A Message from Pr. Larry Strenge,
Director for Evangelical Mission

January is typically the time your congregation creates its missional plan (budget). It usually happens by passing that missional plan/budget at a January council meeting. Then, later, at your congregational annual meeting it officially passes. As that missional plan/budget is passed we first want to express our gratitude to YOU for your work.  This can be a "stressful and anxious" time.  We are praying for you!  We also want to recognize our "partnership" in the Gospel. We live God's Story TOGETHER. That partnership, one that is bigger than any one person--or congregation-- is recognized well in these words from Bishop Eaton, "We are Church Together!" 

We thank God for your partnership! You help people to see how we do ministry together. Thanks for being that partner in the Body of Christ, the Church, and this ELCA!  
 
So, first this email shares that appreciation. We thank God that "We are Church TOGETHER!"
 
Second, we also want to make an ask. You are the "link" between local ministry and our shared ministry. As such, our "ask" is that you Watch, Share, and Report using these resources:

Watch
Watch Bishop Jon's annual meeting video. It shares that gratitude and partnership in video format. Show it often! 
2016 Message for Annual Meetings
2016 Message for Annual Meetings

Share
Share these resources with your congregation. They highlight our partnership with the ELCA. Also see "Where your Mission Dollar goes." Both are informative!

Report
How to register your Mission Support Intent amount:
  1. Choose a contact person from your congregation to register the amount.
  2. Click here. Or the link can be found at  www.swmnelca.org, under the Quick Links.
  3. Register the proposed amount you believe will be approved at your upcoming annual meeting.
  4. Contact the synod office (507) 637-3904 if your proposed amount should change or just submit your amount again by using the link above. We will use the most recent amount submitted for our data. 
If you wish to fill out the Mission Support Intent PDF form click here to download. Please mail the form to: Attn: Caitlin Kodet, SW MN Synod, PO Box 499, Redwood Falls, MN 56283.
Our goal is to have 100% reporting by February 1, 2016.
Please visit our Annual Meeting Resources webpage for Annual Report Covers, Bp. Jon Anderson's Annual Report and many other helpful resources. 
STAY CONNECTED: