MinistryLink

SEPA Transitions: Information Session July 15 at 12 PM
2025-07-15 12:00 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Maryland
At assembly, the Transitional Ministry Development Team (TMDT) presented our new process for pastoral leadership transitions. You can watch the video of the speech HERE. We will work with congregations to craft an individualized transition plan. What from the congregation’s mission and history and expectations needs to be viewed through a framework of respect, release, or reimagine? What reflections and actions might best prepare the congregation to call their next pastor to help the church continue to live out God’s call? As part of that work, each congregation in transition will pick one of three paths to guide this leadership transition: choose transformation, choose partnership, or choose resurrection. To learn more about these paths or the Ponder Anew transition process, join us for an informational session.
Register Here

Affirmation Fellowship
2025-07-15 19:00 - 20:30 | Resurrection Lutheran Church, 620 Welsh Road, Horsham, PA, 19044, United States
In these volatile times, we need love, care and affirmation!
Welcome to AFFIRMATION FELLOWSHIP
A discussion group where all are welcomed and affirmed!
A safe space where you are free to be yourself!
Inclusive, welcoming and affirming
Come and join us!
A safe place where
LGBTQ+ people
and allies meet
together and share
concerns so
understanding and
care can grow
Where we discuss topics you want to discuss
– A safe place where LGBTQ+ people and allies meet
– Discussion group where all get to share concerns so understanding and care can grow
– You have input into the topics discussed
– Circular seating arrangement so all can share
– Group activities such as dinners together, hikes, trips to shows and sites of interest
PLACE: Resurrection Lutheran Church
620 Welsh Road, Horsham, PA
a Reconciling Works Congregation
215-646-2597 or 908-294-5931
Meeting monthly Tuesdays at 7PM at the church
NEXT MEETING:
July 15 at 7:00 PM
Come and join us!

Download a Flyer: Affirmation Flyer

Join the Inclusive Communities for a Summer Picnic
2025-08-10 15:00 - 17:00 | Reformation Lutheran Church, Media, 102 W. Rose Tree Road, Media, PA, 19063, United States
Join the Inclusive Communities Committee and Bishop Penman for a casual afternoon of fun and fellowship. Food and drink will be provided. All are invited – especially LGBTQ+ folks and allies

Getting Ready For Fall Generosity Event
2025-08-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Redeemer Lutheran Church, Jamison, Jamison, PA, United States
SEPA Generosity Team presents: Getting Ready for Fall. A 2-part workshop to assist congregations with Fall stewardship campaigns. Tuesday, August 19, 7:00 pm, Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2100 York Rd., Jamison.
Part 1: How to Equip a Stewardship Team
Part 2: A Plug & Play Fall Generosity Program
Come in-person or join online. Get some practical pointers to using an ELCA year-round stewardship resource, then hear an overview (with easy-to-use take-home templates) of a Fall program featuring your own ministry stories in an engaging generosity campaign.
To register: call 215-256-9941 or visit the Generosity and Stewardship page on Ministry Link.

Community of Love Open House
2025-09-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Community of Love Lutheran Church, 117 4th Street, Oxford, PA, 19363, United States
Community of Love will host an Open House
Items Available:

Synod Council
2025-09-18 18:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Maryland

ELCA Youth Gathering: Faith In Motion
2025-09-26 08:00 - 2025-09-28 17:00 | Cross Roads Camp and Retreat Center, 29 Plesant Grove Road, Port Murray, NJ, 07865, United States
These locations make travel simpler and more accessible while maintaining all the depth and connection you’d expect from the Gathering.
Throughout the weekend, youth will explore where God might be calling them and form lasting bonds with those around them. Adult leaders will have opportunities to connect with one another, share resources, and engage with the ELCA Youth Ministry and Gathering teams.

