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eConnection
weekly email of the
Rocky Mountain Synod
July 10, 2012 |
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Greetings!
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after the fire
emotional gratitude
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Prayers from the children of Christ the King Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, as residents returned to their neighborhoods for the first time.
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After first believing his home was destroyed, Pastor Keith Knoff and his wife were relieved to learn it was saved. But their journey still isn't an easy one. And retired AIM Judy Hagge told us that the fire came within ten feet of her back deck. Keith writes...
We returned to our home with mixed up emotions. Yes our home is standing, but there is smoke smell all over the inside, and the roof has damage. Our losses may be significant, depending on insurance. Our home probably lost more than $100,000 in value. We are thankful our house is standing and is maybe 90% OK, but there is so much more loss to this. Deep emotional loss and empathy for others.
We are emotionally exhausted: living out of boxes for two weeks, fighting through loss and the losses of hundreds of people around us. Two homes are flattened within feet of us, and two blocks away more than 150 homes are totally gone. Within 8 blocks the total of homes flattened is 346. Behind all those numbers are real people and families. I am counseling and being counseled every day as I walk the streets of the war zone and ground zero.
Yesterday my wife and I went to the Diasater Recovery Center. As we walked in I saw the Red Cross and table after table of volunteers with food and counseliing. It made me cry. Usually we are on the other side of the table, and to be humbled to receive love and care was very unique. Outi, my wife, is having headaches and sore throat from the soot and smoke in our house, so the Red Cross insisted on seeing one of their nurses. She is from California, and the compassion of the these dozens of Red Crosss volunteers just gripped me! Hundreds of volunteers are here.
God used the heroic hands of firemen and women who stood on our culdesac and bravely fought fire from three sides (writing that just makes tears come up in me right now). They saved our culdesac and we are now unbelievably close emotionally to our neighbors...
Sky Ranch is "home" but the
bear saga continues
As has received some "press" on TV news, two bears broke into the camp while it was evacuated because of the High Park fire, leaving a huge mess in the kitchen and beyond. The bears returned over the 4th holiday, while the camp was empty, doing additional damage, including breaking a water line and flooding the kitchen and basement (which fortunately had floor drains or it would have been much worse), ruining the ceiling and walls. Read more about how the camp has dealt with these challenges, and how the camp has opened this week, keeping the kids safe. Read more. Sky Ranch welcomes donations towards their repairs. Donate to Sky Ranch.
Lutheran Disaster Response: Fires
Here at the Rocky Mountain Synod bishop's office, we have received over $5000 for LDR fire relief. Additional funds have been received through Lutheran Family Services and LDR. We express sincere gratitude for this outpouring of generosity for those whose lives have been so devastated.
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| NEW BLOG POST FROM BISHOP-ELECT GONIA |
Deeply rooted, bearing fruit
As I write this, my wife, Kim, and I are in the process of moving from Chicago to Denver. We counted: in our 29 years of marriage this is our 16th move as a couple. If you add in our relocations before marriage, mine total around 25, Kim's closer to 30. What's remarkable to us is that amid all those moves we had one ten-year period as a family in the same place, the same house! It was our ten years in the Rocky Mountain Synod when I was serving at Atonement Lutheran Church in Lakewood, Colorado. That may not seem like a long time for some folks, but it helps explain why a couple of global nomads like us feel so rooted here and why we feel so blessed to be returning to a part of the world we consider home.
