Congregational Vitality Training Event Week & Border Experience

San Diego, California, February 17-21, 2020

UPDATED DECEMBER 4, 2019

SAVE THESE DATES:

February 17: Travel Day & REDIL/Latinx Leaders Meeting

February 18: Worship at United States  ̶  Mexico Border

February 19-21: CV Training Event

 

Events and Timing

• Homeless and Justice Network Gathering – Sunday and Monday — Plan arrival for Saturday PM or Sunday early AM
• Boundaries Training for Mission Developers – Monday (8:00 am – 5:00 pm) — Plan arrival for Sunday PM
• ELCA Level 1 Coach Launch Training – Monday and Tuesday (8:00 am – 5:00 pm) (Contact Jill Beverlin, ELCA Coaching Coordinator, to learn more — also, keep scrolling in this article to find more info.) — Plan arrival for Sunday PM
• REDIL/Latinx Leaders Meeting – Monday
• United States – Mexico Border Experience – Tuesday (8:00 am – approx. 4:30/5:30 pm) — Plan arrival for Monday PM
• CV Training Event Facilitators Meeting – Tuesday evening (approx. 5:30 pm — stay tuned for details)
• CV Training Event: Wednesday – Friday — Plan arrival for Tuesday PM
  • Wednesday – Thursday timing: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Friday timing – 8:00 am – 2:30 pm — Friday evening flights home are strongly encouraged. Friday housing is not provided.

Keep reading to learn details about who should come to each track and applicable fees.

CV Training Event Tracks

The Congregational Vitality Team is offering all the tracks from the Baltimore training event, with one addition: Anchor Churches.

Please note that the Prison Congregations track will not meet in San Diego. The goal is to offer it at the Chicago CV Training Event (August 26-28, 2020).

Two groups are in the cohort-developing process, which means they will be focusing on curriculum building with a smaller group (not training). These two groups are Arab – Middle Eastern Churches and the Synod Vitality Focus Group.

If you are a new DEM or anyone with questions about any of these training tracks, please contact a member of the CV Team.

MISSION DEVELOPMENT 

Fees:

• No Registration Fee for NEW (2019-2020) mission developers (and other approved leaders) and accompanying DEMs. 
• Housing is included (double occupancy, up to three nights). You may pay a fee ($88 per person per night) to upgrade to a single room.
• Flights (up to $500) for approved mission developers and sponsoring DEMs are covered and may be booked through Direct Travel, ELCA (budget code will be provided in registration communications)
• Please read ALL the event information and Travel & Logistics information before booking flights.

Expectations:

• PART 1 TRAINING: For new developers (2019-2020) and their accompanying DEMs. To bring any previous leaders who have not been trained, please consult with Rev. Ruben Duran or Rev. Anna-Kari Johnson.
• PART 2 TRAINING: Returning developers and lay leaders who need part 2 training are welcome, but please consult with Rev. Ruben Duran or Rev. Anna-Kari Johnson before registering.
• FOR SEMINARIANS: Contact Rev. Rob James to plan student participation before registering.
• ALL OTHERS: Returning leaders (developers from previous years) and other ministry leaders are welcome, but please consult with Rev. Ruben Duran or Rev. Anna-Kari Johnson before registering.

If you are a new director for evangelical mission or anyone with questions about any of the training tracks, please contact a member of the Congregational Vitality Team.

USE THIS LINK for the following Mission Development (New Start) Tracks: No-Fee Registration — Fee for Single Room

New Start Tracks (for mission developers)

• African Descent Churches
  This course readies developers who will be serving in an African descent context for all aspects of development through a foundation that embraces the tenets and practices of the historic black church and the African descent community through a Lutheran lens. It includes best practices for many areas not limited to, but including: self-care, financial practices, mission planning, leadership development, marketing, technology, evangelism, stewardship and more.

• African National Churches
  This training track is designed for African national mission developers in the ELCA who desire to grow in theological, pastoral, liturgical, missiological, apologetic and practical leadership in their own contexts. It helps participants to understand an increasingly fast changing American cultural environment, the place and role of Lutheran churches in local communities and American society at large. It’s an opportunity to teach, learn, share common experiences and strengthen networks.

• American Indian – Alaska Native Churches

• Arab – Middle Eastern Churches (INVITATION ONLY, developing curriculum)

• Asian Churches
  This track provides insight and information for Asian developers and lay leaders as they are developing their ministries. Participants will learn from several developers in the field who will share their real experiences. Several issues that are unique to Asian community will be presented and discussed.

• Church Launch
  Basic principles and best practices, including nuts and bolts and practical tools in developing a new church.

• Churches Starting Churches
  This track is content-heavy and covers key aspects of church planting, including helpful concepts and models from the business and nonprofit world. Some of the modules we cover are especially helpful for those who are considering becoming a multisite church or planting a new church out of an existing church. DEMs can invite pastors (not just mission developers) from their synods to attend, in consultation with Rev. Ruben Duran.

