Dr. Tim Babinchak, an expert in infectious diseases, advises congregations to continue with the precautions of wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, cleaning, and increasing ventilation as they continue with indoor worship services and other activities.    A member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Phoenixville, ihe s retired head of infectious diseases at Thomas Jefferson University...

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The Rev. Karen Sease, Assistant to the Bishop for Vocations and Leadership/Mission Advancement, reminds us that “vocation” is a calling on our lives that extends beyond professional ministries in the church. [ See video and transcript below. ] 〝But if you’re still wondering about rostered ministry, still praying about whether God is calling you to be a...

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As the US leaves Afghanistan, may the commitment that we made to protect these vulnerable people be honored so that hope can come out of despair and light out of darkness. Lord, in your mercy—Hear our prayer. We need to #KeepOurPromise. Learn more about how you can help: https://www.lirs.org/help-our-afghan-allies/

Elise Seyfried, director of spiritual formation at Christ’s, Oreland, writes in Living Lutheran:   He brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” —Genesis 15:5   I remember first reading the verse above, then...

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The Assistant to the Bishop for Youth and Young Adult Discipleship provides leadership and support to the youth and young adult initiatives of Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod. The work of the Assistant to the Bishop will be shaped by the synod mission: We equip our congregations and leaders for mission and service in the 21st Century,...

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CONTACT YOUR CONGRESSPERSON IN AUGUST U.S. representatives regularly return home districts to stay engaged with constituents. August Recess is one such time, when lawmakers often schedule town halls, meetings, and other opportunities to raise your experiences and policy concerns while they are local. ELCA Advocacy’s guide can help you connect faithfully. LET LAMPA HELP YOU PLAN FOR “GOD’S...

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The Congregations Lead Initiative is a new, two-year program that will gather a cohort of 50 congregations from across the ELCA to unleash and harness their collective genius and discover new and useful ministry innovations. Your congregation is invited to apply today to join the Congregations Lead Initiative. Deadline for applications is August 15. Learn...

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Lutheran Disaster Response-Eastern Pennsylvania is already mobilizing teams to help. Two weeks ago, hundreds of residents came by Keystone Elementary School in Croyden, PA seeking help. Thanks to local churches and organizations, over 300 clean out buckets were distributed. Last week, a tornado in Trevose damaged a number of homes.  Will you help those affected...

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On Sunday, Sept. 12, ELCA congregations will join together for “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday. This annual day of service is an opportunity for us to celebrate who we are as the ELCA — one church, freed in Christ to love and serve our neighbor. We rejoice that many in-person church activities have resumed, and...

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As of August 1, the CDC reports that Philadelphia, Bucks, Delaware and Montgomery counties are experiencing “substantial” community transmission of coronavirus. The CDC recommends that all people, vaccinated or not, wear masks and maintain physical distancing in indoor public or multi-household gatherings. See this article explaining CDC guidance. Unvaccinated persons, including all children under 12...

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