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You should be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in – Isaiah 58.12b
This is a shortened version of the sermon Bishop Gohl preached on Saturday at the Ordination of Ernest F. Lehr, III, to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament. Pastor Ernie has been called to serve Holy Communion (Fallston).
Does your worship on Sunday affect how you see and deal with whatever it is you chose? If so, how? If not, why not?
In what ways does your baptism, our hymns and prayers, scriptures, the Body and Blood of Jesus shared in the Holy Communion, inform and guide your thinking? Are they the lens through which you see the world and others, hear the news, and make decisions? Do you carry them with you through the rest of the week or do you leave them at the door as you “go in peace to serve the Lord.”
What I’m really asking is whether Jesus, the gospel, the law and the prophets, have anything to do with our politics, economics, social values, and personal decisions?
I know I’m getting close to meddling – to stepping on political toes and calling into question personal beliefs and opinions. Maybe I’ve already crossed that line. But when I look at what’s happening in the world today, what we’re doing to each other, the things we’re saying about those who disagree with us, the way we claim God is on our side – I wonder what ailments we are bent over under, that keep us quite unable to stand up, let alone look ourselves in the mirror.
A friend of mine often reminds me that the gospel – the good news of Jesus – is sometimes bad news before it is good news. It asks us to face up to ourselves before we face down another. That’s the challenge Isaiah holds before us this morning. You see, our reading is the end of a chapter that finds the people are fasting – doing the religious thing – for their own interest and at the same time oppressing others. They are fasting – doing the religious thing – but it hasn’t changed their lives. They still quarrel, fight, and strike “with a wicked fist.” Such fasting, God says, will not let their “voice be heard on high.” That is not the fast God chooses.
We can gather here each Sunday and say our prayers, nod in agreement with the scriptures, and sing our praises to God but if those things do not govern and guide our actions in this world, if they do not align our interests and concerns with God’s, if they are merely self-serving words to make us feel better about ourselves, God is not listening. Indeed, maybe we should spend less time speaking the truth about God and more time doing the truth of God. What would that look like? What does that mean for the things that are important and matter to you? How might that change us?
Into these questions raised by the prophet, we come to ordain Ernie. To call him out from among us and set him apart to lead us in the work of repairing the breach and restoring the streets.
And Ernie, no pressure! Speaking for God, alongside Isaiah, that repairing and restoring means untying and freeing another from the bonds of injustice. It means letting the oppressed go free. It means sharing our bread with the hungry and bringing the poor close. It means clothing for the naked. It means we stop pointing the finger and speaking evil of others. Because, injustice, oppression, hunger, poverty, nakedness, blame and slander are God’s concerns, things that are important and matter to God. And they are not only physical conditions, but spiritual, too. We can hunger for a meal even as we can hunger for love. We can be unhoused on the streets and we can be homeless within ourselves. Nakedness means we have no clothes, or that we might have no hope.
And you, you are called to step into that gap, that gaping breach, and help this church meet the realities of the world, just as we pray so often that it would be on earth as it is in heaven. Doing the truth is not as easy as writing a check, or donating some food or clothes; those things need to be done but we need to be careful they don’t become just another fast in which nothing changes.
Maybe that’s what Archbishop Helder Camara of Brazil was getting at when he said, “When I give food to the poor, they call me a saint. When I ask why they are poor, they call me a communist.”
In the words of Archbishop Camara, the words of Isaiah, the words of Jesus, we have to ask ourselves not only how are we responding to those conditions but, also, why those conditions exist, and in what ways are our lifestyles, decisions, opinions, and actions enabling and perpetuating those conditions in the life of another. And you, Ernie, you Pastor, have been called among us to accompany us in those questions, to challenge us to think like God – rather than give into the first world notion that God thinks like us; to encourage us to prayer that give way to action, love and compassion that makes a difference. In Christ, we are set free to serve God, to love our neighbor as ourselves; to step into the breach together, responding with compassion and mercy, hungering for justice, doing the truth – restoring and repairing. In Jesus’ name.
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Karen Kretschmann Celebration
This Saturday, August 27, our Synod Staff and Synod Council will host an Open House at our Synod Office, 5699 Meridale Road, Baltimore, MD 21228, in honor of Karen Johnson Kretschmann, our Director for Evangelical Mission. Karen will be leaving our staff for a new season of ministry and discernment. The event will be at the office from 3 ‘til 6pm, with a short program at 4.30pm. You are invited to come when you can and leave when you must. An RSVP is helpful, though not required, as we make preparations for food and drink; please email receptionist@demdsynod.org or call Ms. Sheron Campbell, 410-230-2860, to let us know that you are planning to join us!
