June 3, 2022

THE CHALLENGE

The Bishop's Challenge: 70% of the synod's 197 congregations—138 congregations—will actively engage in resettlement over the next 18 months.

Bishop Tim offers his challenge at Synod Gathering on Friday, June 3, 2022.

THE PARTNERSHIP

A key partner for us in this work is Lutheran Services Carolinas.

Lutheran Services Carolinas (LSC) current resettlement offices: Raleigh and Asheville
LSC future resettlement offices: Salisbury and Wilmington
164 congregations fall within the 100-mile coverage radius of LSC offices.
Congregations that fall outside LSC's coverage radius can partner with a congregation that does or connect with a partner like Church World Service.

15,000

Refugees resettled by LSC since 1980

750

Afghan refugees resettled by LSC in 2021

750

Ukrainian refugees to be resettled by LSC in 2022-2023

Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to

accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine.

Ephesians 3:20

WHAT CAN WE DO?

Join a Zoom Call to Learn More

Join a conversation with Bishop Tim Smith, LSC President Ted Goins, and leaders in Refugee Resettlement. Learn more about Circles of Welcome, an LSC program that readies you to welcome new families and gives you clear ideas about the ways your church can partner. Choose a date:

Tuesday, June 14 at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, July 20 at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, August 17 at 3 p.m.

WHAT ELSE CAN WE DO?

Start a Circle of Welcome in Your Congregation
Become a Partner to a Circle of Welcome
Provide Housing
Hold a Be the Light Campaign
Share Your Progress

Learn more at: nclutheran.org/nc-bishops-challenge

This work across the synod will be supported by our Immigration & Refugee Team led

by staff member Carissa Abraham. They will be working to keep you informed on the

Bishop’s Challenge throughtou the 18 months of the Challenge.

Questions? Contact Carissa Abraham at 704-633-4861.

The Bishop's Challenge | NC Synod, ELCA | 704-633-4861 | nclutheran.org