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eConnection
weekly email of the
Rocky Mountain Synod
August 28, 2012 |
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Greetings!
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"With gratitude and thanksgiving"
We give thanks for the ministry of two faithful staff members as their calls to ministry in the Office of the Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod conclude this week.
 | Pastor Jim Hytjan welcomes the new Risen Lord, Conifer, CO,
congregation in 2007. |
Pastor Jim Hytjan
has served as an Assistant to the Bishop for fifteen years, beginning in November of 1997. In more recent years, this position, funded primarily through Churchwide ministries of the Evangelical Church in America, has been titled the "Director for Evangelical Missi
on." The "DEM" in each synod is responsible for working with new and renewing congregations, especially mission congregations.
Throughout his service in this call, Pastor Hytjan has shepherded mission congregations th
roughout the Rocky Mountain Synod. He has demonstreated his passion for outreach and mission in every setting and context, including urban, rural, border, and multicultural contexts.
"Jim has served the church well, through his mature and thoughtful leadership," said Margie Schmitt-Ajer, diaconal minister and ELCA Coordinator for Mission Leadership, Region 2 "He has mentored many folks in the ministries of outreach and has provided caring and insightful partnership. He is also a person of deep wisdom and vision, who is well respected throughout the church. And his life and ministry has shined as a reminder of God's grace among us."
Through the years he has developed a deep understanding of demographic and cultural trends that have changed the dynamics of what it means to make Christ known.
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Pastor Dan Bollman addresses the 2011 Synod Assembly.
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Pastor Dan Bollman
has served as an Assistant to the Bishop since February of 1999. He has served in various capacities, including as providing leadership in stewardship, youth, outdoor ministries, worship and congregational life. More recently he was responsible for overseeing the call process, matching up leaders with congregations seeking new leadership.
While facing retirement with hesitation, Pastor Bollman's ordained ministry has spanned 36 years. He served calls in Mounds View and Faribault, MN; in ELCA Churchwide Ministries Division for Congregational Life, Chicago, IL; at Holy Trinity in Littleton, CO; and at the Rocky Mountain Synod Office of the Bishop. Prior to ordained ministry he was a High School English and Speech/Theater Arts teacher in Foley, MN, and a journalist in the U.S. Air Force, with service in California and Thailand.
"Many of us throughout the church have been blessed by Dan's optimism and good cheer, and his clear pastoral caring for congregations and rostered leaders, said Schmitt Ajer. "Dan has also demonstrated a wonderful sense of collaboration and partnership throughout and beyond the synod. His sense of joy has certainly been a sign of God's presence."
 We give prayerful thanks this day for the ministry that Dan and Jim have shared amongst us!
Soli Deo Gloria!
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| OUR LIFE TOGETHER | Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost
O God our strength, without you we are weak and wayward creatures. Protect us from all dangers that attack us from the outside, and cleanse us from all evil that arises from within ourselves, that we may be preserved through your son Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Prayer from Sundays and Seasons Year B 2012
Synod Prayer Cycle: Metro South Conference
You are encouraged to include the listed leaders in your Sunday prayers of the people. The prayer lists for September and October are available. to remember in prayers on 9/2:
Abiding Hope Littleton, CO
Chad Johnson, Doug Hill
ALMC/Cristo Rey Denver, CO
Armando Rangel
Atonement Lakewood, CO
Chris Davis
Bethany Cherry Hills Village, CO
Ron Glusenkamp, Ruth Ann Loughry
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INSTALLATION of OUR NEW BISHOP
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Request a seat at the installation
of Bishop James Gonia
Sunday, September 23 at Bethany Lutheran Church
Mark your calendar for the Installation of Bishop James Gonia on Sunday, September 23, 2012, at 7:00 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, located at 4500 East Hampden Avenue in Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113.