Whether yours is a story of mobility or stability - or both - one thing we all share is a desire for community and connectedness amid the comings and goings of life. I believe that this is especially true when it comes to our journeys of faith and spirituality--these are journeys not intended to be undertaken in isolation! It's the reason that a team called Connected Community will be at the center of the staffing design I have proposed for my tenure in the RMS Office of the Bishop...
read more about the staff design, as depicted by the tree graphic
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| OUR LIFE TOGETHER | Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
O God, from you come all holy desires, all good counsels and all just works. Give to us, your servants, that peace which the world cannot give, that our hearts may be set to obey your commandments; and also that we , being defended from the fear of our enemies, may live in peace and quietness, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Prayer from Sundays and Seasons Year B 2012
Jocelyn Mamy Ranaivoson
Ordination Set for July 14 By the grace of God and the call of the church, Jocelyn Mamy Ranaivoson will be ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament in Christ's one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church on Saturday, July 14, 2012, at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, located at 731 SW Buchanan Street, Topeka, Kansas. The Service of Ordination and Installation will take place at Trinity during this same time. The Reverend Gerald Mansholt, Bishop of the Central States Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in America will preside, and the Reverend Rafael Malpica, Executive Director of the Global Mission in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America will be preaching. Your prayers and presence are requested. All ordained, consecrated and commissioned ministers are invited to process. The color of the day is red and everyone is invited.
Pastor Michael Tassler Installation July 22 at Grace, Colorado Springs You are cordially invited to celebrate the Service of Installation for Pastor Michael Tassler on Sunday, July, 22, 2012, at 2 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, located at 1128 East Boulder Street in Colorado Springs (80903). The installation was originally scheduled for Sunday, July 8 but because of the fire in Colorado Springs, he had to evacuate his home and postpone the move of his family. Pastor Dan Bollman, assistant to the bishop, will preside and light refreshments will be served after the service. Everyone is welcome to attend. The Tassler family is now re-scheduled to make the move on July 12, 2012.
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 7/8: Christ the King Durango, CO Rich Ajer (interim) Community of Joy Rio Rancho, NM Michael Bastian Cross of Hope Albuquerque, NM Russ Sorensen |
ELCA YOUTH GATHERING RESOURCES
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International Companion Program at the ELCA Youth Gathering
As part of the ELCA Youth Gathering's International Companion Program, our synod is hosting two youth and an adult from our companion synods in Madagascar. Our guests are: Ranaivonirina Mahomby Indrafo Sarobidy, Andrianomenjanahary Michael Nielson and Pastor Haja Wilson, who serves as the Youth Minister for his synod. They arrived in Chicago on July 2 for orientation. Kaari Von Bermuth, a member of our Rocky Mountain Synod's LYO, also participated in the orientation and accompany our guests back to Colorado where they will be hosted by First Lutheran Church in Longmont.
During their time with us, they will visit Rainbow Trail and Sky Ranch Lutheran Camps, plus visits with congregations and various local experiences. They will travel and participate in the ELCA Youth Gathering with their local hosts. In conjunction with the ELCA Global Mission Unit, RMS coordinators are: Pastors Paul Judson, Chad Kohlmeyer, Ron Roschke and Dave Jarvis, RTLC.
If you wish to know more about our guests' visit or want to contribute towards the sponsorship of our three guests, please contact Linda Staats. (Learn more about our synod's visit to Madagascar in 2013.
Join us for Closing Worship! On Sunday, July 22, 2012, at 8:30 a.m. MDT the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering Closing Worship will take place in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Your congregation is invited to consider joining this worship from your own location through video streaming. ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson will be preaching. A detailed order of service will be provided in July.
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BISHOP INSTALLATION SEPTEMBER 23
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Save the Date:
Installation of Bishop Elect Gonia is Sunday, September 23 at Bethany
Mark your calendar for the Installation of Bishop-elect James Gonia on Sunday, September 23, 2012, at 7 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church in Cherry Hills Village, CO. After we have received an RSVP from rostered leaders by August 20 , we will open an online seating request RSVP link so those who desire to attend will know if they can expect to be seated in the main worship room, or an overflow room video link.
On September 24 and 25, a Fall Theological Conference / Bishops' Convocation will continue at the Embassy Suites just down the road from Bethany with Bishop Mark Hanson, Bishop-Elect James Gonia, and guest-presenter Rev. Ron Richardson, a noted author on matters of healthy congregations and leaders. Registration information will be available later this week online.
