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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2021 SYNOD ASSEMBLY
Highlights from Bishop Davenport's Assembly message:
- We are Southeastern PA Synod strong. We have 143 ministries making a difference in times like these.
- We walk together in this pandemic life. Not marking time. We are making a difference in God's kingdom.
- In Philadelphia and Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties we are creating a ripple effect that will transform lives around the corner and around the world.
Highlights from Vice President Beasley's Assembly message:
- Our SEPA Synod continues to be on the front line fighting for justice.
- God is still showing up in SEPA.
- We are SEPA strong because we have FAITH over fear.
Bishop Patricia A. Davenport announces several changes to operations in the Synod due to the coronavirus pandemic, based on updated guidance from health officials and the churchwide office, and consultation with staff.
“As your bishop, I recommend that we suspend our in-person gatherings until further notice,” the bishop said in a video message to the synod. Limiting public gatherings can slow the spread of the highly contagious virus, which protects those most vulnerable to the disease as well as the doctors, nurses, paramedics, and others who care for them.
The bishop announced several operational changes for synod staff and programs:
(We will create a collection of stories of how you are adapting to this crisis, so we can learn from each other. Please send your stories of creative gathering or service to your neighbors to Pastor Bob Fisher at rfisher@sepa.org.
“Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod serves her community so well,” the bishop said. “Yes, we’ve been shut down…but we have been encouraged in the midst of the change to hold on to our one consistent…that God is faithful.”
“In the midst of everything that is going on, we are reminded to watch and to pray. We’re reminded in all things that we should give thanks to God,” the bishop said. “So today, I give thanks to you. I give thanks for your heart, mind and desire to love God, to love your neighbor, and also to serve your neighbor.
. Visit the website: www.ministrylink.org
“As your bishop, I recommend that we suspend our in-person gatherings until further notice,” the bishop said in a video message to the synod. Limiting public gatherings can slow the spread of the highly contagious virus, which protects those most vulnerable to the disease as well as the doctors, nurses, paramedics, and others who care for them.
The bishop announced several operational changes for synod staff and programs:
- Synod staff will be working from home until at least April 1, and the office will be closed. “Your synod staff is here, praying for and with you,” the bishop said. Staff will be available to you via email (preferred) or telephone, and will be coordinating with regular video calls.
- Synod Assembly will be postponed to a date to be determined. Registration is not available for the time being.
- Synod committees, teams and staff will not hold in-person meetings until May 18. Working groups will use written reports and audio- and videoconferencing to continue their work.
- The Chrism Service, First Call Retreat, Behavioral Interview training, and Tuscarora Youth Retreat are cancelled.
(We will create a collection of stories of how you are adapting to this crisis, so we can learn from each other. Please send your stories of creative gathering or service to your neighbors to Pastor Bob Fisher at rfisher@sepa.org.
“Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod serves her community so well,” the bishop said. “Yes, we’ve been shut down…but we have been encouraged in the midst of the change to hold on to our one consistent…that God is faithful.”
“In the midst of everything that is going on, we are reminded to watch and to pray. We’re reminded in all things that we should give thanks to God,” the bishop said. “So today, I give thanks to you. I give thanks for your heart, mind and desire to love God, to love your neighbor, and also to serve your neighbor.
. Visit the website: www.ministrylink.org
The Lutheran Magazine is now Living Lutheran
The Lutheran magazine is now called Living Lutheran and has a new accompanying website. Living Lutheran will continue to offer stories, reflections and news that illuminate Christ's presence in the world, including:
- Stories and commentary from ELCA members and congregations.
- Exploration of issues important to Lutherans.
- Resources to help deepen your faith through worship, stewardship, arts, music and more.
- Best practices and ideas for mission and ministry. And more!
Visit the website: LivingLutheran.org