News and Updates for the week of March 31, 2025 | | Lutherans Together. Loving God. Loving Neighbor. | | SEPA Synod Updates & Events | | |
Congregation Secretaries Gathering
Saturday, April 12, 2025 + 10:00 am
Benbow Hall, Brossman Center
United Lutheran Seminary, Philadelphia Campus
7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia
REGISTER HERE
Congregation Treasurers Gathering
Saturday, June 21, 2025 + 10:00 am
Benbow Hall, Brossman Center
United Lutheran Seminary, Philadelphia Campus
7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia
REGISTER HERE
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NEW! Parliamentary Procedure Guide
The 2025 Parliamentary Procedure Orientation video can be found HERE.
The 2025 Parliamentary Procedure Guide can be found HERE
Synod Assembly Ingathering Information
Dear Friends,
As Lutherans, more than ever we see opportunities all around us to serve our siblings in Christ who desperately need us. One of the ways we serve each year at Synod Assembly is by hosting an Ingathering to provide items for people in need, both locally and globally. Continuing in that tradition, Women of the ELCA (WELCA) of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod are once again holding an Ingathering in conjunction with the Annual Synod Assembly, but this year we will be collecting for not one but TWO important ministries!
READ MORE HERE
Synod Assembly Offering
This year, the offering collected at the Synod Assembly will be designated for Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) specifically supporting the recent wildfires.
Lutheran Disaster Response shares God's hope, healing and renewal with 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.
Lutheran Disaster Response is coordinating with the Southwest California Synod, Pacifica Synod and other partners to assess the needs of people impacted by the wildfires. LDR will work with them to provide for immediate needs and recovery amid the widespread destruction. Lutheran Disaster Response is committed to accompanying recovering communities for months and years to come.
For the offering link and QR code, click HERE
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Lutheran Nights at the Phillies
Three great games to choose from! Three opportunities to gather together!
Click the link below to choose the game(s) you wish to attend. Looking forward to a fun evening with our fellow SEPA friends.
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SEPA Summer Mission Trip
July 13-18, 2025
Registration is now open!
We're heading to Lutheridge Christian Camp in Arden, NC (near Asheville) to help with flood recovery from Hurricane Helene.
The trip is open to youth in grade 8 and above and adults. This trip is open to anyone who wants to lend a helping hand. Have just one or two youth or adults interested? Register and come along on the adventure! Use the QR code above to register. Or click this link
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FROM SEPA CREATION CARE TEAM:
New! Earth Day Sermon from Lutherans Restoring Creation
The Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing will offer a recorded sermon in recognition of Earth Day according to the readings for Sunday, April 27. Register at bit.ly/ED-sermon to have the file link sent to you no later than Sunday, April 6, so that you can incorporate the message in your full worship as you see fit.
Many accompanying creation care worship ideas can be found lutheransrestoringcreation.org/worship/.
| | Announcements from SEPA Congregations | | |
Reminder! Bishop Patricia Lull to speak at Good Shepherd, King of Prussia
Saint Paul Area Synod Bishop Patricia Lull will serve as the guest speaker at Midweek Lent Worship on April 2nd at 7:00 pm. The theme this year is "Storms in Scripture," and the Bishop's message, based on Acts 27:13-44, is "Shipwrecked: Hope for the Church Amid Change." All are invited to attend.
With a background in seminary administration, campus ministry, and congregational ministry, Bishop Lull delights in the intricate challenges of being a Christian in the 21st century.
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NEW! COMMUNITY OF LOVE
LUTHERAN CHURCH
Cordially Invites you to our
Holy Closure Worship Service
Celebrating 29 Years of Sharing God’s Love
May 4, 2025 at 2:00 PM
A reception will follow worship
RSVP collutheranchurch@gmail.com Church Cell: (484) 667-0597
COMMUNITY OF LOVE LUTHERAN CHURCH
117 NORTH 4TH STREET, OXFORD, PA 19363
| | | New! Spring Turkey Dinner and Craft/Vendor Fair
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Augustus Lutheran Church
717 W. Main St., Trappe, PA
Tickets for the dinner are only $20.00 presale with payment / $22.00 at the door and it is a take-out only event. The dinner runs from 3 – 6 PM. A limited number of self-service seating will be provided and the famed Sunset Skyz Music Duo will be playing live music from 2:30-6:00 PM.
