by Rev. Antoinette Robinson, Peace Lutheran Church, Memphis

Peace Lutheran Church, Memphis, formed Trinity Ministries in partnership with two other local churches to serve the Great Commission of God: To go out serve the Lord in the community, taking God’s love, through Jesus Christ, to bring hope, joy and love to people who have fallen into the pits of life and whom the world has discarded.

It was through Trinity Ministries, more than 10 years ago, that Peace Lutheran Church joined hands with Carpenter’s House, of Room in the Inn – Memphis, an ecumenical ministry that serves people experiencing homelessness. Room in the Inn partners with churches all over the city to provide hot meals, warm beds, showers, clean underwear, T-shirts and clothes, as needed. Through this partnership, Peace Lutheran Church provides overnight shelter for more than a dozen people one night per week from November through March.

Serving up encouragement

We met Keith one night. He was homeless and hopeless. He had given up on himself. He was invited — along with all the guests that night — to join us at Monday / Wednesday Lunches being served each week at Peace Lutheran. Keith said he was encouraged to come to the lunch because of how the people treated him during his overnight stay at Peace Lutheran.

Keith continued to sign up for “room in the inn” through Carpenter’s House, requesting to come back to Peace Lutheran Church every Friday during the winter season. Keith said, “I was encouraged not to give up on myself, to see that God has greater things for me to do with my life. God’s love for me was shared every time I came to eat lunch with the community.”

Keith got a job working at night, so he would come to lunch every Monday and Wednesday so we could fix him a take-out lunch for dinner that night at work. From there he was given housing through Carpenter’s House. He continued to come and volunteer to clean up and do whatever Peace Lutheran needed to be done. Keith started donating to the ministry by works, and funds, as available. Keith is in his twenties and looks forward to living a life with his wife and daughter.

Spreading God’s love, reviving hope in Memphis

Trinity Ministries continues to spread the love of God throughout the community. Just 10 years ago, people in the neighborhoods around Peace Lutheran Church didn’t know what being Lutheran means. Now Lutherans are known as Christians doing God’s will – reviving hope – in the community of Memphis. We serve with the support of all the Lutheran churches around the Memphis area as well as Methodist, Presbyterian and nondenominational churches; the Vollintine Evergreen Community Association neighborhood organization; Girl Scouts; and a host of individuals.

Future programs will be children’s church on Tuesday afternoons for the children to enjoy story time, crafts, and dinner, and to explore their God-given talents. Trinity Ministries is needed in the community to continue to lift Christ’s love and acceptance.

 

The Rev. Antoinette (“Tonie”) Robinson is pastor at Peace Lutheran Church, Memphis. She is also a leader of the Homeless and Justice Ministries Network of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. This network provides strategic leadership and resources to ministries across the country to walk with the marginalized — those who struggle with homelessness, poverty, mental illness, reentry and addiction — to share the good news of Jesus Christ with people wherever they are. Learn more about Peace Lutheran Church’s outreach ministries. Learn more about the Homeless and Justice Network of the ELCA.

 

edited by Kris A. Mainellis, Program Director for Communication and Events, Congregational Vitality

 

ADORE LA is seeking new and creative ways to do church in the city of Los Angeles. This LGBTQIA+ faith community outside of Hollywood is passionately living out their mission: “Gather as we are. Reclaim faith for everyone, anywhere.”

What started as an idea to reach out to queer and trans people of color for Joseph Castañeda Carrera turned into a mission to grow a vital faith community. Launched in 2017, ADORE LA is a Synod Authorized Worshiping Community (SAWC) developed in partnership with the Congregational Vitality team at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Southwest California Synod.

This partnership helped Castañeda Carrera make a dream reality. It is a dream held in common with many in LA — to grow an inclusive, God-centered community “driven and led by people of color and queer folks.”

As mission developer pastor for ADORE LA, Castañeda Carrera self-describes as, “a queer man of color, a husband, a son of both an immigrant and a fourth-generation parent of Mexican heritage, an artist and an outdoor enthusiast.” Castañeda Carrera is “a SoCal-rooted pastor who is passionate about sharing a loving and liberating God, reclaiming faith with queer people, undoing religious hurt and connecting with others on a journey struggle and faith.” This diverse perspective and passion are what motivate Castañeda Carrera to empower leaders who want to strengthen their walk with God.

Creative practice

ADORE LA places a strong emphasis on doing church outside church walls — experiencing God in unconventional ways. Castañeda Carrera explains: “We try to create our gatherings where people already are and bring liturgy there.” One way they do this is through ADORE Hike. On select weekends, a group gathers for a hike intentionally centered on personal reflection and community. On the hike up, they will spend time praying for things pressing on their hearts; at the top, they will share communion; and on the hike down, they will prepare to go into the world and love God well.

Other ministry initiatives are held in a public or shared space, such as ADORE Brunch or Worship Lab. As a result of this visible display of community, “People can walk up to us because they are so curious about our faith. We should bring our love for God outside of closed doors.” Encouraging this creative practice is what makes ADORE LA unique.