SEPA Synod Building Summit
2025-09-27 10:00 - 15:00 | Maryland
SEPA Synod Building Summit
Saturday, September 27
10:00 am- 3:00 pm
The Brossman Center, United Lutheran Seminary
7241 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia
The Building Summit brings together three leaders in development to discuss innovative strategies for transforming how buildings serve their communities. One of the key themes of the summit is the adaptive reuse of existing structures—rethinking how to make use of underutilized buildings.
The Building Summit is free, but you must register in advance as lunch will be provided. Space is limited to no more than three leaders per congregation. Register no later than September 20.
Our presenters
Robert V. Peters, B.Th., B.A., M.A., M.P.S. Founder of two award-winning nonprofits, PRAXIS HOUSING and HOUSING INNOVATIONS. Long time consultant on both economic and housing development projects.
Wes Willison He currently lives and works in Kensington, Philadelphia. Active on the board of New Kensington Community Development Corp and the Simple Way and works as a licensed Realtor.
Marcus Toconita Partner with Callahan and Ward, a Philadelphia-region housing and mixed-use developer. Winner of several housing awards.

In God's Image
2025-10-04 09:00 - 15:00 | Trinity Lutheran Church, Lansdale, 1000 W. Main St., Lansdale, PA, 19446, United States
Saturday, October 4, 2025, 9:00am-3:00pm

Joining us for our annual In God’s Image featuring FLAMY GRANT the concert begins at 1:00 PM!

Registration is now OPEN!https://community.ministrylink.org/2025ingodsimage

Trinity Lutheran Church

1000 W Main St, Lansdale, PA 19446

A Conversation About the Future of Youth Ministry
2025-10-12 14:00 - 17:00 | St. John’s Lutheran Church, Blue Bell, 1802 W. Skippack Pike, Blue Bell, PA, 19422, United States
You’re Invited
A Conversation About the Future of Youth Ministry
in SEPA Synod
Sunday October 12 @ 2:00 pm
St. John Lutheran, Blue Bell
1802 Skippack Pike, Blue Bell (Rt. 73)
All those interested in discussing and planning for ministry needs for youth and young adults in the Synod are welcome to attend.

SEPA Synod Fall Learning Day “Who Is Our Neighbor?”
2025-10-18 08:30 - 12:30 | Maryland
SEPA Synod Fall Learning Day
“Who Is Our Neighbor?”
Saturday, October 18, 2025
8:30 am to 12:15 pm
St. John Lutheran Church, 3101 Tyson Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19149
This free, informative and interactive day of learning is for everyone in SEPA Synod. This learning day is sponsored by Love Revolution. If your congregation has been thinking about whether to join the Love Revolution, come experience this day of learning. Invite your friends and neighbors.

Register Here

Keynote Speaker

The Rev. Emily Harkins.
Emily Harkins was ordained as a Pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) in May of 2020 and serves as the Lead Pastor and Founding Developer of this new community of faith, The Dwelling, in Winston-Salem, NC.
She is passionate about faith, service, relationship-building, learning, and love. She thrives on kindness, travel, advocacy and justice, hard work, community organizing, creative and effective communication, organizational systems, fun stationary, and Diet Coke.
In a world that constantly tells people who are living on the margins that they don’t belong, The Dwelling is a church that tells them that the world has it all wrong.
The Dwelling proclaims boldly that there is holiness in the identity as someone experiencing homelessness, that they share a kinship with God who reminds us all that we are all wanderers in search of belonging. It reflects the radical counter-cultural nature of the cross – where shame is glory and identity in Christ replaces the damaging narrative that the world so easily affixes to people in the margins.
​Emily made a keynote presentation at the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, in which she emphasized the importance of seeing the fullness of each other in the way that God sees our full selves. “To be seen is to know that the full you—the shiny you, the messy you, the confused you, the strong you, the awkward you, the everything you—is so deeply and so wildly loved, and so deeply and wildly enough,” she said. “You were created from love, for love and to love. And to love you is to see you.”
Emily will also lead a one-hour workshop on “Serving all People in the Name of Jesus.”

Workshop Presenter

Ms. Julia Frank
Director of Community Outreach, Liberty Lutheran and Lutheran Congregational Services

As Director of Community Outreach, Julia collaborates with the Northeastern and Southeastern Pennsylvania Synods of the ELCA, Lutheran congregations, and other faith based and secular partners for not only programs like Lutheran Disaster Response, bereavement counseling and other church programming, offered by Lutheran Congregational Services, but also to help connect those partners with opportunities at Liberty’s other communities and services.
Julia will be leading an hour-long workshop on “Striving for Justice and Peace” which will include practical, hands-on opportunities for congregations to get involved in justice work.

