July 27, 2020
Our Synod is again offering $25,000 in grants to congregations and leaders in 2021 for new initiatives and ministries that support the emphases of the Forward Together in Faith Campaign. Due to COVID-19, the grant process has been moved back. Applications will be accepted through October 31, 2020. Funds will be distributed by January 31,...
August 18, 2020
Due to delays in processing of sales tax exemptions as a result of COVID-19, the state Department of Revenue extended the exempt status of the Synod and its subsidiary churches until September 30, 2020. The extension is intended to assist churches in continuing daily operations without interruption of exempt status. You may use this correspondence...
August 18, 2020
We’re pleased to say that Bishop Stephen Munga of our companion synod in Tanzania is at home following heart surgery and weeks of rehabilitation. His family, including the Rev. Dr. Anneth Munga and son Daniel, and our partners in the North Eastern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania share their thanks for the...
August 17, 2020
In late July, local NAACP head Rodney Muhammad posted a meme to Facebook that Jewish groups considered anti-Semitic. In response, the Religious Leaders Council of Greater Philadelphia issued a statement that denounces bigotry, promotes solidarity, and calls for healing and understanding. Read the full statement here: Philadelphia Religious Leaders Respond to the Rodney Muhammad Posting...
July 29, 2020
Updated July 29, 2020 “Our highest priority is to do no harm” Our suburban counties entered the Green phase of reopening on Friday, June 26. Philadelphia is now modified green but reporting “High Risk of Community Transmission” as of July 29. The Green phase is not a return to pre-pandemic normals. Organizations must still follow practices for...
July 28, 2020
If you are a craftsman . . . only look at your tools, your needle, your thimble, your beer barrel, your articles of trade, your scales, your measures, and you will find this saying written on them . . . “My dear, use me toward your neighbor, as you would want him to act toward...
July 28, 2020
Last week the ELCA unveiled a new design for the future of the church meant to ensure the answering of God’s call to invite more into the way of Jesus. This design will focus on attracting young, diverse people to position the ELCA for the future. “The world has changed but the message of the...
July 28, 2020
Do you (or someone you know) have the drive to help build ELCA World Hunger capacity to end hunger by deepening and expanding Lutheran advocacy efforts in synods, coalitions and networks? ELCA Hunger Advocacy Fellowships are a great opportunity, and Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa) is offering one! Learn more and apply here.
July 20, 2020
Gov. Wolf’s latest order restricting gatherings to 25 persons indoors and 250 persons outdoors do not apply to religious institutions. Asked specifically about this at a July 15 news conference, Secretary Levine and the governor both responded “no.” (See this recording at 48:45) While the restrictions are not mandatory for congregations, churches are still...
July 20, 2020
The staff at The Heart at Drexel, a Liberty Lutheran retirement community, continue to work hard to keep residents safe, while also offering empowering opportunities that foster outstanding lifestyles during these extraordinary times. Here, you can discover how the team helped Nancy, a resident, attend her daughter’s wedding from the safety of her home. Read...
ELCA News
2018 Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
