking part in the Jubilee Auction, which starts Wednesday, March 25, at 8am and runs through March 29. All proceeds support Holden Village, so enjoy bidding on fun items and experiences for yourself or as gifts, all while sustaining Holden’s road to recovery. 

Take a sneak peek at a few of the auction items and special funds you can support. Register to bid NOW so you’re ready to go when the auction starts. More items will be added, so keep checking the auction site for new postings. You can also support Holden Village by sharing the auction with your friends, family, or congregation. Forward this email to your friends and print these QR codes and share them in your community to help spread the news.

Contributions to this year's auction will help us prepare to welcome you back to the Village. Thank you for supporting Holden’s road to recovery!

The NW Washington Synod’s 

Draft 2027 Budget is available for review

Now is your opportunity to review the document and submit any proposed changes or amendments. The deadline for submitting proposed changes is March 31, 2026. This will allow time for reviews by the Synod Finance Committee and Synod Council.

After the Synod Finance Committee and Synod Council have completed their reviews, any changes will be incorporated into a Preliminary 2027 Budget, which will be released on April 15, and reviewed in an online budget presentation on April 30. Adoption of a final 2027 Budget will take place at our Special Meeting of the Assembly on May 16.

Find the (updated) draft budget and how to share your comments & proposed changes here: https://www.lutheransnw.org/news/draft-of-2027-synod-budget-available-for-review

Late registration spaces available for the

2026 Bishop's Convocation

All active Rostered Ministers, SALMs, and Interns are expected to attend! We are delighted to welcome Rev. Carmelo Santos-Rolón, PhD. as our presenter. He will draw from neuroscience and liberation theology as we explore how systems of oppression are encoded in our emotions and behaviors and how the Word of God liberates us to bring healing, community, and transformation to the world.

PLEASE register here by Tues, March 17

Global Refuge Introduces Faith Alliance

This Lent, Global Refuge is releasing a new training resource called Faith Alliance. Over nearly two years, we’ve gathered the voices and inputs of experts and immigrants from across the country in order to create a substantive training that deepens and informs the “welcome” we extend in our respective communities. No matter how long or how recently you’ve engaged in this work, Faith Alliance is designed to “meet you where you are,” and build up from what you already do. We invite you to join us in this effort.

The training is broken into four modules, and a retreat.

Learn more at: https://www.globalrefuge.org/faith-alliance/

ELCA Churchwide Launches New Website

The new ELCA.org has officially launched! This new website is the culmination of over a year of collaboration among the Churchwide Organization’s Strategic Communications, IT and Innovation teams to create a tool that will help us continuously create more impact with our constituents. These teams engaged in extensive user research and incorporated modern, accessible and dynamic digital design to build a space where current and potential members, church leaders and visitors can understand and act on their faith. This space includes the new enhanced search, which incorporates pages on ELCA.org, the ELCA's resource library, congregation profile information and Living Lutheran articles to provide a more comprehensive result. It also provides a guided exploration that curates answers based on individual needs.

(P.S. Check out their digital toolkit for resources you can share with your congregation, including a poster, PowerPoint slide, and social media templates.)

ELCA Churchwide - Administrative Matters

Find these recent article topics in the ELCA's latest Administrative Matters issue (HERE)

• Rostered Ministers Gathering 2026 - July 6-9 in Indianapolis
• Updated 2025 Tax Guides Available Through Portico
• Common Financial Scams Nonprofits May Face
• Handling Church Staff Transitions — With Grace, Wisdom and Excellence
• Fraud Happened. Now What?

Connecting with Pr. Kristy Daniels

As Compass Housing Alliance and Lutheran Community Services Northwest have merged, the email for Pr. Kristy Daniels at Church of Church of Steadfast Love has changed!

Please reach her at kdaniels@lcsnw.org. 

Please note, there have been a few glitches in the transition of emails and if you haven't heard from her after a few days, she has not received your email. You are welcome to call the office phone any time (206) 474-1007. She is happy to join with your congregation in worship, preaching and/or teaching. 

Make plans to attend the Lutherwood Gala!

Lutherwood Camp and Retreat Cetner announces their 2nd annual Rooted in Christ, Growing into the Future Gala

May 31, 4pm at Lutherwood in Bellingham

For 79 years, Lutherwood has provided space for people of all ages to "Experience Grace in Creation." This special evening celebrates the life-changing ministry of camp and the community that makes it possible—the community that includes you! Last year, Lutherwood raised over $35,000 to support the work of God at camp, and this year we're aiming even higher. 