Seating reservations are now available for the remaining 160 seats. When those seats are spoken for, we will make seating available in the overflow room at Bethany with a video link. The installation will also be streamed live online.
rehearsal 4-5 p.m. for 7 p.m. worship
Theological Conference is September 24 and 25 for rostered leaders and others who would like to attend.
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 James Gonia, and guest-presenter Rev. Ron Richardson, a noted author on matters of healthy congregations and leaders. Online registration is available. Please don't use the credit-card payment option, as the fees do not factor in the credit card fees. Please
If you need to make special arrangements, such as arriving a day early, please call the synod office for adjustments to the regular registration.
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COMPANION SYNOD NEWS
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Visit Madagascar in 2013
Worship, eat, sing, study, dream and live with your amazing sisters and brothers in Madagascar!
Join us for our three-week trip next summer. Our Companion Synods are waiting for us to visit and this trip can change your life.
 Bishop Jim Gonia will be going with up to twenty-four people from the Rocky Mountain Synod-adults and youth. We will travel in teams to all four of our companion synod sites in northern Madagascar. One team will work with a National Youth Camp of the Malagasy Lutheran Church. Another team will share in a Theological Conference with the pastors of our partner synods. And all of us will gain a deeper appreciation of the dimensions of the Body of Christ as we share life and grace in God's family.
Estimated cost for the trip is $5,700. Plans are still being worked out, and the final cost could be somewhat more or less. The tentative dates are June 29 - July 20, 2013. Applications with a refundable $100 application fee are due at Synod office by September 15. Find the additional information and forms on the synod's website.
Here's a chance to host a Malagasy friend this September!
 Pastor Daniel Rakotoarijaona is coming to the Rocky Mountain Synod to represent the Malagasy Lutheran Church at Bishop Gonia's installation. He will be on our territory September 17 to October 3. We would like him to experience our life and help your congregation to enter the wonder of accompaniment. Would your community like to host Pastor Daniel for a day? Your sewing circle, confirmation class, book group or choir rehearsal is the perfect setting. We will try to pick some activities that limit travel and maximize his time with us; we plan to cluster his activities in one geographic area at a time, for instance: - September 18 - 20 (Tuesday - Thursday): Denver metro area
- September 21 - 26 (Friday - Wednesday): Synod Council, Bishop's Installation and Theological Conference
- September 27 - 29 (Thursday - Saturday): Colorado Springs and south
- September 30�� - October 2 (Sunday - Tuesday): Northern Colorado and Wyoming
Please contact Pastor Ron Roschke at rroschke@rmselca.org to let him know if you are interested.
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LET'S SUPPORT OUR PASTORS TO END MALARIA
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Pastors Running for a Cause
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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URBAN SERVANT CORPS NEWS
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Urban Servant Corps Events for the 2012-2013 year
 Let's Have a BBQ The welcome Bar-B-Que is August 31, 2012, at 5:00 p.m. at 1660 Ogden Street in Denver. Meet the 2012-2013 USC volunteers! They are full of energy and passion as they embark on the adventure of intentional community and service! A main dish will be provided but please bring a dish to share!
A Blessing to Begin The Volunteer Year The Commissioning Service will take place on Sunday, September 9, 2012, beginning at 5 p.m. at House for All Sinners and Saints, located at 2201 Dexter Street in Denver (80220). Members of House for All Sinners and Saints faith community will offer a blessing on the 2012-2013 Urban Servant Corps volunteers during liturgy. All are welcome!
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LUTHERAN CAMPUS MINISTRY in COLORADO
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Lutheran Campus Ministry
CSU and CU Celebration Dinner for Alumni and Friends
Alums and friends are invited to a FREE dinner with drinks (New Belgium, Odell's and Avery) on Friday, August 31, 2012,at Epiphany Lutheran Church, located at 790 South Corona Street in Denver (80209). The event will begin at 6:30 - with appetizers and drinks followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m.
We will share experiences, get to know what is happening now at Lutheran Campus Ministry CSU and CU and how we can impact the future so that we can support the next generation. This is a fundraising dinner to support LCM. The dinner and socializing will get us ready for the big game on Saturday (September 1). Dinner provided by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans!