• Multicultural Churches – description coming

• Postmodern Churches
  This track empowers mission developers and lay leaders to listen and respond to the spiritual needs and varied contexts of those outside of traditional church models. Developers and lay leaders will gain and share tools to design innovative ministries and unconventional worship experiences that are feasible, desirable, and sustainable while engaging in Jesus’ way of love, justice and transformation.

• Poverty Justice / Homeless Justice Ministries Network
  This track provides resources and support for developing new ministries of accompaniment with people experiencing poverty, hunger and exclusion. Together we will explore how loving our neighbors as ourselves, especially the marginalized, creates a space for the “Balm of Gilead” to heal our broken communities. We will look at ways to be in partnership with other ministries within the ELCA and across denominational lines, and how to find other community partners.

• Prison Congregations — The Prison Congregations track will NOT meet for the San Diego training event. The goal is to offer it at the Chicago CV Training Event, coming up August 26-28, 2020.

• Recovery Churches
  Building communities of worship that are in ministry with individuals, families and neighborhoods affected by and recovering from addictions.

• Reentry Churches
  Ministries that develop out of and around ministry with people reentering society after incarceration. How congregations can be a welcoming place and provide spiritual support and community connections to help people transition back into the community.

• REDIL / Latinx Churches — REDIL stands for: Red Ecumenica Para el Desarollo de Iglesias Latinas (translated: Ecumenical Network for the Development of Latinx Churches)

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EXISTING OR NEWLY FORMED CONGREGATIONS
(for church pastors / leaders)

Note to DEMs: If you are accompanying one or more mission developers, you may use the “Mission Development” (no-fee) link for yourself.

— Anchor Churches (contact Rob James for more details)

No fee for registration.  |  Participants will cover hotel expense via the registration link.  |  Participants must cover travel expenses.

USE THIS LINK: No-Fee Registration — Housing Fee

• If you are a lead pastor of a potential or active Anchor Church who has attended an Anchor Church Conference, this track is the next step! Join the ELCA Congregational Vitality Team and Anchor Church facilitators to more deeply explore how your vital congregation can partner with other congregation(s) through Accompaniment or Adoption to grow and enhance vitality for God’s reign. Follow-up activities will include one-on-one coaching and regular Zoom cohort participation for support and sharing tools and ideas.

• If you are interested but have not yet participated in an Anchor Church Conference, contact Rob James to learn more and explore this option.

 

— Newly Organized, Merged and Consolidated Churches (contact Anna-Kari Johnson for more details)

No fee for registration.  |  No fee for double-occupancy housing (up to three nights). You may pay a fee ($88 per person per night) to upgrade to a single room.  |  Participants must cover travel expenses.

USE THIS LINK: No-Fee Registration — Fee for Single Room

• For leaders of congregations in (or on the way toward) new seasons of shared ministry, including consolidations and mergers. This track will explore the realities of finances, language as a tool to shape change, the importance of visioning at each stage, the impact of naming core values for partnering work, and resources for attending to grief throughout the transitions.

• We welcome DEMs to bring one pastor and two lay leaders for this track. Contact Anna-Kari Johnson for more details.

 

— Vital Congregations (for church leaders focused on revitalization)

Registration Fee: $250  |  Participants will use a special link to reserve housing ($149 per night [plus required hotel fees and taxes] per room; please find a roommate as needed)  |  Participants must cover travel expenses.

FIRST, USE THIS LINK TO Reserve Your Hotel Stay

Please find a roommate as needed. You will be able to note whether you want final payment arrangements to be separate (per person) at hotel check-out, in the “Additional Requests” field of the room-reservation link.

You may also contact the Town and Country reservation department directly by calling 800-772-8527, Option 2, and reference the “Sub 2020 C. V. Training Event” room block. A reservation agent will then be able to assist.

SECOND, USE THIS LINK TO REGISTER: Regular Paid Registration

• This training track is for rostered leaders involved in leading a congregational process toward revitalization, renewal and/or transformation. Participants will receive training with a team of experienced practitioners who will share principles, best practices and tools. Topics to be discussed include: spiritual transformation, congregational history, discovering assets, re-rooting in the community, identifying guiding principles and purpose, changing congregational culture, stewardship, evangelical outreach, faith sharing, mission/action planning, and more.
• Participants will be invited to learn both from the trainers and from each other as they engage in small group discussions. This is not Part 2 of what was offered in Baltimore.
• Nancy Nyland, DEM for the Indiana – Kentucky Synod, will support this team. DEMs: If you have a leader currently engaged in, or about to begin a revitalization, renewal or transformation process, we encourage you to attend this training with your leader(s).

——————————

SYNOD VITALITY STRATEGIES

— Synod Vitality Strategy Basics for DEMs (for DEMs only)

Registration Fee: $250  |  Participants will use a special link to reserve housing ($149 per night [plus required hotel fees and taxes] per room; please find a roommate as needed)  |  Participants must cover travel expenses.

FIRST, USE THIS LINK TO Reserve Your Hotel Stay

Please find a roommate as needed. You will be able to note whether you want final payment arrangements to be separate (per person) at hotel check-out, in the “Additional Requests” field of the room-reservation link.

