Together, we proclaim and embody God's unconditional love for the sake of the world.
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MAY 24, 2023
a reconciling in Christ Synod
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Cruzando Fronteras - the RMS 2023 "Crossing Borders" Assembly was a powerful, even transformational, experience. Highlights, reflections, and next steps coming soon - stay tuned!
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Innovation Vitality Grants - Apply TODAY!
Have you ever said “this would be such a great idea for our church, if we only had some money to get it started!”?
Here’s your congregation’s opportunity to move toward making that idea happen!
Congregations may apply for a 2023 RMS “Innovation-Vitality Grant” to fund innovative experiments or programs designed to increase congregational vitality, aid congregations in carrying out their mission and helping them to realize their vision.
There is $30,000 of grant money to be awarded in amounts between $1000 and $7500 to between seven and ten congregations. Grant applications will be processed on a rolling basis, beginning in June, so get your team together and apply soon! Grants will be available until the funds are all disbursed.
For more information Click HERE!
If you have an exciting and innovative project that needs funding from this initiative, please submit a proposal HERE!
If you have any questions, please contact Dana Peterson HERE
This opportunity is funded through the RMS 3E Phase 2 Lilly Endowment Grant - "it's for you!"
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Best Skills, Best Churches | |
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3E Lilly Grant is partnering with the Arizona State University Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation to offer Best Skills Best Churches
Best Skills, Best Churches, offered online, is a graduate/executive level certificate program designed to advance rostered ministers' and lay leaders’ knowledge and skills for effective management of congregations and ministries.
Best Skills, Best Churches will cover:
- Volunteers in Service
- Legal Aspects of Governance
- Effective Communication and Handling Conflict
- Marketing and Community Presence
- Financial Management for Effective Service
- Fundraising Aspects of Stewardship.
Best Skills, Best Churches will meet from 6:30– 9:30 pm (except in December from 5:30–8:30 pm) on the following dates:
- July 11 & 13
- August 1 & 3
- September 5 & 7
- October 3 & 5
- October 31 & November 2
- December 5 & 7
Upon satisfactory course completion, participants will receive a certificate in Non-Profit Management.
The cost is only $150 per participant - a $775 value made possible by the 3E Lilly Grant!
Click the link below to enroll TODAY!
Questions? contact Deacon Sarah Bjornebo HERE
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RMS & ELCA news and events | |
ELCA YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY
Announcing the ELCA Young Adult Fellowship
The ELCA is excited to announce a new program for Young Adults! The ELCA Young Adult Vocational Fellowship is an exciting program that offers young adults an amazing opportunity to discover their calling while gaining valuable professional experience. In partnership with new and existing year-long opportunities at ELCA affiliated ministries, participants are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to explore their faith and vocational aspirations, all while receiving support from a network of peers and experienced ELCA coaches. The program is designed to prepare communities and ministry organizations to welcome new, young, and diverse leaders, paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic future. Additionally, fellows receive competitive compensation and benefits, including access to mental health resources, relocation assistance, coaching, and a small group cohort.
The program has partnered with several sites for the 2023-2024 year, including The Dwelling, All Places Together, National Lutheran Communities & Services, Together Lab, Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp, The Hunger Advocacy Fellow Program, Building Resilient Communities with the ELCA Churchwide Organization, Pine Ridge Reconciliation Center, the Minneapolis Area Synod, and Capital University. This program truly embodies the ELCA's commitment to empowering young adults and building a brighter tomorrow. For more information about the program and these partner sites, please visit http://www.elca.org/Vocational-Fellowship.
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INDIGENOUS MINISTRIES & TRIBAL RELATIONS
ELCA Truth and Healing Movement
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Learn more about Indigenous Ministries and Tribal Relations. And visit Truth & Healing Movement for activities and ideas for May and June.
Among the first opportunities to learn the true history and current realities of Indigenous people is an online class “Indian 101” presented by Vance Blackfox on Thursday, June 1, from 9:00am to 11:00am MTime. More info here.
The general population knows very little about the Indigenous peoples of Turtle Island. Even the most basic topics are often grand mysteries. This is by design; for centuries the colonial project has prioritized the complete erasure of Native people. “Indian 101” explains some of these basics to build a foundation for students to stand in solidarity with Indian people across the United States as we work together to dismantle longstanding systems of oppression.
No pre-registration is required to participate.