You may contact Pastor Connie (CSU) by texting
970-222-8394 or send her an email message . Contact Pastor Zach Parris (CU) by email or phone (303-786-7137)
Google Directions
Connecting with our college-bound students through Campus Ministry
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 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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CHILDREN, YOUTH and HOUSEHOLD MINISTRY
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 Front Range Youth Ministry Network begins meeting again September 13
The Front Range Youth Ministry Network will meet Thursday, September 13 at the RMS offices from 10:00 a.m. - noon followed by lunch at a local caf� for further conversation and networking. Take time to meet your peers, pray, share summer highs and lows and ideas for your ministry this fall.
Also come meet and welcome Pastor Sarah Moening, who is now serving on the Rocky Mountain Synod staff as Minister for Discipleship which includes youth ministry! If you have questions about the Network, please contact Beth Peay by email.
 Front Range Christian Education Network Christian Educators in the Front Range responsible for faith formation and lifelong learning are invited to network with other paid and volunteer leaders on Thursday, September 20, 2012 from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. in the RMS offices. Bring your own lunch - beverages provided.
This is a time is to meet Pastor Sarah Moening. Pastor Sarah joins the Rocky Mountain Synod staff full time and will have responsibility for supporting Children, Youth & Household Ministries. Join in the conversation to help continue and shape the future of this ministry. If you are a lay person and you desire an evening meeting on Thursday, September 20, please email Linda Staats.
Save the Date!  Recharge is coming to Denver Saturday, November 3, 2012 Recharge is a practical, affordable, team-based training and mid-year ministry boost for you and your children, youth and family ministry teams. It is a one-day multi-denominational event that aims to inspire and equip professional staff and C-Y-F ministry volunteers in their efforts to share faith to the next generation. Recharge is a ministry of Youth Leadership in cooperation with a local planning team.
Registration is underway!
 RMS Senior High Youth Gathering The 2012 RMS Senior High Youth Gathering is scheduled for November 16-18, 2012 at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park Colorado. This year's gathering is a place and time to "Connect-4 LIFE!" Check out all the details available on the website.  The Senior High Youth Gathering is now on Facebook. Check it out!
 ELCA Youth Gathering Highlights
Wondering what the impact of the ELCA Youth Gathering is on the lives of our youth and adults who accompanied them? In 17 minutes you will have the answer - watch this amazing video made by the youth at American Lutheran in Grand Junction as they reflect on this life changing experience! Click here for some RMS highlights of the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering.
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SKY RANCH LUTHERAN CAMP
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 Digital Photography Weekend Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp digital photo weekend is designed for amateur photographers of all abilities and experience levels. With the help of our guest instructors, you will learn all you need to know about basic camera functions and operations. You will also learn about composition and have the opportunity to talk about images from famous photographers such as John Fielder. Please plan on bringing your own point and shoot or SLR digital camera. Other features of the weekend include: Camera Instruction, Computer Editing, Photographers Playground and Final Slideshow. DATES: September 21 - 23 PRICE: $150
 Coyote Howl Confirmation Camp Start your confirmation year off right with a weekend full of community building, Bible study, worship and fun. There will be plenty of time to make new friends and explore the wonders of creation. This program is designed to support your Confirmation curriculum, with congregational time throughout the weekend. DATES: September 28 - 30; or October 5 - 7 PRICE: $85 |
| PARISH NURSE EDUCATION |
 Classes will begin this Monday! The Colorado Parish Nurse Education Consortium and Porter Adventist Hospital Presents: Foundations of Faith Community Nursing from September 3, 2012 to November 3, 2012. This course is designed to prepare actively licensed registered nurses for the specialty practice of faith community nursing. For more information about retreat locations, registration deadlines, course content, schedule, and costs, check out the full informational brochure available at this link on the Bethany Lutheran Church website or at the Hospitality Desk at the hospital. Spread the word to any RN's you know! |
RTLC FALL RETREAT SCHEDULE
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RTLC Men's and Women's Fall Retreats
Men's Fly Fishing Weekend
Join Pastor Dave Risendal for a weekend of fly fishing, fellowship, and faith renewal! Hearty meals, worship, bible study and camaraderie around the campfire will be woven into the Rainbow Trail's annual Men's Fly Fishing Retreat, September 13 - 16, 2012. Check out more information and register online.
