Pacifica Synod News & Notes
September 23, 2020
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We share with you the following news, resources, information and event updates taking place within our synod and throughout the ELCA. If you have items or information to share, please email Terri Robertson at [email protected]. If you know of others who aren't receiving our emails, please share this with them and encourage them to contact us using the above email or sign up here.
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Current Synod News & Resources |
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Let’s Do Church Together is the theme for the 2020 Pacifica Bishop’s Gatherings. What better time to collaborate than now, as we are all learning new ways to share the gospel with others in due to the pandemic. We will meet online by Zoom to discuss congregational and synod plans for ministry in the year to come. We will unveil Pacifica’s Strategic Plan for the work we can do together, highlighting the Ministry Result Areas and the Goals approved by Synod Council. We will listen to one another to see how we can support each other as Christians, congregations, the Pacifica Synod, and the ELCA. We will celebrate our unity, while giving thanks for our diversity, and ask God to guide us confidently into the future.
We will gather by Conferences, and invite each congregation to attend with their pastors, their deacons, and at least two key lay leaders, but all are welcome! The dates and times for each Conference are listed below and will last for 75 minutes. Pre-registration is required using the button below to receive the Zoom link in advance of each gathering and to ensure we have enough room on our Zoom feed to accommodate everyone. You may join by video using a computer, tablet or phone or call in from your phone using audio only. If you cannot attend your own Conference meeting, we invite you to Zoom in with another Conference. We hope you can join us!
Below are the dates and times of each remaining Gathering:
Wednesday, September 23
East AND West San Diego Conferences
6:30 p.m.
Thursday, September 24
Big Bear Conference
6:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 26
Son & Surf Conference
10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, September 29
Raincross Conference
6:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 10
Saddleback Conference
10:00 a.m.
Sunday, October 11
Rejoice Conference
1:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 14
Hukilau Conference
9:00 a.m. (HT) / 11:00 a.m. (PT)
If you need assistance with the registration process, please contact Terri Robertson at 714.352.8732 or by email at [email protected].
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God's Work. Our Hands. Sunday 2020 |
Across the ELCA, on the weekend of Sunday, September 13, congregations took part in annual "God's Work. Our Hands. Sunday" acts of service. Due to COVID-19, many of these acts looked a bit different than in the past. We are excited to share below what one of our Pacifica Synod congregations did to participate.
St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in San Diego chose a variety of local and international projects for God's Work, Our Hands weekend (COVID style). We assembled hygiene kits for the Third Avenue Charitable Organization in downtown San Diego, collected donations for Lutheran Border Concerns, handed out pen pal kits for Native Elders on the Cheyenne reservation, shared gratitude kits to give to Postal Workers, sewed masks for the homeless, and collected supplies for our preschool ministry. The majority of these projects were ones that could be done at home. This year we could not visit Miracle Ranch Children's Home in Valle Las Palmas, Baja Mexico, so instead we organized a Zoom visit and tour.
Submitted by Pastors Manuel Retamoza and Sarah Sumner-Eisenbraun
Did your congregation participate in God's Work. Our Hands. Sunday? If so, don’t forget to share your congregation’s participation with us! Send your stories and photos to [email protected] AND to [email protected] so that together we can celebrate what God accomplished through you. Text Link
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Coaching for All Seasons:
How to Talk about Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Your Congregation
Monthly Online Gathering for
Pacifica Synod Rostered & Lay Leaders
Tuesday, October 6 at 11:00 a.m.
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Even when we’ve decided to start a conversation about a sensitive topic, we frequently don’t know how to begin. Many of us are at that point with the subject of equity, diversity, and inclusion, which well-known speakers and writers are calling by names like white supremacy and anti-racism. One useful approach is gathering a group that shares a common characteristic (affinity) to create a space for open and honest dialog. Heidi Kleine and Emilee O’Brien recently partnered to lead a series of conversations on racism for an affinity group of white women. They will share the story of why they feel called to this work, the importance of partners, and what you might expect if you form an affinity group.
Heidi is an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) and ELCA Coach with specialty training in Discipleship and Mission Development/Congregational Vitality. She currently serves as the Director of Faith Formation at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Cary, NC.