You may also contact the Town and Country reservation department directly by calling 800-772-8527, Option 2, and reference the “Sub 2020 C. V. Training Event” room block. A reservation agent will then be able to assist.

SECOND, USE THIS LINK TO REGISTER: Regular Paid Registration

Join Maristela Freiberg, DEM for the New Jersey Synod; Amsalu Geleta, DEM for the Delaware-Maryland Synod; Matthew Short, DEM for the Greater Milwaukee Synod; and Erika Uthe, DEM for the Southeastern Iowa Synod, for a time of collaborative learning and sharing specifically for new DEMs and other DEMs who are working toward developing a framework for building a synod vitality team and strategies. This track will also include 2.5 hours for developing a coaching system in your synod. This is not team training, but rather a collaborative time for DEMs only, who will begin to work on a plan over the 2.5 days of training.

 Synod Vitality Strategy Basics for DEMs will include the following components:

• Listening to each participating DEM as they tell and describe: their synod context, what they are noticing and wondering about synod vitality strategy planning, as well as naming the strengths, opportunities, hopes and challenges going forward.
• Answering questions and providing guidance on: What is a synod vitality strategy? Why have a synod vitality strategy? What are key components to developing and actualizing a synod vitality strategy? How to assemble a synod strategy planning team or table. What resources are available to the synod? What are some of the key learnings and practices resulting from other synod vitality strategies? How to prepare for bringing a synod vitality team for training at the August 2020 event in Chicago.
• One synod will present their Synod Vitality Strategy. We rely on a cadre of other DEMs, presenters and partners for this track.
• Takeaways will include: an action plan reflecting the DEM’s next steps, ongoing collegiality among the participants via Zoom conversations, and availability of ongoing coaching and mentoring.
• This is about a collaborative conversation to share and encourage as well as to learn and support each other in the journey. We aim to become a learning community in 2.5 days of training.

 

— Synod Vitality Focus Group (INVITATION ONLY — DEMs and synod teams)

Registration Fee: $250  |  Participants will use a special link to reserve housing ($149 per night [plus required hotel fees and taxes] per room; please find a roommate as needed)  |  Participants must cover travel expenses.

FIRST, USE THIS LINK TO Reserve Your Hotel Stay

Please find a roommate as needed. You will be able to note whether you want final payment arrangements to be separate (per person) at hotel check-out, in the “Additional Requests” field of the room-reservation link.

You may also contact the Town and Country reservation department directly by calling 800-772-8527, Option 2, and reference the “Sub 2020 C. V. Training Event” room block. A reservation agent will then be able to assist.

SECOND, USE THIS LINK TO REGISTER: Regular Paid Registration

DESCRIPTION: This track is for synod teams who desire to develop relationships and capacity within their synod to foster a culture of congregational vitality. Outcomes will include enhanced ability to offer synod-based training for congregations and their leaders to become more vital in their ministry. Participants must come as a team with a director for evangelical mission and minimum of two additional synod vitality team members (teams can be and are encouraged to be larger than this). Participation in this track also requires the presence of an established coaching network within the synod or the intention of fostering one as a commitment to being in this track. This track will be led by Pastor Dave Daubert; DEM Richard Jorgensen, Lower Susquehanna Synod; and Melanie Wallschlaeger, Southwest Washington Synod.

Attention will be given to:

• Building a strong synod vitality team
• The importance of coaching in renewing congregational vitality
• Building shared accountability for success
• Developing your own contextually sensitive delivery system
• Curriculum for revitalization within the church

A pre-event Zoom session will be held to help leaders prepare and know what to expect from the event. In addition, participants will receive two follow up times: a shared Zoom coaching session and an individual coaching call after the event as a part of this module.

 

Pre-Event Activities

BOUNDARIES TRAINING FOR MISSION DEVELOPERS

February 17 | Monday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Registration Fee: $95  |  Housing Fees: double occupancy: $88/person per night; single occupancy: $176/person per night [includes required hotel fees and taxes] |  Participants must cover travel expenses.

USE THIS LINK: Boundaries Training

Note to DEMs: Please share this link with your mission developers who need to take Boundaries Training. Note that the Boundaries Training link will NOT be included in other links. Participants must use the Boundaries Training link. You will need to send it to them.

ABOUT BOUNDARIES TRAINING:

• Boundaries Training is required every 24 months for all mission developers who have not completed this
  8-hour training in their home synods.
• Contact Terri Novak, administrative coordinator, Congregational Vitality (or call 773-380-5072) to send in previously earned Boundaries Training certifications.
• Plan to arrive by 7:45 am Monday, February 17, to attend Boundaries Training. Class begins promptly at 8:00 am.

 

ELCA LEVEL 1 COACH LAUNCH TRAINING

February 17-18 | Monday & Tuesday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

• DESCRIPTION: Coaching is a skill of using deep listening and powerful questions as you journey with others to empower them to live more fully into their vocations in life. Coaching is a posture that helps you move forward (even through the most difficult things), builds on learning from relationship and is a powerful catalyst for congregational vitality. This course will introduce you to coaching basics and provides an opportunity to practice these skills. Upon completion, you will have a framework to begin using these tools in formal and informal coaching relationships and you will be a Level 1 Coach in the ELCA.

