May 5, 2017
In her address to the 2017 Assembly, Bishop Claire Burkat broke open possibilities to embody racial reconciliation in the work of congregations and the synod at large. Drawing from themes introduced in her sermon, the bishop encouraged those gathered to be “more open to engage, to explore, to repent, to be humbled, to align ourselves...
May 5, 2017
In her sermon opening the 2017 Assembly, Bishop Claire Burkat expressed her confidence that members and congregations of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod are ready for conversation around racism and to do the work of racial reconciliation. Recalling the recent powerful reconciliation work with the Mennonites, inspired by the anticipated 500th Anniversary of the Reformation, the...
April 13, 2017
Dear Friends, As we approach Easter this year, the joy of the Resurrection and the light of the Risen Christ among us is a counterpoint to some disturbing darkness in our world. Some of us face serious illness, while others grieve. Some of us have family members at risk here in the U.S., and others around...
April 11, 2017
April 4, 2017
Our synod has launched a new website, BraveNewChurch.org, with inspiration and resources to help your congregation be church in our brave new world. The site includes a blog written by innovative thinkers from our synod and beyond, and a podcast with episodes exploring scripture, theology, and the practices of being church today. There is also...
April 4, 2017
The first quarter of the calendar year is over and in many congregations the Financial Secretary sends out a “quarterly report.” As you think about your congregation’s practices in this area of stewardship, consider some of the following: If you don’t send quarterly reports to your members, reconsider it. It is NOT a bill It...
March 30, 2017
March 22, 2017
Pastor Brad Burke, assistant to the bishop for youth, young adult and faith formation, shares about the Cross+Gen Ministry event with Rich Melheim and David Lose held in our Synod March 10-11″ What an amazing day at LTSP! About 200 wonderful lay and clergy leaders from across the region all learning from Rich Melheim, David...
March 22, 2017
Our Synod Stewardship Team invites you to a FREE workshop on electronic giving on Saturday, April 29. Richard Bauer of Vanco will show you what is possible when you extend your congregation’s giving opportunities beyond Sunday morning worship using electronic giving. “Increase Congregational Offerings” is April 29, 8:30 am to noon, at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church, 411...
March 22, 2017
More than 80 lay congregation council leaders participated in Bishop Claire Burkat’s annual Council Officers’ Gathering on March 18. ‘Here’s what I love about the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod: You!” the bishop told the council presidents, vice presidents, secretaries and treasurers gathered at LTSP’s Benbow Hall. “I love our leaders, and today I especially celebrate our lay leaders....
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