Women's Adventure Retreat Push yourself and your faith to the limit in a supportive Christian community at the Women's Adventure Retreat this fall at Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp, September 6 - 9, 2012. This exciting weekend designed to give you the opportunity to get away from your ordinary routines and recharge yourself as you enjoy the adventures that God's creation has to offer. Check out more information and register online.
Internship Position Available
A Program Assistant internship position is available at Rainbow Trail for a recent college graduate who is interested in a career in outdoor or youth ministry. More information and applications for the position are available.
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BORDER SERVANT CORPS
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Border Servant Corps
Upcoming Events
- BSC Welcome in El Paso, Sunday, September 9 at 11:00.a.m. at Cristo Rey (1010 E. Yandell Dr., El Paso, TX 79902).
- BSC Quincea�era. October 5-7, 2012. BSC will be celebrating 15 years of service on the borderland.
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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RMS GENEROSITY PROJECT
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 The Generosity Project Prepares for Phase II The Rocky Mountain Synod's Generosity Project was featured in Luther Seminary's Center for Stewardship's newsletter. The Center for Stewardship offers a wealth of resources. And coming this fall - Generosity Project Phase II, is being planned for through-out the Rocky Mountain Synod. Watch for details! |
RAINBOW TRAIL LUTHERAN CAMP
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RTLC Eagle Peak Golf Classic
Attention Golfers: Come join Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp for a great day of golf at the Air Force Academy and
support RTLC's effort to buy land for their land exchange. The RTLC Eagle Peak Classic will be on Friday, September 28, 2012 starting at 8:00 a.m. You can register as an individual golfer or as a foursome. You are invited to register online. Interested sponsors for the tournament are asked to check out the website for more information.
RTLC: opportunity to purchase their site!
Your help is vital!
Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp has the opportunity of a lifetime! The camp is on leased Federal land and has been since its inception. They now have the opportunity to purchase non-federal land that the forest service wants and then exchange it with the forest service to own their site!
 But there is a catch. They will need to raise approximately $350,000 by December 7, 2012 to secure this non-federal land. So they need your help. Already, over $120,000 has been raised but they need your help to keep the momentum going to reach their goal.
To find out more and how you can help go to:
http://www.rainbowtrail.org/about/land-exchange/
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CALIFORNIA LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY SUNDAY
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Cal Lutheran Sunday Celebration
Cal Lutheran Sunday is celebrated in the congregations of Region 2 of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America on October 7, 2012, or on a Sunday determined by the local pastor. The Rocky Mountain Synod and its congregations are a part of Region 2. The focus of the service is upon Lutheran higher education and specifically Lutheran higher education at California Lutheran University located in Thousand Oaks, California. Speakers and displays of University materials will be featured during the worship hour. For more information, please contact the Church Relations Office, 805-493-3936.
Download materials or place an order on line.
During the weeks prior to Cal Lutheran Sunday, we encourage you to use the following announcements in your newsletters and worship bulletins. The prayer is designed to be included in the Prayers of the Church on Cal Lutheran Sunday.