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Listening Post on the Farm Bill
National Bilingual Focus (Spanish/English)
WEDNESDAY, MAY 24 at 6:00pm
Speakers include:
John Johnson, ELCA Program Director for Domestic Policy
The ELCA federal advocacy team is asking for support from diverse sectors across the ELCA who may wish to participate in an informative session on Farm Bill advocacy. This legislation is key to addressing conservation and both hunger in the United States and globally. Listening sessions are virtual gatherings where ministry leaders, members of congregations, and those with valuable lived experiences will provide input to Witness in Society team in Washington, DC. Your viewpoints, initiatives, concerns, and hopes for a future farm bill will inform our advocacy and help shape the final law that Congress passes. Let’s talk and act together!! *Note: While all are welcome to register for all Listening Sessions, each session will feature some discussion specific to the region. ➤ This session will focus on listening from Spanish speaking community members.
National Bilingual (Spanish/English) Focus Wednesday, May 24 – 6 p.m. MT
Registration bit.ly/ELCAreunionLeyAgricola
More Information: blogs.elca.org/advocacy/elca-farm-bill-listening-sessions/
Tema de la reunión: Un diálogo nacional sobre la Ley Agrícola convocada por la ELCA [enfoque bilingüe]
El equipo de incidencia política federal de la ELCA desea solicitar la colaboración de diversos sectores de la ELCA que deseen participar en una sesión de sensibilización sobre la Ley Agrícola. Esta legislación es clave para abordar la problemática de la conservación y el hambre tanto en Estados Unidos como en el resto del mundo. Estas sesiones son reuniones virtuales en las que los líderes de los ministerios, los miembros de las congregaciones y aquellos con valiosas experiencias vividas proporcionarán información al equipo de Witness in Society en Washington, DC. Sus puntos de vista, iniciativas, inquietudes y esperanzas respecto a la futura ley agrícola servirán para informar nuestra incidencia y ayudarán a dar forma a la ley final que se apruebe en el Congreso. ¡Dialoguemos y actuemos junta/os! *Nota: Todas/os son bienvenidas/os a inscribirse en cada uno de los diálogos. En cada sesión habrá algún discurso específico para esa región del país. ➤ Esta sesión se centrará en las experiencias de los miembros de nuestras comunidades que hablen español.
Enfoque nacional bilingüe (español/inglés)
Miércoles 24 de mayo - 18.00 horas MT
Inscríbase bit.ly/ELCAreunionLeyAgricola
Mas Informacion: blogs.elca.org/advocacy/elca-farm-bill-listening-sessions/
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Join the Quarterly RMS Faith Formation Network call!
Gather and meet In-Person Or via Zoom
We will be sharing a BUNCH of new information about the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans. Join the network for free lunch and ministry/ person check-in time. Then we will talk about the 24ELCAYG!
PLEASE RSVP IF YOU ARE JOINING IN PERSON SO WE GET ENOUGH FOOD! KIDS WELCOME!
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Register for the Reclaim Gathering by African Descent Ministries
September 14 - 17, 2023
RECLAIM is a curated gathering for people of African Descent of all ages and gender identities brought to us by African Descent Ministries. Building on well established community traditions and principles like Umoja, Sankofa, and Ubuntu, we will gather together to grow across generations. The African Descent community thrives most when gathered. This event is meant for our siblings in the pulpits, pews, and brunch.
Follow us on social media as we announce our workshop leaders and keynote speakers. Join African Descent Ministries and our community on September 14 through the 17 in Minneapolis, MN.
For more information and to register go to elca.org/reclaimgathering.
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Support Veterans Homes in our synod
Each area of the Rocky Mountain Synod has at least one Veterans Home. The Vision Statement of one of these homes is “Working together to provide the highest quality of care and the best quality of life for veterans and their families.”
Get information about Veterans homes in our synod:
The Veteran Servant Corps Project (VSCP), a ministry of the Rocky Mountain Synod (RMS), is currently offering regular worship services at three of these homes. VSCP pays $200 plus expenses to ordained clergy for each of these services.
Veteran Servant Corps Project is a self-funded ministry of the RMS. As such, a minimum of $600 in monthly donations is needed to enable VSCP to continue offering these worship services. There are more of these Veterans Homes desiring worship services. At this point, VSCP can add no more worship services until supporting donations are received.
Please prayerfully consider donating to help us expand our ministry. This is a marvelous opportunity to honor a Military Member and/or Veteran in your life as Memorial Day 2023 approaches. Click the button below and select "Veterans Servant Corps Project" from the dropdown list.
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If you would prefer to send a check, please send it to the Rocky Mountain Synod, (7375 Samuel Drive, Denver, CO 80221), noting that the donation is for the Veteran Servant Corps Project. Thank you. |
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MAY 28, 2023
Day of Pentecost
Prayer of the Day
O God, on this day you open the hearts of your faithful people by sending into us you, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for Holy Spirit. Direct us by the light of that Spirit, that we may have a right judgment in all things and rejoice at all times in your peace, through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
In God's Hands:
Ecumenical Prayer Cycle from the World Council of Churches
28 May - 03 June : Angola, Mozambique
Join us in daily prayer
ELCA Prayer Ventures are daily guides to prayer for the global, social and outreach ministries of the ELCA, as well as for the needs and circumstances of our neighbors, communities and world.
