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E-Spirit Weekly Newsletter | October 6, 2026

Ordination & Installation

October 10, 11:00 AM: Ordination of Clair Watson to the ministry of Word & Sacrament. Clair has been called by Synod Council to serve as Mission Developer in Nassau, Bahamas. The ordination will take place at Hope Lutheran Church in The Villages. Bishop Suárez will preside and the color of the day is red.

October 25, 9:30 AM: Installation of Rev. Alison Peterson as Pastor of Messiah Lutheran Church in Cape Coral; Rev. Nicole Eastwood officiating.

October Church Worker Newsletter

As church workers pour themselves into caring for others, it's easy to overlook their own need for renewal. This month's 2026 October Church Worker Newsletter invites readers to reflect on how God continually reforms and renews our bodies, minds, and souls through rest, healthy boundaries, grace, and self-awareness.

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Give Yourself the Gift of Silence

The Franciscan Center in Tampa is offering three opportunities to experience a silent directed retreat in the coming months. Step away from the noise and busyness of daily life and enter a space of quiet, prayer, and reflection, offering you the gift of unhurried time with God, supported by the gentle companionship of a trained spiritual director. A silent retreat is for anyone longing to deepen their relationship with God, discern a decision, recover from a busy season, or simply rest in God's presence. No previous retreat experience is necessary. Participants observe silence throughout the retreat (from opening to closing, including meals) creating room to notice God's presence more deeply. Each day includes a private meeting with a spiritual director who listens, asks gentle questions, and helps you attend to the movements of your spiritual life. For dates, more information and registration links, click here: franciscancentertampa.org/group-retreats.

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Continue Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

We’re entering the fourth week of Hispanic Heritage Month, and there’s still time to engage with the Just Love Hispanic Heritage Month resources. The four-week devotional offers a short history lesson, Scripture, reflection questions, a concrete action, and a prayer each week, inviting us to learn, listen, and love our neighbors. An activity sheet is also available for congregations, families, and individuals.

Missed the Hispanic Heritage Month worship service? Watch the service online and join in the celebration.

Men's Retreat at Luther Springs: November 6–8

“2x4” - Two challenges, four Bible studies, one weekend

A 2×4 by itself is just a board. Put a few together and you've got something that holds real weight. That's the idea behind this weekend. Two team challenges, four Bible studies, and a whole lot more that happens in the space in between. Kayaks on still water. Arrows at the archery range. Food worth going back for seconds. Conversations around the campfire. You don't have to have your life figured out to come. None of us do. Leave the tie at home, skip the small talk, come as you are. Chances are the guy sitting next to you is carrying a similar load. Bring a friend, round up the guys from your congregation, or come on your own. Retreat in partnership with Lutheran Men in Mission.

Tier 1: $175
Tier 2: $225
Tier 3: $275

You choose! Tier I (subsidized), Tier II (direct cost), or Tier III (true cost) — everyone gets the same great experience regardless of tier. Scholarships are available.

Housing in Cabins or Motel-Style Rooms. Spots are limited. Register Now: www.LutherSprings.org/mens-retreat

South Miami Lutheran Kicks off Fall with Jazz

South Miami Lutheran Church kicked off the fall season with a lively jazz night filled with great food, fantastic music and wonderful fellowship. More than 100 people gathered to enjoy the sounds of a professional jazz quartet, with a Bible quiz adding a little friendly fun during intermission. It was a joyful evening of bringing people together, strengthening community and sharing God’s many blessings.

The Joy of Generosity

Written by Charles “Chick” Lane in collaboration with the Rev. Tim Brown, this free, four-week stewardship series is easy to use and fully customizable for any size congregation, offering Scripture, story prompts, and digital and printable resources for each week’s theme.

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