Emilee is a recent graduate of Georgetown University with an M.A. in Educational Transformation. She previously served as the Post Baccalaureate Fellow for Social Justice and Community-Engaged Learning at Furman University in Greenville, SC, where she developed an intergroup dialogue program.
To register for the October 6 gathering and receive the link to join by Zoom, click here.
The October 6 forum is the fourth in the monthly series Coaching for All Seasons that began in July 2020. Click here to view our Synod Coaching web page and access the resources from previous presentations. Our Pacifica Synod Coaching Team designed this forum to provide encouragement and support to Synod leaders as we navigate the unknown. Each month, participants will hear a short presentation related to how we currently are called to be Church. Then they will have an opportunity to be in a small group discussion facilitated by an ELCA coach. We are creating a safe space for processing our responses to uncertain times and for discerning steps forward in our unique contexts.
Pacifica Synod has invested in training coaches to work with rostered and lay leaders one-on-one or in groups. Coaching provides an opportunity for rostered and lay leaders to experience a partnership focused on the unique objectives they want to achieve. A coach’s role is to support a leader in naming challenging issues and identifying constructive responses to them. Pacifica Synod coaches are volunteering their time to create presentations and coaching opportunities that provide a hands-on resource for addressing your challenges.
If you would like information on having a coach, please contact Deenna Eley, Pacifica Synod Coaching Coordinator at [email protected].
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Matthew 25 Grant Application Period Open |
The purpose of The Matthew 25 Fund is to honor Christ as he spoke in Matthew 25:35-40. Jerry and Lynda Engelhardt established this fund through a strong desire to help people as in the verse.
The primary criteria for making awards shall be Matthew 25:35-40. A secondary criterion shall be to evaluate if the proposed project will help establish or maintain congregational outreach and unity as in the spirit of the verse.
The fund is intended for Pacifica Synod congregations. However, awards may be given to other well-managed organizations not in the Pacifica Synod that meet the spirit of the text.
Grant applications maybe downloaded here or obtained by contacting Terri Robertson in the Synod office at 714.352.8732 or by email at [email protected]. Be sure to click "enable editing" to complete the fillable form.
The deadline for applications is October 15, 2020 and grants will be awarded by January 15, 2021.
Please keep in mind that if you have received a previous Matthew 25 Grant Award, you MUST have submitted a written report on the use and outcome of the previous award in order to be considered for a future award.
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From Lutheran Retreats, Camps & Conferences
El Dorado Fire at Luther Glen
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"Is that smoke, smog or fog?"
This a question now familiar to every Californian. It is a question particularly familiar to the staff at Luther Glen Farm, as we have evacuated camp twice in the last five weeks.
When the Apple Fire worked its way through the canyons of Cherry Valley and ultimately ended its march about a mile east of the farm, we figured we had paid our dues. The El Dorado Fire was much less discreet. The flames broke out at a local nature preserve, then continued around Potato Canyon and into the mountains above camp. At its closest, the fire came within 50 yards of our property.
Though the farm wasn’t burned, the hills around us will look significantly altered for years to come. We continue to be grateful to the firefighters who protected all the properties around us. We are thankful to animal control and volunteers who ushered us in to rescue our goats. And we give thanks to First Lutheran Church in Redlands for being our staff and animal evacuation home during the fires.
Both fires left a financial burden. The electricity was off and our refrigerated food had to be thrown away. This includes a whole season of farm produce which had been packaged and frozen for future guests. The loss from both fires was in the thousands of dollars.
We are asking for your help. To see that we never waste food again, each camp needs to install a permanent generator. This project is almost complete at El Camino Pines, and just beginning at Luther Glen Farm. The total cost will be $6000; and, the first $2000 given will be matched by First Lutheran Church in Redlands. As we often have several thousands of dollars worth of food being stored at each camp, investing in these generators will eventually save money!
We are also grateful to Pastor Dennis & Phyllis Laherty, who have donated a temporary generator capable of powering the retreat center refrigerators. Thank you for keeping up with us and checking in. We send our prayers to all the first responders fighting fires in the West.
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Global Mission Update - Hitoshi and Satoko Adachi |
Pastor Hitoshi Adachi and his wife, Satoko, are currently serving as missionaries with the Japan Evangelicial Lutheran Church in Kumamoto, Japan. To learn more about what is taking place in their ministry, please click here for their September 2020 newsletter.
