Congratulations!
 We'd like to take a moment to congratulate and say thank you to all of the congregations and individuals who have helped raise funds for the ELCA Malaria Campaign! As of March 1, 2013, the Southeastern Synod has raised a total of $62,550.66 in funds to help prevent, treat, and end malaria in communities around the world. Because of your generosity and dedication, families are gaining access to protective materials that they need--mosquito nets, insecticides, and preventative treatment for pregnant women and their babies. People in their communities now have the opportunity to learn what malaria is and how they can protect their families. Clinics and dispensaires are being stocked with medicines so that every case of malaria can be treated.
As of March, 2013, the ELCA as a whole has raised over $6 million for the ELCA Malaria Campaign. In 2012, we raised $4 million together, and are well on the way to raising the committed $15 million by 2015 to support ongoing malaria programs of our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Christ. Together, we are moving forward in hope and faith that the ELCA will meet its goal.
Click here for updates, stories, and continued fundraising advice in the ELCA Malaria Campaign Spring Newsletter. Don't forget--World Malaria Day is April 25, 2013. More malaria resources are available below, in our World Malaria Day section.
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ELCA Renews Relationships with Malagasy, Malawi Lutherans
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Malawi
CIA World Factbook
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Leaders of the ELCA and the Malagasy Lutheran Church signed a partnership agreement designed to strengthen the relationship "in a new time." The signing took place March 13 at the Malagasy church offices in Antananarivo, Madagascar. The agreement "is a strong foundation built upon the past, but we sign it for the future," said the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop, during the signing. "It is a document that reflects our partnership within the The Lutheran World Federation and our deep commitment to growing together in Christ and our witness to God's mission for the life of the world." ...
 | Madagascar
CIA World Factbook |
Following his March 10-14 visit in Madagascar, Hanson traveled to Malawi where he, along with his spouse and other ELCA colleagues, was greeted with a four-hour opening celebration of his visit.
"The fact that we have a lot in common in our faith is enough reason for us to be united in partnership," said the Rev. Joseph Bvumbwe, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi, during the celebration....
Click here to read more about the ELCA's continuing relationships with Lutherans in Malagasy and Malawi.
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Congregation Observers at the 2013 Churchwide Assembly
 This year's ELCA Churchwide Assembly will be held on August 12 through 17 in Pittsburg, PA. Each congregation of the ELCA may register with the secretary of this church one congregation observer for the Churchwide Assembly prior to May 31 in the year of a Churchwide Assembly.
- Provision shall be made for such an individual to have reserved seating in the observers section of the plenary hall. Such congregation observers will receive a copy of the report of recommendations for assembly action and also materials distributed on the plenary floor to voting members, advisory members, and non-voting members during the assembly. Such observers shall have neither voice nor vote in plenary sessions of the assembly.
- A registration fee shall be established by the secretary of this church for registration and related costs, including enabling observers to receive the same meals as are provided for voting members.
- Transportation costs, housing, other meals, and related expenses shall be the responsibility of the registered observer or sending congregation.
The registration fee for congregation observers is $150. Please contact the assembly registrar at 800-638-3522 ext. 2807, or via e-mail to CWARegistrar@elca.org if you have any questions. Please note the meal package is not included in the registration fee, but may be purchased separately when registering. Online registration will open in April here.
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Synod Wellness/Sabbatical Grants
Available - Submission Deadlines Set
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. We have received several grant applications to date. To help congregations in their planning, two submission deadlines have been set for 2013. Applications for review in Round 1 are due April 15. Round 2 applications must be submitted by September 1. Applicants will be notified within one week of the deadline. Click here to learn more. The grant was awarded to our synod in response to our rostered leaders' completion of the 2012 Portico Health Assessment.
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Two Bubbas and a Bible (and a Bishop)
 Each week, Dr. John Fairless and The Rev. Delmer Chilton (the Two Bubbas) reflect on the lectionary texts for Lectionary Lab Live, an online podcast. For Easter, Lectionary Lab Live welcomes Bishop H. Julian Gordy! What does one do when confronted with a fantastic opportunity to speak to the largest crowd of the year, using a story that everybody thinks they know so well? Options abound--check it out with Two Bubbas and a Bible (and a Bishop!) online here.
