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Pr. Barbara Caine, Holy Redeemer, Newark, for hip replacement surgery August 25.
Comfort for all those who mourn the death of Pr Jim Heinemeier, retired, who died on August 14. Services will be at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Reno on September 10 at 3:30 pm.
Pr Mark Dunbar, Faith, Elko, who is recovering from surgery and preparing for ongoing treatment.
Comfort for all those who mourn the death of Pr Nicolas Brie, retired, who died on August 5. He had been in hospice care in Healdsburg. Services are pending and details will be forthcoming.
Continued comfort and healing for Revs. Grochau, Theiss and Fey.
For those in Italy affected by the earthquakes. For those who are injured, those who mourn, and for all first responders and caregivers.
For those affected by fire and weather this week:
People in the Lake County area who are affected by the Clayton fire and those continuing to deal with the Soberanes Fire near Monterey. We remember those fighting these fires and those providing care and services to those who have been evacuated and those who have lost homes and other property.
The thousands of people affected by flooding who live within a few miles of where the ELCA Churchwide Assembly was held in New Orleans. We pray for those who have lost their homes and those who are providing rescue and relief.
Places and people living in areas of violence and uncertainty, both locally and globally.
Those around the world who are fleeing terror and violence; that they find compassion and welcome as they seek refuge.
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Congregations in Transition
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September 15, 2016
Sacramento Area
September 23 - 24, 2016
St John's Lutheran Church
Sacramento
Fall 2016 Winter 2017
November 4 - 5, 2016
Good Shepherd, Salinas
December 5-7, 2016
March 13-15, 2017
May 22-24, 2017
Hope United Methodist Church
San Diego, CA
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These are not official Synod events, we hope you'll find this information useful as you plan for the 500th anniversary.
May 17-24, 2017
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Synod Calendar
Events and Meetings
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August 26-27, 2016
Candidacy Committee Meeting
PLTS, Berkeley
September 17, 2016
Fall Online Synod and Conference Gatherings
Ascension Lutheran, Citrus Heights
Our Savior's Lutheran, Lafayette
Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran, Merced
Grace Lutheran, Palo Alto
Cross and Crown Lutheran,
Rohnert Park
Advent Lutheran, Morgan Hill
September 23 - 24, 2016
Synod Council Meeting
Sacramento Office of the Bishop
October 14 - 16, 2106
SPSYC Elementary School Retreat
Mt. Cross
October 15, 2016
SPS Hunger Network Workshop
Lutheran Church of the Incarnation, Davis
October 17 - 18, 2016
Rostered Women's Retreat
Dean's Gathering
October 18 - 20
Professional Leaders Conference
The Village at Squaw Valley
November 11 - 13, 2016
SPSYC Middle School Retreat
Mt. Cross
January 27 - 28, 2017
Synod Council Meeting
Sacramento Office of the Bishop
January 31 - February 1, 2017
Dean's Retreat
Christ the King Center, Citrus Heights
February 2017
Synod Council Meeting
Sacramento Office of the Bishop
February 24 - 26, 2107
SPSYC High School Retreat
Mt. Cross
February 27-28, 2017
Annual Retired Pastors Retreat
San Damiano, CA
March 11, 2017 Rwanda Connections Meeting Lutheran Church of the Master, Sacramento
March 17 - 18, 2017
Candidacy Meeting
Hope, El Sobrante
May 3, 2017
Synod Council Meeting
Fresno
May 4 - 6, 2017
Synod Assembly
Fresno
June 23 - 24, 2017
Synod Council Meeting
Sacramento Office of the Bishop
June 28 - July 2, 2017
Western States Youth Gathering
California Lutheran University
October 16-17, 2017
Deans & Women's Retreat
Monterey
October 18-20, 2017
Professional Leaders Conference
Monterey
CANDIDACY COMMITTEE MEETINGS:
PLTS, Berkeley
August 26-27, 2016
October 14-15, 2016
January 20-21, 2017
Please take note of our office schedule:
All Synod offices are open Monday-Thursday and closed every Friday.
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Newsletter Submissions
Please submit any newsletter requests to
by Thursday at 5:00 pm
Thank you!
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Was this newsletter forwarded to you?
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A message from Bishop Mark W. Holmerud
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Thank you for my time away on sabbatical. It was a very rewarding time, in terms of renewal, reflection, refreshment and rest. Each day was an opportunity to re-orient my life and ministry, and for that I am extremely grateful. New disciplines around prayer and finding balance between life and ministry were a part of this time and, I pray, will be a part of my "re-entry" into the challenges and opportunities of my call as bishop. Your prayers for this journey will be much appreciated!
