We who work with the leaders of congregations in this synod know how earnest congregations are about leadership. We live in a time when churches don't thrive just by being carried by a cultural wave of popularity. Some congregations thrive. Some struggle. All congregations are aware of the crucial importance of strong and effective leadership.

So how are we doing?

In an effort to serve you better, we have made a few significant changes to the synod website--take a peek! A new layout and expanded navigation menus seek to bring the most sought-after information front-and-center. You might also notice two blogs brought to the forefront, "In Mutual Conversation," a collection of work from Bishop Rogness' writing and speaking, as well as "Seasonings of the Synod," a blog by Vernita Kennen and the Hunger Work Group. While we continue to work out the kinks, we thank you for your patience during this time of transition.

 
Note: The site is displays best using a recent version of Mozilla Firefox, download here. If you use Internet Explorer, make sure you are running the most recent version, IE9, download here.

May 1-3, Bethlehem, Minneapolis. How does being missional affect giving? Congregational leaders--both lay and clergy--concerned with creating financial sustainability and congregations dedicated to the mission of God in the world have the opportunity to hear from church leaders who are on the forefront of this discussion. There will also be time to engage in conversation facilitated by the keynote speakers.

For more information and to register, click here. The Saint Paul Area Synod is a co-sponsors of this conference, meaning leaders from this synod are eligible for a $50 discount (enter "ELCA" as the promotional code). Register before Mar. 15 to receive early bird pricing, a total cost to individuals of $195.

Mar. 19, 1:30-3:00 p.m., Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley. Come for a discussion about congregational newsletters: What you've found to be successful, what you are struggling with, new ideas, etc. Bring about 10 copies of your congregational newsletter to share with others. At the following meeting, held on Apr. 16, Trip Sullivan, communications director at Shepherd of the Valley, will talk about e-newsletters. Contact Kate Penz if you have questions.

Apr. 21, Christ the King, New Brighton. Is your congregation stuck in a financial stewardship rut? Or perhaps you are excited by the possibilities for growing in faith, in stewarding the financial resources of your congregation, and helping your members to grow in this spiritual discipline and in the sense of joy that generosity brings to life. Either way, Jump Start is for you! More information and registration 

If you have ELCA-primary health coverage, take the 2012 Mayo Clinic Health Assessment on the EmbodyHealth web portal at www.elcaforwellness.org today. You'll earn $150 wellness dollars just for taking the 15-minute assessment. Plus, you will help your congregation or organization earn a two-percent discount on health contributions--a synod-wide savings of $44,000--if 65 percent of plan members complete the assessment by April 30. It's a win-win.

May 12, 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Lord of Life, Maple Grove. A Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM) workshop to help congregations develop and sustain an effective men's ministry that can impact all men in the congregation, regardless of where they are in their spiritual journey. See www.lutheranmen.org for more information and registration.

We are one of 65 synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.