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Spirit-Led Leadership ~ Hope-Filled Discipleship
Innovative Tradition ~ Collaborative Partnerships


 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

Wednesday's Word

October 5, 2022
 
 
Wednesday's Word: an e-newsletter publication of the Synod of Alberta and the Territories of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada to inform and share notice of events and activities within and around our Synod.

This e-newsletter is published the first and third Wednesday of each month.  Submissions for inclusion must be received by noon two working days prior to the publication date.  Submissions for inclusion in the next edition of Wednesday's Word must be received by Friday, October 17, 2022.  Urgent notices and prayers meant for immediate release to the subscriber list will continue as needed.   

Disclaimers:  We seek to provide current information, however, events and activities shared in Wednesday's Word may change without our notice.  Not all graphics or links work in all platforms of Wednesday's Word.  If you are unable to read some section of WW, try opening the document in your browser or on our Webpage:  WW Archives
New in This Edition of WW:
Click on the links to locate new content.
  1.  Prayers for Weekly Worship
  2.  Synod Staff Calendar Highlights
  3.  Synod Council Highlights
  4.  Synod-Wide Service for Reformation - Save the Date
  5.  Ponder Anew 2
  6.  Synod Connect
  7.  ABT Congregations Seeking Pastors
  8.  The Larger ABT Synod Community - LTS Events
  9.  For Further Thought
  10.  Affirming Diversity Ministry Team - The Resiliency Project
  11.  CARe Ministry Ministry Team - Living Water, Living Hope
  12.  Care of Creation - Creation Care in our Places of Prayer
  13.  Worship and the Arts Ministry Team - Planning for Epiphany
  14.  ELCIC - Canadian Lutheran History
  15.  LWF - Peace, Land, and Dignity for All
  16.  Ecumenical and Interfaith Partnership Notices 
  17.  Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
  18.  The Wider Community - World Food Day Resources
  19.  Outdoor Ministry - Mulhurst AGM
Current Prayers of the ABT Synod

 
Wednesday’s Word is now published the first and third week of each month. We are including the upcoming prayers covering the time-span between publications. The prayers which follow under the heading Prayers for Weekly Worship may also be found on the synod website. After clicking the website link provided below, scroll down the page and you will find prayers for each Sunday of the Church Year:

1. DIARY OF PUBLIC PRAYER and INTERCESSIONS  2021-2022

2.  Anglican-Lutheran-Cycle-of-Prayer 2021-2022

3.  September 2022 Update of 30 days of prayer for Rostered Ministers:   An updated alphabetical prayer list of ABT Rostered Ministers, as well as their partners/spouses. This is a two page document that requires legal-sized (8.5 x 14) paper for printing.
 
Prayers for Weekly Worship
 
OCTOBER 2, 2022: Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost – Lectionary 27
  • for Bishop Sidney Haugen of the Saskatchewan Synod, and for the synod staff, rostered ministers, and people of the Saskatchewan Synod
  • for Rev. Kevin Powell, Dean, and the Southwestern Area Leadership Team, rostered ministers, and people of the Southwestern Area
  • for all church volunteers in our congregations
  • for St John Lutheran of Golden Spike, Spruce Grove, and Nazareth Lutheran, Standard
  • for the students, faculty, and staff of Lutheran Theological Seminary, Saskatoon
  • for the bishop, pastors, and people of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of El Salvador
  • for the Right Rev. David Greenwood, Anglican Bishop of Athabasca, and the staff, priests, and people of the Anglican Diocese of Athabasca
  • for the ministers and people of the Evangelical Churches in Canada
OCTOBER 9, 2022: Thanksgiving/Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost – Lectionary 28
  • for Bishop Jason Zinko of the Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod, and for the synod staff, rostered ministers, and people of the MNO Synod
  • for Rev. Jeff Decelle, Dean, and the Southern Area Leadership Team, rostered ministers, and people of the Southern Area
  • for the pastors and chaplains of health care institutions, correctional institutions, and other specialized ministries
  • for Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Stony Plain
  • for the students, faculty, and staff of Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute, Outlook, Saskatchewan
  • for the bishops, pastors and people of the Lutheran Church of Cameroon, Africa
  • for the Right Rev. Stephen London, Anglican Bishop of Edmonton, and the staff, priests, and people of the Anglican Diocese of Edmonton
  • for the moderator, ministers, and people of the Presbyterian Church of Canada 
OCTOBER 16, 2022: Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost – Lectionary 29
  • for Bishop Michael Pryse of the Eastern Synod, and for the synod staff, rostered ministers, and people of the Eastern Synod
  • for all Area council members and [your congregation] council members
  • for our Synod Campus Ministries and especially for Rev. Richard Reimer, Chaplain of Lutheran Campus Ministry, University of Alberta and for Dana Rayment, Chaplain for NAIT and McEwan, Edmonton
  • for St Matthew's Lutheran, Thorsby, and Bethany Lutheran, Tilley
  • for the students, faculty, and staff of Martin Luther University College, Waterloo, Ontario
  • for our Companion Synod, The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia, its leaders, and people
  • for Right Rev. Bishop Sidney Black, Indigenous Bishop of Treaty 7 Territory; for the Most Rev. Greg Kerr-Wilson, Anglican Archbishop of Calgary, and the staff, priests, and people of the Anglican Diocese of Calgary
  • for the President, pastors, and people of the Lutheran Church-Canada


Invitations to Prayer:

1.  Prayer for those in difficult times:  Bishop Larry invites your continued prayers for Pastor AnnE Zimmerman and the congregation of Lakeland Lutheran (Cold Lake) after their building was damaged significantly by fire on July 2, 2022.  Perhaps the following might guide our prayer:

Our help comes from you, O Lord, you who made heaven and earth.  In our grief, you are our comfort.  In the face of uncertainty, you are our rock.  In the wake of tragedy, you are our hope.  So even as we weep, we praise you, and place our trust in you.  We pray in the name of the one who suffered and died and was raised for us, our Saviour, Jesus Christ.  Amen.  (ACS, p. 66)

O God, where hearts are fearful and constricted, grant courage and hope.  Where anxiety is infectious and widening, grant peace and reassurance.  Where impossibilities close every door and window, grant imagination and resistance.  Where distrust twists our thinking, grant healing and illumination.  Where spirits are daunted and weakened, grant soaring wings and strengthened dreams.  All these things we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord.  Amen.  (EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, p. 394)

2.  Prayer for those recovering from surgery and undergoing treatment:  Bishop Larry invites your continued prayers for Pastor Dave Friesen (Calvary, La Glace and St. John's of Northmark, Woking) who is recovering from significant surgery on July 15th.  Pastor Dave is undergoing another round of cancer treatments.  He is grateful for your continued prayers.  Perhaps the following might guide our prayer:

Almighty and merciful God, your compassions never fail and your mercies are new every morning.  We give you thanks for giving our brother Dave both relief from pain and hope of health renewed.  Continue in him the good work you have begun; that he, daily increasing in bodily strength and rejoicing in your goodness, may so order his life and conduct  that he may always think and do those things that please you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.  (EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, page 286)

Almighty God, source of all life and health, we give you thanks for wisdom, knowledge, and skill; for nurses, doctors, and all those who have brought the gifts of healing through the exercise of their vocations.  Continue to make Dave whole in body, mind and spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.  (EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, page 286)

3.  Prayer for those recently diagnosed:  Bishop Larry invites our prayers for Pastor George Friedrich (interim, Mount Zion, Edmonton), his wife Karen Goldstone and their daughter Gina, with Karen's recent diagnosis of the reoccurrence of pancreatic cancer.   Perhaps the following might guide our prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, by your cross and passion you redeemed the world.  To Karen and to all who face uncertainty and long-continued suffering grant patience, courage, and the constant assurance of your love.  Strengthen them every day and every hour, that having endured with you they may also live and reign with you, now and forever.  Amen. (adapted from EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, page 288)

O God, who in Jesus stills the storm and soothes the troubled heart, bring hope and courage to Karen, George, and Gina, as they wait in uncertainty.  Bring the assurance that you will be with them in whatever lies ahead.  Give them courage to endure all that they now face, for you are our refuge and strength.  You are God, and we need you.  We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord.  Amen.  (EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, page 287)

4.  Prayer for a time of conflict and crisis:  Bishop Larry invites our prayers for Ukraine and its people and churches during this continued time of conflict and war.  Perhaps the following might guide our prayer:

O God, it is your will to hold both heaven and earth in a single peace.  Let the design of your great love shine on the waste of our wraths and sorrows, and give peace to your church, peace among nations, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.  (EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, page 393)

Gracious God, grant peace among nations.  Cleanse from our own hearts the seeds of strife:  greed and envy, harsh misunderstandings and ill will, fear and desire for revenge.  Make us quick to welcome ventures in cooperation among the peoples of the world, so that there may be woven the fabric of a common good too strong to be torn by the evil hands of war.  In the time of opportunity, make us be diligent; and in the time of peril, let not our courage fail; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.  (EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, page 393)

Holy God, out of your great love for the world, your Word became flesh to live among us and to reconcile us to you and to one another.  Rekindle among us the gift of your Spirit so that we seek to live in unity with all people, breaking down the walls that divide, ending the hostility among us, and proclaiming peace to those who are near and to those who are far away; through Christ Jesus in whom we all have access in the one Spirit to you, both now and forever.  Amen. (ACS:  page 48)

5.  Prayer for those facing uncertain times:  Bishop Larry invites your prayers for Rev. Marty Tuer (retired, Calgary) and her spouse, Doug, as Doug undergoes further medical tests.  Perhaps the following might guide our prayer:

Lord Jesus, who went out from the garden to face the long last day ahead, be with your faithful servants, in this uncertain moment.  In the days that lie ahead, be their strength in times of weakness; be their consolation in times of sadness; be their rock in moments of despair.  In all that they face, assure them that your unfailing presence is always beside them, behind them, above them, and before them, both now and forever.  Amen.  (EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, page 289)

Merciful God, grant that the spirit of Jesus may dwell and reign in our hearts, that we may enjoy your peace and know the power of your Spirit, bearing witness with our lives that we are indeed your children; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.  (LBW:  Occasional Services, page 71)

Continuing in Prayer:  
A.  Prayer for Those Facing Illness: Bishop Larry invites your continued prayers and support for The Rev. Richard Reimer and Dana Rayment as Richard continues treatment for lung cancer.
Prayers for Richard and Dana, family and friends, and all caregivers are appreciated.

Merciful God, in the stillness of our souls we listen for your voice to know again that you are God. Quiet our restless hearts with the knowledge that you are near us, keeping watch over your own. Rekindle our faith and light the lamp of hope within our hearts. Then take us by the hand into each day that lies ahead, for where you lead we can confidently go with Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (EvLW: Pastoral Care, page 182)

Almighty and merciful God, you are the only source of health and healing; you alone can bring calmness and peace. Grant to our brother, Richard, and our sister, Dana, an awareness of your presence and a strong confidence in you. In Richard's pain, weariness, and anxiety, surround him with your care, protect him by your loving might, and grant to him once again the gifts of health and strength and peace; through Jesus Christ, our Saviour and Lord. Amen. (EvLW: Pastoral Care, page 171)

B.  Prayer for Those in Need: July 26 from Pastor Wallace Bornhuse -  We want to thank you all for your continued prayers as we work with Mieke's doctors to find a treatment option that helps control her epilepsy. Unfortunately, this past year we have hit another set back. But, we are hopeful that we can continue to find ways to help Mieke through this. As parents, some days are more exhausting and challenging than others. But, our love for Mieke, our faith in God, and your prayers and support keep us going.

Please keep Mieke in your prayers, along with her parents, Pastor Wallace (All Saints, Calgary) and Erin, and siblings Kenzie, Ezra and Phoebe in prayer as they walk with her.  Perhaps the following might guide our prayers:
 
God of love, ever caring, ever strong, stand with us in our time of need.  Watch over your child, Mieke, look after her in every danger, and grant her your healing and peace.  We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord. (Evangelical Lutheran Worship Pastoral Care: Occasional Services, Readings, and Prayers, p. 171)

God, our refuge and strength, our present help in time of trouble, care for those who tend the needs of Mieke, especially her parents, Wallace and Erin.  Strengthen them in body and spirit.  Refresh them when weary; console them when anxious; comfort them in grief; and hearten them in discouragement.  Be with us all, and give us peace at all times and in every way; through Christ our peace.  Amen.  (adapted from EvLW:  Occasional Services for the Assembly, p. 297)
 

If you have a Rostered Minister prayer request or celebration announcement you wish to share with the Synod, please contact the Synod office with your details.       (780-439-2636 / 866-430-2636)
ABT Synod News and Events

 

Correspondence from Bishop Larry



October monthly message for Congregations and Lay and Rostered Leaders 
 


        Synod Office Hours

 
              Regular office hours:
                                         Monday - Friday  9:00 am - 3:00 pm
   

                     Contact Information for Synod Staff:
            - Bishop Larry   lkochendorfer@elcic.ca
            - Assistant to the Bishop, Rev. Prema Samuel   psamuel@elcic.ca
            - Office administrator, Marla Berg   abtsynodoffice@elcic.ca
                                 - Synod bookkeeper, Sheryl Burry   abtfinance@elcic.ca
                                 - Communications Coordinator, Emma Berg     abtcommunications@elcic.ca

                                                For general inquiries please contact Synod office at:      

                                                                    abtsynodoffice@elcic.ca                        

                                                   or call 780-439-2636; toll-free at 1-866-430-2636.        


October 4- Synod Office staff - Dwelling in the Word, Prayer, and Eucharist
October 4 - West Central Rostered ZOOM
October 4 - East Central Cluster
October 4 - Lay Leaders Gathering - +Larry
October 5 - Synod Rostered Ministers ZOOM Gathering - +Larry & Rev. Prema
October 6 - Assembly Planning Committee - +Larry
October 11- Synod Executive Officers
October 11 - Northern Area Cluster
October 11 - West Central Area Rostered
October 11 - Synod Office staff - Dwelling in the Word, Prayer, and Eucharist
October 13 - SW Area Rostered Retreat
October 13 - Synod Connect - Rev. Prema
October 14 - Ponder Anew - Brooks - +Larry
October 15 - Ponder Anew - Calgary - +Larry
October 16 - Trinity, Lougheed - Rev. Prema
October 16 - Ponder Anew - Red Deer - +Larry
October 17 - Campus Ministry Educational Event, Red Deer - +Larry
October 18 - Study Conference Planning Team - +Larry
October 18 - ZOOM - West Central Rostered
October 18 - Synod Office staff - Dwelling in the Word, Prayer, and Eucharist
October 18 - Synod Council ZOOM
October 20 - IELCO Women - Rev. Prema
October 20 - South Area Cluster Zoom 
October 23 - Good Shepherd, Stony Plain - +Larry
October 25 -  West Central Area Rostered- ZOOM
October 25 -  Synod Office staff - Dwelling in the Word, Prayer, and Eucharist
October 26 - Conference of Bishops - +Larry
October 27 - 29 - Candidacy Committee - +Larry
October 27 - Northern Area Cluster 
October 30 - Synod-Wide Reformation Service
                          See the full calendar here.
 





Watch for a video of Synod Council highlights coming soon.


The planning team for November's Synod Youth Event met with Synod Council for lunch on Sunday at Mulhurst, took a tour of the camp (it will be the site of the youth event) and did some planning for the event.
Youth leaders and youth (grade 7 and up!) watch for registration to open this week.



10:00 am October 30, 2022
Synod-Wide Reformation Service
Theme:  The Church in God's World Today

Watch for:  a pre-recorded sermon from Bishop Atahualpa from our partner synod in Colombia (in Spanish with English subtitles);
an English translation of the Bishop Ata's sermon;
a bulletin;
pre-recorded preludes pieces by talented musicians from across the Synod.

Plan to attend from home, gathered as a congregation, or with friends.

The RSVP deadline for the Brooks/Calgary/Red Deer Ponder Anew: Strength for Today, Bright Hope for Tomorrow events is October 6, 2022. The deadline for Camrose/Edmonton/Grande Prairie event is October 27.  Please visit ponderanew.ca to register and learn more.

You are cordially invited to join Bishop Larry and guest speakers for an inspiring evening. Hear his vision for the future. Learn about the Synod’s various ministries. Discover ways you can support it.

Dinner will be free, with freewill offering… just bring yourself and your good spirits. All lay people and rostered leaders (current and retired!) are welcome.


Synod Financial Appeal 
  


"Thank you for your love and care for us!"
                                                                      Pastor AnnE on behalf of Lakeland Lutheran
Installation of Rev. Dave Melax - October 2, 2022


Rostered leaders joined Ascension Lutheran and Lord and Life Lutheran on October 2, 2022, at Ascension, for the installation of Rev. Dave Melax as pastor of the new ministry partnership between the two Edmonton congregations.
May God richly bless Pastor Dave and this new partnership.
 
 


 

Date Presenter Topic To Register
Sept. 8 Rev. George Koopmans & Rev. Margaret Propp Voices from Campus Ministry  
Watch it here
Oct. 13 Deacon Sherry Coman Lutherans Connect https://form.jotform.com/222404659575260
Nov. 10 Padre Mick MacIntyre Military Chaplaincy https://form.jotform.com/222405205731242

 
Please consider joining, mark your calendar, and watch for updates in upcoming issues of Wednesday’s Word and on the Synod website.  Registration will close at 10:00 AM that morning.  A zoom link will be forwarded to all registrants the morning of the presentation.


Lutheran Care Ministry

Thank you for your support of our initiative to start Lutheran Care Ministry in August,2022. Our first gathering was held on September 10,2022, at Stanley Park, Calgary.   We have connected with 35 new students from Hong Kong who are attending the University of Calgary, most of them in Canada for the very first time.  We are planning to connect with new students at Mount Royal University in the coming weeks with the help of Rev. Margaret Propp who is also the Lutheran Chaplain there.

The next monthly gathering is scheduled to be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, when we have a Thanksgiving Celebration at Hope Lutheran Church.  We have invited Rev. Kevin Powell to share with us the History of Thanksgiving in Canada and invite members of the  Lutheran Congregations to share with us in a traditional Canadian thanksgiving supper.  We hope the students will enjoy learning about  Canadian culture and traditions.

We have held a sharing session at Hope Lutheran on September 17, 2022, and have arranged for a gym night at First Lutheran twice a month for basketball games and badminton.

Again, thank you, and please continue to remember us in your prayers.

Rev. Peter Chau

----------

Lutheran Care Ministry is a partnership of the Synod of Alberta and the Territories, Rev. Peter Chau (retired, Calgary), several congregations and the leadership of the Southwestern Area, and Campus Ministry - UofC.  It is newly formed in response to an ever-increasing number of international immigrant families, many fleeing uncertain situations, and with little preparation or support.  This includes a large influx of students attending universities and other post-secondary institutions in Calgary. The mandate is to exemplify our care, compassion, and love for those we encounter in our daily activities and in our community.

In addition to orientation and welcome programs, academic and personal counseling offered by the institutions, this ministry will provide:
  • Workshops on Canadian culture and values, study skills and strategies, housing, accessing  health care, taxes and tax benefits and stress management. 
  • Discussion sessions led by precedent students (mostly from Hong Kong) to share their  experiences and success stories.
  • Social networking sessions for faith communities and social services agencies in Calgary. 


You can visit the website at  elciccareministry.com; this ministry is welcoming volunteers and donations as it begins ministry with and among those arriving from Hong Kong.





Parsonage People: The Family Story of Rudy and Emma Busch
. This 150-page book, with photos, by Marcus Busch, tells the story of Pastor Rudy and Emma Busch, a story that spans three centuries, six countries on three continents, revealing a family that is similar to others, yet utterly distinct. Pastor and Mrs. Busch served congregations in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia between 1948 and 1987. The Synod office has a copy for loan or a copy can be obtained from the author (m.busch@telus.net).
Missional Formation

Did you know that Chorale Colibri was an experiment funded through a Synod Mission Initiatives grant?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRyHtuK8FJk

The multigenerational choir, directed by Dr. Joy Berg, experimented with using worship music from diverse cultures to enter into relationship with neighbours from around the world.  

"We have learned many sounds of other languages, many different musical sounds, and have learned how beautiful the music is that is created by other thoughts and experiences in other parts of the world."
                                                             Dr. Joy Berg

Does your congregation or ministry have a project, idea, or experiment that builds relationships, engages neighbours in your local or wider community, or explores new ways of engaging in mission?  Funding from the ELCIC Extension and Capital Fund is available for large or small projects.  The Synod's Mission Formation Team can work with you to develop your experiment.  Please contact the Synod office for more details.  

