Issue #361
03/14/2013
NEWS

Pastoral Letter on Community Violence
 
The ELCA Conference of Bishops, at its most recent meeting, wrote the following  Pastoral Letter on Violence in response to the increasing acts of violence in our country. The letter was supported unanimously. You might find it useful in conversations in your congregation. The  1994 Social Message on Community Violence will also be helpful in discussions about violence in all its forms.

 

Other resources for considering responses to violence in communities can be found at 2010 NCC Resolution, "Ending Gun Violence: A Resolution and Call to Action by the National Council of Churches of Christ, USA", and at World Council of Churches Decade to Overcome Violence.

 

Community violence is not a matter of indifference for Christian people. God calls us to live together in peace and to seek the good of our neighbors. I hope you will consider what your congregation can do to help make all our neighborhoods and homes safe places.

 

In the name of the Prince of Peace, 

 

ELCA Bishops Discuss a Distinctive Lutheran Witness in the World
 
On Feb. 28- March 5, the ELCA Conference of Bishops, an advisory body of the church that includes 65 synod bishops, the presiding bishop, and secretary, met to discuss a distinctive Lutheran witness in the world. Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson said that the ELCA is in a "kairos" moment and ELCA members and congregations need to ask how to make a "Lutheran witness in our culture today." The conference also discussed the church's changing landscape in leadership development, theological education, candidacy, call, and rosters. Click here to read more about the ELCA Conference of Bishops and reflections on the compelling message of Lutheranism in the world today. 
Lutheridge + Lutherock Ministries is Now "NovusWay" Ministries" 
 
 
 
After a year-long process of study, collaboration and prayerful consideration by the staff, board, families and friends of Lutheridge+Lutherock Ministries, the camping ministry announced its new name, effective February 15, is "NovusWay Ministries." As the North Carolina-based camp ministry worked closely with Luther Springs in Florida and added Lutheranch in Georgia, the organization's leadership recognized the need for a name that includes more than the original properties and expands the appeal beyond Lutherans. Because of the historical significance and strong tradition of each camp it was determined the new name should be secondary to the site names. All four camps will keep their same names with a fresh look for their traditional site logos. Read more about the meaning behind the new name and site logos here
Synod Member Wins Grammy 
 
Congratulations to Peter Strickland, active member of St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Franklin, Tennesse! Peter received a Grammy Award at the Grammy Ceremonies in Los Angeles, CA on Sunday, February 10. Peter won his Grammy for producing Blow Your Pants Off, Jimmy Fallon's Comedy Album of the Year. Peter now serves as Executive Vice President and General Manager of Warner Music Nashville (WMN), where he oversees day-to-day operations. 
Synod Wellness/Sabbatical Grants 
Available    

 
Thanks to a $12,000 grant from Portico, the Southeastern Synod is offering grants to promote self-care of its rostered leaders who serve in congregations.  The grants will provide funding to support intentional wellness activities or sabbaticals.  Congregations must be willing to match the requested funding amount.  These grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-needs basis so click here to learn more now. The grant was awarded to our synod in response to our rostered leaders' completion of the 2012 Portico Health Assessment.  


Around the Synod

Synod Assembly


May 31, June 1 and 2, 2013
Chattanooga Convention Center
"Always Being Made New" 
Register online here
Online registration closes May 1.
We Need Your Assistance to Celebrate!

As we commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the ELCA at our Southeastern Synod Assembly, the Synod Staff and Assembly Planning Team are asking for congregational assistance in planning for a celebratory event.  Please watch the enews for more information in the coming weeks and for informative emails once you have registered.  
 
Bring a banner for worship: The Synod Worship Team is asking that each congregation bring a banner (with pole and stand) to have displayed in the worship space and throughout the synod assembly. We would prefer the banner to display the congregation's name, but if you have seasonal banners or an anniversary banner, that will also be fine. Please bring these to the synod assembly and deliver them to the worship space upon arrival. If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Kevin Strickland, Chair for Worship and Liturgy. 
 
 Make and Bring a QuiltThis year the Lutheran World Relief (LWR) Quilt Campaign has set a goal of collecting 500,000 quilts to be distributed around the world.  As a simple way to demonstrate what we can do together in the Southeastern Synod, we are encouraging each congregation to make a quilt for LWR and bring it to Assembly where we will display them throughout the Assembly.  Click here  to learn more about the LWR Quilt Campaign and easy 3-step directions for making LWR Quilts.  You can also use  this quilting resource  from "The Happy Quilters" at Shades Valley Lutheran Church, Birmingham, AL.
 
