Working Together: World AIDS Day    

The Rev. Bishop Mark S. Hanson, ELCA Presiding Bishop
The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, The Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop     

World AIDS Day, December 1, is an opportunity for each of us to reflect on God's call to lift up the dignity and value of each person. We are called to confront this pandemic -- whose scale has no precedent in human history -- through prayer, by speaking out to eliminate stigma and discrimination against those living with HIV and AIDS, by caring for those afflicted by the virus in our own communities, by advocating for strong government support of lifesaving programs, and by supporting the global effort to alleviate the global systems of poverty within which HIV and AIDS is so endemic. Read More 

One month has passed since a massive fire destroyed the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Martensdale burning the century-old building the ground.  Next week the congregation will hold a fundraiser and begin discussing their options for rebuilding.  But in the meantime they're receiving support from some unexpected places.  Read More 

• 2012 Flexible Spending (FSA) Enrollment

• Year-End Gifts

December is a great time to make a year-end gift to benefit the ministries of the Southeastern Iowa Synod.   The Charitable IRA Rollover provides an opportunity to support the work of the church and may help to reduce your tax bill.   Until December 31, if you have reached the age of 70 ½,  up to $100,000 can be transferred from an IRA and qualify as a required minimum distribution.   Visit with your tax advisor for details.      

December Issue of The Lutheran     

Check out this month's The Lutheran magazine for the Southeastern Iowa Synod supplement.   Read Bishop Burk's "Gift of Time" article, get a preview of upcoming synod events, and learn about a new vision for youth and young adult participation in the synod through a new Youth Leadership Team.  

For more information about The Lutheran magazine, visit:
www.thelutheran.org 

To download a digital copy of the December synod supplement click here.