The Craft & Vendor Fair has free admission and runs from 2-6 PM. With Mother’s Day just a few weeks away from this event, it could be the opportunity to pick up that perfect and unique gift while supporting a charity, local artists, and vendors. Proceeds benefit Dr. Stephen & Jodi Lynn Swanson, Missionaries in Tanzania. Supplemental funds provided by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.
LIVE MUSIC: Sunset Skyz Music Duo 2:30-6:00
DON’T WAIT TO GET YOUR TICKETS, FOR FEAR OF SELLING OUT! SOME TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR. FOR DINNER RESERVATIONS, CALL: 610-489-9625 OR PURCHASE ONLINE AT www.AugustusTrappe.org
VENDORS WANTED: AugustusCraftShow@gmail.com
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Christ's Lutheran, Oreland Women's Day Retreat
Saturday, April 5, 2025
9:00 am to Noon
Check in begins at 8:30 am.
Christs Lutheran is located at
700 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Oreland.
Please join us on Saturday April 5th to hear from Marie Monville on the topics of grief and growth through faith. Speaking from her experiences of, among others, being married to the Amish school shooter at the time of that tragedy, Marie speaks on how faith can guide us through the trying and terrible to the beauty of life beyond. This event will have two speaking sessions with activities to invoke discussion and consideration between the two sessions. Light breakfast refreshments will be available and Marie's books will be available for purchase. This event is geared toward women, but men are welcome to attend as well.
Please RSVP! We're looking forward to seeing you!
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Susquehanna University Choir Concert in Phoenixville
Sunday, April 6 + 4:00 pm
St. John's Lutheran Church
355 St. John's Circle, Phoenixville,
The Susquehanna University Choir and Chamber Singers will present a concert on Sunday, April 6, at 4:00 pm. The 58-member ensemble conducted by Dr. Amy Voorhees will present a varied program representing a diversity of composers and cultures. No tickets are required but a free-will offering, with a suggested $10 donation, will be received. Susquehanna is one of 28 colleges and universities of the ELCA.
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St. John’s Melrose Park Has Office Space to Rent
St. John’s Lutheran Church in Melrose Park has office/classroom space to rent to an organization whose work is consistent with St. John’s values of Welcoming, Service, and Caring. This would be a group seeking space for offices, or to serve clients. The space is approximately 12 well-lit rooms (depending on configuration) with approximately 4500 square feet. The rooms are on two floors and the second floor is accessible only by stairs. (This was St. John’s education wing). St. John’s is on Old York Road in Melrose Park, and the No. 55 SEPTA bus stops outside.
If you know of any group that may be looking for such space (think educational services, health care, senior services, performance or rehearsal space, day care or pre-school, or many other possible uses) please let us know and we will reach out, and/or ask that group to contact us for information and a tour. Our contacts are Pastor Felicia Swartz (rev.stjohnsmelrose@gmail.com) or member Roberta Coyle (bertiefcoyle@gmail.com).
| | SEPA Partner Organizations | | |
New! ELCA Seminaries Fireside Chat
The Seminaries of the ELCA are happy to share we will be hosting another Fireside Chat in April. This next one is with Deacons Krista Anderson and Beth Anderson about Word and Service Ministry.
Register with the link below:
Fireside Chat: Exploring Diaconal Ministry in the ELCA
Thursday, April 10th, 2025 + 8:00-9:15pm (Eastern time)
Informational Flyer HERE
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17th Annual Chefs for Gemma Benefit
Friday, April 4, 2025
The evening will highlight the talented Chef Eli Collins of a.kitchen + bar.
Please plan to attend on April 4, 2025 for what is sure to be another sold-out, delicious, and mission-focused evening to raise vital support for Gemma’s programs that accompany youth and families in our local communities.
Visit www.bidpal.net/chefs2025 to purchase your tickets or sign on to sponsor. Please reach out to us at info@gemmaservices.org or 610-825-4440 x3206 with any questions.
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Gather+Philly's
Beverage with the Bishop
April 7 + 7:00 pm
Conshohocken Brewing Company
739 E. Elm Street, Conshohocken
Join Bishop Penman and other young adults (18-35 years old) for conversation and fellowship.
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FINAL WEEK!
LuMin Campus Ministry Madness !
What is campus ministry madness?
