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eConnection
weekly email of the
Rocky Mountain Synod


July 5, 2011    
Greetings!

Vote for the ELCA Video Contest!


The Rocky Mountain Synod is represented by four videos in the ELCA "Living Lutheran" video contest. Prizes will be announced at the ELCA Churchwide Assembly, August 14-19.

Some of the prizes are awarded based upon the votes received for the videos. To vote, you must have an account for the new livinglutheran.com website. Create an account now. Voting closes on July 15, so vote today!

Bethany Lutheran Church, Cherry Hills, CO
Elim Lutheran Church, Ogden, UT
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Casper, WY (entry I)
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Casper, WY (entry II)

View and vote today! Each video is 90 seconds or less!
OUR LIFE TOGETHER
Fourth Sunday After Pentecost 

Almighty God, we thank you for planting in us the seed of your word. By your Holy Spirit help us to receive it with joy, live according to it, and grow in faith and hope and love, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

 

 

Derek C. Harkins to be Ordained July 8

Derek Harken photoDerek Christopher Harkins will be ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament in Christ's one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church on Friday, July 8, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 318 East 6th Street in Casper, WY. Derek is being called to serve English Lutheran Church in Hazen, ND. All ordained, consecrated and commissioned ministers are invited to process. The color of the day is red.

  

Synod Prayer Cycle: North New Mexico Conference
You are encouraged to include the listed leaders in your Sunday prayers of the people. The prayer list for
August is available.

to remember in prayers on 7/10:


Christ the King  Durango, CO

     John Knutson

Community of Joy  Rio Rancho, NM

     Michael Bastian

Cross of Hope  Albuquerque, NM

     Dale Bauer

SENIOR HIGH YOUTH GATHERING 2011

GPS

God's Positioning System is the theme, November 18-20, 2011 at the Estes Park "Y"

  


Registration for the 2011 Senior High Youth Gathering will open August 1! 

 

Go to the SHYG page for all the exciting details!

Keep coming back as more info and details will be added each week. 


SKY RANCH LUTHERAN CAMP


Sky Ranch new logoStoryhill to Play a Benefit Concert for Sky Ranch

 

Sky Ranch is excited to announce that Storyhill will be playing a benefit concert on Friday, July 29 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Cherry Hills Village, CO. The concert will begin at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 and are available at the door, with general admission seating.    

 

Storyhill music groupFresh off their June 18 NPR appearance on "A Prairie Home Companion," Storyhill is a folk duo that brings infectious melodies, smart story songs and heartbreaking harmonies together in one perfect package. Chris Cunningham and John Hermanson grew up and started performing together as teenagers, in Bozeman, Montana. They recorded their first tape as Chris and Johnny in 1989, upon graduating from high school.

 

Storyhill's awards, live national performances and CD recordings confirms that they are one of the most important songwriting duos today, mixing old-fashioned storytelling with hauntingly spare acoustic arrangements that sings about love, war and the many sorrows that accompany them.   

 

"Storyhill...setting a new high standard for male duet harmony" Garrison Keillor


GOOD SHEPHERD, DENVER SAYS "THANK YOU" 

    

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church-Denver photo

Good Shepherd Sharing with others in the RMS Church Community 

 

 

The people of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Denver appreciate the many expressions of concern and support from congregations across the Synod.  The congregational council made decisions regarding the dispersal of property assets. Four ELCA congregations with special needs will receive items:

  • Rejoice Lutheran Church, Erie, CO;  
  • Iglesia Luterana Cristo Rey, El Paso, TX;  
  • Camino de Vida, Albuquerque, NM; and  
  • New Beginnings, Denver, CO. 

Thanks to all who expressed interest and continue to offer prayers for the people of God at Good Shepherd. Please come to closing worship on Sunday, July 24, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.


URBAN SERVANT CORPS

Urban Servant Corps logo2

Summer time means....transition time! 