From the synod office, some additional information. The ELCA is sending a little over 200 missionaries to over 40 countries to serve as pastors, teachers, advisers and doctors. It costs an average of $80,000 annually to support an ELCA missionary household. Each missionary is expected to raise $20,000 per year towards these costs. We encourage you to consider becoming a longer-term sponsoring congregation/individual to support Pastor Hitoshi and Satoko in their ministries, which will continue for the next four to eight years.
The brochure attached here details the Adachi's ministry in Japan and how to best support them. You can give through the synod office or mail your check to Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Gift Processing Center, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 22116-8009. Make checks payable to “ELCA Missionaries” with “(Hitoshi and Satoko) Adachi GCS2051” in the memo line. To donate by credit or debit card, go to https://community.elca.org/Japan or call 800-638-3522 and specify “(Hitoshi and Satoko) Adachi GCS2051”. To set up an automatic monthly bank withdrawal or to establish a covenant of prayer, communication, and support, please contact 800-638-3522, ext. 2657, or [email protected].
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Synod Work Towards Equity, Diversity and Inclusion |
On June 15, Bishop Andy shared a letter with our synod, inviting us to work together for racial justice. If you missed this, you may read the Bishop Andy's full letter here. The Pacifica Synod Council has released a Racial Justice Statement and encourages congregations and individuals to join them in taking the ELCA Anti-Racism Pledge.
We also have created a synod web page with information and anti-racism resources for individual and congregational use. We will continue to add resources, so check back often. If you have resources to recommend or would like to share stories about how you or your congregation are currently working towards equity, diversity and inclusion, please contact Pastor Lara Martin at [email protected].
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From the ELCA & Other Partners |
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From the Presiding Bishop
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Uncertain Times - Living Lutheran
In her September column for Living Lutheran, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton reflects on the uncertain times that we find ourselves in during the pandemic. But she believes we are on the brink of a “new thing that God is bringing about.” Are we ready to answer God’s call?
ELCA presiding bishop responds to disregard for human life and dignity at private detention facility
September 18, 2020
“As Christ on the cross did not lose his dignity, but in fact revealed himself fully in vulnerability, every human who is being mistreated retains the image of God that confers dignity. A society should not deny a person's dignity for any reason.” —ELCA social message “Human Rights,” p. 4
On Monday, Sept. 14, I learned of the very disturbing account of human rights violations against immigrant women in custody in the privately run Irwin County Detention Center in Ocilla, Ga. The center is run by LaSalle Corrections under a contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The whistleblower complaint that was filed on Monday by a licensed nurse practitioner revealed a pattern of medically unnecessary hysterectomies and medical neglect that violated women. Too often, the Christian community has given its tacit or explicit consent to acts of gender-based violence.
God holds each of us responsible for the welfare of our neighbor. We therefore condemn these acts of coerced sterilization as a form of gender-based violence. This is especially true when the perpetrators wield significant power and control over women who are at elevated risk of injustice, abuse and violence. Read the entire statement here.
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Have You Filed Your 2019 Congregational Report? |
Data from your church's congregational report is an important ministry tool for your congregation, the Pacifica Synod, and the Churchwide body.
Completing a statistical report is a constitutional requirement of the synod, and a congregational report must be on file in order for a church to be eligible for most synod and ELCA grants.
2019 congregational reports were due February 15, 2020. While most Pacifica Synod congregations have completed their reports, there are a number that have not been submitted. Please take a moment to check that your congregation's Form A and Form C have been submitted - if you're not sure, please contact Carol Youngman in the synod office at [email protected].
You can access the Churchwide Congregational Report portal, which will be open for a short time, by following this link. If you can't find your login information or are missing your Congregational Report forms, Carol can help you with that as well. Thank you for complying with this reporting requirement!
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Portico 2021 Benefit Information Now Available |
Portico’s Board of Trustees has approved health plan and benefit changes for 2021, featuring the continuing expansion of personalized and online programs for ELCA-Primary members, and a new hearing benefit for members with ELCA Medicare-Primary health benefits. You can read more here.
