The Upstate Update for Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Bishop's Lenten Message

Bishop John Macholz
"Rend your hearts and not your garments" is a phrase from the prophet Joel that leaps off the page and into my life each year as we encounter the texts for Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. This is not about outward signs but inward change, he seems to be saying to us. Take a look within, dig deep, be honest, don't tread lightly, let light shine in the dark places of your life and ask what needs to change, where you need to repent or turn away from in your life.
            Lent calls us to remember our mortality, that we are dust and to dust we shall return. There's no way around that truth, is there? For some it is a harsh saying and hard to hear. I learned from a colleague that he was approached by a pastor and asked; "Is there other language we can use than this? It seems so harsh and difficult to hear." The colleague's assistant was tempted to offer him this option, "You are going to die" but thought better of it. Yet that is the truth, is it not? We are going to die. Just hopefully, not for a long, long time.
            Issues of life and death help us to focus our attention in a different direction. In my family life over the past six months the reality of cancer has focused our attention in a different direction than it normally is focused. It has been through this different focus that we have, I believe, grown in faith and understanding. We have come to see the grace of God in a new and wonderful way as we have been surrounded by countless friends with prayer, words of encouragement and support.
            It has caused us to confront, once again, the possibility of outcomes and where they might lead us. Raised questions about "what ifs" and "what's next"? In a sense it has reordered our lives and directed us to move closer to the One who holds all in the love and grace so freely offered.  It is reminder that in the midst of all the 'stuff' of life One stands beside us no matter what the outcome.
            I think that is where Lent is calling us this year. To dig deep into understanding who we are and whose we are and then follow, trusting in the promise. Join with me on that journey, ask the difficult questions, recognize your mortality, pray, give alms and fast as you are able and know that through it all the One who came, who comes and who will come again, walks with you. Together may we find our way to the cross where we will discover all that we need and everything we desire.
Blessings on your journey.

ELCA stewardCast: Why Mission and Giving
Saturday, February 27, 2016, 10:15 AM - 4 PM
Rev. Norma Malfatti
As church together we face the challenges of current culture and world issues while striving for a deeper understanding of what the resurrection of Jesus Christ means today.  Addressing these circumstances is not a financial issue, but spiritual.  We are energized by the opportunity to engage in lively conversation about our faith and life, both individually and as a community of believers.  This event invites and encourages us to do so in our role as stewards and will focus on the practices and skills that address the challenges and issues faced in stewarding our congregational and community contexts.  

The day begins at 10:15 AM for an orientation for webcast participants.  The morning will center on leaders from the Churchwide Office, including Bishop Eaton, and the broader church.  In the afternoon Rev. Charles Lane and Ms. Grace Pomroy will lead a workshop entitled, "Embracing Stewardship."  You can learn more about Rev. Lane and Ms. Pomroy's stewardship work at www.embracingstewardship.com.

You can register by going to https://community.elca.org/ELCAStewardCastFeb2016.  Registration for webcast (remote) participants is free though you can choose to register and receive two copies of "Embracing Stewardship" for $25 which will be mailed prior to February 27.   Registration closes on Friday, February 12.
2016 Bishop's Convocation
  • In an ever-changing world, how do we continue to offer the Means of Grace, inviting all into these as gifts and not legalistic prescriptions to our faith?
  • How do we as church leaders offer the Means of Grace, but also receive the Means of Grace?
  • How do these gifts of grace help shape our liturgy and our own lives of study and prayer?
  • What are the biggest challenges facing worship today and pastoral care ?
Rev. Kevin Strickland
The Rev. Kevin Strickland, Executive for Worship/Assistant to the Presiding Bishop will be with us to lead us in learning and conversation around the Means of Grace.  Some of the conversation will focus on the questions listed above while others may direct us toward conversations around the issue of lay presidency and best practices regarding the preaching, teaching and sacramental life of the church.

We will gather at St. Michael's in Camillus on Saturday, March 12. Registration will begin at 9:30 with the morning session starting at 10:00 am. Cost is $10, lunch is included.  All are invited to attend. This is for lay leaders as well as rostered leaders so that together we may learn and grow and strengthen the witness of the church in this place.
 
To register for the 2016 Bishop's Convocation online go to our website or call the synod office and talk with Karen Brundige at 315-299-4955.  Registration ends March 4, 2016
 
 
2016 Portico Wellness Assessment
It's that time of year again! Portico Benefit Services and the Mayo Clinic want everyone in the Synod who gets their healthcare through the ELCA-Primary Benefit plan to assess their health, and there's a reward of $150 in wellness dollars if you do.
 
BUT, there's a new twist this year.
 