 
 
Submit Photos and Videos of Your Congregation in Action: The 2013 Synod Assembly will feature a video capturing Southeastern Synod congregations and ministries at work. Do you have photos and videos of your congregation doing God's work with your hands in your community? If so, please contact Abby Koning or Michelle Angalet in the synod office, and we'll consider including them in the video!
 
For more information and updates about getting ready for the synod assembly, visit the synod website
Nominations Deadline Extended
 
The Southeastern Synod Nominating Committee has extended the deadline to submit nominations for positions to be elected at the 2013 Synod Assembly. The new deadline is April 5. Click here for more information about the following positions for which nominations are invited.
 
Synod Council:
1 Young adult (ages 18-30)
2 At-large persons
1 Youth (must be able to complete term before high school graduation)

Discipline Committee
1 Clergy  (male or female)
1 Lay male
2 Lay females
 
Consultation Committee
3 Clergy
2 Lay females
 
Deadline for submission of biographical forms to be considered by the Nominating Committee: April 5, 2013
Lutherans Lead at the Hunger Walk/Run



Many thanks to all the Southeastern Synod congregations and individuals who came out to support Lutheran Services of Georgia at the Hunger Walk/Run last Sunday! There was a great turnout of Lutherans of all ages fighting to end hunger. Congratulations especially to Ross Gudger, first place runner and member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Woodstock, GA, and to Constance Mithelman, first female finisher and Lutheran Volunteer Corps member serving in Atlanta, both pictured above.

Check out this week's LSG spotlight in the red sidebar for more information and to see the top ten fundraising congregations! To read stories of some of the participating congregations, click here. For more photographs of the day's festivities, visit our Facebook pageDid you or your congregation participate in this year's Hunger Walk/Run? We invite you to share your photographs and stories on the synod Facebook page or by emailing Abby Koning or Michelle Angalet in the synod office. 
When Strangers Become Neighbors: Now with Community Conversations 

I was a stranger and you welcomed me. Matthew 25:35
You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Mark 12:31
 
Saturday, April 6, 2013
9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.)
Registration Fee $15 (covers lunch)
 
Christ the King Lutheran
Church
      5575 Peachtree Parkway
         Norcross, GA 30092

As a part of this event, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services will partner with Lutheran Services of Georgia to host a "Community Conversation" for conference attendees. The Community Conversation on immigration issues and the church today will serve as a model of how to design and host conversations that engage newcomers and congregations in productive dialogue. To learn more about LIRS, click here

  
Speakers for this event: Bishop H. Julian Gordy of the Southeastern Synod (above left), The Reverend Floyd R. Blair (President and CEO of Lutheran Services of Georgia (above center), and The Reverend Robert Strickert, representative of the Florida-Georgia District of the Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod (above right). 
 
Bishop Gordy also serves as a regular panelist on Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services' The Update, a weekly blog series analyzing how recent events affect the prospects for immigration reform. Click to read this week's The Update in English or in Spanish. The Update is also a weekly feature in our e-news and is located in the red sidebar. 

Visit the synod website for more information and to register. To promote this event in your congregation, click here for our promotional flyer. For more information, contact Melanie Johnson at LSG or The Reverend Darrel Peterson

Volunteers Needed in the Synod Office

It's time for spring cleaning at the synod office, and we're looking for volunteers to help us get organized! If you are located in the metro Atlanta area and are willing and able to do some cleaning, organizing, and lifting, we would very much appreciate your assistance. Contact Holly Liersch by email or at 404-589-1977 ext. 233 for more information. 
Bishop's School: Nominations Due Monday, April 1

Is there a special 11th or 12th grader in your congregation who is always asking tough questions and yearns to deepen his or her faith? If so, please consider nominating him or her for the 2013 Bishop's School. The 2013 Bishop's School will be held the week of June 23-29 on the campus of Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, SC. Youth from all over the southeast will come together to study with seminary professors, worship in Christ Chapel, and witness the way God is working in the world and their own lives. Click here for a brochure with additional information. Nominations are due April 1st, 2013. Feel free to nominate more than one youth from your congregation. Contact the Coordinator for Bishop's School, Ms Sandra Holland, AIM or Ms. Tiffany Pieters in the Region 9 off at 803-461-3263 with questions. 
Living Last Supper


Presented by
The Evangelism Committee and The Men in Mission of
The Lutheran Church of the Atonement
Saturday, April 7, 2012
6:30 PM. 