Worship Leader

The Rev. Linda Manson
SEPA Synod Director for Evangelical Mission and Assistant to the Bishop for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Pastor Manson began serving in this capacity in March 2025 returning to her home synod. In this position Pastor Manson serves as a resource for all congregations seeking to be more connected to their communities through new and innovative ministry strategies. Also, Pastor Manson works directly with several of the synod teams and deans to coordinate the vitality, evangelism, congregational renewal and diversity initiatives of the Southeastern PA Synod.
Pastor Manson brings her passion for connecting church and community to her new role in the Southeastern PA Synod. She looks forward to finding and developing ways for this synod to be a source of hope and light for the communities we serve, as well as continuing to serve our larger church body

Schedule for the Day
8:30 am Registration with Coffee
9:00 am Worship
10:00 am Keynote: Who is Our Neighbor?
11:00 am Break
11:15 am Workshops
Workshop 1
Serving All People in the Name of Jesus
Workshop 2
Striving for Justice and Peace

Ordination. Sister Paula Estronell
2025-10-19 15:00 - 17:00 | Grace Lutheran Church, Broomall, 2191 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA, 19008, United States
Sister Paula Estornell will be ordained to the Ministry of Word and Service
October 19 + 3:00 pm
Grace Lutheran Church
2191 West Chester Pike, Broomall
All are welcome

What Really Matters Retreat at Bear Creek Camp
2025-11-08 - 2025-11-09 | Bear Creek Camp, 3601 Bear Creek Blvd, Wilkes Barre, 18702
Bear Creek Camp
Grades 6-9
Designed for middle school students grades 6-9, we’ll explore concepts that are core to our faith. Come spend 24 hours in the mountains with us and learn how Jesus changed everything. Registration opens Sep 1, spaces are limited. Check out the flyer for more details: What Really Matters Flyer 25. Contact Karolin Brechbill or Janet Hilsmier for more details.
REGISTER HERE

2025 Bishop's Convocation
2025-11-12 - 2025-11-13 | Maryland
Bishop’s Convocation Registration Open
2025 Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod Bishop’s Convocation
Love in Motion: Organizing for the Sake of the Gospel
Little children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth. -1 John 3:18
Wednesday, November 12th & Thursday, November 13th
at the Desmond Hotel Malvern, One Liberty Blvd, Malvern, PA 19355
Registration Deadline: October 12th
Agenda
Wednesday, November 12th

8:30-9:30 am – Registration & Continental Breakfast
9:30-10:30 am – Welcome and Opening Presentation
11:00 am-12:15 pm – Gathering Worship with Holy Communion
12:30 pm – Lunch
2:00 pm -5:00 pm – Presentations and Break-Out Sessions
5:00 pm – Break (Hotel check-in begins at 3:00 pm)
6:00 pm – Reception
7:00 pm -9:00 pm – Dinner & Bishop’s Address
9:00 pm – Compline in the Conservatory

Thursday, November 13th

7:30 am – Self-guided Morning Prayer Walk
8:00 am – 9:00am – Continental Breakfast
9:00 am -11:30 am – Presentations and Break-Out Sessions
12:00 pm – Lunch
1:30 pm -3:00 pm – Presentations and Break-Out Sessions
3:15 pm – 4:00 pm – Sending Worship

REGISTER HERE
MORE INFORMATION

Engaging Generosity: A Roadmap for Vitality
2025-11-24 08:00 - 17:00 | Trinity Lutheran Church, Lansdale, 1000 W. Main St., Lansdale, PA, 19446, United States
Saturday, January 24, 2026 8:30 am – 4:00 pm