We are excited to welcome Rev. Dr. Jake Sorenson, founder of Sacred Playgrounds, as our guest speaker. Jake is an expert on the power of camp, blending his gifts of data research with stories and experiences. Together we’ll celebrate the impact of Lutherwood and invest in the future of camp ministry.

Learn more and purchase tickets here: camplutherwood.org/gala

Church Property Resource Hub:

Stewarding Property

You are invited to learn more about the Church Property Resource Hub, a new project of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), at one of three upcoming town halls. These webinars are an introduction to the project for congregations and all people connected to the management of church property. Join to explore support available to congregation leaders as they seek to steward property in faithful and practical ways.

Tuesday, March 17, 11am - Register today.

Thursday, March 19, 2pm - Register today.

Tuesday, March 24, 11am - Register today.



Developed in response to requests from synod and congregational leaders, the Church Property Resource Hub offers support in navigating the opportunities and challenges that buildings and land represent for congregational vitality and the wider mission of the church.  

Chaplaincy 101

March 19, 11am Online

An overview of the Chaplaincy process, led by the ELCA's Ecclesiastical Endorser, Chaplain Christopher Otten, to more effectively steward Rostered Ministers through the Candidacy, Ordination, and official Ecclesiastical Endorsement process for Rostered Ministers to apply for Chaplain positions with a strategic advantage as a job candidate. The overview includes Chaplain formation for Candidates, Ordination for Chaplains, the application process for an Ecclesiastical Endorsement (Synodical or Federal), Placement and Calls, Board Certification, and continuing support. The session will conclude with a time for questions for the Endorser and the Chaplain Corps Administrative Coordinator, Mr. Michael Sonnenberg.

Join the Zoom Meeting here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86979316038

NW/SW Coach Community of Practice

Thursday, March 19th at 1:00 P.M. on Zoom

Are you an ELCA trained Coach in the NW Washington Synod? You are invited to join your coaching colleagues in the Northwest and Southwest Washington Synods for a Community of Practice time on Thursday, March 19th at 1:00 P.M. on Zoom! In this 90-minute session, we will briefly review ICF core competencies and then have time to practice our coaching skills in triads.

Please contact Sara Funkhouser at nwwacoaches@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Join the Zoom here

ELCA Youth Gathering Monthly Videos

March 19, 5pm - Recruiting the Right Adult Leaders!

Join us for our monthly webinar series, which highlights different topics related to the 2027 Gathering and gets your group ready! Last month we focused on Why the Gathering and this month we’re talking about Recruiting the Right Adult Leaders (and Avoiding the Wrong Ones!). Register for an upcoming webinar on the Gathering’s website. Can’t make it? A recording will come straight to your inbox a few days after the webinar. Learn more about this webinar (and others!) here: https://www.elca.org/gathering/gathering-2027/key-dates

LiVE Project Lenten Course -

Mystics and Mysticism: Practicing Faith in the Wilderness

Continues on Thursdays 7-8:30pm - March 19, 26 - Online via Zoom

This 6-part Lenten course journeys with a variety of Christian mystics who encountered God in the depths of solitude, silence, and struggle. Through Scripture, contemplative practices, and the voices of mystics across time, participants will engage the wilderness as a sacred space for transformation and deeper trust in God. This journey invites leaders to discover how mystical wisdom can shape faithful living in uncertain times.

Registration

• Register here - you will receive the Zoom link: https://nwwasynod.regfox.com/practicing-faith-in-the-wilderness-mystics-and-mysticism-a-live-lenten-online-course
• Cost is $50/person or FREE for members of congregations who purchased a bundle - contact your church office to get the code before you register!

Webinar From Paths to Understanding:

The Society We Deserve - Where Everyone Belongs and Everyone Can Thrive

Many of us feel it — division, exhaustion, and distrust are pulling us apart. In this public talk, Rev. Terry Kyllo explores what is happening beneath our political and cultural conflicts and why so many people feel vulnerable and alone. Drawing from social research, Scripture, and years of bridge-building work, he offers a hopeful and practical path forward. Instead of choosing fear or retreat, we can rebuild trust, strengthen our communities, and renew the social contract from the ground up. Join us for an honest, nonpartisan conversation about how we can build a society where everyone belongs and everyone can thrive.

March 19, 7pm online. Learn more and register here:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-EVdQgP0QjCj6-roM6Z7dw#/registration

Depolarizing Within Workshop

offered by Braver Angels on Saturday, March 21, 9am-12noon

In person event in Federal Way

Partner Organization: Washington State Catholic Conference

The Depolarizing Within workshop teaches participants to look at their own attitudes toward the political “other,” to develop strategies for engaging in politics without demonizing, and to constructively intervene in conversations with like-minded peers when those conversations stereotype or demonize the other side.