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LUTHERAN FAMILY SERVICES ROCKY MOUNTAINS
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LFS Rocky Mountains
Widows Workshop
Updated Information: New workshops added
On Friday, August 3 and Saturday, August 4, 2012, Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains will host a FREE workshop as a special presentation by Kathleen Rehl, Ph.D., CFP, an award winning author and speaker. The workshop is titled: Moving Forward on Your Own - Workshop for Widows.
The purpose of the workshop is to help those that have been widowed to be more self-confident, knowledgeable and secure about their money matters - enabling them to take control of their financial futures. There are four opportunities to participate:
Friday, August 3rd from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Bethany Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Cherry Hills Village
Friday, August 3rd from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
First Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Colorado Springs
Saturday, August 4th from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
First Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Longmont
Saturday, August 4th from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
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ROCKY MOUNTAIN SYNOD CAMPUS MINISTRY
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Connecting with our college-bound students through Campus Ministry
Lutheran Campus Ministry is eager to welcome and connect with college students from your congregation or organization. The pastors of Campus Ministry within the Rocky Mountain Synod would LOVE to receive the names and emails of your college students. Please help us reach more students on campus! Each name is like GOLD to us. Thank you.
The campus ministry emails for the various schools in our Synod are listed below. If you have a list of your students from many schools around the country, please send these to LCM at University of Colorado at: Liz.Gonzales@colorado.edu . The names that you provide will be dispersed to the appropriate schools.
University of Northern Colorado (Greeley, CO) - lcm.unco@gmail.com
Colorado State University (Fort Collins, CO) -
lcmcsu@gmail.com
University of Wyoming (Laramie, WY) -
ipastor@qwestoffice.net
University of Colorado (Boulder, CO) -
lcmpastor@colorado.edu
University of New Mexico (Albuquerque, NM)-
lcm@unm.edu
New Mexico State University (Las Cruces, NM) -
office@peacelutheranlc.com
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PASTORS RIDING FOR A CAUSE
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12 Pastors to run 188 mile relay-night and day-for Malaria in Sept!
Twelve pastors from the Rocky Mountain Synod will be running the Colorado Relay from Breckenridge to Aspen, September 7 and 8, 2012, to raise funds for the awareness, prevention, and treatment of malaria for the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Read the ELCA blog to be inspired to give generously!
The Rocky Mountain Synod has a new PayPal account to receive credit card donations! Please note: you need not have a Paypal account to use this link. Click on "Don't have a Paypal account" when asked how to proceed.
GIVE GENEROUSLY IN SUPPORT OF
THE FASTER PASTORS!
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CONGREGATION CLEANING HOUSE
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For Sale:
Wood-grain folding tables - SIZE 30" x 72" - $49/each
Also size 36" x 96" - $55/each [Both with a minimum quantity of two (2). A discount can be offered if you buy in quantity.]
Plus Two Table Caddies - Brand New - still in the box. Caddies will store/transport
9 folding tables with each. $199 per caddy set.
For more information, please call Jim at 303-986-3968.
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BORDER SERVANT CORPS
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Border
Servant Corps News and Events
 Donate a Vehicle.BSC is in great need of a few vehicles (our current mini-van is not doing well). Due to program growth, we are looking for a small car to be used primarily for administrative purposes to travel between Las Cruces and El Paso, a mini-van and/or a 15-passenger van for retreats, community events, immersions, etc. We are seeking vehicles in good condition with low gas mileage, if possible. Remember, any donation to BSC is tax-deductible!
Upcoming Events!
- Wine & Cheese in El Paso. Friday, July 27 at 5:57 p.m. at the Thrivent Financial Offices (2615 Montana Ave., El Paso, TX 79903). Join the 2011-2012 volunteers before they continue on their journey and participate in this delicious fundraiser! Bring a bottle of your favorite wine or non-alcoholic beverage to share. Recommended donation: $10.
