Sky Ranch and LDR already log 4,000+

hours of volunteer flood relief in Boulder County    

 

 "It was hard not to cry as I hugged each of them" 

Youth from Minnesota spent a week doing  flood relief in Longmont

Over the last two weeks 170 volunteers have put in over 4,000 hours of volunteer labor in the Boulder County area doing flood relief. First Lutheran Church and Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Longmont have graciously offered to house volunteers.

 

Groups these first two weeks have come from Grace, Winatche, WA, St. Paul, Lowry, MN, and Trinity, Long Lake, MN. The youth are here for summer mission trips. Sky Ranch is coordinating the efforts, along with Brea Hapken, the RMS Disaster Coordinator, provided through Lutheran Disaster Response. The groups have been helping individual homeowners, working with Habitat for Humanity, and in helping out the City of Longmont.

 

Pattie Dunlap of Longmont wrote:

 

"Promptly at 9 a.m., a full sized tour bus pulled up in front of my house and out stepped about 20 young men and women from a Lutheran Church in Minnesota with gloves and shovels and huge happy smiles. In the 6 hours they were here, they: rebuilt my 18ft x 18ft elevated rose garden, put two coats of Kilz on my concrete basement walls, cleaned my gutters, they put sheetrock on the walls of my stairs leading into the basement, completely weeded all my gardens front and back, moved 3 cubic yards of river rock from where the flood left it to spots in my yard where it would be more useful, cleaned the brick walkway and patio in my backyard from overgrown weeds and flood mud, cut back new growth on old tree stumps, trimmed that huge hedge in front of my house by the sidewalk that diverted the flood water from hitting my front door in the face, repaired all 5 bicycles, hauled brick, shoveled dirt, and then thanked ME for the opportunity to help.

 

"It was hard not to cry as I hugged each of them.

 

"You know, there is all this gang garbage in the world and kids who are frightened of life with no direction, and it is easy to say the future is doomed.... but I am here to tell you that there are real young people with real goals and huge hearts with solid backgrounds and hopeful futures who are our true future indeed, and I was blessed with having them come to my house to help me with the projects that would have taken me forever to get done. Lord, thank you a bazillion trillion times."

 

Read more in a Longmont Daily Times Call 

 PRAYERS

Sunday July 6

Third Sunday after Pentecost

 

Synod Prayer Cycle:  
North New Mexico Conference
You are encouraged to include the listed leaders in your Sundayprayers of the people. Many congregations print the listing in the Sunday bulletin and/or monthly newsletter.  
Remember in prayer this coming Sunday:

7/6

All Saints Albuquerque, NM
Philip Wangberg
Bethlehem Los Alamos, NM
Bruce Kuenzel, Nicol� Ferry
Camino de Vida Albuquerque, NM
Guillermo Yela, Carmen Miranda
Christ Santa Fe, NM

Neal Mather, interim  




Donna Rutten will be ordained 

July 13 in Colorado Springs

 

Donna Rutten was a candidate in the RMS and she will be ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament on Sunday, July 13 at 3 p.m. at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 950 Vindicator Dr, Colorado Springs.  Bishop Richard Hoyme from the Northwest Wisconsin Synod will be presiding. All ordained, consecrated and commissioned ministers are invited to process. The color of the day is red. Donna has been called to serve as Pastor at Peace Lutheran Church, Poplar, WI.

 


Ordination or Paul Rosin is
July 6 in Greeley

  

Paul Albert Rosin will be ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament in Christ's one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church on Sunday, July 6 at 3 p.m. at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1800 21st Ave, Greeley, Colorado. Bishop Jim Gonia will be presiding. Your prayers and presence are requested. All ordained, consecrated and commissioned ministers are invited to process. The color of the day is red. Paul has been called to serve as Pastor at All Saints Lutheran Church, 20101 Deer Creek Rd., Austin, CO.

  

  

Sharing the Joy of Marriage

 

We celebrate the marriage of Pastor Don Thurn, staff chaplain at Presbyterian Hospital, Albuquerque, NM, who was married to Sally Gray of Rye, Colorado, on Saturday, June 21. Pastor Thurn writes, "Please rejoice with us as we join our lives together and we cherish your prayers for God's guidance and blessing." Congratulations Don and Sally!

  

It's a girl!

 

Great news! Pastor Kirsten Sauey Hoffman and her husband, Tom, gave birth to a healthy 5 lb. 12 oz. baby girl this morning at 5:30 a.m.  Everyone is doing well. Kirsten is the pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Hobbs, NM.

 

 

 

  

EL PASO SUMMER PROGRAM

Cristo Rey still seeking sponsors for the Summer Program

 

Cristo Rey, El Paso, TX, is still seeking sponsors for their children's Summer Program, which is in full swing! They have 40+ kids participating in this enriching and fun program.