• Contact Jill Beverlin, ELCA Coaching Coordinator, for criteria and availability (or call: 773-380-2692).

 

UNITED STATES – MEXICO BORDER EXPERIENCE: FRONTIERS FOR MISSION

February 18 | Monday, 8:00 am – approx. 4:30/5:30 pm

Visit this page to learn more.

 

Questions and Contacts

• ONCE REGISTRATION OPENS: For registration questions or problems, contact Kholoud Khoury (773-380-2830), or Philip Rivera (773-380-2553).

• For overall event logistical questions, contact Kris Mainellis (773-380-2749).

• For content/training questions, contact Anna-Kari Johnson (773-990-0814); Rob James (773-380-2999); or Ruben Duran (630-440-8591), or the contact person listed.

 

Stay tuned for more details and updates!

 

by Kris A. Mainellis, program director for communication and events

Directors for Evangelical Mission:

Invite your mission and ministry partners:

United States – Mexico Border Experience

February 18, 2020

Travel Day: February 17

Registration is now open!

The Congregational Vitality Team is reaching out to Directors for Evangelical Mission and their mission partners with a special opportunity to worship together near the beach at the United States – Mexico border.

The Spanish word for “border” is frontera. As we think about the borders in our lives — country, state, neighborhood, even our churches — why not think about these “borders” as FRONTIERS to explore? How can we grow and learn together, as Christ’s people in mission? How can we explore the frontiers of our faith and reach out to all people in love and service, united in the Good News of Jesus Christ?

This experience will take place the day before the Congregational Vitality Training Event in San Diego in February 2020.

 

This one-day opportunity on February 18 is also open to people who will not be attending the CV Training Event.

 

USE THIS LINK TO REGISTER: Border Experience

REGISTRATION OPTIONS (per person)

$50 — Includes Registration and Bus Fees

$150 — Includes Registration, Bus, and Double-Occupancy Hotel Room for Monday night, February 17.

$250 – Includes Registration, Bus, and Single-Occupancy Hotel Room for Monday night, February 17.

 

IMPORTANT NOTES ON HOUSING: 

For Congregational Vitality Training Event participants who ALSO want to participate in the Border Experience, Monday night housing (if needed) MUST be reserved through the Border Experience link.

• Please use the Border Experience link above to reserve your Monday night housing.

• Register for Tuesday – Thursday housing using the CV Training Event link found on the Timing and Training Tracks page. Don’t worry, we will reconcile all the housing requests so that you will remain in the same room for the week’s events.

 

UPDATED (12/4/19) Rough Agenda:**

• 8:15 am: Load charter buses at Town and Country Hotel; depart by 8:30 am.
• Up to 200 participants will cross the border to the Mexico side to participate, and up to 100 people will participate on the US side.
• Join in a border worship experience in a park / open space near the beach (approximately 10:00-11:00 am).
• Lunch (arranged with our help, “on your own”)
• Travel by charter bus to an immigrant-hospitality center on the Mexico side of the border OR to one or two historic Latinx churches on the US side of the border. This activity will include time to process and share regarding this experience.
• Return to the hotel (via charter bus) approximately 4:30 – 5:30 pm.
• Testimony from this experience will be shared at the Congregational Vitality Training Event, which begins Wednesday, February 19.
• Participate in an optional dessert reception gathering Tuesday evening (beginning at approximately 7:30 pm). You will have an opportunity to hear about what other participants experienced (on each side of the border). This activity is for:
  • People who can stay longer in the evening before traveling home OR:
  • People who have been invited by their DEM to register (using a separate link) and stay overnight Tuesday night to participate in the CV Training Event, which begins Wednesday, February 19.
  • Housing is extremely limited at the Town and Country Hotel: People who are not involved in the CV Training Event who need a room on Tuesday night will need to book their own room at a nearby hotel (there are plenty!) if planning to stay over on Tuesday night. Thank you!

** Exact details may vary. We will keep you posted!

 

What You Should Bring:

• A valid (blue) US passport that will not expire for at least 6 months from February 18, 2020. Please see the very important legal notes below.
• Water
• Money (U.S. dollars are fine) to purchase food/lunch/snacks.
• Snacks, such as snack bars and fruit.
• Comfortable shoes (high-sided tennis shoes or boots), and please dress for the weather and for walking on sand and through watery/muddy paths.
• Sunscreen and/or a hat.
• Travel light, as you will be walking for 30+ minutes both to and from the worship site.

 

Important Participation Notes:

• All participants must be present at the Town and Country Hotel, San Diego, and ready to travel to the border at 8:00 am, Tuesday, February 18. This may mean you will need a hotel room on Monday, February 17.
• Participants must be able to walk for up to 30 minutes to and from the worship destination (sandy/wet area near beach).