1875 Joseph E. Boone Blvd. N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30314

Reverend Ronald Bonner, Pastor

The Lutheran Church of the Atonement proudly presents the 5th presentation of the Living Last Supper. This is a dramatic presentation of Jesus reclining at the table with the twelve disciplines. "And while they were eating, He said, "I'll tell you the truth, one of you will betray me". They were very sad and began to say to Him one after the other, surely not I, Lord?"
Southeastern Synod Developer & Redevelopers Fellowship and Mission Retreat

When: Tuesday & 
Wednesday, April 23-24

Where: Blessed Trinity Shrine Retreat Center
107 Holy Trinity Road
Fort Mitchell, AL 36856
(334) 855-4474
Directions and information available here

Why: Fellowship, worship, mutual support and consolation
Cost: TBA - under $100
Agenda: (Tentative)
Tuesday (all times are EST)
1 pm: Welcome & Settle in. Please eat lunch before you arrive.
2 pm: Opening Worship
3 pm: Checking In
5:30 pm: Supper
7:30 pm: Ministry; Presentation/Discussion
9:30 pm: Libations and Fellowship
Wednesday
8 am: Breakfast
9 am: Presentation/Discussion
10:30 am: "Fireside Chat" with your Directors for Evangelical Mission
11 am: Closing Worship
Noon: Lunch, Farewell & Godspeed
RSVP Today: Pastor Gary - [email protected]
 
More information to follow soon. 
 
Sponsored by the Southeastern Synod Outreach & Renewal Team
Southeastern Synod Interim Pastors Conference

If you are, have been, or are interested in beginning interim ministry, consider attending the Southeastern Synod's Interim Pastor Conference to be held at the Synod Office on Tuesday, April 30. Assistants to the Bishops Darrel Peterson and Paul Summer, and PrDelmer Chilton will lead the group in an informational day:
 
 9:30 AM: Gathering and Coffee
10:00 AM: Devotional
10:15 AM: The Growing Edge in Interim Ministry
11:00 AM: Call Process Review and the Interim Pastor's Place in It
Noon: Lunch with Synod Staff
1:00 PM: Expectations of Interim Pastors
2:00 PM: Questions and Answers
3:00 PM: Dismissal

To find out more, contact one of the conference leaders listed above pastors.  RSVP to Jeanette Burgess, Administrative Liaison for Leadership, by April 22 so we can provide materials and lunch accordingly. Contact Jeanette in the synod office by email or at (404) 589-1977, ext. 232. 

The synod office is located at 100 Edgewood Ave., NE, Ste 1600 (16th floor), Atlanta, GA 30303. Phone: (404) 589-1977; Fax: (404) 521-1980. You may park in the ramp on the same block (use the cobblestone driveway between the two buildings) and we will validate your ticket. 
Mission Trip to Guatemala

First United Lutheran Church in Kennesaw, GA is planning a trip to visit our friends of La Iglesia Luterana Agustina de Guatemala (ILAG) scheduled for this May 18-25. We are looking forward to accompanying our mission partners in Guatemala and working together in doing some painting and light carpentry work along the way. There are still a few spots open on this trip and you are welcome to join us. For more info, contact Debra White by email or at (678) 699-7843. 
Hope Renewed Ministry In Search of House Mother

Hope Renewed Ministry is currently in search of a House Mother. She needs to be a woman of strong faith who feels called to this ministry. The position is room and board only. She will have a furnished bedroom with private bath. She will need to have some kind of income to meet her own needs. She will need to have her own car. She will need to have some familiarity with female inmates. If you are interested, email Judy Knapp, Diaconal Minister
Altar Furniture Available 

Epiphany Lutheran Church in Suwanee, GA has some altar furniture to donate to an interested church. Available furniture items are:
  • Altar complete with paraments that velcro onto the front for all seasons
  • Matching baptismal font and two side shelves for flowers or offering plates
As they add additional new pieces, they would like to later donate the following:
  • Matching pulpit and Christ candle stand
  •  Brass missal stand
  • 4 brass offering plates
The altar pieces are a light finish and pictured below. Contact Epiphany or Harriet Barger for more information. 
 