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CREATION CARE
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 Lutherans Restoring Creation Workshop Planning Worship for Fall, 2012: Let All Creation Praise "Lutherans Restoring Creation" provides creation-care worship resources at the ecumenical website to which they contribute: www.letallcreationpraise.org. You are invited to: Make use of "Four Simple Steps" to turn every service into creation-care worship: Celebrate the "Season of Creation"-an optional four-week season in the church year usually celebrated during September, in Year B of the Common Lectionary; Discover ideas to hold a "Blessing of the Animals" around St. Francis Feast Day, October 4; Access weekly creation-care commentaries on the Common Lectionary; and more. Lutherans Restoring Creation is a grass roots organization seeking to bring care for creation into the full life and mission of the ELCA. For more information, visit www.lutheransrestoringcreation.org. |
ELCA PROPOSED CRIMINAL JUSTICE STATEMENT
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Provide your feedback on the proposed Criminal Justice Social Statement
The Office of the Bishop of the Rocky Mountain Synod, in conjunction with the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry offices in Colorado and New Mexico encourage all congregations to study the new proposed Social Statement on Criminal Justice and offer comments before the deadline of October 15, 2012.
At the 2013 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, it is anticipated that the proposed social statement will be considered. Draft copies of the Social Statement on Criminal Justice, leader resources and frequently asked questions can all be found at http://www.elca.org/What-We-Believe/Social-Issues/Social-Statements-in-Process/Criminal-Justice.aspx
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| CHURCH WORLD SERVICE: CROP WALKS |
Crop Walk 2012
Started by a Lutheran pastor, the first-ever CROP Hunger Walk was October 17, 1969, in Bismarck, ND. A few hundred people walked and raised $25,000 to help stop hunger.
Currently, 2,000 communities across the U.S. join in more than 1,600 CROP Hunger Walks each year. More than five million CROP Hunger Walkers have participated in more than 36,000 CROP Hunger Walks in the last two decades.
 Pictured, Pastor Dan Holt, Senior Pastor at Ascension Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs, speaks to the 161 Colorado Springs CROP Hunger Walk participants. He was the Coordinator of the 2010 walk event which raised $13,665.
Volunteers who organize the walks in the Rocky Mountain Region help raise awareness and funds for hunger needs. To find the walk closest to you, and to join this community-based effort to end hunger, one step at a time, visit one of the web pages listed. There is an opportunity to participate in nearly every area of the Rocky Mountain Synod. View the list here.
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LUTHERAN COLLEGES WEEKEND
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Announcing Lutheran Colleges Week
We're Going to Be in Your Neighborhood!
On behalf of the Lutheran colleges and universities across the United States and Canada, we're pleased to announce upcoming college information events in your area.
Our college fairs and workshops are designed to give you insight into the unique aspects of Lutheran higher education. There is no charge for any of our events and no need to pre-register. Plus, students who attend our events will receive four application fee waivers for use at our Lutheran colleges and universities.
Sunday, September 16 - Denver Area, CO
Bethany Lutheran Church
4500 East Hampden Ave
Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113
6:00 p.m. Registration Begins
6:15 p.m. Financial Aid Seminar
6:45-8:30 p.m. College Fair
Tuesday, September 18 - Fort Collins, CO
Redeemer Lutheran Church
7755 Greenstone Trail
Fort Collins, CO 80525
6:15 p.m. Registration Begins
6:30 p.m. Financial Aid Seminar
7:15-8:30 p.m. College Fair
More information about these events can be found on online.
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ELCA MALARIA CAMPAIGN
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New Congregation Action Kit
Our latest total of donations is $156,513.23!
If your congregation hasn't had a chance to get involved with the ELCA Malaria Campaign yet we have a new resource for you. A new Congregation Action Kit is now available to order online. Get your free copy today!
Thanks for sharing the story of those affected by malaria and the work that is being done with our brothers and sisters in Africa. Together we will Make Malaria History! For more information please go to: www.rmselca.org/malaria.
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JOB POSTINGS
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 Seeking a Full time Accompanist
Joy Lutheran Church, located at 7051 East Parker Hills Court in Parker CO (80134) is seeking a full time pianist/organist to accompany there (3) weekend services, weekly choir practice, and various other ensembles. You may submit resumes or inquires to the church office or by email to Pastor Lyn.