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Synod Assembly
May 31, June 1 and 2, 2013
Chattanooga Convention Center
"Always Being Made New"
Online registration closes May 1.
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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 Quilt: This 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! Deadline for submissions is April 29.
For more information and updates about getting ready for the synod assembly, visit the synod website.
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Resolutions Deadline is May 10 at 5 pm
At the September meeting of the Synod Council a new continuing resolution (S11.01.32.A12) was approved which provided for the calculation of resolution deadlines at synod assemblies. You can read it here. |
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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
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Holy Week Pilgrimages
Holy Week Pilgrimage for Immigrants:
The Holy Week Pilgrimage for Immigrants is an act of faith, solidarity, and hospitality; it is a prayer with feet. With our feet we pray that our faith communities and nations will search for ways that favor a spirit of solidarity with and justice for immigrants. We walk by a faith that transcends borders and bids us to overcome all forms of discrimination and violence so that we may build relationships that are just and loving. Walks of varying length take place each day during Holy Week, in various places around Georgia. Click here to view the different routes. For stories, photos, and reflections from last year's Pilgrimage, click here. Like the Holy Week Pilgrimage on Facebook for photos and up-to-date information on opportunities, meeting locations, and more.
33rd Annual Good Friday Pilgrimage:
 The 33rd annual Good Friday Pilgrimage is an interfaith, walking reflection based on the traditional Christian prayer experience called Stations of the Cross or Way of the Cross. People of all faiths will join in this pilgrimage to visit 14 urban sites throughout downtown Atlanta and reflect upon Christ's suffering in relation to current social justice issues. This multilingual walking prayer is a moving experience that includes scripture readings, reflections, prayer, and music. Pilgrims will gather on March 29, 2013 at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church at 8:45 a.m. for an opening prayer at 9 by Archbishop Gregory. The pilgrimage will conclude at approximately 12:30 at the crypt of Martin Luther King, Jr. and buses will return participants to the starting point. Click here for more information. |
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When Strangers Become Neighbors: Register by April 1!
The registration deadline for When Strangers Become Neighbors: Immigration and the Church Today
is quickly approaching! Don't miss out on this excellent opportunity to learn more about the church's response to immigration issues and to gain the skills you need to host productive conversations in your congregation and community. Click here to register today!
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).
This conference is especially timely given the national conversation surrounding comprehensive immigration reform. Bishop Gordy 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. The Update is a weekly feature in our e-news and is located in the red sidebar.
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Upcoming Day1 Prayer Breakfasts
Please join us for the upcoming
Day1 Prayer Breakfasts
Thursday, April 18, 2013, 7:30-8:30 a.m.
featuring the Rev. Pam Driesell
Senior Minister of Trinity Presbyterian Church
at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer,
731 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta
call Rebecca Kurziak at 404-418-6772
to make reservations.
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Thursday, September 12, 2013, 7:30-8:30 a.m.
featuring a message by the Rt. Rev. Rob Wright
Episcopal Baptist of Atlanta
at Second Ponce de Leon Baptist Church,
2175 Peachtree Rd. NE Atlanta.
call Rebecca Kurziak at 404-418-6772
to make reservations.
Originally launched as The Protestant Hour in 1945, Day1 has since grown into a radio program and ministry of the Alliance for Christian Media, dedicated to proclaiming the gospel and enhancing the voice of mainline churches. Click here to learn more.
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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.
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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 Pr. Delmer 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.
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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.
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Disciples: A Lenten Reflection
 | Pastor Will Rogers
Christ the King Lutheran Church, Tupelo, MS |
As we move towards the cross during this Lenten Season, I often think about the disciples. These were men from diverse backgrounds drawn together by their love for Jesus.
Like us, they experienced the ups and downs of followship through fellowship in struggling to grasp the teachings of Jesus. We as Christians often look with critical eyes at the disciples, wondering why they did not seem to fully understand Jesus. Yet, we can seek new meanings in our spiritual journey each time we review closely the Passion Story in the book of Mark.