Trinity Lutheran Church, Lansdale, PA

1000 W. Main St.
Lansdale, PA 19446

Join us for A Roadmap for Vitality event!
Hosted by the Northeastern and Southeastern PA Synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Made Possible by a grant from the Stewardship of Life Institute.
*We welcome and encourage all faith dialects to join the conversation. This is not a “Lutherans Only” event. We’ll learn from each other.*
Location: Hosted by Trinity Lutheran Church, Lansdale, PA. Trinity is ADA Accessible with plenty of parking. Click here for the congregation’s website.
Workshop Descriptions and Presenter Bios: click here. Have this information at hand when clicking workshops.
Online Payments: The registration platform accepts: electronic checks/ACH transfers as well as credit/debit payments. NOTE: If you are able, please use the electronic check/ACH transfer option (when prompted, it’s the 2nd choice); the transaction fees are much less than with a credit/debit card. Thank you!
No refunds will be given for cancellations.
Registration Deadline: Monday, January 5, 2026
REGISTER HERE
Special Thanks to our sponsors: SOLI; ULS – The Larry House Fund; Advent, West Chester; Calvary, West Chester; God’s Love, Newtown; Reformation, Media; St. Luke, Devon; St. Matthew, Springfield; and Trinity, Lansdale.
8:30 am – 9:00 am~~Registration
9:15 am -10:00 am Worship ~~ The Rev. Bryan J. Penman, Preacher
10:00 – 10:45 – Keynote Address – The Rev. Dr. Andrea Walker
Engaging Generosity-A Roadmap to Vitality: This keynote invites leaders to reimagine generosity as a spiritual practice rather than a fundraising tactic. Drawing on Generosity Stewardship and Abundance by Lovett Weems and Ann Michel and Giving to God by Mark Allan Powell the speaker will outline a roadmap that moves from awakening God’s abundance, to teaching and practicing stewardship, to cultivating a culture of giving that leads to vitality. At its heart, generosity is worship—an act of gratitude and discipleship that strengthens mission, builds trust, and nurtures joy. Participants will leave with practical steps for leading faithfully, teaching consistently and celebrating generosity as the pathway to thriving, mission-oriented congregations.
10:45 am – 11:00 am Q and A with keynote speaker
11:00 am – 11:15 am Break
11:15 am – 12:15 pm Workshop I
12:15 pm – 1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Workshop 2
2:00 pm – 2:20 pm Break
2:20 pm – 3:20 pm Workshop 3
3:30 pm – 3:45 pm Concluding Remarks and Evaluation

Faith Alive Worship Learning Day
2026-01-10 09:00 - 14:00 | Lutheran Church of God’s Love, 791 Newtown-Yardley Road, Newtown, PA, 18940, United States
NEW DATE!
Faith Alive Worship Learning Lab
January 10, 2026
Lutheran Church of God’s Love, Newtown
This all-Synod learning event will support your congregation’s ministry of welcoming children and youth and focus on how we use music to engage them.
REGISTER HERE
If you registered previously, your information will be carried over to the new date. If you need to cancel your registration, please contact the registrar, coutterbridge@sepa.org
Faith Alive is a Lilly Endowment funded process in SEPA Synod for creating a wider welcome for children (ages 0-12) to be fully themselves in worship.
You are invited to come along on this journey of faith and transformation.

Love Revolution Information Session
2026-01-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Maryland
Thinking About Joining Love Revolution? Have questions? Join the Information Session!
Love Revolution is gathering its second cohort and will host an informational session via Zoom on January 14 to provide an overview of the initiative, describe its benefits and answer any questions you may have.
Love Revolution is a Lilly Endowment funded initiative that strengthens a congregation’s bond to each other and their community through re-examining our baptismal promises.
REGISTER here for this information session.
INFORMATIONAL FLYER