Creative space

Castañeda Carrera is focused on making space for an authentic liberating theology, with a goal to heal the hurt caused by the church. ADORE LA’s core values underscore this commitment, including love, truth, inclusivity, creativity and authenticity. “I may spend the rest of my life undoing the pain that the church has done in the past,” Castañeda Carrera explained. Yet, for the LGBTQIA+ community, “it is a matter of feeling brave in these church spaces that gives people the confidence to live out their faith in a profound way.” ADORE LA chooses to walk alongside people in this process and provide a community of love that is needed for any follower of Christ. Visit http://adorela.org/adorela to learn more.

 

by Blake Thomas, Congregational Vitality

edited by Kris A. Mainellis, Program Director for Communication and Events, Congregational Vitality

 

The faith community of Iglesia Luterana Santa Cruz communes with Christ in a strawberry field of Santa Maria, Calif. It’s but one expression of a ministry of hospitality and hope with working-poor immigrants.

Founded in 2002, this new-start community has grown and expanded its reach over the years to the larger community of working-poor immigrants who face many obstacles daily in simply living their lives. This includes coordinating the weekly lunch program with Latinx workers in the field.

The average week for the husband-and-wife team of Pastor Esteban and Angie Salazar includes leading worship with a growing community, buying fresh ingredients to make homemade tortas, managing volunteers to coordinate Santa Cruz’s food pantry and so much more.

Immigrant farmworker ministry

In 2017, Esteban and Angie felt a strong call to help their congregation’s immigrant farmworkers who labor in a nearby strawberry field. After communicating with the warden of the field, who thought Esteban and Angie were pulling a prank, they drove to the field and were greeted with a “really, you’re here?” surprised response from the warden. Now they make weekly visits, as supplies and resources are available.

On a typical Thursday morning they will shop for fresh-baked bread and other ingredients to prepare tortas. Depending on the day, they will make anywhere from 60 to 200 tortas to serve to the strawberry-field workers. Additionally, they will spend time reading scripture, singing and praying with the workers. Esteban’s belief is, “You have the ‘gospel’ and you have ‘feed my people’…you have to do both.” Creating the space to share a meal and worship right there in the field gives “loving your neighbor” a renewed outlook.

Building the church community

The immigration crisis in the United States has a direct impact on this church community. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement has come in and separated multiple families in the congregation; many cannot seek medical assistance because of the high cost; and single-parent homes fight the battle between work and family care. These tough conditions can make hope for a miracle seem absent. Angie has strong feelings about these tough circumstances: “We have a responsibility to do what Jesus would do and Jesus wouldn’t leave them there with nothing.”

The community at Iglesia Luterana Santa Cruz comes together in several activities to help congregants and the larger community. One ministry initiative at Christmas is the Angel Tree Project, a gift-giving program that provides presents for local children. In 2016, a total of 75 students received gifts through the Angel Tree. Last Christmas, the number rose to 400. Additionally, sister churches have begun providing food-pantry items, clothing and monetary help to specific individuals.

The congregation needs more help to care for its immigrant community, including a shed to be built for the influx of pantry items and additional medical support for families. However, Santa Cruz continues to live out a passion for Jesus and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

 

by Blake Thomas, Congregational Vitality Team

edited by Kris A. Mainellis, Program Director for Communication and Events, Congregational Vitality

Congregational Vitality Training Event — San Diego

Travel & Logistics for Training Event & Pre-Events: February 17-21, 2020

TRAINING EVENT LOCATION

Town and Country Hotel, San Diego | 500 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, CA 92108 | www.towncountry.com

TIMING OF EVENTS: Monday – Friday, February 17-21, 2020

• Homeless and Justice Network Gathering – Sunday & Monday | arrive Saturday PM or Sunday early AM
• Boundaries Training for Mission Developers – Monday (8:00 am – 5:00 pm) | arrive Sunday PM
• ELCA Level 1 Coach Launch Training – Monday & Tuesday (8:00 am – 5:00 pm) | arrive Sunday PM
• REDIL/Latinx Leaders Meeting – Monday | arrive Sunday PM
• United States – Mexico Border Experience – Tuesday (8:00 am – 4:30/5:30 pm) | arrive Monday PM
• CV Training Event Facilitators’ Check-In – Tuesday early evening, approx. 5:30 pm; details to come
• CV Training Event: Wednesday – Friday | arrive 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.

TRAVEL PLANNING & BUDGET CODE

• Fly in and out of San Diego International Airport (SAN).

• Make your flight arrangements ASAP, before using the online registration form. You will need to provide your arrival and departure times when you register.

• Travel Arrangements and Flight Budget Code for Mission Developers: Please shop around: In some cases, certain airlines can offer a better price. If you are invited to use ELCA budget codes to cover your flights, we encourage you to look for the most reasonably priced flights before contacting Direct Travel — you can provide specific flight requests to the agent. Our policy is to help cover flights up to $500 for approved mission developers and other travelers approved by the CV Team. Mission Developers and DEMs Accompanying Mission Developers: If you are a mission developer who has been invited by your synod’s director for evangelical mission and you need a flight, please contact our in-house travel agency, Direct Travel, right away at 773-380-2440 or Direct.Travel@elca.org, to make your own reservations. Please provide the travel code included in event communication e-mails. DEMs may also use this code if they are accompanying mission developers. Make flight reservations as early as possible. Those who make last-minute or late travel arrangements will be expected to cover the additional cost personally. See the point above regarding looking for the best flight prices.