     
LVC Highlight: Meet Chad Steinborn
 
 
 Hometown: Peoria, Illinois
College: Olivet Nazarene University
Major: English and Graphic Design, with a concentration in teaching
 Placement: Lutheran Services of Georgia
 
"....Lutheran Volunteer Corps (LVC) is focused on living simply and sustainably and in intentional community to which I have already come to acquire valuable lessons as a result. One way in which we have collaborated to live more simply and sustainably is through food ethics, that is, not only buying cheaper food in bulk, but also being cognizant of how our purchases affect directly and indirectly the environment and other people. In addition, walking and running to and from work has also been a way in which simplicity has been fulfilled in my experience. This not only saves money to spend towards more worthy purposes, but also decreases pollutants that would otherwise come from driving my car to work everyday. As for intentional community, it has been enjoyable to collect our similarities, rummage through our messiness, and tread softly in our differences to build relationships with one another."
 
Read more about Chad Steinborn here. Lutheran Volunteer Corps (LVC) unites full-time, stipended volunteers with financial supporters, non-profit organizations and ministries to work for peace with justice across the nation. In addition to working for justice, LVC volunteers live together in intentional household communities of 4-10 people to encourage simple, sustainable living. Are you interested joining LVC? Visit the website for more information. Round 2 applications are due by April 1, 2013
Becoming Real: A Lenten Reflection 

The Rev. Laura J. Shally is pastor at Shepherd of the Lake in Loudon, TN

Our children probably no longer read the story of the Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams.  It's a story of a stuffed, velveteen rabbit which is initially lost amongst the shuffle of a young boy's toys.  One day an old tattered and worn stuffed horse tells the rabbit of becoming real because of the love and adoration of a child.  The horse explains that, "Real isn't how you are made.  It's a thing that happens to you.  When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but really loves you, then you become Real.  Sometimes it hurts, but when you are Real you don't mind being hurt.  It doesn't happen all at once.  You become. Once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand.  Once you are Real you can't become unreal again.  It lasts for always."  Oh, how the rabbit wanted to become real!....

 

Read the rest of this reflection on our synod blog . 

Earth Day - April 22, 2013

On April 22, people around the world will celebrate and commemorate Earth Day with events intended to raise awareness about environmental concerns. The ELCA recognizes caring for creation as one of the ways we do God's work with our hands in this world. For the next few weeks, we will be sharing resources and opportunities for you and your congregation to participate in Earth Day.
 
Congregational Resource for Earth Day
 
Together with the National Council of Churches of Christ Eco-Justice Programs, the ELCA offers an Earth Day resource, titled "Sunday Morning Sustainability: Eco-Justice Impacts and Opportunities," to help congregations lead worship and adjust routines to create smaller ecological footprints.  Click here to access this resource as a pdf--you will need to provide your basic information to sign in to the National Council of Churches' website and select the ELCA version of the resource.  

 

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ELCA Caring for Creation
 
The ELCA Caring for Creation webpage includes a variety of resources and links to help individuals, congregations, synods, and other groups in their efforts to care for God's creation. Learn more about your personal responsibility to the earth, what your congregation can do to be more green, how other groups are responding to environmental challenges and what the churchwide organization is doing about its energy conversation by clicking here
 
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Food Justice Conference

On Friday, April 5 through Monday, April 8, join Christian advocates at the 11th annual Ecumenical Advocacy Days to seek Food Justice for a Healthy World in Washington, DC!  Click here for more information or to register. 

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Lutherans Restoring Creation

  

Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) is a grassroots program designed to encourage the ELCA to incorporate care for creation into its full life and mission at all expressions--congregationally, synodically, and nationally. The goal is to incorporate care for creation into the organizational patterns, worship life, educational programs, responsibility for buildings and grounds, lifestyle of members at home and work, and public ministry of all of these institutions, so that earthkeeping and justice for all earth community members becomes integral to the identity and purpose of our church. Opportunities for engagement include LRC's Energy Stewards Initiative for lower energy use and the GreenFaith Certification Program for ELCA congregations. Learn more here

  

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Advocate for the Earth

 

Advocacy is one way that the ELCA cares for God's creation and protects vulnerable people. For Earth Day, consider joining the ELCA advocacy effort around one of the following environmental issues: 

 

Food, Farms, and Faith: Food is a basic need that sustains not only our bodies, but much of our economy. The system we create to produce, buy, market, transport, sell, and consume food affects human communities and our earth. ELCA members are involved in every point in the food system, from planting seeds to selling food. Click here to learn about the priorities and programs regarding food, hunger, and rural development. 