 

Your gift will allow a child of central El Paso to attend Cristo Rey�s Summer Program. When you become a sponsor, you are linked with one child who will benefit from your gift by being able to participate in the summer program. Since many neighborhood families are financially challenged, the cost of this program to families is nominal. These programs are sustained through grants, volunteer efforts, and donations from generous partners.

 

If you would like to donate or find out more information,

download the form.
RMS WORLD HUNGER NETWORK

Hunger Network request your participation in a survey

 

complete the questionnaire now

As pastors, other rostered leaders, and key lay leaders of your congregation, you are the teaching theologians and primary interpreters of the work of the larger church.  You are also called to speak in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, advocate for justice, and proclaim God's love for the world.  

 

ELCA World Hunger as a key component of the work of the larger church directly addresses the root causes of hunger and poverty, and helps communities create their own sustainable solutions. The Core Team of the Rocky Mountain Synod's Hunger Network is charged with helping congregations understand the realities of poverty and our Lutheran calling to address those realities and encouraging contributions to ELCA World Hunger.  Thank you for completing this questionnaire so we can serve you better!

 

 

MISSION INTERPRETATION MOMENT

ELCA missionaries support 
Sunday Schools in Bolivia

 

Kari Eller worked with a team to create a Spanish Sunday school book for students in many countries including Bolivia, where she served as an ELCA missionary along with her husband, the Rev. Justin Eller. The book is widely distributed both online and in print. Share this story with your congregation! For a colorful Word document you can print for your congregation's bulletin board or edit for use in your bulletin or PowerPoint presentation, visit the ELCA's Resource Page.

 

THEOLOGICAL CONFERENCE 2014


Fall Leadership Retreat 2014:

Our Life Together

 

September 22-25
Marriott Hotel
Colorado Springs, CO 
 
Leaders in the Rocky Mountain Synod are invited to gather together for a time of learning, rest, and renewal as we look at
"Our Life Together."   The event begins late afternoon on Monday, September 22 and concludes before noon on Thursday, September 25.

Registration

 The registration (including room, meals, breaks, program costs, and travel equalization) is:

 

Single $495

Double $375

Commuter $175-225 (depending on meal choices)

 

Link to Online Registration

 

 

Speaker:  James Alison

We are excited to be welcoming James Alison as our guest theologian at this year's Leadership Retreat /Theological Conference. James is a Catholic theologian, priest and author. He has studied, lived and worked in Mexico, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile and the United States as well as his native England. A systematic theologian by training, James' most recent work is Jesus the Forgiving Victim a program of induction into the Christian Faith for adults, based upon his study of Ren� Girard. (www.forgivingvictim.com)
 
 

 

Affinity Groups

We are contemplating an opportunity at the Leadership Retreat to meet with Affinity Groups for intentional conversation and dialog around topics/circumstances YOU are interested in. For example, would you want to meet with others who share a passion for small group ministry, or community gardening, or a certain spiritual practice? Email  Erin Power with your suggestions/ideas. 

  
JOURNEY OF RENEWAL

  

Journey of Renewal is opportunity for new focus in a life of ministry

 

Atonement Boulder stained glass Recognizing the significant amount of energy it takes to serve a life of ministry, we offer Journey of Renewal in partnership with Portico. This intensive, year-long wellness experience is designed to help the ELCA's rostered and other church leaders grow their ability to live well in Christ. Journey of Renewal leads participants to reflect, explore, and take action toward renewing their well-being and their ministry.

 

The Rocky Mountain Synod is taking part in a pilot Journey of Renewal opportunity for leaders.

 

Three-Part Experience

  1. Opening retreat (two-day, two-night event) Sept. 21-23,2014

  2. Ten months of hour-long, small-group coaching calls October 2014-August 2015

  3. Closing retreat (two-day, two-night event) Sept.20-22, 2015.

The opening and closing retreats are being planned in conjunction with the annual Rocky Mountain Synod Theological Conference. Those participating in Journey of Renewal will arrive one day early and then join in the theological conference.        

Participants must be committed and prepared to engage in all three parts of the year-long process.

 

Cost:  total cost is $1,500 ($1200 cost plus $300 retreat expenses) but scholarship funds are available to offset the cost. Complete the registration form and submit the amount you can contribute, ideally at least $500 or $1000, up to the full amount, which can be contributed over two calendar years.

 

The registration deadline is Aug. 23, 2014 

  
LUTHERAN MEN IN MISSION

Triennial Lutheran Men's Gathering is in Nashville, TN, July 18-20

For every man to become a bold,
daring follower of Jesus Christ 

 

Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous,
be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14

 

Join us for the Triennial Lutheran Men in Nashville, TN, at the Loews Vanderbilt University, 18-20 July. Register at www.lutheranmeninmission.org. (There are links to Gathering and Hotel registration on the home page.)