During my time away, I took time for exercise, reading, seminars, rest, and time with family. The books I read centered mostly on issues of racism and cultural competence, and I pray will be a part of the ministry I offer as we move forward in ministry as the Sierra Pacific Synod. I am very thankful and appreciative of the support for my sabbatical from Acting Bishop Nancy F. Nelson, and from all of the synod staff and leadership of the Sierra Pacific Synod. Thank you for the way you provided leadership in my absence, and for the way you have welcomed me back!
I feel compelled to share with you one moment from my sabbatical time that was very profound, and about which I am still "praying through." As we were flying home from the Churchwide Assembly in New Orleans, Debbi and I had an experience of a community being formed around the needs of one of the passengers on the plane. Much like the story from this week's Gospel in the thirteenth chapter of Luke, this woman had gone largely unnoticed by most of the passengers, including me. She had been a part of the "pre-boarding" group of passengers who needed assistance in boarding the plane. We ended up being seated directly behind her. In the last hour of the flight, it became apparent that she was becoming very weak. Her seat mate and a flight attendant were offering her care as she became less and less responsive. As we were preparing to land, she took what we, the community that had formed around her offering her support, thought was her last breath.
When the plane reached the gate, she was removed from the plane by a team of first responders, who took her into the terminal and began administering CPR. She was revived, and taken by ambulance from the airport. I do not know what happened after that, I only know her name is Maria. My prayers have been with her and with her family as I have entrusted her to God's care and presence. After she was removed from the plane, her seat mate and the flight attendants and I took a moment for mutual consolation and prayer, and went on our way.
I was very moved by how a group of strangers on a plane were able to come together to offer care and concern for someone who was in great need. I wonder, is this a model for how we, as the church, are called to seek out those in need, those who are "bent over" with cares and burdens, to offer care and concern and presence and love? I'm thinking especially of those who are bent over and burdened by fear of violence, hunger, civil war, disease, flooding and fires - the list goes on. I'm sure there is something I am supposed to take from this experience, but I am, as of yet, unsure of what that might be. I continue to pray for wisdom and guidance as to how this experience may open my eyes to see those in need who I encounter in my life and ministry, and ask for your prayerful support in that journey.
In the meantime, let's wonder together how each day's experiences are meant to shape and mold us as followers of Jesus to work and witness in the world. May God guide us and grace us with courage to be witnesses of the transforming power of Jesus' love and care for others. May God embolden us to step in and step up for the least, the last, and the lost of this world. May God grant us strength for the journey, and courage to risk being as present for those in need as Jesus was -- and is -- through us.
I'm glad to be back from sabbatical, and look forward to reconnecting with you, the saints of our shared ministry as the Sierra Pacific Synod.
Peace
Bp. Mark
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Reformation: Past, Present and Future
2016 Rostered Women's Retreat
Dean's Gathering
October 17 - 18, 2016
2016 Professional Leaders Conference
Did you know the Leadership Discipling Team gives Individual Grants for PLC?
Are you a rostered leader serving in a first call, a person of color, a person whose primary language is other than English, or are paid under the Synod guidelines? If so, you are invited to email by September 1st to request an LDT individual grant...
to make your request know!
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We Have a New Website!
Head to www.spselca.org to see what's going on in the synod.
(Make sure to type in the "www" and refresh your browser if you don't see the new site.)
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Our PO Box is no longer active.
Please send all correspondence to the Sacramento Office of the Bishop at:
Sierra Pacific Synod
9985 Folsom Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95827
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Stewardship Discipling Team August Council Devotions
Generous People Living God's Love "by" Remembering who we are as God's People
Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers; 2but their delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law they meditate day and night.3They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper.
Psalm 1:1-3
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ELCA Churchwide Assembly key actions
Voting members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) approved a number of key actions during the 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly held in New Orleans Aug. 8-13. The assembly is the highest legislative authority of the church.
The 945 voting members:
- Elected William B. Horne II of St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Clearwater, Fla., vice president of the ELCA. Horne was installed during closing worship Aug. 13.
- Accepted the "Declaration on the Way," a unique ecumenical document that marks a path toward greater unity between Catholics and Lutherans. At the heart of the document are 32 "Statements of Agreement" that state where Lutherans and Catholics do not have church-dividing differences on topics about church, ministry and the Eucharist. The document also presents the differences that remain.