An opportunity to help us honor Karen: Karen asked that any gift might be made to the Annual Ministry Fund for Strategic Ministries, resources used to strengthen our ministries that support congregations that are in places of renewal, serving diverse populations, or sustaining our commitments to accompany people who experience poverty. You may be a part of honoring Karen with a gift to the Annual Ministry Fund by sending a check to the Delaware-Maryland Synod, marked “Karen Gift” in the memo line; or by going online to www.demdsynod.org, Click “Give,” and choose “Synod Ministry Fund – Thank You Karen!” in the dropdown menu. A generous donor has agreed to match this gift, dollar for dollar, up to $10,000.00 – helping us to add to our celebration of Karen’s ministry! Questions about the gift or how to participate? Contact Pr. Dave Shank, dshank@demdsynod.org.
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Celebrate Reggie Price!
Lutheran Episcopal Campus Ministry of Baltimore invites us to celebrate the Retirement of Pastor Reginald Price after 17 years of service as campus ministry staff serving Morgan State University. The celebration will take place from 12:00-2:00 pm on Saturday, August 27, at Churches of the Nativity and Holy Comforter (6112 York Rd., Baltimore MD 21212). To RSVP, please contact Pr. Laura Since at LSinche@towson.edu or (443) 543-6965.
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Ordinations
Cody Danner, will receive the Church’s gift of Ordination to Word and Sacrament Ministry on Saturday, 3 September at 11am. The Liturgy will be celebrated at Hope Lutheran Church (4131 Lehigh Drive, Cherryville, PA 18035). Pastors, Deacons and Members of the Order of St. Stephen Deacon are invited to vest and process, red stoles. Cody has been called by the Synod Council to a term-call as Associate Pastor of Grace (Westminster).
Carolyn Lawrence, will receive the Church’s gift of Ordination to Word and Sacrament Ministry on Sunday, 18 September at 4pm. The Liturgy will be celebrated at Salem (Catonsville). Pastors, Deacons and Members of the Order of St. Stephen Deacon are invited to vest and process, red stoles. Carolyn has been called by the Synod Council to a term-call as Associate Pastor of Salem (Catonsville).
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Installations
The Rev. Jonathon Moyer will be installed as Pastor for the Shore Shared Ministry of Grace (Easton) and St. Paul (Cordova) on Sunday, 28 August at 3pm. The liturgy will be celebrated at Temple B’nai Israel (7199 Tristan Drive, Easton), with a reception to follow at the Talbot Agriculture Center (10659 Hiners Lane, Easton). Pastors, Deacons and Members of the Order of St. Stephen Deacon are invited to vest and process, red stoles.
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Party for the Planet, Hosted by our synod's Creation Care Committee!
Free community Party for the Planet at First English Lutheran Church (3807 N. Charles St) on Sunday, September 11 from 2 – 4 pm. There will be a puppet show, information about creation care, snacks, crafts for the little ones, and music. Come learn about the Earth Charter and have some fun. We will be meeting outdoors on the 39th Street side of the church. Sponsored by the Creation Care Committee of the Delaware-Maryland Synod of the ELCA. Join us!.
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Mar-Lu Ridge: Upcoming Events
Walkathon: Mar-Lu-Ridge invites you to our annual Walkathon, Sept. 25 from 1-5 p.m. All are welcome to this family-oriented day on the Ridge. Enjoy the beautiful fall colors, a community meal, and walk at your own pace as we raise funds for programming and facilities.
This event is free of charge, with donations appreciated. Registration begins at 1 p.m. at the pavilion, and the walk begins at 1:30 p.m.
Cookie Run: This exciting 5K returns to an in-person run on Sept. 25 beginning at 2 p.m. Please register by visiting bit.ly/MLRCookieRun Stay and enjoy the community meal and worship when the run is over.
All participants receive a handmade cookie medal! You are also welcome to register and participate anytime during September in the comfort of your own neighborhood.
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A Special Thank You From Bp. Gohl
Over $85,000 Raised To Support The Ministry Of Our Synod!
Dear Friends in Ministry,
We concluded an offering recognizing the ministry of Bishop Gohl on July 31st.
I am happy to report that we met and exceeded our stretch goal of raising $70,000 in support of the ministries of our synod and in total received over $85,000 in gifts and pledges towards our Annual Synod Ministry Fund. These gifts will allow us to live out Christ's Great Commission in new and creative ways. Ministries that would not be possible without this additional financial support.