 

Environment and Energy: The Environmental Education and Advocacy program of the ELCA is committed to caring for God's creation through earthkeeping activities surrounding the environment, energy, and climate change. Click here for more

 

World Malaria Day - April 25, 2013

Each year, on April 25, World Malaria Day gives people around the world an opportunity to study, promote, and further efforts to prevent and reduce malaria. In conjunction with ELCA Malaria Campaign, for the next few weeks we'll be sharing resources and ways that your congregation can observe World Malaria Day this year. 
 
ELCA Malaria Campaign Malaria Week
 
This year, the ELCA is turning World Malaria Day into a special week focusing on the work of the ELCA Malaria Campaign. You and your congregation are invited to join ELCA members across the church in observing World Malaria Day through the ELCA Malaria Campaign on Sunday, April 28, 2013. Visit the ELCA website for service ideas, litanies, suggested hymns, and ways your congregation can support the ELCA's work to end malaria around the world. 
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Making Progress

 

Thanks to a global effort, including your contributions to the ELCA Malaria Campaign, fewer children are dying of malaria. While there is still a long way to go, today a child dies every 60 seconds from malaria rather than last year's rate of every 45 seconds or every 30 seconds two and a half years ago. Click to learn more

  

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Malaria Blog 

 

A community leader in Angola teaches a malaria workshop.

Did you know that the ELCA Malaria Campaign has a blog? The blog includes opportunities for action, resources, and stories of congregations and individuals engaged in the struggle to make malaria history. Recent posts include a testimony of support, stories of grassroots funding efforts, and the "I am a Mosquito" song! Click here to start reading!

 

 

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Key Malaria Facts 


Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected 
mosquitoes. Despite being a preventable and curable disease, in 2010, malaria caused an estimated 660,000 deaths, mostly among African children. This is unacceptable, particularly since malaria is a preventable and curable disease. Yet as World Malaria Day approaches, it is important to celebrate the increased malaria prevention and control measures that are dramatically reducing the malaria burden in many places around the world. To learn more about how malaria is contracted, transmitted, prevented, and eliminated around the world, visit the World Health Organization's malaria fact sheet 

Resources, Retreats, & Learning Opportunities

ELCA Suicide Prevention Ministry
 
Last week we featured the ELCA Suicide Prevention Ministry (SPM) and Southeastern Synod members Elsie and Jerry Weyrauch in our Did You Know? feature.  The Weyrauch's began this ministry years ago to help prevent suicide and to provide support to those who experience the realities of suicide, and attempted suicide, after their own daughter, Terri Ann, completed suicide twenty five years ago. For more information on the ELCA SPM and its resources, including Telling Secrets: A Path to Abundant Living, a six-session educational resource for congregations on mental illness, addiction, alcoholism and suicide, contact Jerry Weyrauch. You can also watch a preview to this resource by the Weyrauchs at the link below.
Tellig Secrets: A Path to Abundant Living
Telling Secrets: A Path to Abundant Living
 
Other resources of note include the ELCA's Message on Suicide Prevention and the recently-approved Message on Mental Illness
Stories of Faith in Action
 
The special 25th anniversary edition of Stories of Faith in Action includes a timeline of ELCA history and stories of how God is changing lives through the mission and ministry of the ELCA. Information on Mission Support and the churchwide ministries budget is also included. Order your free copies of the new Stories of Faith in Action by clicking here. More stories can be found at Living Lutheran; bulletin inserts and more resources are available online here
Adult Lutherans Organized for Action
 
Adult Lutherans Organized for Action is an inter-Lutheran national movement affiliated with the ELCA and recognized as a social ministry organization of the Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod. ALOA is the only national inter-Lutheran organization focused on identifying and serving the needs and interests of Lutheran older adults, with a focus on working with and through congregations, districts, synods, and other service ministry organizations to encourage senior ministry and senior involvement locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Click here to learn more about ALOA.  
Center For Congregational Health
 
The Center for Congregational Health provides ministry and/or training for hundreds of faith communities, lay leaders and clergy annually across the United States and in several foreign countries. Ministries of the Center include coaching, consulting, interim ministry, leadership development, spiritual formation, and emotional intelligence for faith communities and their leaders. The Center also offers resources and learning opportunities. Click here for more. 
OMG: Center for Theological Conversation
 