 

Legal and Safety Considerations to Help You Plan

Preparation Requirements:

1. All participants MUST submit the following to our team and to a designated alternate person: emergency contact information including name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address in case of a participant’s ill health, detainment, death or other circumstances.
2. All participants who plan to enter Mexico MUST have a valid US (blue) passport that will not expire for at least 6 months after February 18, 2020.
3. All participants who plan to enter into Mexico MUST make a copy of their passport and give it to a family member or other designee.
4. All participants who plan to enter into Mexico MUST sign an ELCA waiver (available at registration).

 

Additional Important Notes: 

1. No participant is to allowed to drive a vehicle into Mexico. We have been advised that driving into Mexico without proper Mexican auto insurance is a very serious violation of Mexican law that is strictly enforced by Mexican authorities.
2. Please check the following US State Department sites for risk information concerning Mexico:

• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/mexico-travel-advisory.html
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Mexico.html

 

Questions? Contact Pastor Anna-Kari Johnson (se habla Español).

Erin Haligowski, Dayton, OH

Warm-up Question

What is something you could use a little more of? More faith? More money? More talent? More time? More friends? What would having more enable you to do that you can’t do now?

A Little More

Just a couple weeks ago, at 22 years of age, singer/pianist Kodi Lee was named the winner of season 14 of America’s Got Talent. Early in the season, Kodi earned a Golden Buzzer from judge Gabrielle Union to put him directly to the live shows in a performance that went viral online (watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDPdRYF7hTQ). 

Kodi Lee was born with optic nerve hypoplasia, which causes his blindness, and was diagnosed with autism at age 4. Early in life, he discovered a love of music that, according to his mom, gave him the ability to “withstand living in this world.” “Because when you’re autistic, it’s really hard to do what everyone else does. It actually saved his life, playing music.”

Discussion Questions

• What are the things Kodi has been given “more” of in order to get to where he is now? 
• How does Kodi’s story help to frame your understanding of needing “more”?

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4

2 Timothy 1:1-14

Luke 17:5-10

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year C at Lectionary Readings

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

In today’s gospel lesson, the disciples ask Jesus to increase their faith. Maybe with just a little more faith, they could really be good disciples, capable of all that makes up Jesus’ command to “follow me.” Maybe with just a little more faith, they could forgive others over and over and over again. Maybe with just a little more faith they could heal sickness and cast out demons like Jesus. 

And then Jesus turns back to them and says, “You’ve got everything you need.” He says, “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.” In Matthew’s gospel, he says “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” 

So, what does it mean to have “faith the size of a mustard seed”? A mustard seed is tiny—usually about 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter. That’s not very much. Surely the disciples must have that much if they have already left their homes and lives to follow Jesus. 

So, perhaps the question is not whether or not we have enough faith. Perhaps our concern should instead be about how our faith, even if it is so very tiny, is shaping our lives. Do we trust God to walk with us through the storms and trials in our lives? Are we allowing our faith to shape our actions on a daily basis? Whatever challenge we face, when we walk with God, our faith is enough to do the most impossible things. 

Discussion Questions

• What are the times in your life when you have wanted to ask God for a little more (or a lot more) faith?
• When is it difficult for you to follow Jesus’ example?
• How does your faith shape your actions on a day to day basis?

Activity Suggestions

• Take 5 Minutes: Invite students to spread out (outside is a great option for this) and take five minutes for some one-on-one time with God. Have them use this time to listen, to pray, and to reflect on how the faith they have is more than enough. Come back together and talk about what that experience was like—Uncomfortable? Relaxing? Refreshing? Easy? Difficult? 
• Invite some guests to come and talk about their life and faith with your class—some older members of the congregation, or parents, or young adults. What do they think is the most important thing for people to learn about Jesus and the church? How does their faith shape their daily lives? 

Closing Prayer

Loving God, thank you for the gift of faith, even when that faith is tiny. Help us to walk with you in our daily lives and to serve others in your world. Surround us with a loving community so that we can always know that we are more than enough in your eyes. Amen.

By Tessa Comnick, ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellow

I was the youngest person by maybe 30 years sitting in a dilapidated American Legion hall at 5 a.m. preparing to start a 15-hour shift at my local polling station. The gentleman next to me warned that we’d probably have some intermittent slow periods. “We’re expecting we’ll get more people than last year, though,” he told me with some pride.

“More people” turned out to be over double the voters on Nov. 6, 2018 than in the previous year. In Lorain County, Ohio, 26.80%* of those eligible voted in November 2017—in November 2018, we hit 54.15%.** This is a trend I am hopeful we will continue to see.

The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP), part of the ELCA Advocacy network, has been active in encouraging congregations through its Get Out the Vote (GOTV) Faithful Citizen Civic Engagement Program. Regional trainings teach effective nonpartisan civic engagement in order to prepare members and places of worship to raise their voices and promote 100% voting participation in their communities. And I have reason to hope for a continued rising voting trend— twice as many people turned out for VICPP’s first GOTV event than registered.

I am a firm believer that everyone eligible should vote in this country, but why should faith communities be involved? For me, our faith equals love. In Mark 12:30-31, Jesus commands us to love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. “There is no commandment greater than these,” Jesus teaches. To love God means to love all, every one of us.