Thank you once more to all who participated in making this a success and I invite you to watch this special message from Bishop Gohl!!
The Reverend David C. Shank, CFRE
Assistant to the Bishops for Generosity
Delaware-Maryland Synod, ELCA
Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod, ELCA
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Online ELCA Vital Congregations Training
Does your congregation care about living as disciples, seeking justice in Jesus name, engaging and growing leaders and walking along side your neighborhood? Ready to take steps toward renewal and vitality? Eager to try new things, share ideas, gain clarity on mission, and find new allies from others across our church? Then, join the 2022 Fall Session of the ELCA Vital Congregations Training. Core principles to be explored are: living as disciples of Jesus; focusing on Jesus and justice; being expectant of the Holy Spirit; multiplying leaders who are young, diverse and bring fresh insights; and aligning with purpose and core values.
This is a fast paced co-creative and co-experimental training facilitated by leaders with deep experience in renewing congregations. Pastors and congregations are encouraged to come as teams of 3–5 people for a time of inspiration, learning, planning, sharing, experimenting, visioning, and implementing. The training is a four-session series. There are two different times per day from 1:30-3:00 p.m. (eastern time) or from 7:30-9:00 p.m. (eastern time) on October 6th, October 20th, November 3rd, and November 17th. You may choose the best time each day that works for you. All sessions will be recorded and available to all registered participants. NOTE: This training is for people who did NOT attend the Vital Congregations Re-BOOT Camp in Spring 2022 or 2021. Register here!
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Connected in God's Creation: Fulfilling our Call as Christians Event
Join us for a day together working toward God’s peace for all, through economic, environmental, racial and social justice.
Our Connected in God's Creation in-person event has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 10, 2022 as we gather folks together from across our Synod to build relationships and join in kindling respect for nature, human rights, justice and peace. The event will be held at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Baltimore from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. The day of learning will include a plenary, workshops, worship and of course fellowship and time to connect!
Registration is available now, and can be accessed here. If you previously registered for this event before prior postponements, please make sure to register again. Make sure to consult the link at the top of the registration form to view the workshop offerings!
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Living in the Presence of God Retreat: Dec. 2-4, 2022 at Mar-Lu-Ridge
“ Do Not Be Conformed to this World, but Be Transformed by the Renewing of Your Minds…” (Romans 12: 2)
As people of faith, we are called to live in the world but not of the world. To live alternatively, through social justice work, healing work, work in our family, and community of faith - we will need support. To be change agents or be changed ourselves we need to be led by the Spirit and live out an inward journey as well as the outward. In this retreat we will explore contemplative gifts which lead to transformation – contemplation itself, the Spirit, Lection Divina, and devotional writings about transformation and viewing nature photography. We will do this through body prayer, guided meditation, silence, Listening to Scripture, communal conversation, artwork, singing, journaling, and opportunities to walk in nature and rest. Come, refresh your body, minds, and spirit and explore God’s presence within you.
GROUP RHYTHM
- Beginning in Silence
- Body Prayer
- Introduction of the Theme
- Reflection
- Sharing
- Closing Prayer
The cost is $195.00 for 2 night’s lodging and 6 meals
The Leader – Pastor Cathy Feil has led many retreats. She has completed The Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation’s Leading Contemplative Prayer Groups and Retreats and Group Spiritual Direction.
For registration please contact: Cathy Feil, 484-636-4021 or feilc48773@gmail.com
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Colgate Community Mission (Eastpoint) Flea Market
Colgate Community Mission at St. Peter's (Eastpoint) will be holding a flea market on September 24, 2022, from 8:00am-12:00pm. You are invited to participate, and can learn more here.
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Epiphany (Baltimore) Bag Bingo: You're Invited!
Designer Bag Bingo at Epiphany: Sunday, September 25th.
Tickets: $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Includes 20 games of regular bingo and door prizes. Prizes are name-brand pocketbooks with surprises inside! Early bird bingo, specials, raffles, 50/50 are available at an additional cost. Lunch and beverages are available for purchase. Doors open at 12 noon and games begin at 1pm. For advance tickets: Linda Gruzs at 410-325-5216 or Pat McGowan at 410-262-4059. Epiphany Lutheran Church, 4301 Raspe Ave. 21206.
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St. John's (Pimlico) Upcoming Events
You are invited to various upcoming events at St. John's (Pimlico)! See the links below for flyers with more information about each event.