- Approved AMMPARO - the ELCA's strategy to Accompany Migrant Minors with Protection, Advocacy, Representation and Opportunities. The ELCA developed this strategy based on commitments to uphold and guarantee the basic human rights and safety of migrant children and their families; to address the root causes of migration in countries from Central America's Northern Triangle and Mexico and the treatment of migrants in transit; to work toward just and humane policies affecting migrants in and outside the U.S.; to engage as a church with all of its companions, affiliates and partners to respond to the migration situation and its causes; and to advocate for migrant children and their families.
- Approved the Ministry of Word and Service roster. Beginning Jan. 1, 2017, ELCA associates in ministry, deaconesses and diaconal ministers will be a single, unified roster of Ministry of Word and Service. The accompanying constitutional amendments related to the roster were also considered and approved by the assembly.
- Approved the 2017-2019 budget proposal. The budget includes a 2017 current fund spending authorization of $65,296,005 and a 2017 ELCA World Hunger spending authorization of $24.8 million; a 2018 current fund income proposal of $64,057,220 and a 2018 ELCA World Hunger income proposal of $25 million; a 2019 current fund income proposal of $64,151,175 and a 2019 ELCA World Hunger income proposal of $25 million; and authorizes the Church Council to establish a spending authorization after periodic review of revised income estimates.
- Approved various memorials - or proposals - from the ELCA's 65 synods. In addition to memorials considered "en bloc," the assembly separately approved the following: deepening relationships with historic Black churches; toward a responsible energy future; repudiation of the Doctrine of Discovery; peace with justice in the Holy Land; justice for the Holy Land through responsible investment; African Descent Lutherans; call to discernment on U.S. foreign and military policy; welcoming refugees; and supporting military personnel, veterans and their families.
- Elected members to serve on: Church Council, Portico Benefits Services, Mission Investment Fund, Augsburg Fortress, Committee on Appeals, Committee on Discipline and Nominating Committee
- Adopted Amendments to the ELCA Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions.
Legislative updates are available.
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The ELCA Task Force on Women and Justice: One in Christ is preparing a comprehensive study for use in congregations and across the church. The task force invites individuals, adult forums and other study groups to join a churchwide conversation about issues related to women and justice in church and society and then to share responses.
All participant responses will be reviewed by the task force as it works toward bringing out a first draft of a social statement in late 2017. Study response forms will be available in the printed version and online. The response period runs through August 2017.
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Is Campus Ministry for You? 
If you are a young adult, or if you know of a young adult who is looking for a community of friends and a way to express faith, consider campus ministry. Campus Ministry seeks to strengthen and support young adults as they learn and grow.
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News from around the Synod and Beyond
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Helping Flood and Fire Victims
Gulf Flooding
Historic floodwaters have required tens of thousands of people to be rescued and even more have been evacuated as rain sweeps across southern Louisiana. Floodwaters have affected communication, overwhelmed streets and highways, and damaged or destroyed more than 40,000 homes. This flood comes on the heels of several other floods that have hit the Gulf Coast region, starting earlier this spring.Entire neighborhoods and communities still remain under water, and the full extent of the damage has yet to be realized. We know that it will be a long road to recovery, and Lutheran Disaster Response will be there to assist through every phase of this disaster recovery process.
Your gifts are needed to help respond to the Gulf Coast flooding. Your gifts through Lutheran Disaster Response will bring God's hope, healing and refuge to those who are affected by these devastating floods. Lutheran Disaster Response coordinators are actively present, collaborating with local community leaders and officials to begin planning the proper responses, particularly the long-term recovery efforts. We will respond and walk with survivors in the days, weeks, months and years ahead, for as long as we are needed.Gifts designated for " Gulf Coast Flooding" will be used (100 percent) until the response is complete to help disaster survivors recover and rebuild their lives. Your generous offerings of prayer and financial support will help address the many needs, especially the long-term recovery efforts of those affected.
Lake County Fire
Less than a year after the fires in Lake and Calaveras Counties, on August 13th 2016, Lake County suffered the loss of 268 structures, including 175 homes, after a major fire tore through 4,000 acres. The number of damaged and destroyed structures may continue to rise as additional data is confirmed. This time, the fire was man-made. A man from Clearlake, CA, has been arrested and charged with 17 counts of arson.
We at LSS send our thoughts and prayers to the victims of the fires. We have been involved in the relief efforts for the September 2015 fires, and we know this is another devastating loss for Lake County. Lake County is predominantly rural and low-income, and they need support.
LSS of Northern California is part of the Lutheran Disaster Response Network. LSS responds to disasters by assisting in long term rebuilding efforts.
All proceeds go directly towards helping fire victims rebuild their homes. The Red Cross has been very clear that they do NOT want donations of food, clothing, or other household items. Please donate money or gift cards only.
Donate Now
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Need funding for a new ministry project?
