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eConnection
weekly email of the
Rocky Mountain Synod
November 6, 2012 |
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Greetings!
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Hurricane Sandy:
ELCA Disaster Response
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That word of promise is Christ is with you always. With Paul we can say, "If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it." (1 Corinthians 12:26)
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Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson responds to Hurricane Sandy
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As members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we remain in prayer, responding generously and working tirelessly to rebuild lives, congregations and communities. We are not doing this work alone. Through ELCA Disaster Response, we are joining with our congregations, affiliates and other partners in our shared commitment to restore communities. As we have shown in past disasters, we stay until the work is done. That is the ELCA's commitment. Give a gift online now.
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Conference Mission Gatherings:
Congregations are gathering together to make connections, build community, and talk about ministry in each context.
Every congregation in the Rocky Mountain Synod is invited to bring rostered leaders plus 5-7 lay leaders of diverse ages and interests to your Conference Mission Gathering to begin the conversation
Below links are provided to a brief video invitation specific to the first five gatherings. At the conclusion of each video is a slide particular to that conference's gathering. You are encouraged to show the invitation video at worship and meetings. You may download the video to share if you don't have an Internet connection throughout.
"Deeply Rooted, Bearing Fruit"
Conference Mission Gatherings
Saturday, November 10
North New Mexico - register online
Holy Cross, Albuquerque. 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
video invitation to show at worship and meetings
Tuesday, November 13
Metro South
Holy Trinity, Littleton, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
video invitation to show at worship and meetings
Saturday, December 8
Southeast Colorado - register online
First, Colorado Springs, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 12
Wyoming
Casper
Saturday, February 9
Metro West (western)
Good Shepherd, Glenwood Springs, noon - 2:00 p.m.
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| OUR LIFE TOGETHER |
Election Day
Lord God, you call your people to live as Christ. Help us elect trustworthy leaders, participate in wise decisions for our common life, and serve our neighbors in local communities. Bless the leaders of our land, that we may be at peace among ourselves and a blessing to other nations of the earth; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Election Day Prayer Vigil
at Our Savior's in Denver, CO On election day from 5 a.m. when the polls open on the east coast until 8 p.m. when they close on the west coast, Our Savior's Lutheran Church at 9th and Emerson in Denver, CO, will host a prayer vigil for the nation. It is an interfaith vigil, open to people of all faiths traditions or of no particular faith. During this time, the sanctuary will be open for people to spend time in prayer and reflection for our nation and for its people. Please come, bring your prayers, your hopes, your fears, your anxiety, and add them to those of others in your community. Come for a minute or for an hour. There will be resources for prayer, meditation, and reflection available. Pastor Jonathan Hundt to be Installed on November 11 at Peace, El Paso The Rev. Jonathan Hundt has been called to serve as pastor of Peace Lutheran Church in El Paso, TX. He will be installed Sunday, November 11 at the 9 a.m. worship service. Pastor Ron Roschke, Rocky Mountain Synod Minister for Shared Ministries, will install. A celebration brunch will take place at 10:15 a.m. to welcome Pastor Hundt and his family. Renee Lier to be Ordained and Installed on November 17 and 18  Renee Lier and the congregation of First Lutheran Church, Longmont, CO, invite everyone to celebrate her Service of Ordination at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 17, 2012.
First Lutheran Church is located at 803 W. Third Avenue in Longmont, CO (80501). Bishop James Gonia will preside. The color of the day is red. All clergy, diaconal ministers, and associates in ministry are encouraged to vest and participate. Renee has been called to be Pastor of First Lutheran Church in Ault, Colorado. Please join Renee and the congregation for her Service of Installation at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 18, 2012. First Lutheran Church is located at 402 Graefe Avenue (80610). Rev. Sarah Moening, Synod Minister for Discipleship, will preside. The color of the day is green. All clergy, diaconal ministers, and associates in ministry are invited to vest and participate. There will be receptions following both services and everyone is welcome.