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Day Service - ADLA and SEPA Synod
2026-01-18 15:00 - 17:00 | United Lutheran Seminary – Philadelphia Campus, 7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, 19119
Faith in Action: The Dream Network
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 NRSV
Speakers
The Rev. Jennifer Thompkins
MWUL President & CEO
Jennifer Thompkins serves as the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League (MWUL) fifth President and CEO, a role she has held since February 2022. In this role, Jennifer sits on the Wilmington Center for Equity Education and Policy (WCEEP) board, the Racial Equity Consortium, and the Redding Education Consortium.
As the President and CEO, Jennifer has expanded MWUL’s program reach and expanded youth, health and housing programming to meet the growing demand in Wilmington and across the state.
Prior to MWUL, Jennifer served as Director and then Senior Director of TriZen, a business consulting and leadership development company, since 2017.
Jennifer holds a BA in History and Africana Studies from Ursinus College (2009) and a Master of Theological Studies degree from Harvard University in 2011.
Her civic involvements have included the Norristown NAACP Youth Chapter, the Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA, and youth leadership roles at Theist Temple Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C.) and the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction C.O.G.I.C. Youth Department and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®. Jennifer has held board positions with City Year Philadelphia and currently sits on the Recognizing Opportunities for Service and Education Foundation Board. In 2020, Jennifer received the Ursinus College Rising Star Award and was recognized as a National Urban League Emerging Leader in 2021.
Jennifer’s work has been featured in Neighbors Magazine, on DETV, and the National Urban League publication.
In all of her accomplishments, Jennifer holds dear the African proverb—“Those who learn, teach!”
Dr. William Hayes Founder and CEO of Next Ed Design Group and the CEO of Boys’ Latin of Philadelphia Charter School
Dr. William Hayes is one of education’s most dynamic voices—an award-winning educator, design thinker, and systems leader who blends research, rhythm, and real talk. As the Founder and CEO of Next Ed Design Group and the CEO of Boys’ Latin of Philadelphia Charter School, he is a nationally recognized strategist and storyteller helping schools and systems reimagine what’s possible for students and educators alike.
A proud Morehouse Man, Harvard graduate, and Vanderbilt-trained education leader, Dr. Hayes’ journey—from teaching in Boston to leading in Cleveland, Camden, and ultimately Philadelphia’s only all-boys charter network—embodies his conviction that leadership is love in action. At Boys’ Latin, he infuses every decision with a passion for excellence, innovation, and opportunity.
A nationally sought-after speaker, Dr. Hayes has delivered keynotes and led professional learning experiences across the country. Known for blending humor, heart, and hard truths, his sessions have been described as “electric encounters filled with spark and substance”—moving audiences from inspiration to action. He possesses a rare ability to see what others overlook, to name what has not yet been possible, and to inspire audiences to stretch beyond what they once thought they could achieve.
Recognized by America Achieves, Kaleidoscope Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40, and the Pennsylvania Coalition of Public Charter Schools with its Rising Leader Legacy Award, Dr. Hayes is celebrated for bridging big ideas with human stories and for his ability to light up a room with wisdom and warmth. Whether coaching leaders or keynoting national conferences, he brings electric energy, practical insight, and undeniable purpose.
He is, quite simply, kid-tested and teacher-approved.

Musical Guest: Pastor James Scott and the JC Choir
Download a Flyer: ADLA and SEPA Synod – The Rev MLK FLYER
Schaeffer-Ashmead Chapel
7301 Germanton Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19119

The Rev. Dr. MLK Day of Service
2026-01-19 09:30 - 12:00 | United Lutheran Seminary – Philadelphia Campus, 7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, 19119
Honor Dr. King’s legacy through service and compassion.
This event is being held at the
Philadelphia Campus of United Lutheran Seminary
7301 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19119
Lutheran Congregational Services and Lutheran Disaster Response, in partnership with the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, will be collecting and assembling hygiene kits — a critical resource for individuals and families affected by disaster.
LEARN MORE AND REGISTER
DONATE: HYGIENE KIT LIST
INFORMATIONAL FLYER TO SHARE

Engaging Generosity: A Roadmap for Vitality
2026-01-24 08:30 - 15:30 | Trinity Lutheran Church, Lansdale, 1000 W. Main St., Lansdale, PA, 19446, United States
REGISTER HERE

Keynote Speaker: The Rev. Dr. Andrea Walker
Dr. Walker’s keynote invites leaders to reimagine generosity as a spiritual practice rather than a fundraising tactic. Drawing on Generosity Stewardship and Abundance by Lovett Weems and Ann Michel and Giving to God by Mark Allan Powell, she will outline a roadmap that moves from awakening God’s abundance, to teaching and practicing stewardship, to cultivating a culture of giving that leads to vitality. At its heart, generosity is worship—an act of gratitude and discipleship that strengthens mission, builds trust, and nurtures joy. Participants will leave with practical steps for leading faithfully, teaching consistently and celebrating generosity as the pathway to thriving, mission-oriented congregations.
Rev. Dr. Andrea L Walker currently serves as pastor of the historic 180-year-old congregation, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in DC. Previously, from November 2012 to January 2020 she served in the Global Mission unit of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) as the Area Director for Madagascar, West and Central Africa. Before taking on this position, she served as pastor of St. John’s in Summit, NJ for nine years. There, she worked with the congregation through engaging stewardship education to bridge the gap of a sizable deficient.