The people we vote for are people elected to represent us all: the rich, the poor, the famous, the stranger, the healthy, the sick, the believer, the non-believer—all of us. Our input can help promote in our government our values of love, care, and protection. No matter what beliefs (or lack thereof) individuals in this country follow, we all deserve to be protected, we all deserve to be happy, and we all deserve to be healthy, just as we would want for ourselves.

Don’t miss your state’s deadline – register to vote. Then, whether by mail or at your own local polling location, get out the vote!

---

*Lorain County Board of Elections, “2017 General Election Information,” loraincountyelections.com, accessed September 26, 2019, https://www.loraincountyelections.com/2017general

**Lorain County Board of Elections, “2018 General Election Information,” loraincountyelections.com, accessed September 26, 2019, https://www.loraincountyelections.com/2018-general-election

 

Synopsis from a sermon preached by the Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers at the historic “Lift Every Voice” African Descent Lutheran Association (ADLA) & Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries (ELM) Worship Service on Friday, August 2, 2019 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

 

Sermon Based on: Acts 10

 

I come before you with a pastor’s heart to address the hurt, pain, and suffering that I am aware is present in this room. As a human being who identifies as female, Black, and queer, I recognize that as African descent Lutherans, allies, and queer folks we make an unlikely assembly.

 

I’m sure it’s no secret that our communities have not always seen eye to eye on many different issues. The African descent community has often lamented that those in the queer community have not been more faithful allies in the struggle against racism and queer folks have lamented that Black folks have not been more faithful collaborators in the struggle against homophobia.

 

In the Acts reading from today, an unlikely assembly was also gathered together by God. It appears that God was up to some holy mischief. Isn’t it exciting when God brings together two communities previously at odds with one another?

 

As a cradle born African American Christian, one of the things I have appreciated most about the Black Church is the enduring quest for freedom, equality, and justice for Africans in the United States of America. We were kidnapped from Africa, enslaved in the U.S., suffered through Jim Crow segregation, and now daily reiterate in words and deeds that #BlackLivesMatter. As an out, and gay, person in America, I now recognize that the queer struggle for equality has also been fraught with discrimination, hardship, violence, and death.

 

Ironically, for both of our communities, one of the greatest challenges to our righteous struggle has been the Christian Church which has long had ideas about who is clean and unclean, saved and unsaved, worthy of salvation and worthy of damnation.

 

Simon Peter showed how this bias works, when he arrived at Cornelius’ house, stating boldly, “You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile.” Did you hear, Peter? He essentially said, “It’s in the Word.”

 

Now, I hope that all of us in this room know that we need to be extremely careful when we weaponize scripture to oppress any of God’s Kids. We know that it was these kinds of interpretation of scripture, without regard to contextualization, culture, or even a basic respect for The Law of Love, that has made all sorts of atrocities possible.

 

That is why we need our friends and allies in the Christian Church to join us in the mission and ministry of bringing Jesus’ good news to those who have not historically received such a gracious message. So today, I ask our friends and allies, “What is the good news that you can deliver to the unarmed sons and daughters of African Americans being killed by racist police officers in your neighborhoods? What is your good news message to children who still don’t have clean water in Flint? What is your good news message to gay kids thinking of commiting suicide, the queer professional fired from his job, or to the survivors of The Pulse nightclub in Florida? What is your good news message to African Americans, the Rainbow Nation, and to all of those who are hurting, oppressed, and marginalized in your own neighborhoods?”

 

Dear Ones, our unity is our strength. Thank God, that our mischief making God brought Jewish-Christ followers and Gentiles together in Caesarea. Thank God, She brought ADLA and ELM together in Milwaukee, and thank God that she will continue to call together unlikely assemblies in every time, and in every place, to affirm the full inclusion of all humanity at the Banquet Feast of our God.

 

That is why Peter could declare, “Truly, I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears God and does what is right is acceptable to God … Jesus commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

 

I don’t know about you, but I am so glad that Jesus lived, died, and rose again! I am so glad that the Holy Spirit is continually putting a new leaf in the table and pulling up an additional chair! I am so glad that God declares again and again, all are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place! Amen.

 

Note: You can view this sermon in its entirety at https://youtu.be/bbHCVgqgy5o

To learn more about Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries visit: www.elm.org

To learn more about the African Descent Lutheran Association visit: www.adlaelca.org

The Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers hails from Saint Louis, Missouri. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wesleyan University in Religion and African-American Studies. Her Masters of Divinity is from Harvard University with specialty in worship, preaching, education, and pastoral care and counseling. Her Doctorate of Ministry is in the field of Congregational Mission and Leadership from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Pastor Yolanda is a missional leader , with a heart for social justice issues, who has, for the last twenty-three years, been exercising her gifts through the vocations of pastor, evangelist, campus minister, hospice chaplain, and bereavement counselor. In addition, she is very proud of her ministry as a wife and mother. Pastor Yolanda enjoys reading, writing, camping, and anything pertaining to a warm climate with a salt water beach!

