Hearings for draft social statement

Central States Synod will be hosting hearings for members to comment on the text of the ELCA Draft Social Statement on Human Sexuality on March 27, 2008 from 7-9 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1245 New Hampshire, Lawrence, Kan. 66044 (map it); April 14, 2008 from  7-9 p.m. at St. Thomas-Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, 3980 S Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, Mo. 63127 (map it); and April 30, 2008 from 7-9 p.m. at Bethany College, 35 E Swensson St., Lindsborg, Kan. 67456 (map it).

These hearings are key opportunities for ELCA members to respond to the text of the social statement and are a vital part in the development of the social statement. Representatives of both the synod and the Task Force for ELCA Studies on Sexuality will be present to listen to all member feedback. A synodical representative will be present to record all comments made by participants. This record of comments will be submitted to the task force and considered as they revise the text for 2009. For additional information about the synodical hearings, please visit www.elca.org/faithfuljourney or call the synod office, 816.861.6584 or 866.915.3548 (toll-free).

 

‘build blitz’ coming up in greensburg

Over 350 volunteers are expected the week of March 17 and around 200 are expected to work the following week, and your assistance is needed. DAY volunteers – the Volunteer Village is full as are all the local overnight accommodations, so folks are needed that don’t need to stay overnight. Volunteers are needed to come in for the day to help prepare/serve mid-day meals at the various build sites; and Cookies … we’re looking for LOTS of cookies and/or dessert bars. The Red Cross will be providing meals, but lots of “finger food” desserts are needed. If you have individuals or groups that might be able to lend a hand, please contact Deb Folkerts (Red Cross) at folkerts@havilandtelco.com or call 620-388-4684.

 

Gulf Coast Recovery Campaign Begins

When the 2005 hurricane season battered communities along the U.S. Gulf Coast, the response of Lutheran donors was amazing, even overwhelming. Through your support, Lutheran Disaster Response has played an integral role in the initial stages of recovery from these terrible disasters. But the work is far from over. Urban planners and other local officials estimate that recovery could continue for years to come. Now, we ask you to renew your commitment to the Gulf Coast by giving to an unprecedented second funding campaign. [READ MORE] Download: [BULLETIN INSERT]

 

‘God’s work. Our Hands. Making all things new!’

The 21st Annual Assembly of the Central States Synod. Go to www.css-elca.org/assembly2008.html for information and online registration. Remember to register by May 2, 2008 for lower registration fees. Another approaching deadline … Waivers for congregations requesting exceptions for their voting members … Due March 28, 2008.

 

‘Missional Ministry: From Dry Bones to Life-Giving Breath; From Theory towards Action’

April 23-24, 2008 — Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Overland Park, Kan.

This event will give everyone the tools for participating in God’s mission in their daily lives. Be sure to register soon — the registration deadline is March 22. For more information and to register online, go to http://css-elca.org/MissionalAction.html. For thought provoking updates, check out the conference blog http://missionalministry.blogspot.com/

 

Church Innovations' 2008 Spring Conference

Missional Church: Emerging Networks, Practical Resources

Church Innovations, in cooperation with a developing list of partners will present our 2008 Spring Conference around the theme: Missional Church: Emerging Networks, Practical Resources. The conference will take place April 17-19, 2008 at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. We will feature a number of resources in a new format, demonstrating practical ways to move forward in the missional conversation. Visit: www.churchinnovations.org/07_msnlntwks/conf08.html.

 

‘Stories of Faith in Action’

Formerly the ELCA’s Making Christ Known is posted on the Web along with downloadable bulletin inserts and crossword puzzles. Go to: http://www.elca.org/stewardship/interpreting.html. For local Stories of Faith in Action provided by the Central States Synod Mission Interpreter, Susan Morrell, visit: http://css-elca.org/missioninterpreter.html. The recent postings share information about three of our congregations in partnership with our companion synods.

 

2nd Annual Central States Synod Sr. High Youth Gathering

'Faith, Love & Service'

Sheraton Sport Complex Hotel, Kansas City, Mo. — July 17-20, 2008

Central States Synod is having its 2nd Annual Sr. High Youth Gathering in Kansas City. The gathering will be held at the Sheraton Sport Complex Hotel, (next to the sports complex). This event is for youth age 14-19. The cost is $150 per person (includes hotel, food, entrance to the hotel waterpark, and local transportation during the event). Registration materials will be out soon. Visit: www.css-elca.org/Youth.html for more information.

 

Journey to Wellness

Please remember to take your personal wellness assessment to save money and build your personal wellness account.  Visit www.elcaforwellness.org today!

 

Updates from Camp Tomah Shinga

Sign up today for summer camp!

Summer Camp at Tomah Shinga is going to ROCK! You’ll see lots of the same activities and challenges, mixed with some fresh faces and tons of new adventures! You won’t want to miss this. Camp Tomah Shinga is filled with faith, fun, friends and adventures! The programs are designed specifically for different age groups - 1st-3rd, 4th-6th, 6th-8th and senior high. For more information: 2008 Camp Schedule — Get Registered Today.

CAMP TOMAH SHINGA CELEBRATES ANNUAL QUILT AUCTION

Celebrate summer at the 8th annual Camp Tomah Shinga Quilt Auction near Junction City on Saturday, July 12, 2008  All proceeds of the Quilt Auction support youth camping programs at Camp Tomah Shinga. This day of celebration will include a live auction featuring beautifully quilted and tied quilts, by quilting groups and individuals from across Kansas & Missouri. Auctioneer Services are provided by Mugler Auction Service, L.L.C. (Auctioneer: Harold Mugler). You can get a quilt information form online at www.tomahshinga.com or by calling Heather at 888-656-6254 (toll-free).