News and Updates for the week of April 6, 2025 | | Lutherans Together. Loving God. Loving Neighbor. | | SEPA Synod Updates & Events | | |
New! Dates and Deadlines
Deadline for Bulletin of Reports: April 23, 2025
Deadline for Mission Center Registrations: April 23, 2025
Deadline for Anniversary Celebrants Submissions: April 23, 2025
Final Registration Deadline: April 23, 2025
Lodging Requests Deadline: April 23, 2025
Deadline for Medical Forms for Youth: April 23, 2025
Deadline to submit Retired Pastor Availability Forms: April 23, 2025
Deadline for Voting Member Certification Forms: April 23, 2025
Deadline for Reference and Counsel Submissions: April 30, 2025
Resolutions Posted to the Website: May 16, 2025
Visit this page to access the forms you need,
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
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CANCELED! Congregation Secretaries Gathering
Saturday, April 12, 2025 + 10:00 am
Due to low registration, the Congregation Secretaries Gathering is canceled. Dates for a future gathering are being secured. The Treasurers Gathering is still happening! Register below.
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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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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April is Arab American Heritage Month
During the month of April, the Arab America Foundation formally recognizes the achievements of Arab Americans through the celebration of National Arab American Heritage Month (NAAHM). Across the country, cultural institutions, school districts, municipalities, state legislatures, public servants, and non-profit organizations issue proclamations and engage in special events that celebrate our community’s rich heritage and numerous contributions to society.
Learn more HERE
| | Announcements from SEPA Congregations | | |
NEW! St. Andrew's, Audubon FREE COMMUNITY REPAIR CAFE
Saturday April 26th + 9 am - Noon
St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, 2725 Egypt Road, Audubon
Our repair volunteers will be on hand to help fix your broken lamps and small appliances - sharpen knives and scissors - mending and sewing (including fixing those ripped stuffed animals!) - small furniture repair - and other general repairs - all for FREE! (If you know your item needs a specific part, please feel free to bring it with you).
St. Andrew's Repair Cafe' puts repair volunteers together with the community to help repair things instead of tossing them in the trash! We provide Helping Hands in the Neighborhood!
For more information: 610-666-6577 or info@standrewslutheran.com
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NEW! Community of Love Lutheran Church
Receives Award
Community of Love Lutheran Church's Raingarden Project has won a BUBBA (Best Urban BMPs in the Bay Award) award from the Chesapeake Stormwater Network.
The Best Urban BMP in the Bay Awards contest (BUBBAs) recognizes the best practices and programs being implemented in the urban environment across the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The BUBBAs shine a light on local innovators using creative approaches to protect and restore local watersheds.
To read more about the BUBBAS, click HERE
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Lower Bucks Conference Pulpit Supply
On March 16th the Lower Bucks Conference participated in a conference-wide pulpit swap with 10 of its 16 congregations participating. Conference pastors rotated between congregations, increasing congregational awareness of our joint ministry in Lower Bucks, but also in the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod. We have many pulpits, but we are one church!
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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
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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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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).
| | 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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NEW! LAMPa is offering racial justice fellowships
($1,000 scholarship, plus $500 for the congregation and $1,000 for the mentor) from the Jackie Maddox Racial Justice grant we were awarded last year. The deadline for applying is April 25. With the environmental justice funding cuts there could be a meaningful project for a youth/young adult to tackle through this fellowship. Of course, they don't have to pick this particular issue, but it certainly is another blatant example of injustice faced by this tight knit community.
EPA grant for flood-prone Eastwick terminated, Philly officials say
Read in NBC10 Philadelphia: https://apple.news/A-JOhyKOiTzO5_RkAuf2aqQ
| | SEPA Partner Organizations | | |
NEW! Calling all Region 7 Reconciling in Christ Partners
April 22, 2025 + 4:00 pm
ReconcilingWorks is here to support you in getting all four of the Reconciling in Christ requirements.
Please join ReconcilingWorks executive director, Aubrey Thonvold and program coordinator, Deacon David Behling for a 40 min Regional Zoom call for a time of support, resource sharing, and Q&A focused on the four RIC Public Partner Commitments. Please use the link below to register for your regional Zoom.
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NEW! ELCA Disability Ministries Resource Spotlight
Founded in 1988, Pathways to Promise describes itself as “a multifaith and multicultural mental health support organization that addresses the need for comprehensive mental health support for any person with a mental health condition and those who surround them.”
The Pathways to Promise resource center offers a variety of information and materials for different ministries, groups and individuals working together to support mental wellness.
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NEW! Donations Accepted for Bear Creek Camp Summer Staff Appreciation Meals!
Your congregation can help support the summer staff of Bear Creek Camp by donating to staff appreciation meals. Meals take place on Friday nights at the end of each camp week. The meals are a way of thanking and uplifting staff after a job well done. You can donate financially or by cooking a meal.
For more information and questions please contact Kallie Handlong, Program Director at kallie@bearcreekcamp.org or call 570-472-3741.
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NEW!
Taste The Possibilities
KenCrest's 120th Anniversary Fundraiser
Arcadia University | Grey Towers Castle
Wednesday June 4th from 6:00pm-8:00pm
Please join us for KenCrest’s 2nd annual tasting event! Featuring a curated selection of wine, beer, and libations specially paired with delicious hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy excellent food and drink while learning about the history and dedication KenCrest has given over these past 120 years!
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NEW! Network In the East: A Retreat for Youth & Family Ministers and Volunteers
August 7-9, 2025
Congregational youth workers (staff and volunteers) are invited to United Lutheran Seminary in Gettysburg for Network In the East, a new continuing ed and networking event. This gathering, hosted by the ELCA Youth Ministry Network and ULS’s Kindling Faith Initiative, offers workshops on adaptive leadership, curriculum design, trauma care, and faith formation—plus time for connection and renewal. Learn more and register through the button below by Monday, July 7. Questions? Contact Charlie Roberts at croberts@lss-elca.org.
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ELCA Seminaries Fireside Chat
The Seminaries of the ELCA are happy to share we will be hosting another Fireside Chat in April 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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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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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! Summer Mission Trip
Join us for an weeklong summer mission trip at the Gettysburg Campus of United Lutheran Seminary. Open to youth in grades 8–12, this experience combines meaningful volunteer work with fun and fellowship. Participants will engage in service projects that support the seminary and local community while enjoying recreation, comfortable housing, and delicious meals. In addition to hands-on service, youth will have opportunities to learn about faith, leadership, and history in this inspiring setting. Come grow in faith, serve others, and build lasting friendships this summer! Register here.
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, you can view the lecture HERE
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.
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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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