 

 Please keep in your prayers the 2010-2011 Urban Servant Corps communities as they end the year of service; many transitions accompany this season! Additionally, the 2011-2012 crew will arrive at the end of August.  They, too, will appreciate your prayers of support.  If you'd like to help spiff up the USC houses during the in-between-time, mark your calendars for the week of August 15-19!

 

Closing BBQ

August 1, 2011 -- 6:00 p.m.

835 & 839 32nd St. Denver, CO

Believe it or not, the 2010-2011 year of service is winding down!  Join in the celebration of this year's USC volunteers at the BBQ event! 

  

Move-In Day!

August 28, 2011 -- 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m.

Calling all alumni and friends!  Do you remember what it was like moving to Denver for the first time?  Please share your hospitality and welcome the new crew on move in day!  

 

Commissioning Service

Our Savior's Lutheran Church

September 25, 2011 -- 10:00 a.m. liturgy

Members of the Our Savior's community will offer a blessing on the 2011-2012 Urban Servant Corps volunteers during liturgy. All are welcome!

 

God's work. Our hands.

Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit logo

"The Little Church That Could"

 

Miracles and Blessings When We Need Them!  

 

Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit (LCHS) in Centennial, CO was called to serve in its own back yard. Faithful members of the LCHS congregation faced the heartache of losing their home due to foreclosure.  The family members were out of work for a time and had missed a few mortgage payments.  With such a large amount of money needed to keep their home from being foreclosed upon, the family approached the pastor with a request of prayer and any help LCHS would be able to provide.   

 

Pastor Christian Nisonger photoPastor Christian Nisonger of Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit brought the matter to the Church Council which discussed the pros and cons in depth before every council member, without hesitation, agreed to whatever help was required. The Council saw this opportunity as a calling from God to open the LCHS home and help those who need to be helped. An appeal was made to the congregation for donations and the council agreed to supplement any shortfall from undesignated bequests.

 

For, as I can testify, they voluntarily gave according to their means, and even beyond their means, begging us earnestly for the privilege of sharing this ministry to the saints... 2 Cor 8; 3-4.

 

The congregation responded overwhelmingly and donated most of the needed funds.  The council found the funds and along with some matching funds from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, the family was able to stop the foreclosure process and save their home.   

Thrivent Financial  for Lutherans logo 

LCHS is full of God's children that live and breathe God's word and the Spirit was surely with the council and congregation through this decision-making. The council has decided to continue this type of giving to pass the good word on to other families or individuals in need.  

 

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you   Luke 6:38

 

ELCA logo 

God's work. Our hands. 

RMS CHILDREN, YOUTH & HOUSEHOLD NINISTRY

Youth Leadership Retreat 2011 image

Youth Leadership Retreat

 

Inviting all 8th - 12th grade youth who want to explore the gifts that God has given them and learn how to use those gifts to serve the Church and the world.

 

DATE: July 22 - 24    

LOCATION: Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp

PRICE: $45

 

The weekend includes team building, leadership training, spiritual gift exploration, and peer ministry.  This retreat opportunity is great for youth on church council, in local youth group or wanting a leadership role in the RMS or ELCA Youth Gatherings. 

 

For more information, check out the color brochure. You may register online at the Sky Ranch website.  

MEN'S MINISTRY

Lutheran Men in Mission logo

 

From July 22 - 24, 2011, hundreds of men from across the nation will meet in Denver, CO at the Denver Marriott DTC for the tri-annual Lutheran Men in Mission Gathering.


Lutheran Men in Mission is the men's ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The 2011 Gathering will give men the opportunity to build their faith, relationships and ministry and provide for ongoing leadership development. 

Marriott denver Tech CenterYou are invited to make your own reservations at the Denve
r Tech Center Marriott located at 4900 South Syracuse in Denver (80237). You may also call the hotel at 303-779-1100 / 800-266-9432 for room information. To reserve your space at the Tri-Annual Gathering, you may register online. or complete and mail the form to the registrar.