- BSC Recognition in Las Cruces. Sunday, July 29 at 9:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church (1701 E. Missouri Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001). Bid farewell to the 2011-2012 volunteers and thank them for their year of service.
- BSC Farewell in El Paso. Sunday, August 5 at 11:00.a.m. at Cristo Rey (1010 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902). Say farewell to the 2011-2012 volunteers and thank them for their year of service.
- BSC Commissioning in Las Cruces. Sunday, August 26 at 9:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church (1701 E. Missouri Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001). Welcome the 2012-2013 volunteers to their year of service.
- BSC Welcome in El Paso.Sunday, September 9 at 11:00.a.m. at Cristo Rey (1010 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902). Welcome the 2012-2013 volunteers to their year of service.
- BSC Quincea�era. October 5-7, 2012. BSC will be celebrating 15 years of service on the borderland. Mark this exciting weekend in your calendar...details to follow!
If you have any questions or would like to become more involved with BSC, please contact us at bsc@peacelutheranlc.com or 575-522-7119. Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly.
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JOB POSTINGS
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Seeking Music Director (part-time)
St. Paul Lutheran Church (SPLC), an ELCA and Reconciling in Christ congregation in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is seeking a part time Director of Music. The role of this position is to lead, seek out, encourage, and coordinate the music ministry to enrich the worship and spiritual life of the congregation and the community.
Knowledge and experience in conducting choral and instrumental music as well as a deep and demonstrated Christian faith are essential qualifications for inspiring and motivating others to deepen their faith through music.
A detailed job description is available as well as instructions on how to submit your application cover letter, resume and list of three references. Application deadline is July 25, 2012.
Grace, Colorado Springs Seeks Director of Music Ministries The congregation of Grace Lutheran Church located at 1128 E. Boulder Street in Colorado Springs seeks to fill the position of Cantor, Director of Music Ministries, Director of Music, or Minister of Music. A few of the responsibilities include: - Plan and coordinate the entire music program, providing leadership and resource to the congregation.
- Participate in the planning of worship and other musical activities in the congregation.
- Schedule all choirs and ensembles participating in worship.
- Hold weekly rehearsals and direct or oversee the following groups: (examples - Adult Choir, Gospel Choir, Folk Choir, Contemporary Choir, Youth Choir, Bell Choir, Men's or Women's Ensemble, Orchestra, Band, or other instrumental ensemble).
- Attend regular staff meetings and work with the Music Committee or other congregational committees for
- Maintain professional competency by practicing, performing, attending continued education opportunities, teaching workshops or seminars, and reading professional journals.
For more information is available, including a more a more detailed job description, required skill set and qualification. You may also contact the church office by email or by phone (719-634-2478).
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Every Person, Every Congregation, Every Ministry, Boldly Serving God's Mission in Christ
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THIS WEEK
Bishop Allan Bjornberg
Ordination of Nicole Ferry, Baltimore, MD; Visiting with the congregation of Bethany Lutheran Church, Cherry Hills Village, CO.
Visiting with the congregation of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church plus a Council Retreat, Boulder, CO.
In the office the week of
7/10 - 7/16.
Begin the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering, New Orleans, LA Available by email
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CALENDAR |
JULY 18-22
ELCA Youth Gathering
New Orleans, LA SEPTEMBER 23 Installation of Rocky Mountain Synod Bishop
BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH Cherry Hills Village, CO. SEPTEMBER 23-25 Fall Theological Conference/ Bishop's Convocation
EMBASSY SUITES Denver, CO. NOVEMBER 16-18 RMS Senior High Youth Gathering YMCA of the Rockies
Estes Park, CO
2013 JANUARY 18 -20 RMS Middle School Youth Gathering
MAY 2-4 2013 RMS Assembly Loveland, Colorado SEPTEMBER 23-26 Theological Conference Estes Park, Colorado
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| WYOMING | submit Wyoming news or photos
Journey through the Wilderness
on a Spiritual Retreat
The Wyoming Association of Churches is sponsoring the Spiritual Retreat: Journey through the Wilderness at Ring Lake Ranch near Dubois on August 13-15, 2012 More information, including the schedule, can be found on the event brochure and you may register on line at www.wyomingassociationofchurches.org or by mail with the form. If you have questions, please contact executive director of the Wyoming Association of Churches, Chesie Lee by email.