 

For more information, contact Jim Monkman, jim_monkman@yahoo.com, or 303-642-1026.

 

 

Call for Delegates to the Lutheran Men in Mission Assembly, 17-18 July 2014

 

Lutheran Men in Mission will have its Triennial Assembly in Nashville from Thursday, July 17 at 1 p.m., until Friday, July 18 at 3 p.m. at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel. Our national ministry conducts its business during this assembly every three years. To be a part of shaping our national ministry to men for the next three years, contact Jim Monkman at Jim_Monkman@yahoo.com or 303-642-1026.

 

  

TO THE POINT

   

Prevent accidental falls by hosting a prevention program

  

Most congregations have experienced older adults being injured or frightened from a fall, whether it was in the home, in the community, or even at church. Did you know that falls are not just a part of aging? Many falls can be prevented through balance-building exercise classes and programs to help guide seniors through making changes and decision that will reduce their risk of falls and allow them to keep their independence.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is expanding their fall prevention activities to many parts of the state. If your congregation is looking for opportunities to host fall prevention programs or promote them to your congregation, please contact Sallie Thoreson at 970-248-7161 or  

sallie.thoreson@state.co.us
 
 

2014 ELCA Synod Assembly Video Survey

 

The ELCA Office of the Presiding Bishop invites you to provide valuable feedback regarding the 2014 ELCA Synod Assembly video. Please distribute this link to assembly voting members to respond.

  

+  +  +  

 

Office of the Bishop Eucharist is Second Wednesday

We invite you to join us the second Wednesday of each month for a staff/community Eucharist Service at 11:30am at the Office of the Bishop. Email Erin Power if you are interested in leading worship!  Our next worship will be July 9. We welcome Pastor Stephanie Kopsch as our guest pastor that day.
                       
EMPLOYMENT/SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

 

read about recent JOB POSTS in the Rocky Mountain Synod:

more information 

 


Director of Administration/Emphasis in Accounting

Bethel Lutheran Church, Windsor, Colorado

Bethel, Windsor, CO, is seeking to add an accomplished individual to our growing staff as we invite others to "Know the Power of Christ."  We will hire the right individual who is collaborative, extraordinarily detail oriented and loves organizing both paid staff and volunteers to achieve our ministry goals. A successful candidate will regularly attend worship services in the area, possess broad and diverse skills in office management including but not limited to using accounting software, database management and the Microsoft Suite. A demonstrated track record of volunteer management, driving projects to conclusion, meeting deadlines, and imagination is required, a bachelor's degree or equivalent preferred. Salaried position with benefits. Reply to
pastorkevin@bethellutheranwindsor.com

 

Adult Choir Director    

Christ the Servant, Louisville, CO

 

This is a part time position requiring 4 - 5 hours/week, rehearsal and performance inclusive.  The Duties and Responsibilities are as follows:

 

*  The choir director selects all choral anthems to be sung by the choir. Music should be appropriate for use in the liturgical service and, if possible, follow the theme or the lessons appointed for the day.

*  The Choir rehearses weekly on Mondays from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm from September through May.

*  The director will be responsible for posting an audio practice file (on CD, Dropbox or other file sharing application) of the week's music selection to allow members to practice the selection during the week.

*  The choir director is responsible for purchasing music and music supplies for the choir program.

*  Provide information to the church office on choral selection for each week.

*  The choir director performs the duties of the position in a cordial and cooperative manner with the Pastor, the Congregation Members, the accompanist and the choir.

 

The start date for this position will be the first rehearsal this fall on September 1 Please contact us if you have an interest in this position.

 

THIS WEEK

  

Bishop Jim Gonia 

  • Ordination of Paul Rosin
  • Deans Webex

Pastor Ron Roschke

  • Rainbow Trail Adult Bible Study leader
  • Good Shepherd, Casper
  • Lutheran Campus Ministry CU Board, Boulder, CO

 Pastor Sarah Moening    

  •  Ordination of Paul Rosin

Pastor Stephanie Quick Espinoza

  • Mission Congregation meetings                      

Pastor Kent Mueller  

  • Lutheran Center meetings
Erin Power
  • Theological Conference and Journey of Renewal Planning
  • Ministry Review planning
Ruth Hoffman 
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry, NM   
  • Interfaith Hunger Coalition
  • Kids Count Conference
Peter Severson
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry, CO
  • Child Nutrition Webinar 
  • St. Paul, Denver
  • Urban Servant Corps
  • Peace Not Walls
 

 

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Follow us on Twitter 

ELCA GLOBAL LINKS

Global Links logo

 

Mexico: Immersion trip, July 20-26

 

 

Learn from Amextra's 30 years of experience with social ministry in Mexico. Through this five-day intercultural workshop, participants will learn how to create healthy, well managed, and transformative ministries in their local communities.  More information 