ELCA Prayer Ventures (monthly) and Prayer Ventures, Living Lutheran (daily)
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WEEK OF MAY 28
RMS Prayer Cycle
May 2023
Metro East Conference
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Lord of the Hills Lutheran Church
Centennial, CO
Pastor Margot Wright
Messiah Community Church
Denver, CO
Pastor Inga Oyan Longbrake
New Beginnings
Denver, CO
Pastor Samm Melton-Hill
Our Savior's Lutheran Church
Denver, CO
Pastor Paul Olsen (Interim)
Peace in Christ Lutheran Church
Elizabeth, CO
Pastor Alena Lamirato
Saron Lutheran Church
Strasburg, CO
Pastor Jeanne Larsen (Interim)
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Horan & McConaty and HeartLight Center
Deacon Jennifer McBride (Semi-retired)
Sky Ridge Medical Center
Lone Tree, CO
Pastor Laurie Jeddeloh (Director of Pastoral Care)
St. Mark Lutheran Church
Church Aurora, CO
Pastor Nicholas Leither
St. Paul Lutheran Church
Denver, CO
Pastor Barbara Berry-Bailey
Deacon Mark Filbert
Village Exchange Center
Aurora, CO
Pastor Marcel Narucki
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SAVE THE DATE!
LFSRM 2023 Tee of Hope Golf Tournament
July 31 @ Red Rocks Golf Club
The 2023 LFSRM Tee of for Hope Golf Tournament will be held on July 31, 2023 at the Red Rocks Golf Club. This exclusive venue is stunning and provides a perfect backdrop for a day of golfing with friends all in support of the many programs of LFS. To sign up, visit www.lfsrm.org/golf.
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Join King of Glory Lutheran Church in celebrating their 65th Anniversary!
Sunday, May 28 at 9:00am
10001 West 58th Avenue
Arvada, CO
King of Glory Lutheran Church is celebrating 65 years of Mission and Ministry. We would like to invite former pastors, staff members and former congregation members to join us on Sunday, May 28, 2023. Our celebration begins at 9:00 am with festival worship followed by brunch and program. Please RSVP to Diane Burton by email dianeburton44@msn.com or call 303-431-6118.
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Holden Evening Prayer Around the World
Join Us In Spirit on June 3, 2023
Once a year Holden invites Villagers across the globe to come together through participation in the Holden Evening Prayer. This year, we will be celebrating Holden Evening Prayer Around the World on June 3, 2023.
You are invited to participate on any date or time that week!
Help us kick-off the first week of summer programming by joining us on the first night that Holden Evening Prayer will be sung in the Village for the summer.
Marty Haugen wrote Holden Evening Prayer during the winter of 1985–1986 during a musical residency at Holden Village. A simple Lutheran vespers service that follows traditional form while using contemporary and inclusive language, this service has become beloved by many.
Even though geography may separate us, by singing and saying the same words together, we connect in spirit. May the prayers for peace and justice of the extended Holden community rise up like incense. Plan a gathering and add your event to our map of events around the globe!
More info here.
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Southeastern Pennsylvania (7F) | |
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"We equip our congregations and leaders for mission and service in the 21st Century, fostering passionate spirituality, vital congregations, adaptive leaders, effective storytelling, and faithful generosity."
"The Rev. Patricia A. Davenport was elected the fifth bishop of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) on May 5, 2018 and assumed office Aug. 1, 2018... she is the first African American woman to be elected a bishop in the 3.8-million-member ELCA. She was recently elected vice chair of the ELCA Conference of Bishops. She serves as spiritual leader of the 70,000 members and 154 congregations and worshipping communities of the synod. The bishop oversees and administers the work of our Synod, provides pastoral care and leadership to the Synod, our congregations, and professional leaders: pastors, associates in ministry, deaconesses and diaconal ministers."
Visit ministrylink.org and on Facebook.
Click here to view a Bishops and Synods map of our 65 ELCA synods and 9 regions.
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Engagement and Education Coordinator
Director of School Ministry
Bookkeeper (part-time)
Early Childhood Teacher
Bethany Lutheran / Bethany Early Childhood Center - Cherry Hills Village, CO
Preschool Teachers
Joyful Mission Preschool - Parker, CO
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Church Administrator
Chancel Choir Director
Associate Vice President for Mission and Identity
California Lutheran University - Thousand Oaks, CA
Organist
Office Manager
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