Synod Prayer Cycle: Advocacy,
Grief and Prison Ministries
You are encouraged to include the listed leaders in your Sunday prayers of the people. The prayer list for November is available. to remember in prayers on 11/11:
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry - Colorado
Brad Wood
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry -
New Mexico
Ruth Hoffman
New Beginnings Church
(Prison Ministry)
Emily Cardin
HeartLight Center / Horan & McConaty Mortuary (Grief Ministry)
Jennifer McBride (D.M.
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| CHILDREN, YOUTH and HOUSEHOLD MINISTRY |
Youth Network Monthly Meeting is Thursday November 8
The meeting takes place at the RMS Offices at 10 a.m. in the Large Conference Room. Those who desire to participate through WebEx video conference must contact Kent in advance at kmueller@rmselca.org so he can provide you with the link and login.
For those interested a book discussion will take place at 9 a.m. (and also available by WebEx). The book discussion will be led by Katie Klein.
 RMS Senior High Youth Gathering
Registration is now closed. If you have registration updates or questions, please email RC Reiman.
The 2012 RMS Senior High Youth Gathering is scheduled for November 16-18, 2012, at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park Colorado. This year's gathering is a place and time to "Connect-4 LIFE!" Check out all the details available on the website. The Senior High Youth Gathering is now on Facebook.
Check it out!
"Let's Eat!"
Middle School Youth Gathering, January 18-20 in Colorado Springs
The Theme is "Let's Eat," Ezekiel 3:2-3. Jonathan Rundman will lead our singing and music for worship. MSYG traditions will be honored as well as some added twists and surprises! The Gathering will once again be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Check out the promotional video made by the youth at Ascension Lutheran in Colorado Springs! Registration closes December 10, 2012.
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| URBAN SERVANT CORPS NEWS |
Pancake Breakfast for Urban Servant Corps is Dec. 2
Bethany Lutheran Church will host a pancake breakfast to support the Urban Servant Corps on Sunday, December 2, 2012 between liturgies. Bethany is located at 4500 East Hampden Avenue, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113.
Both of these events will support the Urban Servant Corps volunteer's retreat to visit our sister organization, Border Servant Corps.
Advent Prayer Breakfast is December 5  Begin Advent with Prayer at the USC Advent Prayer Breakfast on Wednesday, December 5 at 8:00 a.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, located at 915 East 9th Avenue, Denver, CO 80218. You will have the opportunity to learn the sung prayer service that was written for USC's 10 year Anniversary in honor of the 25th Anniversary that is being celebrated this year!
Ten Thousand Villages Community
Shopping Benefit is December 12  Wednesday, December 12 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. When you shop at Ten Thousand Villages (a fair trade retailer) on 12/12/12 a portion of your purchase will be donated to Urban Servant Corps! A great way to tackle your Christmas shopping and make a contribution! Check them out online or visit the store located at 2626 East 3rd Avenue, Denver, CO 80206.
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LUTHERAN ADVOCACY MINISTRY - NEW MEXICO
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LAM-NM Conference is Nov. 17:
"Advocacy: Making a Difference"
The 2012 Lutheran Advocacy Ministry - New Mexico conference will be Saturday, November 17 at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Albuquerque (9100 Menaul NE, between Moon and Eubank).
The conference will take place from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. and the cost is $15 per person, including lunch. Sen. Linda Lopez will be our lunch speaker this year. Session topics will include New Mexico Legislature 101, advocacy basics, hunger, and more. Plan now to attend and learn more about advocating for our many neighbors living in poverty. To register or request more information, contact Ruth Hoffman by email or 505-984-8005. Registration deadline is November 13.
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| GENEROSITY PROJECT |
Developing Generous Households workshop is November 29
An extension of the Rocky Mountain Synod's Generosity Project funded by a grant from the ELCA
 Thursday, November 29, 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. the foundations of the Generosity Project will be presented for congregational leaders at the RMS offices. The focus is a Cross+Generational approach to stewardship and developing the faith practice of Generosity in the Home. We will be joined by Debbie Streicher who shares her passion for family ministry in her role as Family Ministries Consultant with Faith Inkubators; Associate Consultant for Vibrant Faith Ministries, and President-elect for Lutheran Association of Christian Educators. She served as Chair of the Division for Congregational Life in the Washington Metro DC Synod for over 10 years and as Director of Family Ministry for 12 years in a congregation in VA. A fee of $10/person or $25/congregation includes all materials and lunch. To register, please call 303.777.6700 or email Cheryl Almquist. Generations of Generosity
& Generous Households: December 1 Saturday, December 1, your entire Household is invited to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Littleton, CO, to experience Generations of Generosity and Generous Households. From 9 a.m. to noon, join us for a fun, interactive time for all ages! Go home with your very own milk jug piggy-bank. Let us know you are coming: register with Cheryl Almquist by email or phone 303-777-6700.