Workshops Offered

Giving As Worship — Reframing Generosity In Congregational Life
The Rev. Dr. Andrea Walker,
Workshop Time 2, 3

This workshop will help leaders and congregations reframe financial giving and stewardship as acts of worship, gratitude and discipleship rather than obligation or institutional maintenance. Participants will explore biblical foundations, reflect on their own practices, and design ways to integrate “giving as worship” into their ministry contexts.

Collaborative Ministry
Deacon Kat Tigerman
Workshop Time 2, 3

Join us for a conversation about 6261 Ministry Communities – a collaborative ministry model of the NEPA Synod that consists of 6 congregations served by 2 pastors, 6 licensed lay ministers, and 1 deacon, all bundled together for common life, ministry, and mission.
At its core, collaboration is a practice in being generous and receiving generosity, both of which increase our vitality and shared purpose within God’s work in the world.

Children Are Generous
Rev. Annemarie Hartner Cook
Workshop Time 1, 3
In the work of the Faith Alive Initiative, we are striving to help congregations fully welcome children into their worship each and every time they gather. This includes teaching generosity practices and modeling authentic ways of giving.

We will explore books, curriculum, and resources that can help encourage generosity in children. We will also discuss the various ways children can participate in worship that encourages their own stewardship.

The Landscape Of Religious Giving: Trends And Best Practices For Meaningful Engagement
Rev. Meredith McNabb
Workshop Time 1, 2

The landscape of giving looks different than it used to, and new approaches are needed in congregations to engage with donors now and in the future. In this workshop, we’ll explore the trends and look at how we can deepen the spiritual practices of giving and strengthen our congregations’ engagement with donors today.

Laying The Foundation: Leading Change To Navigate Church Property Transitions.
Rev. Peter Beeson
Workshop Time 1, 2
Practical steps and guidance on using your church owned real estate for ministry. From analyzing the current trends for why this work is necessary, to grieving what was and building for a better future, to sharing encouraging stories of what has worked elsewhere. Participants will leave with a practical hand-out on the Seven Steps for leading change, to equip them and their congregations to steward their real estate for social and community good.

A Conversation About Best Practices In Congregational Generosity
Rev. Dr. Phil Krey
Workshop Time 1, 3
In this workshop persons who attend will be invited, if willing, to share the best practices in their congregation for stewardship/generosity.
Small groups will be formed around a practice that inspires them to listen, respond, and sharpen the practice will share the key elements of the practice for the whole workshop.
Pastor Krey will share his library of the best books and resources in generosity /stewardship and at the end will share his best practices.

Narrative Budgets: Telling The Story Behind Each Line Item
Rev. Lexy Steinle
Workshop Time 1, 2

Some things are easier to fund than others. The local homeless shelter seems more in line for what Jesus calls us to give to than lights, floor wax, and water bills. And yet, even these “less attractive” line items help tell the story of the church’s mission in the world today. This workshop will introduce Narrative Budgets, show examples of multiple ways this tool can be used in a variety of contexts, and walk through what putting together one in your church could look like!

The Psychology And Theology Of Giving: A Dialogue Of Motivating Factors That Cause People To Contribute, Donate, And Give
Rev. Dr. Quintin L. Robertson
Workshop Time 1, 3
This workshop will help us to explore and examine the psychology and theology of giving. It will take place in the format of a conversational dialogue with small interval lectures to prompt discussion. We will explore factors that motivate people to give utilizing the disciplines of psychology and theology. We will examine scripture and studies by institutions who have done research on motivating factors.
(Please note the presenter is not a psychologist, but is an ordained minister)

Agenda for the Day

8:30 am: Registration
9:00 am: Welcome
9:15 am: Worship
10:00 am: Keynote
10:45 am: Q&A with Keynote
11:00 am: Break
11:15 am: Workshop 1

12:15 pm: Lunch
1:00 pm: Workshop 2
2:00 pm: Break
2:20 pm: Workshop 3
3:30 pm: Concluding Remarks and Evaluation

