The Weekly Five

Five Things to Know This Week in the Southwestern Texas Synod

Rising Together:

Finding Hope and Help After the Floods


As the floodwaters finally recede across South Texas and the Hill Country, the full scale of the devastation is now in view. Standing in front of waterlogged homes and debris-filled yards, it is completely natural to look around and ask: Why me? Why us? Or, why again?


If you are feeling overwhelmed right now, please hear this: this flood does not define who you are, and you are not alone in this. The mud and the loss are real, but so is the strength of this community.


The Power of Connection


In times like these, leaning on our neighbors is just as important as the physical cleanup. That support might come from your local church organizing, a work crew or simply a neighbor checking in on you. And remember, your community extends far beyond city limits. There are people thousands of miles away—listening on the radio or following along on the internet—who are holding South Texas in their hearts and stepping up to help.


Click here to keep reading.

Save the Date – Boundaries: Gender Inclusion 


November 12 | 9 am-12 pm


Join others from across Region 4 for a boundaries training on gender inclusion, “Striving for Gender & Disability Awareness.” We will:

  • Do some homework in advance.
  • Hear from expert panelists from the ELCA & ReconcilingWorks.
  • Participate in affinity group discussions.


Cost is $25. More information coming soon!

Learn.AI: What Every Church Should Know About Artificial Intelligence


August 12 | 12 pm


Join us for Learn.AI, a free webinar designed for pastors, church staff, lay leaders, and members of NTNL congregations. Whether you’re excited about AI, skeptical of it, or simply curious, this conversation will provide an accessible introduction to what AI is, how it works, and the important questions the Church should be asking as this technology becomes part of everyday life.


Click here to learn more.

Administration Matters 

 

In this issue: Six must-haves for a secure ACH approval policy, Beware of fraudulent donors and donation scams, and more.

 

Click here to read the latest issue.

39th Convention of the SWT SWO WELCA


October 16 - 18

San Antonio


We will gather at the Sunshine Cottage School for the Cottage School for the Deaf on Hildebrand Road for a weekend of worship, learning, fellowship, and inspiration. Our theme, “Rooted in Faith, Growing Together,” is reflected in this year’s convention logo and grounded in Scripture.


View the Convention packet for full information.


Download flyer here.


View quicklinks here.

UPCOMING EVENTS

August 1 
11 am

Inauguration Worship for

One Table

Good News – San Antonio

August 2 
4 PM

Holy Closure Worship for Gethsemane

Gethsemane – San Antonio

Beginning August 18

Stepping Up to Supervision

November 12

Gender Justice Training

April 30-May 1, 2027

Synod Assembly

Triumphant, Garden Ridge

Ministry Partners