 

ELCA GLOBAL MISSION

Global Missions 2010 logo

Global + Local =  

Glocal Mission

 

 

From Friday afternoon/evening and daytime Saturday, September 30 - October 1, sponsoring organizations will present an ELCA Glocal Mission Gathering at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, located at 925 North Waco Street in Wichita, KS (67203) and you are invited. 

 

ELCA Glocal Mission Gatherings equip us for God's work in today's global and local realities as well as their "glocal" intersections. Each congregation is invited (encouraged) to bring a team of pastors, musicians, council members, and leaders in education, outreach, service and youth.

 

For more information, including workshop descriptions, registration, how to find special hotel rates and housing, please go to www.elca.org/glocal .

NEW JOB LISTINGS

Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church - Lakewood, CO seeks a custodian

Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lakewood, CO, has an opening for a custodian/janitor, to begin on September 1, 2011.  The deadline for bid submission is no later than Wednesday, July 27, 2011.  Details and requirements can be found on the website listed below, or by contacting Barbara Newman at 303-233-2740.

 

MAIL, FAX OR EMAIL ALL BIDS AND DOCUMENTS TO:

Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church

920 Kipling St., CO  80215

PH:  303-233-2740

FAX:  303-274-6725

WEB:  www.holyshepherd.com

 

 

Trinity Lutheran Church-Ft. Collins logo

Trinity - Fort Collins Seeks an Office Administrator and/or Director of Communications

 

Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Collins, CO is currently seeking applicants to join them in ministry as Office Administrator. The Office Administrator position is a part-time position of 15-20 hours per week. Check out a more detailed job description which includes responsibilities, expectations and compensation. The Director of Communications and Publications position is a part-time position of 15-20 hours per week. Available here is a more detailed job description which includes responsibilities, expectations and compensation.

 

Applicants should send responses (resume with cover letter) by emailed to [email protected]. If you require additional information, please contact Marilyn Hartig by email or phone at 970-226-4332.   

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You can find these and other job opportunities posted on the Rocky Mountain Synod's website. Please take a look. 

Every Person, Every Congregation, Every Ministry, Boldly Serving God's Mission in Christ  

THIS WEEK:

Bishop Allan Bjornberg

In the office this week. 


Pastor Dan Bollman    

Conference Call for the Macedonia Project, Denver, CO; Training for Healthy Start, Denver, CO; Healthy Start Retreat at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, Boulder, CO; Preaching at Saint Paul Lutheran Church, Denver, CO.

 

Madelyn Busse, DM

Available by email  
or phone appointment.  

Pastor Jim Hytjan

Conference Call for the Macedonia Project, Denver, CO; Visiting with the congregation of Christ the King Lutheran Church, South Jordan, UT.   

Linda Staats

Conference Call for the Macedonia Project, Phoenix, AZ.
 Available by email 
 or phone appointment.
 

 

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CONGREGATIONS
QUICK LINKS
CALENDAR
website calendar

2011     

NOVEMBER 18-20

Senior High Youth Gathering

Estes Park, Colorado
 

2012  

JANUARY 13-15  

Middle School Youth Gathering

 Colorado Springs, Colorado

JANUARY 23-26

Winter Theological Conference 

Fort Collins, Colorado 


APRIL 26-28

2012 RMS Assembly

Colorado Springs, Colorado

JULY 16-18 

ELCA MYLA & DAYLE

New Orleans, LA


JULY 18-22

ELCA Youth Gathering
New Orleans, LA

 

SEPTEMBER 23

Installation of Rocky Mountain Synod Bishop

 Denver, Colorado

 

 

SEPTEMBER 23-25

Fall Theological Conference/ Bishop's Convocation

 Denver, Colorado


GLOBAL MISSION

Global Links logo

 

South Sudan:  Pray for a New Nation

Every Friday from now until July 9, we ask for prayers as South Sudan prepares to become an independent nation. See "A Season of Prayer."

 

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Ethiopia and Washington, D.C.:  Living and breathing God's Presence

Fifteen-year-old Milkom and approximately 250 others from the Oromia region of Ethiopiahave found community and a spiritual oasis at one of 24 Oromo-speaking ELCA congregations in the United States. See "The Center of Life".    