 

Seth Moland-Kovash, Palatine, IL

Warm-up Question

When was a time that you felt left out or out of place?

Sharing is Caring

Bullying happens all over the place and it is a common experience in schools. Sometimes a person is bullied and left out for a particular reason and sometimes there is no discernible reason. No matter what the reason, there is no excuse for bullying. But there is often a thing that attracts the attention of those would bully.

In one school near Memphis, Tennessee, a young man was bullied because he repeatedly wore the same clothes to school. Two other classmates saw this happening and decided they could do something about it. They chose to address the fact that he wore the same clothes and gifted him with shoes and clothing from their own closets. You can see a video of the gifts being given in the school hallway here.

Discussion Questions

• What are the situations that can cause someone to be left out or bullied at your school?
• What are some ways you can help someone who is being bullied?
• Do you think the generosity and the kindness of the act is lessened at all for being filmed and put on social media?

Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Amos 6:1a, 4-7

1 Timothy 6:6-19

Luke 16:19-31

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year C at Lectionary Readings

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

Jesus tells a parable about a rich man (who is not named) and a poor man (named Lazarus). Lazarus spends his days begging at the door of the rich man and getting no help. In death, their situations are reversed and the rich man wants some of what Lazarus has. This idea of a “great reversal” is central to what Jesus teaches – that in God’s kingdom the last will be first and the first will be last; the rich will be poor and the poor will be rich. 

Having been told he can’t have what Lazarus has, he at least wants to send a warning to his brothers who are still alive so they will learn from his mistakes and not end up in the same situation. He wants Lazarus to go back because his brothers will surely believe someone who has risen from the dead. He is told “if they don’t listen to Abraham, they won’t even listen if someone comes back from the dead.”

It is interesting that Jesus tells this anecdote. He tells it before his own death, but we know what is going to happen. We know that Jesus will die and will come back from the dead. And we wonder sometimes whether we listen even to him.

Discussion Questions

• Why do you think the rich man didn’t share with Lazarus while they were both alive?
• What would it take to make someone like the rich man start to share?
• What can you do to help those who have less in your own school or community?

Activity Suggestions

Closing Prayer

By guest blogger the Rev. Lamont Wells, President of the African Descent Lutheran Association

The sidewalk alongside 116th Street was filled with hungry consumers lined up to purchase that very popular chicken sandwich from Popeyes as I left my local gym. (I had tried the tasty sandwich the weekend before and realized it might really help me with my fitness goals.) I paused and watched the line grow longer and overheard various conversations and pontifications about community changes that were occurring in Harlem, especially due to gentrification.

While I listened, a young male said aloud, “I haven’t registered to vote yet!” Many of the things that concerned those in line were happening as a result of political decisions from elected officials. Then I heard my inclination to get involved. I thought to myself, “We could do something about that – today.”

I ran upstairs to my condo and grabbed a handful of voter registration applications leftover from a previous drive. The young man was in about the same place in front of the crowded restaurant when I got back, and I introduced myself as a concerned neighbor who wondered about some of the same things I had heard earlier. We exchanged names, and I asked Chris if he knew the voter registration deadline was approaching very soon. Using the application I gave him, he completed it and was ready to mail it that day.

Chris and I approached others. Within a two-hour period, about 11 people waiting in line for a sandwich were registered to vote, and many more received information about their polling places and eligibility.

These are some of the things I learned:

1. Observe and listen for opportunities to engage your local community. Seize those moments.
2. Know the deadlines for voter registration.* Set benchmarks and registration goals.
3. Obtain necessary supplies: pens, clipboard and applications.
4. Introduce yourself and be ready to tell why voting matters.
5. Review each application’s completion and mail in timely manner.
6. Be ready to educate voters on important issues or refer them to a local register-to-vote hotline.

I took advantage of a captive audience that I overheard cared about many community matters but were not participating in the voting process that could impact elected officials who support their best interests. (I also didn’t judge the desire for this chicken sandwich that made people endure such long lines.)

Voters and potential voters need to know how the political process works, why their vote is important, and what is at stake if they don’t vote. I have often been tempted to disengage from the political process, but as a person of faith who is dedicated to creating a just world for all, I know I/we must be involved. Our Christian faith is infused with hope and our Lutheran witness is built on a foundation of action. That’s why I am so glad to help those in my community get prepared to change the world around them.

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* Learn about local voter registration deadlines from www.vote.org/voter-registration-deadlines/.

 

Please join ELCA World Hunger in welcoming Domonique Griffin to the team!

Hello! My name is Domonique Griffin, and I am the newest member of the ELCA World Hunger Domestic Hunger Strategy Team. I am originally from Buffalo, New York, where I have spent the last few years honing my research and evaluation skills. Focusing my formal urban planning training in neighborhood planning and community development afforded me the opportunity to work in both the private and public sector, supporting projects that combine research, evaluation, and community engagement to promote community development.