This month, Portico is inviting sponsoring organizations to visit the 2021 Enrollment Center on EmployerLink, where a Decision Guide and the Custom Comparison Report and Spreadsheet is available to registered users. Please download these resources and share them with decision-makers in your organization. The Decision Guide was specifically created as a visual overview of the two ELCA-recommended options. These documents have been formatted to be easily shared during any online meetings as your organization reviews your options. (Plan members will complete their individual Annual Enrollment after their sponsoring organizations have completed their selection process.)
For 2021, the Pacifica Synod Council is recommending two health benefit options — Gold+ or Silver+ paired with a Level A health savings account (HSA) employer contribution.
Between October 12 and October 30, your organization will need to make your 2021 health benefit selection and enter it on EmployerLink. Your sponsored members will make their benefit selections in November. If you have questions, Portico's Customer Care Center is ready to assist, at 800.352.2876 or [email protected].
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Welcome to Gather: Afghanistan 2020! |
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service is excited to announce the launch of our new fall program, Gather: Afghanistan 2020. This program equips families, congregations, and community groups with tools to learn about the history of conflict in Afghanistan, explore the culture through worship, food, and music, and learn more about LIRS’ work through the incredible story of the Abdullah family.
As part of the program, we've launched two toolkits: one for congregations and one for communities. Each toolkit provides a unique action guide to host a virtual worship service or family dinner that focuses on the rich history of Afghanistan, complete with great learning opportunities and tangible ways to support migrants and refugees.
Though we have to be apart, we're all in this together. Together we honor the journey of the migrant and the refugee. Together we seek to understand the global realities that our brothers and sisters face. Together we respond to fear, pain, and persecution with compassion, generosity, and open arms to welcome the stranger.
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Supporting the Work of Lutheran Disaster Response |
Lutheran Disaster Response brings God’s hope, healing and renewal to people whose lives have been disrupted by disasters in the United States and around the world. When the dust settles and the headlines change, we stay to provide ongoing assistance to those in need. In addition to their work around the world, LDR is currently assisting with two recent disasters response efforts.
California Wildfires
Fueled by a heat wave and unfavorable winds, devastating wildfires are raging across California, Oregon, Washington and other western states. At least 20 people have died, hundreds of thousands of people are under evacuation orders and more than 3.5 million acres have burned across the three states. Some evacuees face the difficult decision of whether to stay in a shelter during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lutheran Disaster Response is engaging with at least three Lutheran social services agencies and five synods to assess the situation and determine the best ways to respond. We expect immediate needs may include food and other necessities, as well as emotional and spiritual care for those who have been traumatized.
Hurricane Relief
Hurricane Laura, a powerful Category 4 storm, has hit Louisiana and parts of Texas with devastating force, causing at least three deaths, major damage and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. With extremely dangerous storm surge and winds of at least 150 mph, it’s one of the most powerful storms to hit the area in a century, and it left widespread destruction in its wake.
Lutheran Disaster Response is engaging with Lutheran Social Services Disaster Response (Upbring) and the Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana, Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast and Southwestern Texas synods, which are assessing the immediate needs and initiating a response. While the extent of the damage is not yet known, we will accompany devastated communities from immediate relief through long-term recovery.
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Pacific Lutheran University's 2020 Annual
Lutheran Studies Conference
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Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher
to the Whitest Denomination in the US
with author Rev. Lenny Duncan
This year's Lutheran Studies Conference focuses on systemic racism and will involve opportunities for reading, reflection and commitment to action for individuals and their faith and/or educational communities. We will be guided in this work and reflection by Rev. Lenny Duncan, an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Church of America (ELCA). The conference will include:
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Keynote Address on October 1st at 7:00 p.m. Rev. Lenny Duncan will be speaking on his book, Dear Church: A Love Letter from a Black Preacher to the Whitest Denomination in the US (2019). This webinar will be held virtually via Zoom.
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Adult Forum book discussions for Congregations on September 20th & 27th at 9:00 a.m. Forums will focus on Chapters 1, 9 and 10, and will be facilitated by Dr. Marit Trelstad, PLU Chair of Lutheran Studies. Please encourage your congregation to read ahead!
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PLU Chapel on September 30th at 10:30 a.m. Rev. Lenny Duncan will be preaching with University Pastor Jen Rude.