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Liberia:  Witnessing Miracles

At age 73 Edna Johnson wanted one more great adventure in life. Following a 28-year career as a nursing instructor, Edna became a volunteer missionary for the ELCA and moved to Liberia. There she has been a witness to miracles. See "Rebuilding a Hospital - Rebuilding a Country."


 

 
REGIONAL ROUNDUP: SELECT A STATE
WYOMING
UTAH
NEW MEXICO and EL PASO, TEXAS
COLORADO
WYOMING
submit Wyoming news or photos

 


 

Events

 

UTAH
submit Utah news or photos

Workshop in Salt Lake City 

Faith Alive in Home and Congregation!

Monday, July 18, Zion Lutheran Church, 6:30-9pm

All Christian Ed leaders and pastors are invited to an evening of exploring what it means to be intentional about practicing faith together in partnership of home and congregation. Pastor Leta Behrens will focus on the "Together in Faith" curriculum as one aspect of milestones ministry & creating intentional spaces for faith conversation amongst the generations. Come discover what this means for you, your household, your congregation & community. RSVP to Pastor Leta Behrens: [email protected]

  

  

Lutheran Social Service of Utah new logo

Summertime Wish List

at LSS Utah

 

 

Just in case you are recycling, these are items that LSS Utah is really needing right now for projects. If you donate, the items would be tax-deductible!

  • Stove
  • Warming Dishes of all kinds (for refugee catering)
  • Cribs
  • Art and Craft supplies for First Gen Kids; and Refugees
  • Nutritious Treats & Beverages (for extremely low-income education programs so students are not hungry)
  • Fabric, Sewing Notions, Buttons, Sewing Machines
If you have questions about donation logistics: Milka, 801-860-3099 or email Leslie.

We are so very grateful for your consideration as you do spring, summer and early fall cleaning!  Thank you from all of us at Lutheran Social Service of Utah. "Remember the Poor! Thanks be to God!"
 

 

Wild West Mill Creek Swap Meet!  

Held now through September 24, 2011 at Lutheran Social Service Utah located at 4392 South 900 East in Salt Lake City [84124] Tax deduction for your donations of gently used or new items which are free to refugee families.

NEW MEXICO and EL PASO, TEXAS

 


La Mansion logo

La Mansi�n:  Children's Program of Iglesia Luterana Cristo Rey

 

 Sponsor a Child Today

Your gift will allow a child of central El Paso to attend La Mansi�n for an eight- week summer program. When you become a sponsor, you are linked with one child who will benefit from your gift by participating in the summer program. At the end of the summer, you will receive a sponsorship packet about your child and his or her summer. See the Sponsorship Brochure.

   

Change the world - One child at a time

Your one- time tax deductible contribution of $60 allows your child to participate in a supportive, church- based summer program.    

 

Learn about the child you're supporting!

In addition to the sponsorship packet, you will receive at the end of the summer, you can also learn about your child through the "Sponsor a Child" link at http://cristorey.webs.com that will contain program updates throughout the summer. You may decide to visit the child you sponsor through Cristo Rey's Border Immersion Experiences.  http://borderimmersion.webs.com 

 

COLORADO
submit Colorado news or photos     
 

Zion Lutheran Church-Montrose

Zion - Montrose 1st YOUTH Habitat for Humanity Build and Christian Concerts

 

 Activities from July 6-9 

 

Zion Lutheran Church of Montrose will have its first Humanity Build and Christian Concert event on from July 6 -9 2011. The build will take place on July 6 and 7 and the concerts will be performed on July 8 and 9 and will feature Mercy Me, Casting Crowns, Superchick, and many others.

 

The cost is $50.00 which includes 4 breakfasts, 2 dinners and a T-shirt. We only have spots for 20 people available on a first come basis. For more information, please contact the church (970-249-9828) or Heidi by email or phone (970-901-8225). Zion is located at 701 South Junction Avenue, Montrose (81401).  