 Contemporary Worship Coordinator Needed St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, located at 10828 North Huron Street in Northglenn, CO, is a vibrant, multi-generational faith community that has been in Northglenn for over 51 years. We are seeking a Contemporary Worship Coordinator to help plan and lead our contemporary worship service. The candidate should have a strong music background and a firm understanding of contemporary worship within a Lutheran context. Experience in planning a service and leading a band is a plus. Please see the detailed job description on our website for details. For more information or to arrange an interview, please call Pastor Tracy Hinkel at 303-452-5469.
Program Director Position Open To meet increased use and participation, Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp is seeking a year round, full time Program Director to work alongside the Executive Director, Associate Director, and Office Manager in implementing the program ministries of Sky Ranch. Overview of Position  The Program Director will lead us in our evolution of programming. The ideal candidate will bring a mix of creative programming ideas, strong administrative skills and a passion for outdoor ministry. Read the full program director job description To apply for the Program Director position, please mail a letter of application and resume to Sky Ranch Lutheran Camp, 805 S Shields St, Fort Collins, CO 80521.
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Every Person, Every Congregation, Every Ministry, Boldly Serving God's Mission in Christ
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THIS WEEK
Bishop Jim Gonia
Colorado Council of Churches Breakfast, Denver, CO; Visiting with the congregation of St. Paul's Lutheran Church Cheyenne, Wy.
Visiting in the Sierra Pacific Synod, Sacramento, CA
Region 2 Training, Synod office, Denver, CO. Available by email
or phone appointment.
Theological Conference Planning;
Region 2 Training, Synod office, Denver, CO.
Pastor Ron Roschke
Shared Ministries Team meeting, synod office, Denver, CO;
In the office the week of 8/28 to 9/4.
Pastor Rob Moss
Region 2 Training, Synod office, Denver, CO.
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CALENDAR |
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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AROUND the RM SYNOD
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RMSWO's 10th Biennial Convention:
Come - Rescue, Rest,
Reflect, and Refresh
The event takes place at the Elegant� Hotel in Albuquerque, N.M. from September 28 through September 30, 2012. The hotel is located at 2020 Menaul NE, Albuquerque (87107). For more information please visit the website or contact your registrar, Linda by email or phone (303-841-
5527).
Living and Working Together for Peace in Palestine: A Workshop "Steadfast Hope: Peace with Justice in the Holy Land" Saturday, October 13, 2012 at Augustana Lutheran Church located at 5000 E. Alameda Ave, Denver (80246) from 8:30 a.m. - noon. For registration and payment options, you may visit the website. Please contact Jan Miller by email for more information.
2013 Education Event Connects U.S. and German Churches June 14, 2013 (10 Day Tour) Coordinated by: Pastor Stephanie Kopsch of St. Andrew Lutheran Church (ELCA). Please contact Pastor Stephanie by email or phone (303-421-5197) for more information. |
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| WYOMING | submit Wyoming news or photos
WAC Annual Meeting
It's time to register for the Wyoming Association of Churches Annual Meeting. Events will begin Thursday evening, September 20, 2012 and continue through Sunday. The host site is the First Congregational Church (UCC) in Rock Springs.
  The theme is "Love Your Neighbor; Who Is Your Neighbor. All are welcome. Featured speakers are Sean Weston, Kansas Ecumenical Ministries, and Allison Sage, Arapaho Tribe.
We have worship; workshops on immigration, juvenile justice, health care disparities, photography, Red Desert, and climate reality; tours and more.
Attached is a flyer to post with the schedule and a registration form and other information. To register, complete the attached form and attach to an email to wychurches@wyoming.com or mail to P.O. Box 1473, Laramie, WY 82073. The registration cost is $35 which includes lunch and dinner on September 21. Workshops and tours are free. Please send questions by email or call 307-761-0755.