Campus Ministry Madness is a month-long digital friendraising event for ELCA Campus Ministry organizations (including Lutheran Campus Ministry here in Philadelphia at University Lutheran Church, serving Drexel, Temple, and the University of Pennsylvania!) held in March. It’s an opportunity for campus ministries to work together to raise awareness about campus ministry and to connect campus ministry alumni and supporters to ministries in the organizations they serve!
How can I learn more about campus ministry’s impact?
Follow @lumin_elca on Instagram to read student stories daily in March! These stories, from across the country, show the many ways that campus ministry is blessing individuals and campuses. You can also connect with your local campus ministry by going to luminelca.org/ministries
What can I do to support campus ministry?
From Monday, March 3 to Tuesday, April 1, support your team’s campus ministry and help them earn points! Check back every Monday to see the standings! 100% of your donation will go to the Lutheran Campus Ministry site you choose to support!
How do I donate?
You can donate to your favorite campus ministry online (including UniLu's Lutheran Campus Ministry in Philadelphia, serving UPenn, Drexel, and Temple!) by going to: www.campusministrymadness.org. Thank you for your support!
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Women of the ELCA Scholarships Deadline Approaching
Are you or someone you know pursuing education or leadership development? Women of the ELCA offers scholarships to support Lutheran women in their academic and vocational journeys. Whether you're working toward a degree, theological education, or leadership training, these scholarships can help lighten the financial burden. All applications must be submitted online by April 5.
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ELCA Draft Social Message on Child Protection
Jesus’ call of welcome in Matthew 19:13-14 points to the church’s responsibilities toward children. Yet too many children today experience not welcome and safety but traumatic abuse and neglect. The ELCA’s draft social message on child protection addresses this crisis and outlines the church’s sacred responsibility to protect and nurture children. To strengthen this draft, we need your feedback. Share your comments and suggestions during the public comment period, from March 21 through June 30. Read the draft and complete an online survey.
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Lutheran Settlement House Fundraiser: Powerful Together
Tuesday, April 29 + 6:00 pm
Powerful Together: A Fishtown Feast – will be held at the Event Center at Rivers Casino. Guests will enjoy small plates from some of Fishtown’s finest restaurants, while making a difference in the lives of Philadelphia families.
Click the button below to learn more about tickets and sponsorship opportunities.
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Research Based Study Guide for Young Families
The ELCA is dedicated to becoming a truly welcoming church, particularly by engaging with new, young, and diverse people in our communities. To fulfill this mission, we must deeply understand the needs, thoughts, and experiences of those inside and outside our congregations. Our ELCA schools and learning centers play a crucial role in this work, as they support families and shape the next generation. In partnership with the ELEA and Barna Group, we’ve conducted research to uncover how we can better support families—a key to becoming a more vibrant, welcoming church. A great entree into this research includes our "Nurturing Faith" Study Guide that can be used with staff, councils, and parents. We invite you to explore the full report, insights, and resources on the ELEA website, www.elcaschools.org, and join us in this vital journey of growth and connection.
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Senior Ministries Leadership Forum
April 23, 2025 + 8:00 am
Lutheran Community at Telford
Center for Community Life Auditorium
12 Lutheran Home Drive, Telford
RSVP no later than April 14 by contacting Stephanie Houser at 267-203-1178 or shouser@graceinspiredliving.org
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African Descent Lutheran Association
19th Biennial Assembly
"Lest We Forget"
July 24-27, 2025 + Phoenix, AZ
Early Registration fees will end on May 15th. Register now!
Full details including tentative assembly schedule can be found HERE
The Hyatt Regency in Phoenix will be our host. The hotel is located at: 122 North Second Street Phoenix, Arizona, 85004 United States
1 King Bed: $145 a night + tax.. 2 Queen Beds: $155 a night + tax
Questions & Concerns: Tracey A. Beasley, Event Coordinator Traceyabeasley@gmail.com
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Kindling Faith Events
NEW! The 2025 Lazareth Lecture with Rev. Dr. Emilie Townes from Boston University was held March 25. If you were not able to see it live, here is a link to the recording: https://www.youtube.com/live/7qZh56Bj5eo?si=pAAGZFwyIkWrtt3r
A Lenten Devotional from the ULS Community, with a daily reading for the forty-day journey. Available by clicking here.