 


Dr. Mark Jacobson

Dr. Mark Jacobson, Medical Director of Selian Lutheran Hospital, Visits on July 7

Saint Peter Lutheran Church, in Greenwood Village, has been supporting Selian Lutheran Hospital in Arusha, Tanzania for many, many years, including the Selian 5K Run/Walk event in early June 2011. On Thursday, July 7 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., Saint Peter will host a reception for Dr. Mark Jacobson and his wife Linda and an invitation to attend is extended to the entire community.

 

Selian Lutheran Hospital emblemThis is an excellent opportunity to learn of Mark's efforts in making Selian Lutheran Hospital and its subsidiary programs what they are today. Learn about the cooperation required to meet the medical needs of so many people living in poverty and hear of the positive impact that Selian Hospital has had on the lives of those in the Arusha area.

 

Saint Peter GW logoIf you plan to attend, please contact Carol Mayer by email [email protected] or call the church office at 303-770-9300, so that enough coffee and snacks are available. Saint Peter Lutheran Church is located at 9300 E. Belleview Avenue, Greenwood Village (80111).



Pastor Ron Swenson photo

50th Ordination Anniversary Celebration

 

On Sunday, July 10, Augustana Lutheran Church will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Pastor Ron Swenson's ordination. Please join Pastor Swenson and his family at a reception from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Pastor Swenson was Augustana's senior pastor from 1980 to 1999 and continues as an active member of the congregation.   

 

If you are unable to attend the reception, cards and greetings may be addressed to Pastor Ron Swenson and mailed to Augustana Lutheran Church, 5000 East Alameda Avenue, Denver CO (80246).

 


Blessing of the bicycles at House for All Saints and Sinners

3rd Annual Blessing of the Bicycles

 

On Sunday, July 10, House for All Sinners and Saints will be hosting its 3rd Annual Blessing of the Bicycles at 6:00 p.m. on the corner of 22nd & Dexter in Denver.  We know that urban biking is not without peril. Many of us rely almost exclusively on human-powered transportation and do so while competing for road space with motorized vehicles. As a way of acknowledging the inherent goodness of God's gifts of life and health and the humble but elegant bicycle we are conducting a Blessing of the Bicycles for the entire Denver cycling community.


House for All image2This event isopen to all regardless of religious affiliation, race, creed, color, sexual orientation, fat or thin tires, and brand of bike. We even welcome unicyclists and Unitarians. Some may take it more seriously than others but it doesn't matter. As we swing our thurible of incense over the Schwinns and Cannondales we do so as a human community seeking God's blessing and protection for all who brave our city streets on two wheels. Group ride to follow!

 

For more information, please contact Nadia Bolz-Weber, pastor of House for All Sinners and Saints, by email or phone (720-301-9409).


 

Hymn Society of U.S. and Canada logo

Hymn Society of the U.S. and Canada Annual Conference in Colorado Springs

 

 

With a hymn festival at St. Paul, Denver

 

The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada will hold its annual conference in Colorado Springs, CO from July 17-21, 2011. Our theme is "Touch the Earth Lightly," which will focus on our responsibility to care for God's creation.  Our program will feature Dr. I-to Loh, a world renowned specialist in Asian hymnody, as well as outstanding leaders in church music from across the United States and Canada. Six events are open to the public:

 

Sunday, July 17
Organ Recital by Carol Wilson, 4:00 p.m., First Christian Church, 16 East Platte Avenue, Colorado Springs.

 

Hymn Festival, 7:30 p.m., Touch the Earth Lightly: Singing Our Care for the Earth, Grace and St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 601 Tejon Street, Colorado Springs.

 

Monday, July 18
Hymn Festival, 7:30 p.m., A Heart to Praise Our God: A Festival Highlighting Hymns by Gay and Lesbian Poets and Composers, First Congregational Church, 20 East St. Vrain Street, Colorado Springs.