Register HERE

Questions: Email Ingrid at iwysong@braverangels.org

Standing with Migrants:

A day of prayer, information sharing, and conversation

Assumption Catholic Church is hosting a Stand with Migrants Day with migrant advocates Ms. Dora Rodriguez and Fr. Ray Riding, ST (Missionary Servant of the Most Holy Trinity) of Phoenix, Arizona.

Saturday, March 21 at Assumption Parish Social Hall - 6201 33rd Ave. NE, Seattle 

9 am - Gathering; 9:15 - Mass; 10:15 - Presentation and Conversation; 12:15 - Lunch (bring yours, drinks provided); 1:15 - Action Steps & Closure

Learn more about the speakers and the event here.

ICE and the Immigration Crisis: A Faith Response

Followed by Community Action Training

Sunday, March 22, 1:30–4:00pm

at Luther’s Table | 419 S 2nd St., Renton

Free event. Registration requested. Each attendee must register individually.

Register here: https://bit.ly/4qvyycz

The community is invited to gather for an afternoon of learning, reflection, and practical action in response to the growing impact of immigration enforcement in our region.

Rev. Dr. Rick Rouse, author of A Journey Called Hope, will explore the human cost of current immigration policies, how we arrived at this moment, and what a faithful response looks like in a time of fear and uncertainty for immigrant families.

Following his presentation, Leslie Brown, a leader with the Washington Immigration Solidarity Network (WAISN) and the Snohomish County Rapid Response Team, will lead a Community Action Training. Participants will learn how to respond to ICE activity in informed, grounded, and responsible ways. The training will include guidance on knowing your rights, documenting enforcement actions, hotline reporting, and discerning appropriate bystander response. Opportunities for deeper involvement will also be shared.

This gathering is designed for those who are concerned, curious, or ready to move toward meaningful action. There is space to listen, ask questions, and discern next steps together.

Leadership Lab Information Zoom

Monday, March 23 | 6:30pm

Are you wanting to know more about what Leadership Lab is and how your youth and / or adult leaders can join us? Leadership Lab is designed for high school youth, young adults, and adults to acquire skills that will be useful in congregations, local communities, and the world; while experiencing Christ's love in community. Each level of Lab is structured to help participants progress in their ability to be responsible ministry leaders and help them grow in their awareness of God, self and others. More information about Leadership Lab can be found at https://leadershiplab.net/

Becky Cole (Holy Spirit, Kirkland) and Chimene Lautenslager (St. Mathews, Renton) are planning to take a group of youth from our synod to Augustana College June 21 – 27 to experience this wonderful week of learning, relationship building, and fun. Join us for a zoom call on Monday, March 23 at 6:30pm to learn more and ask your questions. If you are unable to attend this call and want the information, please email Becky at children@hslckirkland.org.

The zoom link is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85404851524?pwd=OjYwlnsqRYbCGxa3tvMtONnd2rtvsc.1

International Women's Month Evening of Stories and Gender Justice Vision

Zoom Link

Finding God in the Basement

March 25, 2026 at 10am-11am online

Hosted by the Center of Addiction & Faith

This online webinar, led by Jennifer Carlier, author of Finding God in the Basement, invites churches to learn from recovery communities that often gather in their basements. She offers a sharp critique of theological models of sin and salvation that reinforce shame and render the church an inhospitable, even harmful place for those suffering from addiction.  She constructs a vision that affirms human dignity in brokenness and a hope for recovery and wholeness.  Drawing from her experiences, she offers a critique of how Christian doctrines of sin and salvation fail to engage the lived realities of addiction and recovery. It is a compelling vision of what Christian communities might become when they center grace, authenticity and vulnerability.

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Li1aMiXhTwqUkls6qX-tsQ?mc_cid=4bbe55d56a&mc_eid=900fec6975#/registration

Chrism Mass: Holy Eucharist with Renewal of Ordination Vows and Blessing of Chrism

A joint liturgy of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia and the Northwest Washington Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Tuesday, March 31, 11:00am worship; light lunch to follow

At First Lutheran Church of West Seattle - 4105 California Ave SW

Presiding: Rev. Shelley Bryan Wee, Bishop of the NW Washington Synod, ELCA

Preaching: The Rt. Rev. Philip LaBelle, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia

Drag Church: REBIRTH

Saturday, April 4, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Emmaus Table @ 7400 Woodlawn

7400 Woodlawn Avenue Northeast, Seattle

This event is rooted in the belief that new beginnings require release. Release of old stories, structures, and ways of being that no longer serve us. Through electrifying drag performances, a guided meditation, and intentional communal participation, REBIRTH invites us to envision something brand new and nurture the seeds of liberation and co-create the world we wish existed.