You are invited to read Rev. Duncan’s book with us in preparation for the conference events. Registration for all events is required. Please join us!
The conference is free and open to the public and is made possible by the generosity of the anonymous donors who endowed the University Chair in Lutheran Studies.
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Stewardship Kaleidoscope Conference 2020 |
The 2020 Stewardship Kaleidoscope conference is going virtual! Please mark your calendars for the dates below. All times are Eastern Daylight Time. Hear from leading thinkers exploring the opportunities for growth in stewardship even in the midst of profound social change.
Schedule
The 2020 conference will be virtual. We will be together September 22, 29 and October 6th from 11:30 – 1:30 EDT.
September 22nd - Eric Barreto
Weyerhauser Associate Professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary
September 29th - Bonnie Ives Marden
Leadership consultant and financial stewardship practitioner. Author of Church Finances for Missional Leaders.
October 6th - Bruce Reyes-Chow
Senior pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Palo Alto, CA. Author, speaker, former PCUSA moderator.
Location
Virtual connection information will be sent to registered participants in advance of each weekly event. In order to register, go to StewardshipKaleidoscope.org. Videos will be available afterward for those registered.
Conference Registration Fee:
Three weekly events for $45 including access to recordings of the speakers and the question and answer session following the final week of the series.
Conference Scholarships
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Introducing Stories of Faith in Action 2020-2021 |
Stories are the foundation of our faith. They teach us how to serve God with humility. They remind us of our identity as God’s beloved children. They bring us together and give us hope for the future.
Given the challenges of 2020, we need stories of hope and unity more than ever before. That’s where your 2020-2021 edition of “Stories of Faith in Action” comes in.
This annual publication illustrates how God is at work across the ELCA through your generosity. It highlights how a portion of your offering, called Mission Support, advances the ministry of our church — particularly the ways the ELCA nurtures vital congregations, raises up leaders and grows the global church. Most importantly, it’s one way we say thank you for your faithful generosity to your congregation, your synod and the churchwide organization — by showing your offering at work.
- A special message from ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton.
- Nine inspiring stories from around the country and world.
- Your 2019 financial report on Mission Support — the portion of your offering your congregation shares with your synod and your synod shares with the churchwide organization.
- A story-based devotional for use at Bible studies or committee meetings.
Coming soon: “Stories of Faith in Action” is getting a new website that will utilize some of the most immersive techniques in digital storytelling. We are excited to debut this platform and share how your contributions have made ministry possible. Look for more details in future ELCA communications!
- A printable PDF (black-and-white or color) of “Stories of Faith in Action” for use in your congregation.
- Nine one-page black-and-white story printables to share in meetings, in newsletters or via social media.
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Three videos associated with stories from this publication.
In closing, we prayerfully release this edition of “Stories of Faith in Action” to you as a sign of our appreciation. May it give you hope, remind you of your connectedness as a beloved member of this church and inspire new ministry. We are grateful for the story God is writing in our hearts as we strive to be church together for the sake of the world. Thank you for your generosity!
Faithfully,
Victoria Flood
Director, ELCA Mission Support
Nick Kiger
Associate Director, ELCA Mission Support
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ELCA Good Gifts - New Online Tools! |
We know members love ELCA Good Gifts. And with Christmas right around the corner, they are the perfect option to replace traditional gift-giving with something more meaningful. Each gift in honor of a loved one supports the lifesaving ministries of our church and the people we serve – one goat, water well or school uniform at a time.
Whether you organize a special event or simply promote the program with your members, everything you do to help share ELCA Good Gifts with your congregation is deeply appreciated. And this year, with hunger and unemployment on the rise, people in need could really use your help.
Since worship and in-person gatherings may look different now, we have prepared a how-to guide for online fundraisers to help you make the most of our digital tools this year. Your congregation can create its own goal with a “wish list,” go in together on a “group gift,” or simply promote the website to members to help them make a difference at home.
If your congregation and family would prefer our print resources, they are still available. You can order catalogs, coloring books, cards, Advent tree ornaments and additional resources – free with free shipping – while supplies last! Congregational resources may be found here.