Events
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UTAH
| submit Utah news or photos
 Elim Lutheran to Hold Blessing for Those Who Work
Elim Lutheran Church, located at 575 -23rd Street in Ogden, will observe Labor Day weekend on Sunday, September 2 with a special blessing for those who work. Those who wish to be blessed may bring in items that stand for the work they do, and Pastor DanaLee Simon will bless them during the worship service.   Any "tool of their trade" is acceptable, such as a laptop, screwdriver, mop, cell phone, calculator, cookbook, lesson plan book, work boots, or the like. Retired individuals may bring in something that symbolizes the job from which they retired, and students preparing for an occupation may bring something symbolizing the job for which they are preparing.
Any person who cannot bring an object is welcome to come and be blessed without one. If you have questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact Elim's office by email or by calling 801-394-5543.
 Ascension St. Matthew's Welcomes Rev. Canon Mary June Nestler and Bishop James Gonia Sunday, September, 16, 2012 marks the 10th Anniversary and re-dedication of the facility at Ascension St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in Price, UT. Bishop James Gonia will participate along with The Rev. Canon Mary June Nestler, Executive Officer of The Episcopal Diocese of Utah. Local clergy, community leaders, and other invited guests will make this a special day for the congregation. Hopefully, members of the ELCA Utah Conference will also be attending since Bishop Gonia plans to meet with the conference clergy on Monday, September 17 in Price.
Bishop Gonia and Canon Nestler will meet with the Adult Forum and any interested members of the congregation at 9:00 a.m.. We will celebrate the Eucharist at 11:00 a.m. (one half hour later than our usual time of 10:30 a.m.).
Ascension St. Matthew's (ASM) is a blended, merged, or united congregation (all those descriptions apply) of Episcopalian and Lutheran roots, formed in 1984.
LSS Utah Preparing for September 2012 Spanish Classes
Lutheran Social Service of Utah is offering Spanish Courses - during Fall 2012. Mr. Jose Bonilla, Spanish Language Instructor and Professional Guitarist will be the instructor. Classes will take place every Wednesday from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. from September 12 through November 14, 2012. No registration is needed - just come by at 1:00 p.m. each Wednesday to learn and have fun. A suggested donation is $5.00 per class with all proceeds benefiting LSS of Utah ministries. For more information, you may contact Mr. Bonilla by email or phone (801-703-3274).
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NEW MEXICO and EL PASO, TEXAS
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Events |
| COLORADO | submit Colorado news or photos
Project Sanctuary's Reunion Gala 2012
You are cordially invited to Project Sanctuary's 4th Annual Gala - Benefiting Military Families.
This is an event that will be a 1940's Swinging Good Time with a cash bar, Dinner, silent auction and dancing. The 4th Annual Gala will take place on Saturday, September 8, 2012 from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. at the Wildlife Experience Museum, located at 10035 South Peoria, Parker (80134), 1 mile east of I-25 on Lincoln.
Tickets can be purchased online or by mail: P.O. BOX 1563 Granby, CO 80446.
The attire is: 1940's, Semi Formal and/or Military
 Workshop Teaches Facilitators How to Help Couples Prepare/Enrich Certification Training is being offered Monday, September 10, 2012 and Monday, November 12, 2012, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden Avenue, in Cherry Hills Village. The workshop is designed to teach facilitators to administer and provide feedback to premarital and married couples. For more information or to register, please call Beth Walker at 303-694-2967.
 Health Care Workshop at
King of Glory on September 15
How does the new health care act affect us? You are invited to a workshop at King of Glory Lutheran Church on Saturday, September 15, 2012 at 9:00 a.m.
 In the first session, Chelsea Williams of the Health District of Northern Larimer County will present an interactive and anonymous Q&A opportunity using personal electronic controllers.
Session two will feature Brad Wood, Director of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-Colorado, who will explain the provisions of the Affordable Health Care Act and answer questions. The focus will be on FACTS - not slogans or rhetoric. Everyone can respectfully offer an opinion; but all are expected to LISTEN to each other.