REGISTER HERE

Our Generous Sponsors
Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
Stewardship of Life Institute
United Lutheran Seminary
Advent Lutheran Church, West Chester
Calvary Lutheran Church, West Chester
Lutheran Church of God’s Love, Newtown
Reformation Lutheran Church, Media
St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, Devon
St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Springfield
Trinity Lutheran Church, Lansdale

Installation. Deacon Ali Clark
2026-01-31 14:00 - 17:00 | Trinity Lutheran Church, Fairview Village, 1190 Valley Forge Road, Fairview Village, PA, 19409, United States
You are invited to celebrate Deacon Ali Clark’s installation as Faith Engagement and Outreach Coordinator at KenCrest
Saturday, January 31 + 2:00 pm
Trinity Fairview Village
1190 Valley Forge Road, Norristown
Rev. Dr. Jenn Phelps preaching. The service will be accessible and engaging for all ages and abilities. The color of the day is green, and clergy and seminarians of all faith traditions are invited to vest and process. All are welcome to a dessert reception following the service.

Ordination. Jessica Zurcher
2026-02-14 11:00 - 14:00 | Luther Place, 1226 Vermont Ave, Washington, DC, 20005, United States
Luther Place
1226 Vermont Ave., Washington DC
February 14, 2026 + 11:00 am
Clergy and seminarians of all traditions are invited to vest and process. The color of the day is red. A reception will follow.
Livestream will be available at facebook.com/lutherplace/live.
Jessica has been called to serve Holy Trinity, Narberth

2026 Congregation Council Leaders Gathering
2026-02-21 08:00 - 12:00 | United Lutheran Seminary – Philadelphia Campus, 7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, 19119
Dear Congregational Council Leader,
Are you stepping into a leadership role in your congregation? Perhaps you’re serving on your Church Council and want a clearer sense of what that entails. Or maybe it’s your turn to guide your congregation as President, Vice President, Treasurer, or Secretary. Whatever your role, we have an exciting opportunity just for you!
You are warmly invited to join us for a gathering of Church Council Officers.
Whether you are new to the role or a seasoned professional, this event promises to be a morning of inspiration, connection, and equipping for the vital work you do in your congregation.
Saturday, February 21, 2026
United Lutheran Seminary
Brossman Center, Benbow Hall
7241 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia
Registration will begin at 8:00 am in Benbow Hall with a full breakfast provided. Program will begin at 9:00 am and end by Noon.
You will hear from our Vice President, Cheryl Lafferty and Bishop Bryan Penman. Pastor Karl Richard, our Synod’s Secretary and Mrs. Janet Neff, our Synod’s Treasurer will give presentations specific to the roles of secretaries and treasurers in breakout sessions.
Here’s what you can look forward to:

Inspiration and Guidance: Hear directly from Bishop Penman and key Synod leaders as they share the vision and mission of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, which is “to equip the saints for the work of ministry.”
Clarity and Support: Gain practical insights into how the Synod can empower and support you in your role as a congregational leader.
Exciting Opportunities: Learn about impactful Synod initiatives such as our Lilly Endowment Grants, Love Revolution, and Faith Alive programs.
Meet and Connect: Meet Synod staff members and network with other congregational leaders from across our Synod.

This is a unique chance to deepen your connection with the Synod, strengthen your leadership skills, and build relationships with fellow leaders. We encourage you to mark your calendar and make plans to join us for this enriching morning.

Register Here

Breakout sessions for Treasurers and Secretaries

Council Treasurers
Treasurers and financial leaders of congregations will enhance their understanding of budgeting, financial procedures, and accounting practices.
During this gathering, participants will have the opportunity to:

Engage in informative discussions about effective budgeting strategies.
Learn best practices for financial procedures tailored to the needs of congregations.
Gain insights into accounting methods that ensure transparency and accountability within your community.

Council Secretaries
Council secretaries will enhance their understanding of retention guidelines, the keeping of minutes and constitutional updates and amendments.
During this gathering, participants will have the opportunity to:

Hear more about amendments to model constitutions from the Churchwide Assembly.
Learn best practices for the retention of congregational records.
Gain insights from others who serve in this role about congregational record keeping.