 
CONGREGATIONS
QUICK LINKS
CALENDAR
website calendar

 

2014 

 

 

SEPTEMBER 7

2014 God's Work Our Hands Sunday

 
 

SEPTEMBER 22-25

2014 Theological Conference

Marriott Hotel
Colorado Springs, Colorado


NOVEMBER 21-23

2014 Senior High Youth Gathering

YMCA of the Rockies
Estes Park, Colorado    
 
 
 
 2015 

JANUARY 16-18

2015 Middle School
Youth Gathering

Elegante Hotel & Conference Center
Colorado Springs, Colorado

 

 

MAY 1-3

2015 Synod Assembly

Sheraton Hotel
Salt Lake City, Utah
 
 

SEPTEMBER 21-24

2015 Theological Conference

YMCA of the Rockies
Estes Park, Colorado


NOVEMBER 20-22

2015 Senior High Youth Gathering

 
 
 
REGIONAL ROUNDUP: SELECT A STATE
UTAH
WYOMING
NEW MEXICO and EL PASO, TEXAS
COLORADO
  UTAH
submit Utah news or photos

 

 

Share the word about Lutheran Social Service of Utah

 

Lutheran Social Service of Utah encourages you to share the word of our confidential services to people in need at a particular moment!  Tell your neighbors, friends and folks in need about the amazing ministries at Lutheran Social Service of Utah: More Blue Sky Employment Center; International Adoption;  In-Home Senior Assistance; Refugee, Economic Immigrant & First Generation Ministries; and Utah LDR Disaster Response (site for Utah).  Our services, except for international adoption, are free (without fee).  

 

Open: Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. 

(Note: Closed Mondays in June/July/August).  

 

Toll-Free Number: 1-877-388-5778 or 801-588-0139. 

Email is best: LSSUtah@yahoo.com.

Texting is second best at: 801-721-2641. 

Address (Just Come By!): 4392 South 900 East  SLC, UT  84124. 

WYOMING
submit Wyoming news or photos 

 

Tuesday, June 24 and July 1

Wyoming Roundup: Celebrating Marvin 

Skogen's 40th Ordination Anniversary

 

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and the family of Marvin and Marilyn Skogen invite area communities and clergy to the celebration of the 40th anniversary of Marvin's ordination into the ministry on Sunday, July 6, 9:30 a.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Casper, Wyoming. We will also celebrate the 45th wedding anniversary of Marvin and Marilyn Skogen. The guest speaker at the 9:30 a.m. worship service will be Rev. Ron Roschke, an Assistant to the Bishop in the Rocky Mountain Synod Office of the Bishp. Marilyn's brother, Dr. David Ellison, an accomplished musician, will be the guest pianist. There will be a fellowship time at Good Shepherd Lutheran at 11:30 a.m.on July 6.

 

Rev. Skogen was an interim pastor at Good Shepherd in Casper, and has been the chaplain at Shepherd of the Valley Healthcare Community for more than three decades. There will be a reception and program at the Care Center at 1:00 p.m. The Care Center is adjacent to the church, located at 60 Magnolia Street on the west side of Casper in Paradise Valley. The church is located at 51 Primrose Street. For more information, contact the church office at 237-3503. For directions, go to mapquest.com and type -  51 Primrose Street, Casper, WY. 

 


Help the Wyoming Lanky Lutherans  
earn the most medals in the Sr. Olympics!

 

Registration is open for the Wyoming Sr. Olympics.  Any Lutheran who participates can help the Lanky Lutherans who have challenged the other denominations in Wyoming to see who can earn the most medals.  Go to wyseniorolympics.com to register.  Please contact Pastor Brenda Frelsi at pastorbrendaf@yahoo.com if you attend so that she can add your medals to our medal count.  She can also help you find housing.


NEW MEXICO and EL PASO, TEXAS 

 

Servant Stories on July 27

 

Join the Border Servant Corps on Sunday, July 27, at 12 P.M. immediately following El Paso Re-Commissioning  Service at New Hope Lutheran Church 4801 Sun Valley Dr, El Paso, TX 79924 as the 2013-2014 BSC volunteers reflect and share about their time of service on the U.S./Mexico border! Lunch is provided.

 

Save the Date!

 

LAM-NM 2014 Advocacy Conference

Saturday, November 8

St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Albuquerque  

 

 

COLORADO
  
 

Healthy Marriage Workshop August 2

 

Healthy Marriage Workshop at Bethel Lutheran, Aurora, CO. Saturday, August 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Childcare and lunch provided. Register at www.marry-well.org.  

 

 

 


Assistant to the Bishop
Rocky Mountain Synod
800-525-0462 / 303-777-6700 / fax 303-339-4744

Announcements for eConnection are due before noon on Monday for the issue the following day. Event announcements are included for about two weeks. Please submit your announcement at the time it should appear.