Invitation  for  Funding  Applications

Lutheran Triune  

The  Lutheran  Triune  Educational and  Benevolent  Society  of  Calgary  (LTE&BSC) invites  applications  for  funding  grants  from  qualified  applicants.  LTE&BSC  is  a non-profit  charitable  organization.  Its  objective  is  to  support  the  mission  of  the Church  through  the  work  of  the  Synod  of  Alberta  and  the  Territories  and  the ELCIC,  their institutions  and  agencies,  by  funding  projects  and  activities  of  a charitable  or educational nature  not  covered  by  operating budgets. Grants  are  awarded  on  an  annual basis  to  qualified  applicants.  The  deadline  for applications  is  October  15  each  year,  and  applications  should  be  submitted  to   the  Synod  Office  of Alberta  and  the  Territories  (ELCIC):  10014  –  81  Ave.  Edmonton, Alberta  T6E  1W8,  Phone: 780 439-2636,  Email:  abtsynodoffice@elcic.ca. Application  forms  can  be  obtained  from  Synod  office  or are  available  on  the  Synod  website under  Our  Resources:  Funding Support.  All  requests  must  be  submitted  on  this  form. For  those  wishing  to  assist in  the furtherance  of  the above  objectives,  the  Society also  accepts  charitable  donations  which  can  be  sent  to  the  Synod  office  at  the above  address.  Upon  request,  charitable  donation  receipts  will  be  issued  for  income tax purposes.


 


Area-Led Worship

Please be reminded that each final Sunday of the month beginning May 29, 2022, and continuing for the next year, the Areas of our Synod will be taking turns to provide worship which can be shared at home or together in your own congregation.

This gift to the congregations of the Synod is provided to allow for rest and regeneration of Lay and Rostered Leaders, and for those who faithfully plan worship each Sunday, so that they might take one Sunday each month to be a participant in worship with others from across the Synod.

These services will be either live-streamed or pre-recorded.  Information regarding how to access the service and other materials such as bulletins, will be shared (as soon as it is available) through Wednesday's Word or a special e-bulletin.

Here is the anticipated schedule for the remainder of the year:
       
30-Oct-22 Synod-wide Service Reformation Service Synod Worship & Arts Ministry Team
27-Nov-22 West Central Area    
25-Dec-22 Northern Area Christmas Day Service Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Edmonton
29-Jan-23 East Central Area    
26-Feb-23 Southern Area    
26-Mar-23 South Western Area    
16-Apr-23 Synod-led Service    
 


If you have questions about supporting the mission of your congregation or other charitable programs and services don't hesitate to connect with Kathryn Smith, Giving Advisor, at ksmith@elfec.ca or by calling 1-888-308-9461.  ELFEC is here to help.                                                                         

Kathryn Smith, Giving Advisor, ELFEC


GSI is excited to announce that we have engaged HumanaCare as our new provider for the Member and Family Assistance Plan (MFAP). HumanaCare provides confidential support and counselling. Visit GSI’s wellness page for information about these important services.

Access HumanCare services by setting up your account online or get the app on your mobile phone. The Portal offers easy access to health and wellness articles and videos, self-help links and assessments. It also provides immediate online access to the intake team.



 

                                                                                             news@elcicgsi.ca                                                                                  



These gatherings are for anyone in a leadership role (examples might be: on council, synod council, boards or committees, leadership teams, camp boards or in community leadership); all are invited to join.
Don't miss the next Lay Leaders' Gatherings - October 4 and November 1.
Register here.


     
ABT Congregations Actively Seeking Pastors 
 
Bawlf, Bawlf Lutheran Parish: Bawlf, Skudesness, Zion                          
   Calgary, Emmanuel Lutheran                         
Camrose, Messiah Lutheran                    
Edmonton, Mount Zion Lutheran                     
Edmonton, Our Savior Lutheran                    
Hanna, Redeemer Lutheran                     
   Hinton, Grace Lutheran                         
Lac la Biche, Lord of Glory Lutheran                         
     Leduc, Grace Lutheran(Gnadenthal)                              

Spruce Grove, St. Matthew's Lutheran
   Thorsby, St. Matthews Evangelical Lutheran
 
The Larger ABT Synod Community
LTS Gathering: October 21-23
The seminary will host two public events on the October 21-23 weekend.
On Friday night, October 21st, Rev. Munye Mtata (LTS, 2018) will give a public lecture, “Learning from African Christianity,” addressing lessons from African Christianity to help foster awareness of racism, prejudice and the realities of minorities in the Church in Canada.
This event will be held at Resurrection Lutheran Church, in Saskatoon, from 7-8.30pm.