Hosted by Emmaus Table in partnership with Yassify Jesus and Haus of Sutra, this spiritually inclusive, family-friendly gathering also features a fundraiser supporting Lambert House, supporting LGBTQ+ youth in our region. All faiths, no faith, and all identities are welcome.

Tickets are available here: https://ticketbud.com/events/7672416e-00b5-11f1-bf6a-42010a717003

Lutherwood Spring Work Days - https://www.camplutherwood.org/volunteer

Save the Date:

Holden Village Evacuation & Recovery Update

Saturday, April 11 | 5–7 PM | Our Redeemer’s

Join us for an informative and reflective evening with Bjorn Peterson, Co-Director of Holden Village, as he shares the story of Holden’s evacuation and recovery following the December 2025 floods and landslides. Learn about the events leading up to the evacuation, the challenges faced by staff and caretakers, and plans for repairs to the road, intake pipe, and diversion dam.

The evening begins at 5:00 pm with a bread and soup dinner, followed by the presentation and slideshow at 6:00 pm, and will conclude with Holden Evening Prayer. This is a Synod-wide event, with Our Redeemer’s serving as host. While there will be an opportunity for an offering for Holden Village, the focus is on coming together as a community to hear, reflect, and support one another through this story of resilience and hope.

Mark your calendar and come hear firsthand how this community continues to rebuild, and discover the courage, compassion, and faith that guide Holden Village forward. 

MORE on the road events Holden events listed here: https://www.holdenvillage.org/calendar/

AND

Holden Village Jubilee Auction

Holden Village’s biggest fundraising event is back for the fifth year from March 25-29! The all-online auction proceeds keep the daily operations and programs of the Village running. This is especially important this year, with the Holden's temporary closure. To ensure the best auction experience, be sure to register now. Note: We're using a new auction platform. Registrations from previous Holden auctions will not carry over. Thanks for supporting Holden Village!

People of the Resistance:

Following Jesus in Times Such As This

New Hybrid Course at Our Savior’s Lutheran in Everett

Sundays at 11:15 am on April 12, 19, 26 and May 3

What happens when our core values are under attack? Rev. Dr. Rick Rouse and Guest Rev. Dr. Michael Trice (Seattle University) will help participants explore how this “Bonhoeffer moment” calls people of faith to resist an unjust State and stand with the oppressed. 

Find the syllabus here.

For more information contact Rick at rwrouse@comcast.net

ELCA Schools Lunch & Learn Events

We want to invite you to Leadership Lunch & Learn designed for ELCA school and center leadership teams. Our hope for these gatherings is to bring together congregational and school leaders to explore the vital connection between church and school ministry. We’d love to have anybody who has a school, is considering to open a school, or is a supporter of schools! Pastors, council chairs, school board members, directors, and principals are all encouraged to attend. Join us for meaningful conversation, practical ideas, and inspiration for strengthening your educational ministry. As our guest, you’ll enjoy: networking with fellow leaders in Lutheran education; actionable ideas for strengthening church-school collaboration; a tour of the hosting school; fun door prizes, including membership discounts, AND complimentary lunch

Lunch & Learn #1 - North Puget Sound - Register here

Thursday, April 16, 11am-2pm at Trinity Lutheran Church and Schools in Lynnwood

Lunch & Learn #2 - South Puget Sound - Register here

Friday, April 17, 11am-2pm at St. Mark's Lutheran Church by the Narrows and St. Mark's Preschool in Tacoma

The Traveler & the Bishop on American Democracy and Christian Nationalism

Sunday, April 26, 6:00pm at Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, Seattle (1245 10th Ave. E., Seattle)

Free but registration required: HERE

Join Rick Steves for a European take on Trump and the state of American democracy (basically his “No Kings” rally speech, updated and with an indoor voice). Then, Lutheran Bishop Shelley Bryan Wee (ELCA) will share a hard look (inspired by scripture) at the perversion of Christianity called “Christian Nationalism.” Rick’s talk will share how history is speaking to us — and how, if we listen, we can better understand and meet the challenges facing democracy in the USA. And, whether you consider yourself a person of faith or not, Bishop Shelley’s message will bring a new dimension to your thinking about the place of religion in the political discourse of our country.

Want an item included?

Email Susan Berg, Dir. Communications & Events

All items due the prior Thursday by 12:00 noon

Northwest Washington Synod / ELCA

5519 Phinney Avenue North

Seattle, WA 98103

206-783-9292