The disciples provide examples of the challenges life presents to us as they followed Jesus to Jerusalem.
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Earth Day - April 22, 2013
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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.
National Council of Churches of Christ Eco-Justice Programs
 The Eco-Justice Program office of the National Council of Churches works in cooperation with the NCC Eco-Justice Working Group to provide an opportunity for the national bodies of member Protestant and Orthodox communions to work together to protect and restore God's Creation. The Eco-Justice Program provides program ideas and resources for member denominations, including the ELCA, to heal and defend creation while working to assure justice for human beings who live in it. Each year, the Eco-Justice Program website shares information, liturgy, and action steps for congregations planning an Earth Day Sunday. Click here.
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Earth Friendly Pinterest
 Do you use Pinterest, the popular, online scrapboard for recipes, fashion, DIY activities, and more? Last year, Elizabeth McBridge, editor of Women of the ECLA's Cafe magazine, celebrated Earth Day by creating an "Earth Friendly" board with clever ideas for being more environmentally friendly in your everyday life. Click here for easy and creative ways to care for God's earth on Earth Day and all year round. Don't forget to follow Women of the ELCA and spread the green by repinning your favorites!
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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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World Malaria Day - April 25, 2013
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Congregation Action Kit
 The ELCA Malaria Campaign Congregation Action Kit is a 24-page, spiral-bound resource designed to help you organize a special effort to raise funds and awareness for the ELCA Malaria Campaign in your congregation. The kit is organized into four steps (Gather, Educate, Activate, and Celebrate) to help manage your efforts. Click here to access.
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Malaria: Facts and History
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Did you know that malaria or a disease resembling malaria has existed for more than 4,000 years? From the Italian for "bad air", malaria has influenced human populations and human history, with symptoms described in ancient Chinese and Greek medical writings. Today, malaria occurs primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, but can also affect travelers and immigrants in the United States. To learn more about the history, biology, prevention, and eradication of malaria, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website here.
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Resources, Retreats, & Learning Opportunities
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Christian Home Exchange and Renewal
 Christian Home Exchange is when Christians do a home exchange for any number of reasons: personal or congregational renewal or for an affordable sabbatical or family vacation. Two parties swap homes. The concept is, "You stay in my home, while I stay in yours." No money changes hands. The advantage of this arrangement is that it can be used intentionally so people not only travel inexpensively, but people can experience "church" in different places and meet "church people" in different settings. Afterwards, everyone returns home to their own congregation to share observations and insights they picked up from Christians living in other places.
Since the early 1990s, a non-profit organization called St. Hans Ministry Exchange, Inc. has recognized the incredible potential of a Christian Home Exchange to affect whole congregations, as well as individuals and families. Recently, St. Hans has partnered with the world's largest home exchange organization to provide a portal for The Christian Community with access to 45,000 home swap listings in 147 countries. Click here to learn more about Christian home exchange and for discounts that are available when you submit your own listing.
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Pastors2Go
 The Pastors2Go program at Living Waters Lutheran in North Port, Florida provides rent-free housing in a resort-style setting for pastors willing to preach once or twice a month and lead a Bible study. Participants in this unique program take up residence in the congregation's 2-bedroom condominium in a gated, golf course community, just a short drive to sandy beaches on the Gulf of Mexico.
This program is designed as an ideal opportunity for people in lots of different situations: pastors or seminary professors planning a sabbatical, interim pastors look for a break between interim assignments, seminary interns with some time on their hands before their internship begins or before classes resume after their internship concludes, seminary graduates eager to get started doing ministry while awaiting their first call. The Lutheran magazine (November 2011) mentioned the Pastors2Go program in a cover story, "Getting Creative: Tough Times Call for Clever Measures and Ministries."
For more information, pictures of the condominium, and an application form for this program, click here. Inquiries and applications may be submitted to Living Waters Lutheran Church, PO Box 8064, North Port, FL 34290.