For those unable to attend but would like to see Munye’s presentation, please follow the Zoom Link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83345223816?pwd=OVE1NjI1V1RyRDYzZUEyNkY3TDE5UT09
Meeting ID: 833 4522 3816
Passcode: 473856
And on Sunday morning, October 23rd, Western Canadian indigenous artist Ray Keighley will give a public presentation as the seminary unveils his painting Tukwaka-Pisim / Autumn Moon (2019). Ray will discuss the painting and his career as an artist.
This event will be held in the Lutheran Theological Seminary Common Room, at St. Andrew’s College, from 10-11am.
 
All are welcome to attend, but we ask that you RSVP to development.lts@saskatoontheologicalunion.ca as space will be limited at both events.
Educational Opportunities




Connect with people who long for a spiritual renewal during Advent by joining an online group for one hour each week.  Spend the hour held by the ancient texts from scripture that challenge and comfort our spirit.  Share stories.  Make time for prayer.
Explore this opportunity provided here.


 

 





            
Click the link below for all the details (including a course breakdown) and a chance to sign-up.
You’re going to love this one!
Click HERE


Understanding, Exploring, & Managing Bias and Burnout
Faith+Lead offers a self-guided 4-session course via webcast deals with how burnout affects our management of built-in biases and default responses.  Find information and register here.



 
For Further Thought


Congregational Exhaustion

Peggy Hahn, Executive Director of LEAD, asks, "What does anti-depression or anti-anxiety medication look like for a community of people who follow Jesus?"  Read her thoughts here.



Companionship in Grief
How we can bring grace to a bereaved person:  Susie Colby shares her heartfelt thoughts about the journey of bereavement after her husband's recent death from cancer.  Read the article here.
 



In Survival of the Friendliest, Cameron Trimble compares a society based on aggression and dominance versus one built on cooperation and mutuality.  Read the blog here.
 




Read the blog from Rev. Cameron Trimble here.
 

Synod Ministry Teams
Affirming Diversity

After 3 years and more than 2000 participants, we are pleased to announce that The Resiliency Project is hosting the free three-part webinar series on Understanding Hate and Extremism one last time! This series will support participants in understanding the context of hate and extremism in Alberta, as well as the resources available to support people affected by these issues.
 
The series will run on October 13, 20, and 27 (Thursdays) from 3:30pm to 5:00pm (Mountain Time) on.
 
You have previously registered for or attended this webinar. If you found it valuable, we greatly appreciate your help in sharing this information with your networks.
 
The Resiliency Project is a collaboration between partners, including the City of Edmonton, Edmonton Police Service, and the Organization for the Prevention of Violence. Funded through Public Safety Canada, the aim of this project is to work with the public to prevent and counter violent extremism through awareness, education, and research.
 
To obtain a holistic awareness of the topics discussed, participants are encouraged to attend all three webinars. Those who attend all three sessions will receive a certificate confirming their participation.  
 
Any questions regarding the webinar can be directed to me.  Thank you very much!
 
Correne Refsahl-Jensen
Project Manager of the Resiliency Project
REACH Edmonton Council for Safe Communities
C| 780-266-4824
correne.refsahl-jensen@reachedmonton.ca
www.reachedmonton.ca
 






The United Church of Canada invites you participate in the 40 Days of Engagement on Anti-Racism. This year's time of learning and exploration features brand new content for 2022 and it all starts on October 11. Content includes daily stories, study groups, live events, and book of the week. For more information and to access resources, please click here.
 





 

CARe Ministry Team
Congregational Action and Response for Mental Health Ministry Team

Register here.
 

Why is it Important for Churches to Talk about Mental Health?
COVID-19 AND THE CHURCH

Why is it important for churches to talk about mental health and the pandemic? In this three-minute film, three of Sanctuary’s friends and church leaders with mental health expertise highlight the need for the Church to be involved in the conversation about mental health. They also share a few ideas for where to begin. We encourage you to share the film with your friends, family, and faith community. Watch the 3-minute video here.
 