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ROCKY MOUNTAIN SYNODICAL WOMEN'S OORGANIZATION BIENNIAL ELECTION NEWS
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 Convention Highlights
The 2012 RMSWO convention was September 28-30 in Albuquerque, NM. While being a small group (68 attendees), those who attended are deeply committed to the ministry of women. Special guests from Women of the ELCA ("churchwide") were Board Member Betty Brandt and Linda Post Bushkofsky, Executive Director. Pastor Barb Lemke, Bethel, Aurora, CO, led the Bible Study based on Mark 6:31b. There was an opportunity to view the film, Pray the Devil Back to Hell, an award-winning documentary about a group of brave and visionary women who demanded peace for Liberia. Breakout sessions included "Worship Planning" led by Aaron Howe (Director of the ReJOYce Music Team, Community of Joy, Rio Rancho, NM); "Secrets of How to Handle Awkward Situations" presented by Kitty Szarkowski; and, "Yoga" led by Gina Ojeda.  A designated offering of $880 was taken for the Lutheran Campus Ministry at the University of New Mexico. Pastor Ann Morawski gave a presentation of what is happening in Lutheran Ministry at UNM. Elections for RMSWO Board members resulted in an incomplete Board. Those elected were: - Carol A. McGill, President, First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Longmont, CO
- Betty Ann Arner, Vice President, St. Luke's Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM
- Ina Anders, Grace Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, CO;
- Maren Fjelde, St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Cheyenne, WY
- Tamara Talbot, St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Westminster, CO
- Lucretia Tippit, All Saints Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM
Triennial Delegates: - Lillian Edwards, All Saints Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM
- Kathy Vanderpool, St. Luke's Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM
- Carol A. McGill, by virtue of election as President
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RAINBOW TRAIL LUTHERAN CAMP
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RTLC: Working now to Complete the Land Exchange Process
The land exchange campaign enabling Rainbow Trail to own its property has reached the $450,000 level! Rainbow Trail now has a new goal to reach $700,000, which will cover the cost of both the land and the land exchange process.
To find out more and learn how you can help, go to:
http://www.rainbowtrail.org/about/land-exchange/
 Retreat, Renew, and Recharge at RTLC Whether you are looking for a space to study and reflect, a home base for a ski retreat, time to make plans for the future, or just need to kick back and relax, RTLC staff can help you plan a wonderful retreat. With many options for lodging, food, activities, programs, and assistance in planning, we can help put together the perfect retreat package for your congregation. There are great winter and spring dates available. Visit www.rainbowtrail.org/retreats for more information, or contact Ben Larson by email or phone (719-431-0050).
RTLC Part of Colorado Gives Day December 4, 2012 Support RTLC on Colorado Gives Day! On Tuesday, December 4, 2012, Coloradans will come together again to raise millions of dollars for nonprofits like ours. Last year, a remarkable $12.8 million was distributed to Colorado nonprofits. RTLC raised close to $24,000 in that 24 hour period. Their goal this year is to raise $40,000. All funds raised will go towards the Annual Fund. Since they are in the middle of their land purchase some have shifted their annual fund donation towards the Capital appeal. But, they still need contributions to the annual fund to sustain day-to-day operations. Mark your Calendars!
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JOB POSTINGS
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Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministries in Loveland, Colorado
The full-time position at Zion Lutheran Church in Loveland, Colorado, seeks a balance between (1) equipping, empowering, and training adults for youth and family ministry and (2) maintaining direct, positive, faith-filled relationships with children, youth, and families. The ministry description is posted at www.zionloveland.com.
Resumes can be sent to jobs@zionloveland.com; deadline is Friday, November 16.