"This year, Portico invites you to make a change that lasts," writes Diaconal Minister and ELCA Wellness Manager Tammy Devine. "In the past, we've rewarded you for trying a 4-6 week activity after taking the health assessment. This year is different. There is no prescribed activity. You decide what to change and how you'll do it. You'll still earn wellness dollars if you're a member, spouse, or ESGP with ELCA-Primary health benefits. But more importantly, you'll earn a healthier lifestyle."

Here's how it works:
 
Click here to start filling out your wellness assessment. As in previous years, it's crucial that you do this by April 30, because if enough ELCA-Primary Benefit members from the Upstate New York Synod complete the survey, we will receive an across-the-board discount on health contributions. Last year, we reached the goal with only a few days to spare - can we do better this year?  Take it today!
 
Then ask yourself: "Am I living a healthy lifestyle to support my physical and emotional health?"   Could you benefit from strengthening your health or your community?  Visit the Go! Challenge  and learn about steps to address one or both.

Ash Wednesday is February 10th 
What does your congregation have planned for Lent?

This Lent, ELCA World Hunger invites you to take a special 40-day journey as we take a deeper look at our work throughout the world. Starting Sunday, Feb. 7, and extending through the season of Lent, congregations across the ELCA will join together in ELCA World Hunger's 40 Days of Giving to lift up this life-changing work through new levels of giving - spiritually, intellectually and financially.

Will you join us for 40 Days of Giving? Participating congregations will receive:
  • Exclusive access to ELCA World Hunger's 40-day Lenten devotional (in the form of a desktop flip calendar) for you and your congregation's members.
  • A six-week study guide suitable for Wednesday or Sunday Lenten worship or study to accompany the 40-day devotional.
  • The opportunity to sign up for ELCA World Hunger's 40 Days of Giving daily e-blasts featuring the devotion-of-the-day throughout Lent.
  • A special certificate recognizing your efforts to help end hunger and poverty through ELCA World Hunger.
  • New Lenten resources, including Super Bowl, Valentine's Day and leap-day ideas, to help you reach your goal and engage in this work.
Visit ELCA.org/40days and click the "Sign Up" button to join ELCA World Hunger's 40 Days of Giving.
We are church together for the sake of the world. God's Work. Our Hands.

ANNUAL ROSTERED LEADER REPORTS TO THE BISHOP

Kathy Neugent
Once again, it's time to file your annual Report to the Bishop.  As you contemplate completing your report, know that Bishop Macholz reads each and every one.  He finds them quite helpful to him in getting to know and understand the ministries of his rostered leaders.  His greatest focus is on where you are in life and ministry and what needs might exist that he can help with as we move forward. 

To quote the Bishop  "Whether, retired, on leave from call or actively serving, together we are the body of Christ and together we are growing in relationship and understanding of who we are and whose we are."

Reports are available at Annual Rostered Leader Report. Contact me by phone at 315.299.4955 or at [email protected] with any questions or assistance you may require. We're looking forward to hearing from you if you haven't yet responded. If you've sent your report already, thank you!



"But seek the welfare of the city... and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare."  -- 
Jeremiah 29:7

Members of the Southeastern Michigan Synod are serving their neighbors in the wake of the lead-poisoned water crisis in Flint by addressing the immediate need for clean drinking water in the city. Their efforts are focused through Salem Lutheran Church, Flint, distributing safe water, lead-removing filters, and raising funds for new pipes and a filtration system for the church to supply water to its neighborhood throughout the 48505 zip code, as well as the larger community. 

Many concerned Lutherans around the country are praying for the city and asking what else they can do to help the people of Flint.  ELCA Advocacy and the Southeastern Michigan Synod are collaborating to invite you to advocate for an amendment to a bipartisan energy bill that would increase immediate relief and work towards long-term solutions for Flint. As church together, we will continue to advocate to for clean water for all God's children, particularly in impoverished places or communities of color, such as Flint.

Please join us in prayer and action today! Click here to show your support for the welfare of Flint by sending a message to Congress. 

Grace and peace,
Bishop Donald Kreiss, Southeast Michigan Synod
The Rev. Amy Reumann, Director, ELCA Advocacy

ELCA World Hunger will also be providing funding for relief efforts in Flint as it looks at how the ELCA can best accompany the community as it looks to move forward. 
 
 
St. Timothy's, N. Greenbush 
Celebrates the Ministry of Rev.  Greg Tennermann

Greg Tennermann A joyous event was held at St. Timothy's on February 16, 2016 in celebration of the retirement and 40 years of ministry of Pr. Tennermann. During his career he has served at  St. Timothy's; King of Kings, New Windsor; Prince of Peace, Clifton Park and St. Peter's, Verona.  Pastor Greg also served on synod staff part-time as Assistant to the Bishop. Visit Pastor Greg's Celebration and view the many pictures of of this special Thanksgiving for his ministry. Congratulations Pastor Greg!


2016 Winter Retreat/Kamp Kick-Off
"You're hot then you're cold..." We're going to cool things off and then heat them up again at this NEW annual Christian Youth Retreat! We'll tear up Cherry Hill and enjoy the beauty and grace of God's creation during this magical time of year at Vanderkamp. We'll "chill out" indoors and warm by the fire... AND THEN... We will unveil this year's summer kamp program!

Registration will be open before youth depart... and all youth in attendance will receive a $25 multiple session discount good toward one week of summer kamp in 2016. That's right folks... use it toward any Uniquely Vanderkamp, Explorer Kamp, LIT Program, or the NEW CIT Program!

Event Begins: Saturday, February 13th at 1:00 pm
Event Ends: Monday, February 16th at 5:00 pm
Open to ALL youth ages 7 to 18 Fee: $115 per youth all inclusive Discounts and kampership assistance available.

Outdoor activities include: snow sculptures, sledding, cross-country skiing, maybe even a snowball fight or two. Indoors we'll relax, play games, enjoy warm beverages and snacks... and the company of our friends, brothers and sisters in Christ. We'll pray and play together. Pack your long undergarments and beg, borrow... and bring a warm sleeping bag!

Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Just in case you missed it... here it is again:
Click here to see a REALLY COOL Kamp 2016 preview video, for more information & to register
IN OUR PRAYERS

Prayers of Healing
  • Rev. Rick Klafehn
  • Tom Collins
  • Erna Wedemeyer
Prayers of Thanksgiving
  • 1/2 Niagara Frontier Conference Congregations
  • Genesee Finger Lakes Conference Congregations
  • Ecumenical Partners
  • Conference Deans
  • ELCA Region 6 Synods and Bishops
  • Barb (Macholz) Grimaldi who is now in remission
 
TIDBITS
Parochial Reports
The deadline for filing reports is February 15th.  Congregations, please file your reports at Parochial Reports. Direct all questions or concerns to Karen Brundige at the synod office at 315.299.4955 or at [email protected]



Congregation Report Covers 
Available at 2016 Report Covers



Women of the ELCA celebrate Bold Women's Day, February 28.  Learn more about this and other programs and resources of the Women of the ELCA at WELCA


"Our God" and  "Your God": Christian Faith Among Other Faiths
Five consecutive Thursdays, February 18-March 17, 2016 | 7:00 pm-9:00 pm LTSP campus OR online

$70/individual | $125/congregation Presenter: The Rev. Dr. J. Paul Rajashekar, Luther D. Reed Professor of Systematic Theology, LTSP 

This short course explores some of the challenges in Christian relations with people of other religions in a pluralistic society.  It will examine the following critical theological issues:  Are there one God or many gods? Does our God hear the prayers of others?  How Is Christ related to people of other faiths? Are Christians the only people saved by Christ? How does one engage in interreligious dialogue?  What is the place of Christian mission and witness in a multifaith society? - See more at: LifeLong Learning and Register on-line

Winning $15: How You Can Help End Poverty Wages in New York?

As local churches from many denominations address the poverty of their parishioners and community members, the New York State Council of Churches seeks to offer resources that help congregations be strong advocates for those in need. Over a third of New York workers make less than $15 an hour. Every day, hard working men and women go without things they need but can't afford.  Please join the Raise the Wage Coalition in Albany for a community teach-in about how you can help end poverty wages in New York.
We'll hear from low-wage workers, policy experts, and activists and get the tools needed to take action and build a movement for justice!  "The laborer deserves to be paid." (1 Timothy 5:18)

In Christ One New Humanity
2016 Synod Assembly workshop and Mission Expo applications for presenters and vendors are now posted on the synod website.  This year our goal is to inform, engage, and equip the Upstate New York Synod members so that they are able to pursue racial justice in our congregations and communities.  We will be looking for both our workshop presenters and Mission Expo vendors to address our assembly theme and focus on racial justice in their presentations and displays.  Information can be found at Workshop Invitation and Workshop ApplicationWorkshop questions can be addressed to Jerry Holland, [email protected]

Questions about the Mission Expo should be emailed to Carol Bonnewell at [email protected].  See the Mission Expo forms at Mission Expo Invitation LetterMission Expo Application, and Mission Expo Application Instructions


Please visit our website upstatenysynod.org
 
Thank you for spending some time reading this edition of the Upstate Update. We hope, and pray, that you found it useful. If you know someone who could benefit from the Upstate Update, please forward it to them and ask them to sign up directly.
 
Kathy Neugent
Executive Assistant to the Bishop
Upstate New York Synod of the 
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America 
Phone: 315-299-4955 Fax: 315-299-4981 
 
 Resurrection people who pray first, walk together and change lives.   

Upstate New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America | 5811 Heritage Landing Drive | First Floor | E. Syracuse | NY | 13057