As a project leader at The University at Buffalo’s Food Systems Planning and Healthy Communities Lab, I worked with team members to evaluate the Local Food Systems Grant that was administered by The United Way of Buffalo & Erie County. The goal of this grant was to strengthen the food system by promoting food equity and food sovereignty in the city of Buffalo. I have witnessed how research can influence policy, strengthen organizations, and inform development strategies that foster more stable communities. ELCA World Hunger’s commitment to systemic change through the lens of the gospel is what compelled me to join the Domestic Hunger Strategy Team. I am excited that I can continue the work of increasing equity within food systems as a Program Associate for the Domestic Hunger Strategy team. I will primarily be working with Daily Bread Matching grants and comprehensive impact reporting.

Amy Martinell, Sioux Falls, SD

Warm-up Question

Today’s parable is about a dishonest servant.  Share the first time you remember lying or being dishonest.  What happened?  Did you come clean or have you kept it a secret?

Can’t Do It Alone

Last night tornados and severe straight-line winds struck Sioux Falls, SD, where I live.  Most people here spent the midnight hours monitoring the storm and taking shelter in their basements. Today the community is flooded with images of the devastation the storms brought.   Buildings are destroyed, trees are uprooted, and power lines are down.  Hospitals had to transfer patients and schools started late this morning, to allow for the streets to be cleaned.  Fortunately, no deaths are serious injuries have been reported.  While there is a lot of damage, we are grateful everyone is safe.

Storms are terrifying things and none of us want to experience them, but I am moved by what we are experiencing after the storm as our community comes together.  Friends and family have been calling and texting to check in with one another.  Local restaurants are providing free meals for city officials and first responders.  Our city helpline is already organizing volunteers and encouraging those who need help with clean up to call for assistance.  As I ran errands this morning, people in the stores took the time to check in with each other, and strangers provided listening ears for one another.  In the midst of the fear and destruction, we see so many caring individuals looking out for each other.

Discussion Questions

• What is your favorite activity to do with your family?  With your friends?  
• What groups provide support and community for you?  
• Who has been a support for you doing a hard or scary time?

Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Amos 8:4-7

1 Timothy 2:1-7

Luke 16:1-13

(Text links are to Oremus Bible Browser. Oremus Bible Browser is not affiliated with or supported by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. You can find the calendar of readings for Year C at Lectionary Readings

For lectionary humor and insight, check the weekly comic Agnus Day.

Gospel Reflection

Can I be honest and say this is a really strange parable?  First we have the manager who is told he will lose his job.   The man cannot do hard labor and does not want to beg so he hatches a plan.  He will forgive the debts of others so that they may give him a place to stay when he loses his job.  So without any permission he lessens the amount owed by two of his master’s debtors.  Surprisingly the master praises him for his shrewd actions and he appears to keep his job.

It is a bit disconcerting that Jesus tells a parable praising dishonest actions, but I cannot help but notice at the heart of the parable is this man being awaken to his need for other people in his life.  We can assume by his panicked response to losing his position that he had no friends or family to take him in.  Suddenly when things go wrong, he realizes he needed other people to help him.  He realizes he needs a community.  

We cannot serve two masters.  When we are concerned only with our own needs, when we focus only on wealth or possessions or status, we cannot live a life of faith.  Our lives instead become limited and we are left alone in our times of need.  When Christ is our master, our world open up.  We are given a community of faithful believers that support us in whatever we are going through.

Discussion Questions

• Why do you think Jesus told his disciples this parable?  What might they learn from it?
• Is there ever a time when it is okay to act dishonestly?  Why or why not?
• What is the problem with trying to serve two masters?  What other things in your life can become your master?
• How do you view money?  Are you a saver, a spender, or a giver?  How does your faith influence your thoughts on money?

Activity Suggestions

Words of affirmation:    Have everyone write their name on a piece of paper.  Pass the papers around and have everyone write something they appreciate about each person on their paper.  Encourage youth to keep the words of affirmation.  Share together why you like coming to youth group and what you appreciate about this group.

Closing Prayer

Gracious God,  we give you thanks for the gift of community in our lives.  We thank you for those who support and care for us.  Help us to do our part to spread love and hope in our communities.  Amen

Issue 66 of Administration Matters

Workers’ compensation insurance
In almost every state, employers are required to buy workers’ compensation insurance, both to protect employers from lawsuits that result from workplace accidents and to provide medical care and compensation for lost income to employees hurt in workplace accidents. >More

Confidentiality and health-related information
The federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act deals with health care privacy concerns. Privacy rules restrict the use of medical records and health information maintained by hospitals and other health care providers but generally do not cover ELCA congregations. >More

The inherent risk of guest Wi-Fi access at your congregation
With the myriad of wireless devices in constant use, many churches provide Wi-Fi for the convenience of employees and guests. However, this complimentary benefit can come with a heavy price if security is taken for granted. You may want to forward this information to your IT support specialist before deciding to provide Wi-Fi access to your congregation. >More

Records retention schedule for congregations
It is important to know which records and information a congregation or synod should keep and which can be removed. Some records need to be maintained permanently, and others can be discarded periodically. >More

Valuable tips to protect your identity
Identity theft has become a common problem in the United States, with an estimated 9 million people affected annually, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Here are important tips to protect your identity. >More