Consider applying for a grant from the St. Francis Lutheran Church Endowment Fund. St. Francis Lutheran Church of San Francisco offers grants ranging from $250 to $3000 for projects or initiatives related to justice and inclusion. For more information and instructions on how to apply please contact St. Francis Lutheran Church at stfrancis@sflcsf.org.
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Western States Youth Gathering
June 28 - July 2, 2017
California Lutheran University is again hosting the Western States Youth Gathering.
Information about the event itself can be found at: www.WSYG.com and you can follow and add to our hashtag: #wsyg17.
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Registration is open for the SPSYC Elementary Retreat
 The Sierra Pacific Synod Youth Committee is excited to invite your children in grades 3-6 to the upcoming Elementary Retreat at Mt. Cross on October 14-16, 2016.
Our registration is open and ready. Registration for each person is $140.00 but that price rises to $175.00 on September 27th, so register early! Scholarships are also available. All registration and payment can be done online as a group or as an individual, or can be done by mail.
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I Was a Stranger and You Welcomed Me??
Hunger, the Refugee and The Immigrant
Saturday, October 15, 2016
Lutheran Church of the Incarnation, Davis, CA
9:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Presented by the Sierra Pacific Synod Hunger Network
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Changes coming to Portico Benefits in 2017
Plan members should have received an email directly from Portico recently outlining some changes for 2017. The email included this link for further information.
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HOLY COMMUNICATION:
SACRED LINKS IN A DIGITAL AGE
OCTOBER 17-20TH
If I speak in tongues of human beings and of angels but I don't have love, I'm a clanging gong or a clashing cymbal.
The more methods we have to communicate the less we seem to know. The cacophony of demands can both enable and disturb our proclamation of Christ's deep love for the whole creation.
The 2016 PNEUMA Conference is excited to welcome Bruce Reyes-Chow as our keynote speaker as we gather to explore the intersection of technology, Christian faith, diversity and modern families. PNEUMA offers ecumenical enrichment and retreat for all leaders, volunteer and professional, lay and ordained; come feel the spirit of lifelong Christian formation at PNEUMA 2016.
Sponsored by the Episcopal Diocese of California
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LEVN, the Lutheran Episcopal Volunteer  Network,
is looking for young adults (age 21-30) with Bachelor's degrees for an 11-month program of non-profit work and learning about social justice. From the end of August 2016 to the end of July 2017, our corps members will be provided housing, utilities, health insurance, transportation, spiritual direction, and a $400/month food stipend. There's also a $1000 re-entry grant at the end of the program for moving expenses.
The work placement sites for the upcoming program year include faith-based non-profits, secular non-profits, congregations, the Sierra Pacific Synod office, and our campus ministry at UC Davis. We meet each week for worship, dinner, and discussion. The corps members live in intentional community in a 4-bedroom apartment in Davis, CA. We're an ecumenical program, and applicants needn't be either Lutheran or Episcopal to apply-interest in Christian spirituality is the only expectation.
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Grace in the Public Square: Area Ministry Strategies
Members of congregations in the Sierra Pacific Synod interested in expanding ministry in their community are invited to attend a day of renewal with Pastor Stephen Bouman, Executive Director, Domestic Mission Unit of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Dr. Bouman will be sharing his insights , and engaging conversation about, "Grace in the Public Square: Area Ministry Strategies", Saturday, September 10, from 10-3 at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1650 Morse Ave at Arden Way, Sacramento. In addition to his work with the ELCA, he previously served as Bishop of the Metro New York Synod during the events on 9-11, 15 years ago. He has written several books including one on those experiences as well as his latest, "The Mission Table: Renewing Congregation and Community".
The event is sponsored by The Small Congregation Study Group , a consortium of 7 congregations in greater Sacramento seeking renewal in their community and congregation which has spent over a year in seeking new ways of being the church together.
Registration is necessary to attend. A $10 charge will include a box lunch.
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"God's Work. Our Hands."  September 11, 2016
Plan now to enter the contest!
It is time to start planning your congregation's projects for"God's Work. Our Hands." Day . There are two categories: video and narrative. The winning congregation in each category will have the honor of having a $100.00 gift made to ELCA Good Gifts in their name. 1.Your congregation submits either a written narrative or a video of its "God's Work. Our Hands." Project, along with an entry form, which will be available in late August, as well as instructions for submitting your video. Each congregation is limited to one submission, either a video or a narrative. Deadline: October 15, 2016. 2. The narratives and videos are posted on the Sierra Pacific Synod website, where you will vote for your favorite. Deadline: December 15, 2016. 3. We tally the votes and announce a winner, sometime in early 2017.
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