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'Feed the Woman' Oct. 1 a Satisfying Feast
On Oct. 1, more than 90 women from across the New England Synod gathered at Trinity Lutheran Church, Worcester, Mass., to participate in the "Feed the Woman -- Third Course" spiritual event, sponsored by the New England Women of the ELCA. Together, they feasted on God's word through prayer, devotions, workshops, song, fellowship, worship and the Eucharist. It was a rich banquet, indeed, with a wide array of sumptuous offerings. The workshops offered a variety of ways to nourish the mind, body and soul -- including bible studies, zumba lessons and tours of the Worcester Art Museum. Attendees were able to find both sacred space for prayer and reflection, and a congenial place for craft activities. The women of Trinity provided wonderful hospitality, including a delicious lunch. The keynote address was given by Susan Lindberg Haley, a diaconal minister called to serve people with disabilities in our Synod. Susan, who serves at nearby Zion Lutheran Church, Worcester, spoke about Rejoicing Spirits, a ministry that's near and dear to her heart. "It's an inclusive contemporary worship service and fellowship," she noted, "one that provides opportunities for people with and without disabilities to actively participate and contribute to worship." The closing service was done in the lively Rejoicing Spirits style, to the delight of many. "Feed the Woman -- Third Course" provided an exceptional opportunity for women of strong faith to spend time together, nourishing themselves and each other in fellowship and love while gaining strength for the journey. Summing up the day, Susan said, "truly, God was in this place." |
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2012 ELCA Youth Gathering
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Registration Opens for the 2012 Gathering
Registration is now open for the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering. 25 congregations with 253 youth and advisors from New England Synod have registered along with over 23,000 from all over the ELCA. There is still room for more! For more information go to the ELCA Gathering Page or the NESynod Gathering Page.
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Kairos Center Offers Series on Prayer
A four-part series, "A Heart of Prayer: Turning Our Hearts and Minds Toward God in All Things", will be offered four Wednesday nights from 7-9 beginning Oct. 18 at United Congregational Church, 6 Institute Rd., Worcester, Mass.. It is sponsored by the Kairos Spiritual Life Center. a ministry of All Saints Church, Worcester. Click here to learn more or contact the Rev. Nancy Elder-Wilfrid, director, at 508-752-3766 or kairoscenter@allsaintsw.org |
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'Keeping Kids Safe in New England'
Oct. 23, 1:30 - 5 p.m. at Camp Calumet
Registration Deadline Midnight Sunday, Oct. 16 The training will be led by Dr, Bill Barter, a forensic psychologist and child abuse specialist from Portland,, Maine. Dr. Barter is also pastor of St. Ansgar Lutheran Church, Portland. Participants will receive a certificate of completion from Eventus Maine LLC. Professionals needing CEUs or CMEs will obtain three contact hours of continuing education. If you are attending the Adult Youth Leader Summit please check the registration form that you will be remaining for the training. There is no additional cost for this. Click here to register . |
Tips for a More Meaningful Advent, Christmas
Did you know that the average American plans to spend $700 on Christmas gifts this year? Challenge your congregation to rethink the tradition of gift-giving by participating in an ELCA Good Gifts Fair. An ELCA Good Gifts Fair allows members to select from more than 50 gifts that transform lives around the world -- from goats to vaccinations -- and honor loved ones at the same time. Such gifts can become a great opportunity to share the true meaning of Christmas Click here to get started today! |
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God's Purpose for the New England Synod
to go where love leads
to serve where love calls
The Guiding Principles for the New England Synod
pray always
give of ourselves
stand with others
embrace change and diversity
make room for joy
"Doing What Matters" Devotions
Session 11: Do What Matters -- Do
Bible Passage
Jesus called the 12 together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. He said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money-not even an extra tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there, and leave from there. Wherever they do not welcome you, as you are leaving that town shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them." They departed and went through the villages, bringing the good news and curing diseases everywhere. Luke 9:1-6
Guided Imagery
Let's Pray -- Dialoguing with Scripture
- Read the passage to yourself slowly.
- Consider which character you would like to engage in conversation. Write the name at the top of a piece of paper.
- Imagine having a conversation with that character. What would you say to him? How would he respond? Write it down on your paper. Let your imagination go wild.
- When you are finished, read your dialogue to yourself, either silently or out loud.
- Did anything about the conversation surprise you? Did you feel God's presence and guidance during the dialogue? What did you learn about yourself as you talked with this Biblical character? Did you learn anything from the character? Was this exercise easy or difficult for you? Was it useful?
Closing Prayer
O mighty God who provides for all our needs, give us good courage to go out into the world to proclaim your kingdom to all who will listen. We pray in the strong name of Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen. |
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