Colorado Springs Organist Needed
First Lutheran Church of Colorado Springs, a large congregation with a strong traditional music program, is seeking an organist. Please visit the church website: www.flccsc.org for job description and application instructions.
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Every Person, Every Congregation, Every Ministry, Boldly Serving
God's Mission in Christ
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THIS WEEK
Bishop Jim Gonia
ELCA Churchwide Ministries, Chicago
Lutheran School of Theology, Chicago
First Call Theological Education, Denver
Missional Gathering, Albuquerque
HKBP Pastor Silatonga Farewell, Denver
Cristo Rey Confirmation, Denver
Risen Lord, Conifer, Stewardship Dinner
Missional Gathering, Holy Trinity,
Littleton
Linda Staats
Meeting in Santa Fe
Missional Gathering, Albuquerque
Utah Conference Meeting, Salt Lake City
2015 Assembly Planning, Salt Lake City
Missional Gathering, Holy Trinity,
Littleton
Pastor Ron Roschke
First Call Theological Education, Denver
Sky Ranch Board Meeting
Installation of Pastor Jonaathan Hundt
Peace, El Paso, Texas
Meeting with Shared Ministries
El Paso
Pastor Sarah Moening
University Northern Colorado, Greeley
Front Range Youth Workers, Denver
Missional Gathering, Albuquerque
Youth/Household Mtg, Albuquerque
Cross of Hope, Albuquerque
Pastor Rob Moss
Missional Gathering, Albuquerque
Holy Cross, Albuquerque
Brad Wood
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry CO
Region Two Global Mission Event, Pacifica
CIVJ Board Meeting. Denver
LAM-CO Policy Board, Denver
Ruth Hoffman
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry NM
Coalition to End Homelessness, Albuquerque
Health Care for All Committee, Albuquerque
Missional Gathering, Albuquerque
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CALENDAR |
NOVEMBER 16-18
RMS Senior High Youth Gathering
YMCA of the Rockies
Estes Park, CO
2013
JANUARY 18 -20
RMS Middle School Youth Gathering
MAY 2-4
2013 RMS Assembly
Loveland, Colorado
SEPTEMBER 23-26
Theological Conference
Estes Park, Colorado
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| GLOBAL LINKS | |
Zambia: Malaria cases cut in half The ELCA Malaria Campaign is making a difference by preventing, treating and controlling the disease in Africa. In Zambia, the incidence of the disease is half what it once was. Read more at www.ELCA.org/Zambia-malaria.
Central African Republic: The people's language
To live and work in Africa is to be immersed in many languages. ELCA missionary Susan Smith, already fluent in French, the language of the government, is learning Sango, the language of the people, to "better understand their worldview," she says. Read more at www.ELCA.org/CAR-language.
China: ELCA committed to Chinese church
In his first visit to China, the Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the ELCA, shared a message of hope, appreciation for and commitment to the ministries and relationships between ELCA members and Chinese Christians. Read more at www.ELCA.org/China-church.
Syria: Numbers tell a sad story
The number of refugees is expected to swell from 100,000 to 700,000 by the end of the year. Many are not prepared for the cold weather soon to come. Women and children comprise 75 percent of the current refugees. Many families have become separated. Read more at www.ELCA.org/Syria-refugees.
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NEW MEXICO and EL PASO, TEXAS
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| COLORADO | submit Colorado news or photos
 PeaceJam Foundation's fourth annual Hero Awards Luncheon is November 13 This event will feature 2011 Nobel Peace Prize winner and fellow Lutheran, Leymah Gbowee, who will speak about her amazing work that played a critical role in ending Liberia's brutal civil war. Gbowee's long relationship with ELCA dates back to 2004, and she was recently the keynote speaker for the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering. JOIN US NOVEMBER 13, 2012 DENVER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 10:30 VIP and Sponsor Receptions 12:00-1:30 (Doors open at 11:30) For tickets: Call 303-455-2099 or visit http://www.peacejam.org/luncheon.aspx
Centus Counseling: fundraising through Creator Mundi Nov 18-Dec 1
 Help raise funds for Centus (Denver's network of Samaritan Counseling Centers) while providing yourself and others with high quality, culturally authentic sacred art. 15% of your purchase will be returned to Centus between November 18 and December 1.