Fish Fry Friday: August 26
Sight and Sound Theater Event: September 8
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ELCA Seminaries Virtual Discernment Event
Are you or someone you know discerning a call to Seminary? The seven ELCA Seminaries are partnering together to offer a virtual discernment event on Saturday September 10 from 11am-3pm (Eastern time). Registration deadline is September 6! Please direct registrations to https://elcaseminaries.org/are-you-ready-for-seminary/.
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Support ELCA World Hunger’s Global Farm Challenge
This summer, youth across the ELCA are participating in ELCA World Hunger’s Global Farm Challenge, a fundraising campaign to put an end to hunger by providing farming families around is an important part of Christ’s call to our church. Thanks to generous donors, all gifts to this challenge will be matched — dollar for dollar — until we reach $525,000. That means gifts will go twice as far in the work to end hunger! You or your congregation can join in this important work as well. Learn more here: https://elca.org/globalfarmchallenge
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Classifieds:
Administrative Assistant | St Paul (Jefferson, MD)
Musicians | Epiphany (Baltimore, MD)
Afterschool Coordinator | Epiphany (Baltimore, MD)
Organist and Choir Director | St. Martin's (Annapolis, MD)
Worship Musicians | St. John's (Hagerstown, MD)
Lead Teachers | Prince of Peace Creative Learning Center (Baltimore)
Religion Teacher | St. Martin's Lutheran School of Annapolis
Sexton | Zion (Baltimore)
Director of Worship Music | St. Paul's (Lutherville, MD)
Communications Assistant | St. Paul's (Lutherville, MD)
Teachers and Pre-K Aide | St. Peter’s (Fullerton, MD)
Keyboard Player | St. Mark's (Hagerstown, MD)
Music Director Our Shepherd (Severna Park, MD)
Digital Ministries Coordinator | New Hope (Columbia, MD)
To read more about these positions, please visit the Classifieds page on our synod's website.
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Prayer Concerns
for domestic and global COVID infection rates, frontline workers; for the people of Ukraine, Russia, and the surrounding countries receiving refugees, for relief workers and refugees, the witness of the church, and our service personnel that are deployed or on alert; for the people of Afghanistan, Haiti, Myanmar, Ethiopia, Lebanon, Belarus and the Church in the Holy Land – particularly Jerusalem, for all who pray alongside family and friends who are living in the midst of fear and uncertainty;
for the Pastor and People of Grace (Easton) and St. Paul (Cordova) as they celebrate new ministry at Pastor Jonathon Moyer’s Installation this weekend;
for South Mountain Shared Ministry (Bethany, Brunswick & St. Paul’s, Burkittsville), who are anticipating a call vote this weekend;
for Pastor Stacey Brady, who is completing her ministry as Chaplain to the Lutheran Village at Miller’s Grant, and moving into full-time ministry as Director of Church Relations for Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland;
for Pastor Chas Wiener, who will take up her new ministry as Chaplain to the Lutheran Village at Miller’s Grant;
for Matthew and Abby, children of rostered ministers in our synod, who are facing significant surgeries in the weeks ahead;
for Pastor Linda Fernandez, St. Mary (Silver Run), anticipating a surgical procedure this week;
for Bob Sutliff and Pastor Richard Stewart (Professor Emeritus, United Lutheran Seminary/Philadelphia Campus), receiving palliative care at home;
for the people of Luther Chapel (Petersville), who are in a time of discernment;
for the ELCA Conference of Bishops, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, for Pastor Amy Thoren and the St. Andrew’s Chapel and Student Center, for Pastor Nelson Rabell and the Iglesia Luterana Santa María Peregrina (Stockton) Community, for Pastor Hazel Salazar-Davidson, for Pastor Megan Rohrer, for the Sierra Pacific Synod and Bishop Claire Burkat;
and for the ongoing health, peace and healing of Dave Kretschmann, Jeremy, Pastor Lura Groen, Ana Porres, Lindsay, Theresa Carr, Matthew Herzberg, Kathy, Lee, Sam, Rich Shuster, Pastor Harry Wolpert, Thomas, Tybron, Patricia Magwood Gambrill, Alex, Virginia Lee, Pastor Gordon Narveson, Alicia, Bobbie, Ashley Brocious, Joshua Lafferty, Grace Schafer, Elfriede Kiesling, Doris Anderson, Eli, Barbara Harant, and Deacon Laura Heller.
With my love and prayers,
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William (Bill) Gohl, Jr., Bishop
Delaware-Maryland Synod, ELCA
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