Celebration of Ministry: The Rev. Dr. Karyn L. Wiseman
2026-02-22 14:00 - 17:00 | St. Mark Lutheran Church, Conshohocken, 508 Harry Street, Conshohocken, 19428
A ‘Celebration of Ministry’ is similar to what we might call an Installation, but for Full Communion partners of the ELCA. Per ELCA guidelines, we do not install clergy from our partner denominations. So, we rejoice with our new colleagues and welcome them in a Celebration of Ministry. We hope you will join us for each of these services as we receive these new colleagues in the SEPA Synod.
The Rev. Dr. Karyn L. Wiseman
St. Mark Lutheran
508 Harry St., Conshohocken
February 22, 2026 + 2:00 pm
A reception will follow

Preaching With Power
2026-03-15 - 2026-03-18 | Maryland
Preaching With Power
A preaching series sponsored by the Urban Theological Institute of United Lutheran Seminary.
Sunday, March 15, 2026
6:00 pm
Bishop J. Louis Felton
Schaefer-Ashmead Chapel
United Lutheran Seminary
7301 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia
Monday, March 16, 2026
7:00 pm
Rev. Dr. Derick Brennan
Grace Baptist Church of Germantown
25 W. Johnson St., Philadelphia
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
11:45 am
Dr. Marquisha Scott
United Lutheran Seminary, Benbow Hall
7301 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia
7:00 pm
ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry
Reformation Lutheran Church
1215 Vernon Rd., Philadelphia
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
11:45 am
Rev. Dr. Leslie Callahan
Schaefer-Ashmead Chapel
United Lutheran Seminary
7301 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia
7:00 pm
Rev. Dr. Janet J. Sturdivant
St. Paul Metropolitan AME Church
8398 Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia
Each of these events will be livestreamed on United Lutheran Seminary’s YouTube page.
Download a Flyer:

Tuscarora Lutheran Retreat
2026-03-20 - 2026-03-22 | Tuscarora Inn & Conference Center, 3300 River Rd., Mt. Bethel, PA, 18343, United States
Grades 6-12
Tuscarora Lutheran Youth Retreat (formerly know as Harvey Cedars) is a weekend retreat for 6th – 12th grade youth and their leaders. This retreat fosters relationships between youth of different churches to unify the Lutheran churches and youth of the South Eastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA. This retreat is also unique in the fact that it is run by the pastors and leaders of our youth groups so we depend on our adult leaders who attend with their youth to help make this retreat possible. We ask our adult leaders to be a part of small groups either through teaching, assistant teaching, or being an extra pair of hands in the classroom.
Download 2026 Flyer: Tuscarora Retreat Flyer 2026

2026 Chrism Service
2026-03-31 10:00 - 13:00 | St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Perkasie, 20 Dill Avenue, Perkasie, PA, 18944, United States
Location: St. Andrew’s Evangelical Lutheran Church,
20 Dill Ave, Perkasie, PA 18944
Time: 10:00 AM
Lunch will follow
Email: coutterbridge@sepa.org to register for lunch, please include any dietary restrictions.

Box City
2026-04-11 - 2026-04-12 | Christ Lutheran Church, Kulpsville, 2211 Mainland Road, Harleysville, 19438
Grades 6-12
The purpose of this event is to raise awareness about homelessness and raise funding to support sheltering efforts. During the event, youth will hear real-life stories about homelessness, discuss and learn about this social issue in fun ways, and experience what it’s like sleeping without proper shelter.

Pastors of Color Gathering
2026-04-11 10:00 - 12:00 | United Lutheran Seminary – Philadelphia Campus, 7301 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, 19119
YOU’RE INVITED
THE PASTORS OF COLOR GATHERING
April 11, 2026
10:00 am – Noon

We pray that you are well in spirit, mind, and body as we navigate the weather and these uncertain times.
Please join other SEPA Synod Pastors of Color for a check-in with Bishop Penman and the Co-DEMs Pastor Linda Manson and Pastor Moses Dennis.
Our time together is scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026, 10:00 am – Noon. We will gather in the Boardroom on the 3rd floor in the Brossman Center at the United Lutheran Seminary, 7241 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19119.

Breakfast will be served.
Please feel free to reach out to Pastor Linda Manson if you have questions or concerns. We look forward to seeing all of you for conversation and fellowship on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 10:00 am.

REGISTER FOR PASTORS OF COLOR GATHERING