Listening for the Soul: What it Means to Hear, Understand, and Engage the Soul with Rev. Dr. Beth Toler, licensed therapist. April 7 & 10 online. Register here.
The Richard Stewart Lecture Series continues in April on the topic of Claiming our Dignity, Saving Our Souls with the Rev. Dr. Beverly Wallace.
Register here.
Aging Grace-Fully Series. Register here.
o From Dry Bones to Living Hope author Missy Buchanan, April 22 at 1:30 pm.
o The Beauty of Dusk author and award-winning NY Times columnist Frank Bruni, May 22 at 1:30 pm.
o How We Show Up author Mia Birdsong, July 15 at 1:30 PM
o Somehow author Anne Lamott, September 11 at 1:30 PM
o 10% Happier author Dan Harris on the Philadelphia campus October 23 at 1:30 pm.
Partners for Sacred Places will hold a seminar in Gettysburg, April 24-26. Partners helps congregations and others with a stake in older religious properties make the most of them as civic assets in ways that benefit people of all faiths. Register here.
Parish Nursing Lunch and Learn, Tuesday, April 29th at Noon. Community Faith nurses are incredibly important because they serve as a bridge between healthcare and spirituality, offering support that goes beyond medical treatment. This event is online and free of charge. Register here.
April 30th, Spring Convocation: “Everyday Stewardship: Consecrating the Ordinary” on the Gettysburg Campus with Rev. Dr. Mark Allan Powell, author of Giving to God and the Rev. Louise Johnson, Executive for Vision for the ELCA. Register here.
Spring & Summer
Is it Ethical for Clergy to use AI? Dr. Kristin Asplin, Psychology Professor from the University of Pittsburgh helps us sort things out on May 6th at Noon online. Register here.
Thriving Together: Reverent and Relevant Congregations. Your congregational team is invited into to a three-day focused journey of discernment, practical learning, and action planning for inspired and achievable ministries specifically for the world in 2025 and beyond. Register here.
Pride Month Events, June 17 & 23 featuring The Bruesehoff Family, authors of Raising Kids Beyond the Binary and A Kid’s Book about Being Inclusive and Jeff Chu, author of Does Jesus Really Love Me?: A Gay Christian’s Pilgrimage in Search of God in America. Also, Dr. Debbie Doubrava with "Beyond Binary…SAFE Space Practices AND Play" for allies. Register here for the Bruesehoff family on the 23rd. Register herefor the Chu and Doubrava events.
June 29-July 3: Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate. A week of respite for rostered leaders with the Rev. Jim Hazelwood, author of Everyday Spirituality: Discover a Life of Hope, Peace and Meaning. Register here.
July 13-18: Theological Education with Adults. A week of learning and fellowship for lay people featuring lectures from the Rev. Dr. Allison deForest on the Gospel of John. On Gettysburg campus and online. Register here.
August 10–15: Summer Ministry Institute: “Sighs Too Deep for Words; Worship in Times of Lament and Hope” This week of learning is available to anyone involved in the worship life of congregations, with church musician Richard Bruxvoort Colligan and Dr. Deanna Thompson, Director of the Lutheran Center for Faith, Values, and Community at St. Olaf College. Register here.
Remember, both the Philadelphia and Gettysburg campuses offer free lodging for up to three nights for rostered leaders who just need a break. Email mzimmann@uls.edu to arrange your place apart.
| | LAMPa Events and Information | | |
REGISTER NOW for Lutheran Day in the Capitol – May 13
When the world feels unstable, and the task of justice seems impossible, our faith calls us to turn to the words of the prophets and the promise of Christ that reminds us God is always doing a new thing. This Lutheran Day, we're coming together from across the Commonwealth to remind ourselves of God's faithful action in the world and calling on our lawmakers to join in the work of reconciliation, restoration, and justice on behalf of our neighbors in need and the world God loves. Find out more and register.
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Keep Up With Synod News and Resources
With so many events coming up we'd love to make sure that your congregation's office and key leaders are subscribed to MinistryLink. Many congregations encourage council members and program leaders to subscribe.
We encourage leaders, parish administrators or newsletter editors to forward MinistryLink (this link) to your congregation.
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Thank you for taking the time to read this edition of MinistryLink. Fellow church members and colleagues can subscribe by clicking below.
The Rev. Paula Lebo, Assistant for Mission Interpretation
ministrylink@sepa.org / 267.323.3743
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