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Lutheran Volunteer Corps: Applications due April 1
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LVC Volunteers 2012-13
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Lutheran Volunteer Corps (LVC) is a one-year volunteer program for people who want to explore spirituality while working for social justice, living in intentional community with other volunteers, and practicing sustainability in all aspects of their lives. Volunteers receive a monthly stipend to cover housing, food, travel, and basic personal needs. LVC Volunteers are matched with over 120 non-profits in 14 cities stretching from coast to coast. Applications for next year's LVC volunteers are due April 1, 2013. Click here to learn more.
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Special Field Military Worship Service
The Military Chaplaincy Program at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary will host a special worship service in the style of field military worship setting on Thursday, April 11, 2013 at 1:00 pm on the front lawn of the school's North Main Street campus. Worshipers will experience a liturgical service in a unique military setting that is typical of chaplaincy in the United States Armed Forces. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Click here to learn more.
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Learning Opportunities
 Lutheran Seminary to Host Lecture Commemorating King's Legacy: Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary will honor the legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at a special lecture on Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. The lecture, which is being held on the 45th anniversary of King's assassination, will feature native South Carolinian and veteran Civil Rights activist, James L. Felder. The lecture will be held in Stavros Hall, the main auditorium in the center of seminary's campus, from 1:00 p.m. until approximately 2:15 p.m. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend this free event. Click here for more information on the lecture and James L. Felder.
Revitalizing Your Congregation Conference: April 11-13 in Chicago, IL. Are you looking for approaches to revitalize your congregation for mission? Click here for more information.
 Global Health and Humanitarian Summit: April 12-14 at Emory University's School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA. For information, to volunteer, or to register, click here.
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.
 21st Century Faith Formation Training: May 14-16 in Atlanta, GA. Visit the website for more or click here to view a flyer.
 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.
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Raise Your Voice - Opportunities for Advocacy
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To learn more about the ELCA's approach to advocacy and important issues for 2013, visit the ELCA website.
 Voice What's Important To You!: The advocacy ministries of our church want to hear from you now! Your responses to the short four-question ELCA National Advocacy Priorities survey greatly help the church facilitate this active and growing network of Lutherans speaking out for policy that advances the common good and reflects your commitments to serve and love our neighbor. Get started now!
 Oregon Synod Creates 5 Short Videos on Israel/Palestine: The ELCA Oregon Synod has been very intentional and proactive in raising awareness about the Palestinian/ Israeli people and situation in preparation for their synod assembly, during which they will vote on a synod resolution. They created five short videos you can use that tell the stories of the ministries and challenges facing ELCA companions. View or download the videos here.
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 Bread For the World National Gathering: The Bread for the World National Gathering is a joyful advocacy experience that convenes every two years to multiply and focus our efforts to end hunger. This year, the theme of the National Gathering is "A Place at the Table," matching the theme of the 2013 Offering of Letters and the new feature-length documentary about the persistence of hunger in America--and the achievable solution. The National Gathering will take place on June 8-11, 2013 in Washington, DC. Click here for more information.
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Churches for Middle East Peace Advocacy Conference:  May 20-21, 2013 in Washington D.C. 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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 E-Advocacy-Take Action Now!: Become a part of the ELCA advocacy effort by signing up for the e-Advocacy network.
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Did You Know?
ELCA World Hunger has a blog called Hunger Rumblings! On this blog, ELCA World Hunger staff and associates write about root causes of hunger, current events, and other pertinent information. Click here to view posts on World Water Day, International Women's Day, World AIDS Day, and more.
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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
April 7: The Rev. Jerry Bultman will be installed as interim pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Columbus, GA, during the 10:30 am service.
April 7: Daniel Pharr will be ordained at 4:00 pm CST at Christ Lutheran Church, Prattville, AL. Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process. Color of the day is white.
April 18: The Rev. Laura Shally will be installed as Pastor at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, Loudon, TN on Thursday at 6 pm CST. Rostered leaders are invited to vest and process.
April 27: The Rev. William Flippen will be installed as Pastor at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Atlanta, GA. More details to come.