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You're Invited to Participate in an ELCA Survey
to Assess Pastoral Needs for Ministry
in a Multi-religious World
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The policy statement acknowledged that “there are many pastoral considerations beyond the scope of this declaration, for example, the common reality of multireligious family life. Therefore, the church recognizes the need for the ongoing development of appropriate pastoral aids, including guidelines for inter-religious marriages, pastoral counseling, religious education, and joint prayer services.” Recently, ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton appointed an ad-hoc committee to undertake the development of such guidelines.
In the survey, issued Sept. 12, respondents are asked questions about their participation in pastoral situations such as inter-religious prayer services, responses to tragedy, social ministry work with partners, and pastoral care for inter-religious couples and families.
“In these challenging times of COVID-19, racism and injustice, our inter-religious partnerships have been as important as ever,” Eaton said. “As we seek to live out our inter-religious commitments, all of us are encountering new areas of pastoral need. Participation in this survey will help us to grow as we serve Christ’s church together in a multireligious world.”
One version of the survey will be emailed directly to active rostered ministers. Another version is available online for participation from ELCA laity, retired rostered minsters, and ecumenical and inter-religious partners. The intention of the survey is to learn from all who participate in ELCA ministries in a multireligious world what their experiences have been, and what guidance and resources they need for the future. The survey will be open for one month, from Sept. 12-Oct. 12.
Click here to participate in the survey. Active rostered ministers should take the survey emailed to them.
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ELCA & Other Partners
News & Ministry Links
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Youth and Family Coordinator
St. Paul Lutheran, Fullerton
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St Paul Lutheran Church (SPLC) in Fullerton is seeking an enthusiastic, creative and energetic individual for a position leading our Youth and Family Ministries. The Youth and Family Coordinator (YFC) will be responsible for designing programs that engage, guide and mobilize the gifts of others to develop multi-faceted programming that includes spiritual formation, education, mission, service, fun and outreach. This position will require flexible hours including Sunday morning worship, weeknights, weekends, and potentially full weeks for retreat/mission trips.
Candidates will have a heart for youth, a passion for Christ, a faith perspective in agreement with the teachings of the ELCA Lutheran Church that includes both a personal and social understanding of faith, an awareness of the struggles and faith questions of modern youth and young adults, and create a safe space of inclusion and diversity.
A complete position description may be found here. In addition, those interested are asked to complete and submit this application.
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Director of Children, Youth and Family Ministry
St. Andrew Lutheran, Vancouver, WA
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St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver, Washington, an active, service-oriented ELCA congregation in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, invites individuals who are passionate about sharing God’s good news with others, particularly children, youth, and their families, to apply for the position of Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministry.
A complete job description and information on how to apply may be found here.
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Webinars and Other Events |
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Addiction & Race: Generations of Trauma
September 24 - 9:00 a.m. PDT
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Addiction and drug policy in America are inextricably linked to race. In this seminar, we’ll dive into the dynamics of racial injustice, trauma, and oppression that contribute to addiction rates.
We’ll also look at the ongoing racial disparities in policing and incarceration that perpetuate inequality and fail to address the root causes of addiction and the potential negative consequences of drug use.
If you are working to lead your congregation or community through issues of racial justice, this one-hour free webinar will be a valuable resource.
Join speakers Sam Simmons, Alcohol and Drug Counselor specializing in the areas of Anger Management, Chemical Dependency, and Pain Management and working with the African American community; Timothy McMahan King, author of Addiction Nation; and Ed Treat, Executive Director of The Center of Addiction & Faith, for this important conversation.
For speaker bios and the link to register, click here.
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A Conversation with Regina Q. Banks
Director of Lutheran Office of Public Policy, California
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Please provide your name, city and congregation to register.
For a PDF version of this flyer to download and share, click here.
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PLTS Virtual Open House - September 30 |
Deciding whether seminary education is right for you?
You’re invited to join us for a Virtual Open House to explore PLTS!
September 30, 2020
5:00 - 7:00 pm Pacific Time
Connect with faculty, staff, and current students to learn about our programs. Additionally, we will be providing all attendees with a complimentary DoorDash gift card, so you can grab a bite to eat with us.