OMG: Center for Theological Conversation realizes that 'Oh, my God' can be an assertion, a lament, a prayer, a question. Director Anna Madsen, ordained Lutheran pastor with a Ph.D. in systematic theology, serves those who seek to explore difficult questions of faith in conversation with others. OMG welcomes individual clients, couples, and small groups who wonder about things theological and helps guide conversations around tough questions. Click here for more information. 
Create in Me at Lutheridge
 
 
On Thursday April 4- Sunday April 7, come to be refreshed, renewed, and re-created! 
North Carolina Bishop Leonard Bolick will lead bible studies on the fire of the Holy Spirit
REKINDLING * REFINING * REVEALING
God in our midst.
A lively exchange of workshops and ideas encouraging creativity as central to the life of faith.
STAINED GLASS + CLAY + MOSAICS + BANNERMAKING + MOVEMENT + MUSIC + PAPER + CHARCOAL + STORYTELLING + CARVING + GRILLING + ACOHOL INKS + ZENTANGLING + FIBERS + PAINT + WOOD & MORE!
Visit the NovusWay Ministries website to register and for more information

Free T-Shirt if you register by March 18
Post-Easter Retreat for Clergy & Spouse

With the sounds still ringing in your ears and the tastes fresh on your tongue, will you have had an opportunity to celebrate Easter? Come to Spirit in the Desert's post-Easter retreat for 4 days and 3 nights to renew, relax, and recharge. This post-Easter retreat is reserved for pastors and their spouses who are seeking an opportunity to celebrate Easter. The retreat will be held April 2 through 5 in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. Cost of $530 per couple or $380 per person includes 9 meals, lodging, and program. Sign up before March 15 and receive a 10% discount. Read the brochure or visit the website for more information and to register. 
Learning Opportunities 
 
Revitalizing Your Congregation Conference: Are you looking for approaches to revitalize your congregation for mission? Join HealthierChurch.org on April 11 through 13 for the Revitalizing Your Congregation Conference in Chicago, IL. The conference will feature four approaches for congregations looking to engage the uninvolved, empower the unknown, energize the unclaimed, and enlist the unafraid. Click here for more information.
 
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Global Health and Humanitarian Summit: The 2013 Global Health and Humanitarian Summit, held at Emory University's School of Medicine in Atlanta, is a compelling two-day forum for those dedicated to improving the lives of others and for those who aspire to lend their time, energy and talents to making a different in the world. This year's summit will be held from April 12-14 and will feature a wide variety of workshops and speakers from all over the world. For information, to volunteer, or to register, click here. This conference is free and open to all people. 
 
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21st Century Faith Formation TrainingWould you like to learn how to develop 21st century faith formation models for all ages and generations in your congregation? The Vision and Practice of 21st Century Faith Formation is a three-day interactive educational program for pastors, faith formation leaders, and staff in all Christian congregations. On May 14-16, the training will take place in Atlanta, GA at the downtown Fairfield Inn and Suites. Visit the  website for more information or click here to view a flyer 
 
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Go Make Disciples: An Invitation to Baptismal Living: April 25-27 in Houston, TX. Click here for more. 
 

 

 
Festival of Homiletics: May 13-17, 2013, in Nashville, TN. Click here for more. 
  
Israel Study Tour: June 1-14, 2013 with Lenoir-Rhyne University and Newberry College. Click here or call Dr. Luker at (803) 719-2057.
 
 
Heaven, Hell...and Purgatory?: June 10-12 at Loyola University Maryland. Click here for more.  
 
The Book of Revelations and American Apocalyptic: July 9-12, 2013, at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. Click here for more.   
 
Stewardship with Adults Under 40--Possibilities Abound: July 29-31, 2013 at Luther Seminary. Click here
Raise Your Voice - Opportunities for Advocacy


 
To learn more about the ELCA's approach to advocacy and important issues for 2013, visit the ELCA website.  

Tools You Can Use: The ELCA website includes a variety of resources and links to help individuals and congregations in their advocacy ministries. Click here learn more about personal actions you can take, what your congregation can do to start an advocacy ministry, biblical references for advocacy and general resources. 

