1. A special children's message for Sunday, April 19
ELCIC National Bishop Susan Johnson shares a special message with the church for Sunday, April 19, 2020. In her first pre-recorded video Children's Message she addresses the anxiousness, frustration and boredom we might all be feeling right now, and asks, "What is Jesus's message to us during this crazy, turned up-side-down time?" We hope that congregational leaders who have live stream and pre-recorded worship services may be able to share this as part of Sunday's message. If your congregation is not holding a virtual service right now, consider how you might share this message to your members via email or on your congregation's Facebook page.
View Bishop Susan's message here: https://youtu.be/36wHnNKHzgA.
2. Live stream and worship resources
The following are a number of resources that may be helpful to you during this time of intentional social distancing. Have something you think we should add to the list? Please email tgallop@elcic.ca with your suggestions!
3. Thursdays in Black: "Pray for God's protection for everyone"
Thursdays in Black ambassadors (which includes our own National Bishop Susan Johnson) and supporters are calling on us all to protect women who, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, are in situations that make them vulnerable to violence.
In many countries, the rise of domestic abuse is being called "a new COVID-19 crisis" as movement restrictions aimed to stop the spread of the coronavirus is making violence in homes more frequent, more severe and more dangerous.
To read the full article, please click here.
4. CLWR COVID-19 urgent appeal
The ELCIC's partner, Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) has issued an urgent crisis appeal to help those most vulnerable around the world. CLWR's global partners are working on the frontlines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and offer care to those affected. Here are just a few of the ways those partners are already responding. CLWR is also committed to helping the most vulnerable here in Canada. A percentage of all money raised will help vulnerable people through the work of CLWR's partner churches. For more information and to donate, please click here.
5. Treasurer Resources
Are you wondering about recent Government of Canada announcements on financial subsidies and how your congregation might be able to access these resources? Are you looking for more information on ways to encourage congregational giving during the suspension of in-person worship services? Be sure to read these recent Letters from National and Synod Treasurers:
6. Share these resources
Is there someone you know of that you feel would benefit from receiving these resources? Consider forwarding them a copy of this email. Subscribing to ELCIC News is easy! Either click on the 'Subscribe' button below, or send an email to Info@elcic.ca with the word Subscribe in the subject line.
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