For further questions, contact the PLTS Office of Admission:
(510) 559-2730
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Here to Serve: Being Church in the Times of Crisis
Weekly Online Gathering for ELCA Leaders
Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. PDT
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You are invited to join this weekly gathering designed to provide encouragement and support for ELCA leaders across the church. Participants will hear topical presentations related to how we are called to be Church in times of crisis, as well as an opportunity to be in small group discussions with an ELCA group coach facilitating the conversation. All of this is designed to help us process our feelings in this strange and fearful time and to create a space where we can each name our next most faithful step forward in our unique context. You are welcome to share this invitation with any other ELCA leader, rostered or lay. #ELCAChurchTogether
The next gathering will be held on Wednesday, September 30 at 11:00 a.m. PDT. The topic will be "Preaching in Highly Politicized Times" presented by the Rev. George Mason
We understand a number of folks are unable to make this day and time each week. We record the main session and debrief time and share each recording with supporting documents here, typically by the following week: https://www.elcacoaching.org/podcasts/media.
Below is the link for each Wednesday's Zoom meeting. For a list of upcoming topics and recordings of prior meetings, go to https://www.elcacoaching.org/.
ELCA Coaching is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Being Church in Times of Crisis - Weekly Gathering for ELCA Leaders
Time: September 30, 2020 11:00 a.m. PDT
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 180 439 412
Password: 648160
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Meeting ID: 180 439 412
Password: 648160
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Basic Training in Transitions
Education in the Practice of Intentional Interim Ministry
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So. California Training / Fall 2020 (live, online)
May 10-14 (in-person, on-site)
LuTMA (formerly NALIP)
Lutheran Transitional Ministry Association
- Do you desire to become a more effective transitional leader and agent of the Gospel? Are you considering intentional interim ministry as a possibility for your future?
- As the world continues to change, we confront both profound grief and tantalizing possibilities. How can we better equip ourselves to guide congregations through difficult transitions and into new life?
- Lutheran Transitional Ministry Association (LuTMA, formerly NALIP) touches this reality, encouraging curiosity and professional growth. Since 1997, we have worked with thousands of pastors and multiple partners nationwide. Our name change reflects our own ongoing process of transformation.
- Taking this six-month course in “Basic Training in Transitions” will help you navigate congregational dynamics and aid you in being a transitional leader. Because all ministry is essentially transitional, this course is appropriate for both settled and interim pastors.
Offering a total of more than 60 contact hours of continuing education equivalency plus field practice, this course consists of three, interrelated components:
- Congregational Dynamics and Transitions (live, online)
- Field Practice in Transitional Leadership (independent study and online cohort meetings)
- The Transitional Leader (face-to-face, residential week)
During the COVID-19 crisis, the first two components (CDT and FPTL) will be offered in continuity, online, between October 2020 and May 2021. The live, online sessions for “Congregational Dynamics and Transitions” will be twelve 90-minute sessions on the following Tuesdays at noon: October 13, 20, 27; November 3, 10, 17; December 1; January 12, 19, 26; February 2, 9 (12 sessions)
Anticipating face-to-face possibilities in the Spring 2021, the third component (TTL) will be held at the Pacific Southwest District Offices in Irvine, California, and will begin at 1:00 pm on Monday, May 10, and conclude at noon on Friday, May 14.
For detailed information about the training, the tuition, and what to expect may be found here. Enrollment in this training is limited and will not be offered again for another year for any location.
Other training sites across the nation and detailed course descriptions are also listed on LuTMA.org. The training provides for and will also benefit deacons, deaconesses and lay ministry leaders who are working in the field of transitional ministry.
For more information contact:
Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen
Assistant to the Bishop, Pacifica Synod
Rev. Peter Alexander
LuTMA Dean of Faculty
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Lombard Mennonite Peace Center Workshops |
Multiple sessions of the following workshops will be available online from now through the end of the year. For a complete list of learning opportunities, including 90-minute webinars and multi-day seminars, please visit our website at https://lmpeacecenter.org/brochures/. Registration forms can be found on the brochures; otherwise, you can register online at BrownPaperTickets.
Conflict Transformation Skills: Although a normal part of life, conflict is usually seen as something negative. Acquire the knowledge and skills to transform conflict into a force for positive change and spiritual growth. Attend this 7.5-hour event online via Zoom on Oct. 23, Nov. 7, Nov. 21, and Dec. 5, 2020. Register as a group, using this CTS Discount Coupon, and save up to $50 per person.