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Joanna Hertzog
Voices for Change Blog:
Advocacy Ministries of the ELCA shares stories about public policies and relevant advocacy issues. Most recently, Joanna Hertzog, ELCA seminarian and delegate to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, reflects on speaking out with a powerful voice to end violence against women and girls from around the world. Click here for more. 
 
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Churches for Middle East Peace Advocacy Conference: On May 20-21, 2013, peacemakers from across the country will gather in Washington D.C. to learn how to effectively advocate for peace in the Holy Land. Click here to learn more about the CMEP Conference. To discover other ways to advocate for a just peace in Palestine and Israel, explore the Peace Not Walls campaign on the ELCA website 
 
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ELCA Advocacy National Priorities Survey: 
Have you taken the ELCA Advocacy National Priorities survey yet? Your answers to this short, four-question survey help to determine the collective priority for our active and growing network of Lutheran advocates. Take the survey now by clicking here. 

  

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LIRS Releases  Leadership ToolkitLutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS)
has released a leadership toolkit to empower individuals, communities, and congregations to Stand for Welcome. Stand for Welcome is LIRS's campaign to stand alongside refugees and migrates and advocate for just, fair laws and policies.
Click here to access the LIRS February leadership toolkit. 

 

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E-Advocacy-Take Action Now!: Become a part of the ELCA advocacy effort by signing up for the e-Advocacy network. 
In This Issue
Pastor Letter on Community Violence
Conference of Bishops
NovusWay Ministries
Grammy Winner
Grants Available
2013 Assembly
Your Assistance Needed
Nominations Deadline Extended
Hunger Walk/Run
When Strangers Become Neighbors
Volunteers Needed
Bishop's School
Living Last Supper
Developer Retreat
Interim Pastors Conference
Guatemala Trip
Hope Renewed Ministry
Altar Furniture Available
LVC Highlight
Becoming Real
Earth Day
World Malaria Day
Suicide Prevention
Stories of Faith
Adult Lutherans
Congregational Health
OMG
Create in Me
Clergy Retreat
Learning Opportunities
Raise Your Voice
Ordinations & Installations

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Did You Know?  
 
Thanks to the work of the ELCA Malaria Campaign and the global movement to fight malaria, we can already see a reduction in the number of deaths from this preventable disease?  When the campaign started two years ago, a child's death from malaria occurred every 45 seconds.  Today we can report that a child dies once every 60 seconds from malaria.  It may be a small step, but it demonstrates what God's people can do together and it puts us one step closer to ending malaria-related deaths for good.
Click here for more information on World
Malaria Day 2013 and how you or your congregation can be part of the campaign to end malaria-related deaths.
 
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Share Your Story
 
Is God doing exciting work in your congregation or ministry that you would like to share with the rest of the synod? Are you looking to spread the word about an upcoming event or opportunity for ministry? The E-News Weekly is open for congregations to share news, stories, photos, announcements and more. Send your stories to Michelle Angalet. Michelle can also be reached at (404) 589-1977, ext. 235. Submissions are due Mondays by 5 pm. The Synod E-News Weekly (usually) goes out on Wednesdays.  

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Ordinations & Installations

 

 

March 17: The Rev. Seyward Ask will be installed as Associate Pastor at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Atlanta, GA during the 11 a.m. worship service. 

 

April 14: Daniel Pharr will be ordained at 4:00 pm CST. Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process.  More details to come. 
 
April 18: The Rev. Laura Shally will be installed as Pastor at Shepherd of the Lake in Loudon, TN on Thursday at 6 p.m. CST. Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process.
 
April 27: The Rev. William Flippen will be installed as Pastor at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Atlanta, GA. More details to come.

 

April 28: The Rev. Bridget Piggue will be ordained in the ELCA at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. More details to come. 
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LTCA Spotlight
 
The Lutheran Theological Center in Atlanta (LTCA) is a multicultural center offering a variety of learning opportunities to support the ministry and mission of the ELCA Southeastern Synod. The Center partners with the eight seminaries of the ELCA and the Southeastern Synod to develop and nourish congregational leaders, both lay and rostered, who are articulate in their witness to the wellbeing of God's people through faith, justice and the Gospel. LTCA is integral to the ELCA strategy for the preparation of multicultural leaders and ministries, particularly African Descent leaders. Located on the campus of the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), the largest African American school of theology in the country, LTCA accompanies seminarians in the candidacy process, offers missional courses for church leadership, and provides continuing education for pastors. 