Cherry Creek North Store Location:
2910 E Third Ave., Denver, 80206
Remember to inform the clerk that your purchases benefit Centus!
HOURS
Sun:1p.m.-4p.m. Mon-Fri: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Online: www.creatormundi.com
When checking out online in Step 4, enter Centus80210 into the PO# box (do NOT enter it in the coupon box).
Seeking a counselor? learn about Centus at www.centus.org. Counselors are available at ten metro Denver congregational sites.
 Bright Stars of Bethlehem Presents:
A Weekend With Pastor Mitri Raheb of the Christmas Lutheran Church, Bethlehem, Palestine "Instruments of Peace" Bright Stars of Bethlehem - Colorado Chapter will be hosting a series of events featuring Dr. Raheb Mitri, during the first week of December. You are invited to come and learn about the ministries and vision of Lutherans in Palestine and help raise funds for the music programs at Dar Al-Kalima Lutheran College in Bethlehem. The events will take place in the Denver and Fort Collins area and newsletter announcements and bulletin inserts are available for November and December. Wednesday, December 5 - Advent worship with Pastor Mitri at Bethany Lutheran Church, Cherry Hills Village (80113) Thursday, December 6 - Pastors' lunch at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Fort Collins is an evening fundraising event - contact Jody by email (jodylockwood@comcast.net) or phone (970-214-8086). Friday, December 7 at 7:00 - 7:00 p.m. Concert at Trinity Lutheran Church (ELCA)
301 E. Stuart Street, Fort Collins (80525) Saturday, December 8 - 5:00 p.m. worship and concert at Redeemer Lutheran (LCMS) Fort Collins Sunday, December 9 at 8:00, 9:30, 11:00: worship with Pastor Mitri at Redeemer Lutheran 9:30 - Adult Education Forum with Bright Stars' Vice President Beth Chase December 1-2 and 8-9 - Bethlehem Bazaar at Redeemer Lutheran Church - sale of products and artwork from artisans in Bethlehem For more information, see the flyer or contact Jan Miller by email. janlmiller@q.com Fundraising during the weekend events will benefit Dar Al-Kalima Lutheran College in Bethlehem, providing instruments for the music program at the college.
 Four Winds American Indian Council
Art Show November 16 and 17
In its process of becoming more financially independent, the Four Winds American Indian Council will host an art show featuring art work by local and nationally known Indigenous and Native American artists. The hope is to raise a significant amount of money for upkeep of their current facility. The community is invited to come and enjoy a unique fine art exhibit and sales event which will take place on Friday, November 16 from 6:00 - 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, November 17 from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. This is not only an opportunity to support 4 Winds but also an opportunity to learn more about the organization and its programs.
On Friday and Saturday, take part in celebrating Native American heritage Month. This is a opportunity to purchase original paintings, drawings, and sculpture. Also, view and cast your vote for a "People's Choice Award" for traditional works including carvings, beadwork, quillwork, and traditional clothing. Enjoy Native American food and live entertainment throughout the event.
No RSVP is needed. Please take time to visit the art show as you are able and be amazed by some of the incredible art work. If you are unable to attend, please lend your prayers of support for this event and for the 4 Winds American Indian Council.
Four Winds is located at 201 West 5th Avenue in Denver (80204) at the corner of 5th and Bannock.
Lutheran Family Services: Rocky Mountains
Gives Day 2012 is December 4
24 Hours to Give
Where You Live!
Support Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains on Colorado Gives Day - Tuesday, December 4th! Last year, Coloradans came together to raise $12.8 million dollars!
- 100% of your donation will come to LFS.
- The value of your donation will be increased by the FirstBank Incentive Fund.
Donate online on December 4, 2012, or pre-schedule your donation today! www.GivingFirst.org/lfsrm
EventsTwelve, Twelve, Twelve Project
4500 East Hampden Avenue Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113 Bethany has created a blog that will be updated regularly.T his blog will be jam packed of ideas, resources, tools, hunger facts, stories, prayers and quotes to help inspire and motivate you to action! Check out this Twelve.12.Twelve promo video on the blob page.
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