Summer Marriage Encounter Weekend Summer is already here, and we're sending you this email because we have a special "All Clergy" Weekend Getaway planned for clergy couples in the Rocky Mountain region! The next Weekend Getaway is scheduled for August 23 - 25, 2012 at the Plains Hotel in Cheyenne, WY. An application fee of $50 per couple will give you and your spouse this much needed private time to refresh, re-energize, and reconnect before stepping back into the "real" world. (A suggested donation of $500 from your church congregation would also help cover the Weekend lodging costs!) You deserve it! For more information see the flyer or to apply today visit here.
Events
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UTAH
| submit Utah news or photos
Elim Vacation Bible School Raises $211.23 to
Combat Malaria
The 28 kids enrolled in Elim Lutheran Church's Vacation Bible School raised $211.23 to contribute to the ELCA Lutheran Malaria Campaign according to Linda Hyde, director of Elim Lutheran Church's 2012 VBS. Hyde said, "The children were quite shocked that people in other parts of the world can die from a mosquito bite. They were very excited to bring money for nets to help save lives."
 The Lutheran Malaria Campaign is a ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), Lutheran World Relief, and eleven Lutheran church bodies in Africa. The goal is to end malaria in Africa by 2015. When the ELCA was informed that the VBS kids at Elim were raising money to combat malaria, the ELCA agreed to match every cent the kids raised, bringing the total to be donated to $422.46. When sixth grader Catelynn Rude of Elim found that out she said, "Wow! That'll buy a lot of nets!"
 To raise money, the kids raided their piggy banks, did extra chores, mowed lawns, and held yard sales. First grader Brooklyn Gainey set up an exhibition of her drawings and accepted contributions. The VBS kids sang and danced two benefit concerts, one for their parents, and the other during Elim's Sunday morning worship service.
 Seventh grader Micaela Purdin spoke to the congregation of Elim at the Sunday service and to the parents at the closing night VBS Celebration. Micaela invited the adults to join with the kids in contributing to the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Thinking back on what the VBS kids had raised, Micaela said, "I'm very excited about raising the money for families in Africa, Latin America, and Asia."
Elim's VBS was funded in part by a $700 grant from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.
Photo 1: First grader Brooklyn Gainey tells how she raised money for the ELCA Malaria Campaign by having an exhibition of her drawings and taking contributions.
Photo 2: Micaela Purdin tells the congregation of Elim Lutheran Church about the ELCA Malaria Initiative during the worship service on June 24, 2012.
Photos courtesy Gloria Wurst, Elim Lutheran Church
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NEW MEXICO and EL PASO, TEXAS
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Events |
| COLORADO | submit Colorado news or photos
Annual Mount of the Holy Cross Pilgrimage Dates Set
Each year since 1976, Mount of the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Vail, CO, has sponsored a pilgrimage hike up Notch Mountain to view Mt. of the Holy Cross. Again this year Mount of the Holy Cross will sponsor pilgrimages climbing Notch Mountain in order to view the Mount of the Holy Cross.
 There is a brief service of worship near the summit before descending. It's a wonderful experience for those who participate and this year the community of Mount of the Holy Cross wanted to offer the opportunity to a wider audience. Due to Forest Service regulations the groups are limited in number so reservations are required. The dates are Friday, July 20 and Saturday, July 21, 2012. The event will be from approximately 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. This is a fairly strenuous hike and requires good hiking boots and waterproof weather protection. There is no cost to participate but pre-registration is required. Please email the church or call 970- 476-6610 to receive a registration form or for more details. photo provided by Pastor Scott Beebe Mount of the Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Vail
Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains Annual Golf Classic - "Tee Off for Hope" Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains invites you to participate in their Annual Golf Classic - "Tee Off for Hope" which will take place on Monday, July 23 at the Pinehurst Country Club,  located at 6225 W. Quincy Avenue, Denver (80235). The schedule for the day is: Registration/Practice Range 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.
Shotgun Start is at 8:00 a.m.
Luncheon and Awards 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Individual Fee is $185
A Bonus Ticket of $40 includes the entry into all contests, mulligans, gift certificates, prizes and much more! Experience a great game of golf for a great cause! Don't miss it!
Register online at www.lfsrm.org/Events. For more information, please contact Danette Goldhammer by email or phone at 303-217-5860
Celebrating 125 Years as a Family of Faith 
The Reverend Dr. Herbert Chilstrom, first presiding bishop of the ELCA, will be here to lead a discussion of his autobiography, A Journey of Grace, and he will lead Sunday morning worship services. Saturday, July 28, 3:00 p.m. - Book Discussion and Reception This discussion is free of charge and everyone is welcome. Copies of A Journey of Grace are currently available to purchase at Mount Calvary. The cost of the book is $30 and all proceeds will go to the program of New Testament Studies at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC). Rev. Chilstrom will be delighted to sign books after the presentation. - Sunday, July 29, 8:00 a.m.: Rev. Chilstrom will lead worship with Holy Communion at Mount Calvary.
- Sunday, July 29, 10:00 a.m.: Rev. Chilstrom will lead worship at Ryssby Church, located between Boulder and Longmont. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. As seating is limited, please call the church to reserve a space.
- Sunday, July 29, Noon - Church Picnic/Pig Roast at the Rinards' place. Please sign up at Mount Calvary.
 The celebration continues on Sunday, October 7, 4- 7 p.m.
Sunday, October 7, 2012 will be the grand celebration of our life as a community of faith at Mount Calvary. A fabulous late-afternoon dinner will be followed by a spirited competition pitting the men vs. the women in a game of Mount Calvary Jeopardy. Prizes will be awarded for best "decade outfits". Cost: $20 for adults; $10 for children 2-10 years old; and children under 2 are free. Tickets will be available for purchase between worship services beginning Rally Day, August 19 through September 23. Complimentary tickets are available on request. For more information, please contact the church by phone on 303-499-1444.
New Beginnings Church 12th Annual Celebration Dinner and Silent Auction New Beginnings Church invites you to joint them in their 12th Annual Celebration Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday, September 29 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, located at 4500 Wadsworth Blvd. in Wheat Ridge (80033). The featured speaker is  Sydna Mass�, founder of Ramah International, and her topic is "Forgiveness: Breaking the Chains." The auction will also include many handmade items donated by women on the inside. Music will be provided by New Beginnings Church. For dinner, there is a suggested donation of $10.00, payable at the door. For more information or to register, please email Kathy or give her a call on 303-831-7023.
Her Choice to Heal New Beginnings Church of the Rocky Mountain Synod (ELCA), invites you to hear Sydna Mass�, founder of Ramah International, speak at a workshop on Saturday, September 29, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The workshop is titled Her Choice to Heal: Finding Spiritual and Emotional Peace After Abortion and will take place at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, located at 6322 South Lakeview in Littleton (80120).  During the workshop, Sydna will outline:
- Basic issues confronting post-abortive women
- Post-abortive mindsets and how to communicate through them
- Provide a healing method for assisting them to grieve those losses at a healthy level
- Offer a much a deeper understanding of how this particular American demographic impacts the attendees personally
The cost of the workshop is $45/person and includes a detailed manual. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. For more information and to register, please email Kathy or give her a call at 303-831-7023. The event is sponsored by New Beginnings Church. |
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