April 28: The Rev. Bridget Piggue will be ordained in the ELCA at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Atlanta, GA. More details to come.
May 9: The Rev. Jeff Crim will be ordained in the ELCA and installed as pastor in one service at 7 pm at Ascension Lutheran Church, Chattanooga, TN.
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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
When God Whispers Your Name -
Space Available
Are you looking for a quiet, reflective weekend away from the busyness of life? Space is still available for When God Whispers Your Name, a discernment retreat for young adults in the Southeastern Synod held at Lutheranch. At the retreat, you will have an opportunity to consider how God has created you to serve in this world. You will hear stories from peers about God's whispers to them. You will also learn about rostered ministry in the ELCA. Young adults ages 18-30 are invited to Tallapoosa, GA on April 12-14 for this free retreat! Click here to register or visit the ELCA Southeastern Synod Young Adult and Youth Ministry website for more information.
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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.
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
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AlOA Boomerang Retreat at Luther Springs
On May 7-9, join Luther Springs and ALOA (Adult Lutherans Organized for Action) for a mid-week retreat targeted for adults! Get away, be refreshed, learn and grow during this time together.
Accommodations are in the comfortable and new Kuehner Retreat Center (single or double rooms with a private bathroom). Activities include options such as nature walks, discussions on topics concerning the second half of life, Bible studies, stargazing, campfire fellowship, and fabulous food. This is your opportunity to familiarize yourself with the new retreat center at a significantly reduced rate due to a generous gift from an anonymous donor. Registration is open.
Why do we call it a Boomerang retreat? Because you know that you will want to return again and again and again....
Cost per person is $100. $75 per ALOA member. Visit the Novus Way Ministries website for more information.
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LSG Spotlight
Ryan's Song
When Elizabeth and Henry Parker adopted their five-year-old son Ryan in February, he refused to sing. Throughout the day, the Parkers would hum and sing tunes from church or other places. When he heard the music, Ryan would press his hands over his ears, make noise, and tell his parents that he did not want them to sing.
Neglected as a child, Ryan entered foster care as a four-year-old without having learned much of what his peers had been taught. A year after Ryan came into foster care, Lutheran Services of Georgia facilitated his adoption with the Parkers. Click here to read the story of how Ryan found his song, posted on the LSG blog.
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Living Lutheran Spotlight
Water by the Numbers
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Siem Chansa, 5, bathes in the village of Thmor Dop in northern Cambodia
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For the past 25 years, the ELCA has worked towards relief, development, and education for communities that experience hunger, poverty, and widespread health issues. One of the keys to the sustainability of a community is its access to clean water, yet access to water is still a dream for many around the world. Click here for statistics on water around the world and for ways you can help make access to clean water a reality for all.
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The Lutheran Spotlight
Coming Up
April: The Lutheran's April issue looks at ELCA congregations that found "A new imagination" by focusing outward. For them, survival and becoming healthy is about going into the world on Monday to serve.
May: Readers share what their favorite hymns mean to them.
June: Food through the eyes of faith.
Turkey: Visit this country on the grounds of faith.
Homeless veterans: Lutheran agency provides compassion and care.
Going global: Program sends ELCA theologians overseas to teach at partner seminaries/colleges.
In house: The growth of house churches in the Northwestern Washington Synod.
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
Every Monday, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service releases The Update, a blog series whose panel of experts will analyze how recent events affect the prospects for immigration reform. This week, Mary Giovagnoli reminds advocates that any just immigration reform package needs to include family reunification. Bishop Gordy and Lisa Sharon Harper respond to Sen. Rand Paul's endorsement for immigration reform. Brittney Nystrom shares her excitement to hear a congressman suggest that the Department of Homeland Security is overusing the detntion of migrants and refugees.
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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. 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. 15 Deadline for Round 1 Sabbatical/Wellness Grant Applications Apr. 30 Portico Health Assessment Deadline May 1 Synod Assembly Registration Closes May 10 Synod Assembly Resolutions Deadline View the entire synod calendar
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