 

Tuesday, July 19
Hymn Festival, 7:30 p.m., Rooted in the Rockies: Congregational Song with a Colorado Connection, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1600 Grant Street, Denver.

 

Wednesday, July 20  

Hymn Festival, 7:30 p.m., The Earth is Our Mother, First United Methodist Church, 420 North Nevada Avenue, Colorado Springs.

 

Thursday, July 21
Hymn Festival, 10:30 a.m., "Look in Wonder, Hold in Honour," Air Force Academy Chapel, Colorado Springs.

 

Registration and schedule: http://www.thehymnsociety.org/conference.html   

 


 

golf image

Lutheran Family Services "Tee Off for Hope" Golf Event

  

 

Join Lutheran Family Services for the 18th Annual Golf Classic - 'Tee Off for Hope'. The event will take place at Arrowhead Golf Club on Monday, July 25, 2011 - 7:30 Shotgun Start.

 

Lutheran Family Services of Cooradol;ogoThe individual fee is $175 and $700 for a foursome. Fees include: green fees for 18 holes, golf cart, breakfast, unlimited snacks, lunch, exceptional prizes and more!

 

Register online at www.lfsco.org . You may also call Danette at 303-217-5860 with questions or to get more information.

 


 Lutheran Colleges Fair and Seminar

Lutheran College Fair 2011

Bethany Lutheran Church - Cherry Hills Village image

Sunday, August 21, 2011 at   

Bethany Lutheran Church

Registration begins at 6:45 p.m.
Financial Aid Seminar at 7:00 p.m.
College Fair from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.   


The Value of a Lutheran Education Research has documented conclusively that Lutheran colleges are more effective than large public institutions in producing broad career and life outcomes. On Sunday, August 21, 2011 Bethany Lutheran Church will host a Lutheran Colleges Fair and Seminar. The event is being sponsored by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and

Lutheran Colleges.org (LECNA)

 

Lutheran Colleges logoAlthough each of the 40 colleges and universities represented by the Lutheran Educational Conference of North America (LECNA) is unique, they all focus on developing the whole self through active learning that engages the mind, body and spirit. Don't miss this opportunity to talk to representatives from more than two dozen different Lutheran colleges and get important information about financial aid resources. Learn what questions to ask when choosing a college. Get help with financial aid resources...how, when and where to apply. Find out how to plan your high school classes to be well prepared for attending college.

 


New Beginnings Church logo1Save the Date

New Beginnings 13th Annual Celebration Dinner and  Fundraiser 

 

On September 24, New Beginnings 13th Annual Celebration Dinner and Fundraiser will take place at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO featuring a silent auction, dinner, entertainment, and awards. Mark IV will be on hand offering their musical gifts throughout the evening. Also, many hand knitted and crocheted items from the women on the inside will be available at the silent auction.   

 

For silent auction inquiries or donation, please contact Heiko Meyer by email. (Monetary donations are also welcome.) Come and make this a night to remember and let the women know that they are cared about.

 

New Beginnings Church is an ecumenical ministry inside the Denver Women's Correctional Facility. 

 


 

Events    

 

"Avenues of Hope" Event - Providing Hunger Relief for Metro Denver  

9-10-11 (September 10, 2011) 

Please check out the website to see how you might be able to help.

 

Remembrance and Worship - 10th Anniversary of 9-11
Ecumenical services, 
workshops, dialogues, and cultural exchanges throughout the weekend. For more information, contact Rabbi Steve Booth-Nadav by email. 

 

P.E.A.K.: Children, Family and Faith Conference October 16-26, 2011 at Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp

See the color brochure for more information. 

 

Dr. Diana Butler Bass at Messiah Community Church, Denver

October 28-30, 2011

For more information, please visit the website or call the church at 303-355-4471. 

Communications Staff
Rocky Mountain Synod
800-525-0462 / 303-777-6700

Announcements for eConnection are due before noon on Monday for the issue the following day. Event announcements are included for two weeks. Please submit your announcement at the time it should appear.