The primary site for LTCA offerings will be Atlanta, although throughout the year there are plans for online and extension courses in the larger cities of the Synod, including Savannah, Nashville, Birmingham, Montgomery, and Jackson. LTCA also resources congregations and their ministries throughout the Southeastern Synod.  

 For more information on LTCA, visit the
website or contact the office. Watch our E-News weekly for announcements on upcoming courses, program descriptions, and more!  

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SES Young Adult & Youth Ministry Spotlight
 
All-Georgia Youth Gathering
 
Don't forget to register your youth group for the All-Georgia Youth Gathering April 19-21. Registration materials can be downloaded at the website here.

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Affirm Scholarship Deadline is March 15

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2013 Bishop's School-Nominations Due April 1

Are you a junior or senior in high school and looking for a week of theological conversation? Sign up for the Bishop's School on June 23-29, 2013 in Columbia, South Carolina. Cost is $450. There is a $150 scholarship from the synod for those who are accepted into the program. Nominations are due April 1. Click for more information about Bishop's School.

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Novus Way Ministries
Spotlight

Summer Jobs



Want a great job this summer? Consider serving on as a staff member for Novus Way Ministries. Visit the ELCA Southeastern Synod Young Adult and Youth Ministry website for more information on open positions. Applications and additional information are available on the Novus Way website
 
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LSG Spotlight
  
Thanks to the Hunger Walk/Run Supporters! 
 
  
 
On Sunday, over 40 Lutheran congregations came out to fight against hunger and raise funds for Lutheran Services of Georgia! A special thanks to our top 10 fundraising congregations:
 
Trinity Lutheran Church: $11,740.71
 
Cross of Life Lutheran Church: $5,901.39
 
Rivercliff Lutheran Church: $5,504.00
 
St. John's Lutheran Church (Atlanta): $5,310.89
 
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church: $5,227.00
 
Grace Lutheran Church (Carrollton):
$4,865.75
 
Epiphany Lutheran Church (Conyers):
$2,701.00
 
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church: $2,359.00
 
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (Woodstock): $2,260.00
 
Rock of Ages Lutheran Church: $1,852.00 
 
To view photos from the day's festivities, like the synod Facebook page. Keep watching the LSG Spotlight for more photos and stories from the Hunger Walk/Run!
 
For more information on LSG's work, like the LSG Facebook page or visit the website.
 
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Living   Lutheran   Spotlight  
 
7 Influential Lutheran Women



The ELCA, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2013, has seen its fair share of trailblazing women who spent their lives working to do God's work of restoring and reconciling communities in Jesus Christ's name throughout the world. Women like Kathryn Mary Lohre, director of ecumical and inter-religious relations for the ELCA, are doing God's work with their hands. Click here to learn more about the stories of seven influential Lutheran women. 

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The    Lutheran Spotlight  
 
Questions worth Considering
 
 
 
In the March issue of The Lutheran, Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson reflects on questions worth considering for people of faith. He asks, what do we except of the Spirit? What is distinctive about being Lutheran? What brings you joy? What holds us captive? What direction are we facing? To read his musings on these tough, rich, and important questions, click here
 
Excerpts from
The Lutheran
are available on their website. To read the issue in its entirety, consider purchasing a one-year online subscription for only $11.95. 
 
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The Update 
 
 
 
In the world of comprehensive immigration reform, a complicated debate and legislative process still lies ahead, yet there are moments worthy of celebration. In this week's The Update, our panelists celebrate the explosion of immigration reform activity in women's coalitions, the authorization of the Violence Against Women Act and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, and the growing recognition of a need for consensus in our political parties. 
Click to read The Update in English or in Spanish
 
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Who to Contact 
 
Do you have a question or a comment for a member of the synod staff, but aren't sure who to contact? Check out our regularly updated contact page on the synod website.
 
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Synod Calendar

Coming Up...

Mar. 15
Bio forms for 2013 Nominations Due

Mar. 29
Good Friday
Synod Office Closed

Apr. 1
Bishop's School Deadline

Apr. 5
Nominations Committee Deadline

Apr. 6
When Strangers Become Neighbors
Atlanta, GA

Apr. 30
Portico Health Assessment Deadline

May 1
Assembly Registration Closes

 

View the entire synod calendar
here

 
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ELCA Southeastern Synod
100 Edgewood Ave. NE, Suite 1600
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-589-1977