 During the third and final session, Pastor Susan Candea will connect the health care issue to our faith. The ELCA does have a comprehensive social statement on health, healing, and health care. The statement and its supporting documents can give us some faith connections to ponder as we discuss this confusing and sometimes controversial topic.
There is no cost for the workshop, but pre-registration makes the work of the planning team easier! Call the church office (970-669-5983) register by email. For more information, please contact Pastor Susan Candea by email.
More details about the workshop or download the flyer to post or use as a bulletin insert.
 A Lutheran Slow-pitch Softball Tournament You are cordially invited to participate in Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains Slow-pitch Softball Tournament that will take place on Saturday, September 22, 2012 at the Kennedy Softball Complex. The complex is located at 2998 South Kenton Street Aurora, CO 80014 (East Dartmouth and South Parker Road - see map). The event is a benefit for Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains. The cost will be $100 per team (approximately 10 players per team ... $10 per player). Even if your church doesn't have a softball team, you have over 2 months to pull one together; and being an all-star caliber team is not a requirement. And if your church can't field an entire team but has several individuals who want to play, let me know and they will be combined with another team. This will be a co-ed, 16 team tournament - a great event for an even greater cause. Be a part of it. In the meantime, start organizing your church team. Please feel free to contact Aaron Schultz by email or phone (559-920-0476) if you'd like to register your team or if you have any general questions or comments.
 OSLC Presents the One Woman Show:
"Leaps and Bounds" On September 23 at 3:00 p.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church (915 E 9th Ave) Tevyn East will present Leaps and Bounds, a one woman show which explores the  intersection of faith, ecology, and the global economy. Check out the flyer to download and post. If you or your community would like to help sponsor this event, please contact Pastor Paul Carlson by email or call Our Savior's Lutheran Church at 303-831-7023.
 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: A Workshop 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). 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.
LFSRM 19th Annual Innkeeper Dinner Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains cordially invites you to 19th Annual Innkeeper Dinner at the Air Force Academy Press Box on Tuesday, September 25, 2012.  This is a fun causal evening where you can wear your favorite team's colors! There will be a silent auction, live music and you will learn how Lutheran Family Services assists vulnerable children and families in Colorado Springs through disaster relief, foster care, adoption, and refugee services. If you would like more information on this event, please contact Rebecca.Hamilton-Lyons@lfsco.org.
Events Through Music and Song: a Courageous and Compassionate Christianity The Progressive Christian Alliance of Colorado invites the community to a presentation: Proclaiming a Courageous and Compassionate Christianity: A Conversation with Marcus Borg with music by Carrie Newcomer on Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church located at 1980 Dahlia Street in Denver (80220). A flyer is available to download and post. You may purchase tickets at: www.progressivechristians.org Celebrating 125 Years as a Family of Faith
Sunday, October 7, 2012 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. the grand celebration of our life as a community of faith at Mount Calvary takes place. 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. For more information, please contact the church by phone on 303-499-1444. Rev. Dr. Walter Brueggemann to Give Lectures in Denver "The Interface of Power and Truth" Messiah Community Church, located at 1750 Colorado Blvd.in Denver (80220) invites everyone to attend their lecture series from October 26-28, 2012 featuring Dr. Walter Brueggemann. Dr. Brueggemann is seen as the foremost Hebrew Bible scholar in the world and is known throughout the world for his method of combining literary and sociological modes when reading the Bible. He has authored many books, articles and Bible commentaries. A poster announcement is available to download and display for those who might be interested in attending. The poster contains the schedule and ticket process. A Weekend with Pastor Mitri Raheb of the Christmas Lutheran Church, Palestine "Instruments of Peace" - December 5-9, 2012 You are invited to come and learn about the ministries and vision of Lutherans in Palestine and help raise funds for the music programs at Dar Al-Kalima Lutheran College in Bethlehem. A schedule of times and places is available. For more information, please contact Jan Miller by email
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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.
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