• ALL OTHER PARTICIPANTS MUST ARRANGE TO COVER THEIR OWN TRAVEL (FLIGHT) COSTS. Please consult with the Congregational Vitality team if you are unsure.

• Dress for the weather – Average temperatures in San Diego in February reach a mild 65⁰F (18⁰C) for the high, and 54⁰F (11⁰C) for the low. Bring light layers. It can be very sunny (bring a hat and/or sunscreen) or rainy (bring rain protection).

• If you are participating in the US – Mexico Border Experience, please READ ALL THE DETAILS HERE. You must register separately for this event and book Monday night housing (if needed) through this Border Experience link.

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE

• WHEN TO ARRIVE: Note the timing of your events before you book your flights. See the timeline of events at the top of this page.

• WHEN TO DEPART the CV Training Event: Congregational Vitality Training will end at 2:30 pm on Friday (February 21). Hotel rooms are not offered on Friday evening. Plan to travel home Friday evening, after 4:30 pm. Please do not plan to depart earlier in the day, as you will miss important elements of this event.

• On Friday morning, check out from the hotel and bring all luggage with you to a designated room (we will let you know where) for luggage. Plan to travel directly to the airport after the event ends.

DIRECTIONS AND LOCAL TRANSPORTATION

• Town and Country San Diego is in the Hotel Circle in San Diego (500 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, CA 92108) (towncountry.com). It is conveniently located near San Diego International Airport (3225 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101), which is approximately a 15-minute drive. Visit the hotel website for directions and a link to a map application (https://www.towncountry.com/hotel/directions). Click on “Start Your Journey.” Here is a direct link to the map.

• Local Transportation is “on your own.” DEMs, please help your participants find transportation if needed.

• SUPER SHUTTLE DISCOUNT: For your convenience, you can use a Super Shuttle discount link to book your transportation between San Diego International Airport and the hotel, with a cost of approximately $14 each way (link coming soon, via event communication e-mails). You can adjust your reservations by reentering the link. Reservations are not required when traveling from airport to hotel. However, please allow at least four hours of lead time when making a reservation for the return trip from the hotel to the airport.

• An easy, inexpensive option is Uber or Lyft (approx. $17).

• Renting a car is not necessary, as all activities will take place on site at the Town and Country San Diego Hotel. In the evenings, after training, it’s easy to explore the city using public transportation (https://www.sandiego.org/plan/getting-around.aspx). Learn about train and trolley schedules (https://www.sdmts.com) as well as fares and passes (https://www.sdmts.com/fares-passes).

• The hotel offers shuttle service to the Riverwalk Golf Club, Fashion Valley Center, Old Town Mission Valley Center, and Hazard Center, daily, 10:00 am – 7:00 pm, based on availability. Shuttle pickup and drop-off is in the hotel lobby.

IMPORTANT HOTEL NOTES

• Hotel arrival and departure: Check-in time is 3:00 pm / Check-out time is 11:00 am. On Friday morning, check out from the hotel and bring all luggage with you to a designated room for luggage. Arrange to travel directly to the airport after the event ends.

• Rooms are double-occupancy: Participants will be assigned a roommate if one is not specified on the online registration form. A limited number of single rooms are available for an upgrade fee. Please do not bring nonparticipating spouses, or children, along with you. 

• Parking at Town and Country San Diego: Parking is available at the hotel for $10 per night plus tax.

FOOD

• Meals (breakfast, lunch and snacks) have been selected based on your arrival and departure times.
• Food sensitivities and allergies will be accounted for to the best of our abilities, based on what participants entered into the online registration form.
• A catered breakfast is included (no charge) at the hotel each morning (7:00-8:30 am).
• Lunch and coffee breaks/refreshments are included at no extra charge.
• Dinner is “on your own” (not included). Gather with your colleagues and head out to explore beautiful San Diego!

EVENING ACTIVITIES

• San Diego is beautiful and full of amazing adventures waiting to happen. If you are looking for things to do in the evening after training, check out information (https://www.sandiego.org/explore/things-to-do.aspx) from the San Diego Tourism Authority or do your own Internet search.

• Join the CV Team and other colleagues for a CV Social, Wednesday, 8:30-10:00 pm, on an outdoor patio at the Town and Country! We’ll provide appetizers, you purchase your own beverages!

 

QUESTIONS?

CONTENT/TRAINING QUESTIONS? Contact Anna-Kari Johnson, Rob James, or Ruben Duran.

REGISTRATION ISSUES? Contact Kholoud Khoury (or call 773-380-2830); or Philip Rivera (or call 773-380-2553).

HOUSING OR OTHER LOGISTICAL QUESTIONS? Contact Philip Rivera (or call 773-380-2553).

 

SEE YOU IN SAN DIEGO!

 

“For Christ is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall.” 

— Ephesians 2:14

 

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

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)

——————————

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).