Healthy Congregations: Could your congregation use a wellness check? Attend this 8-hour workshop and learn ways to minimize or prevent destructive conflict, manage negative reactivity, and help your church stay focused on its true mission and purpose. Attend this 8-hour event online via Zoom on Sep. 22, Oct. 30, Nov. 13, or Dec. 8, 2020. Register as a group, using this HC Discount Coupon, and save up to $50 per person.
Leadership and Anxiety in the Church: Participants will look at the challenges presented by the rising levels of anxiety experienced in churches today, as well as the role that self-differentiated leadership plays in calming such anxiety. Works of fine art are integrated at various points to facilitate theological reflection. Attend this 7-hour event online via Zoom on Sep. 24 or Dec. 3, 2020. Register as a group, using this LAC Discount Coupon, and save up to $50 per person.
Questions? Call the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center at 630-627-0507, or email us at [email protected].
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The Rev. Carlton Monroe
March 1, 1954 - September 18, 2020
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The family of Carlton Monroe wishes to share the very sad news with you that Carlton passed away on Friday September 18th, surrounded by family near and far: son Carlton “JC” Monroe (Liz), daughter Carla Boyd (Raphael), brothers Mark Monroe (Sherri) and James Monroe (Rasalon), grandchildren Megan Amaro (Samuel), Carlton Monroe III, Brianna Boyd, Cassandra Monroe, Carrington Boyd, great grandchildren Liam Amaro and Mila Amaro, The Jackson Family, and the Boyd Family.
Pastor Carlton graduated from Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in 2011 and served in Pacifica Synod from 2011 to 2015 - at Shepherd of Life, Lake Elsinore and then at the two-point parish of Faith, Joshua Tree and Immanuel Prince of Peace, Twentynine Palms. He then served as Director of Evangelical Mission in the Sierra Pacific Synod prior to retiring a few years ago and making his way back home to Cleveland, Ohio where he passed.
Plans are being made for a small memorial service to be held in a few weeks in Cleveland, Ohio. Pastor Jeremy Fuerst, one of Carlton’s best friends, will be officiating. Carlton served in the U.S. Marines and will receive military honors. Due to COVID and family wishes, this gathering will be small and by invitation from the family.
Condolences may be sent to:
Carlton “JC” Monroe
5305 Blue Cove Court
Las Vegas, NV 89131
or
Carla Boyd
533 Mount Gerizim Road SE
Mableton, GA 30126
Donations may be made to a GoFundMe account set up by Pr. Carlton’s family to assist the family with expenses. Gifts of any amount will be greatly appreciated. Donate Here
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We Remember in Our Prayers |
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We ask that you hold the following people in your thoughts and prayers:
- The family and friends of the Rev. Carlton Monroe
- The Rev. Lee Rozen
- All affected by the wildfires in California, Oregon, Washington and other western states, as well as those fighting the fires.
- The Rev. George Johnson and his wife, Vivian
- Cindy Jorstad
- The family and friends of the Rev. Laura (Laurie) Line
- Ron and Lisa Higginbotham
- Reverend Robert Freistedt
- Reverend Ron and Paula Rennegarbe
- Those affected with the COVID-19 virus and those who have lost loved ones
- Our healthcare providers, first responders, essential workers and all who continue to serve so that others can remain safely at home
In our synod e-newsletter, prayer requests may be shared for our synod's rostered ministers, spouses, key lay leaders and congregations.
Prayer requests included are subject to the following guidelines:
- Only the names of those to be prayed for will be included in our communications. Additional information (with permission) may be shared with the bishop or synod staff, but will not be publicized.
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Those being prayed for must have provided the requester with explicit permission for their names to be shared with the synod.
- Names will remain in the synod communications for one month, unless we are notified by the Conference Prayer Coordinator to extend the request.
- Prayers MUST be added through your Conference Prayer Coordinator, who will submit the prayers to the synod office for distribution.
The following people are serving as your Conference Prayer Coordinators:
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Pacifica Synod - ELCA
Lutheran Center for Mission & Learning
1801 Park Court Place, Bldg. C, Santa Ana, CA 92701
714.692.2791
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