The Sanctuary Course

After sixteen months of hard work (and three years of dreaming!), we can’t believe the revised version of The Sanctuary Course is now revised with all new films and a study guide!
 
The Sanctuary Course is an 8 week study guide for small groups or anyone who wants to learn about faith and mental health. It requires no previous training or expertise—just a willingness to engage in dialogue with other believers.

Each topic is explored from a psychological, social, and theological perspective. Additionally, each session is accompanied by a compelling film featuring the story of an individual who has journeyed through mental health challenges as a person of faith.

To learn more, please click here.
Care of Creation Ministry Team


 



Joanna Macy: Climate Crisis as a Spiritual Path
This 20-minute interview with Joanna Macy explores the question: “How are we going to live our lives fully, with inner peace and courage (and even joy) as we confront a world that is destroying itself?” Watch the full interview here.
 


For the Love of Creation - Faithful Climate Conversation




For the Love of Creation developed Faithful Climate Conversations -a series of guides to facilitate small group conversations on climate change. This series includes three guides which helps encourage dialogues with those who have rarely talked about climate change; those who may have a basic understanding of climate change; and for those who may have been involved in climate action at some level. To access this resource, please click here. 
 

Be sure to check out the many resources including articles, books, and learning events listed on our website under Our Ministries:  Care of Creation. 
Eco Theology Resources Update:  April 2022

Global Mission Ministry Team

 

Learning Ministry Team

       
Synod Campus Ministry Team

                        

Worship and the Arts Ministry Team



The Synod Worship & Arts Ministry Team invites you to join an in-depth planning workshop focusing on Epiphanytide--a season of miracles, prophecy, and the revelation of God’s Word to the world! This two hour online event will take place via ZOOM on Sunday, November 6th, 2-4 pm.  This virtual planning session is open to all, with an emphasis toward lay leadership teams and rostered leaders involved in seasonal worship planning.

Together, we will…

                         -Examine seasonal themes and their incorporation into our music, worship, and visual arts
                         -Explore “Walking Wet”: Enriching your congregation’s seasonal experience via daily practices
                         -Introduce resources for alternative worship formats
                         -Share in success stories (and cautionary tales) of seasons past


Be sure to save the date, and watch future mailings and the Synod website for further information including a registration link.
 



ELCIC Copyright Information
Find information on how and why copyright law applies to churches, and when and how to apply for permission to use copyrighted resources.  Read the document here.
 







Join Paul Vasile online September 21, 2022 for an Advent Worship Planning Workshop.  Find details and register here.

 



"Where 2 or 3 Are Gathered" 
These Worship resources - particularly for smaller congregations, who may or may not have full time clergy to preside, or assist with worship preparation - are provided on the ELCIC website, under the tab Our Work/Worship/Worship Planning (see link), compiled by members of the National Worship Committee. 

http://www.worship.ca/worship-planning-calendar/


You are warm
Youth Ministry Team




INVITATION FOR FUNDING APPLICATIONS 

 
The Luther League Legacy Fund (LLLF) develops leaders for the church and for the world by providing grants and bursaries to enable young people to participate in leadership training and development activities. Funds may be disbursed for:
  • Bursaries to individuals to enable them to attend leadership development or training events which are related to their life in the church;
  • Grants to projects of training and development activities and events.
Applications are reviewed by, and disbursement decisions made by the ELCIC Program Committee for Youth Ministry. Funds are not necessarily dispensed each year. The upcoming application deadline is on October 1 (and the next one on March 1). For more information and to complete your application form, please click here.
 
 

CLAY 2023 | THE WAIT IS OVER.

We are so beyond excited to announce the dates and location for CLAY 2023 so that you and your local group can start planning!

 

CLAY SUMMER RESOURCE
A resource for all youth groups containing suggested scripture readings, devotions, activities, music, and more, to help youth leaders plan and carry out an event for their group that builds community and excitement as you explore the gathering theme:  Ashes and Embers

Resource available here now!
 
COVID-19 Resources



Innovating Into an Unknown Future
Susan Beaumont (Congregational Consulting Group) talks about planning to thrive after the chaos of liminal times.  Read her article here.


Facts:  The Only Cure for Epidemic of Vaccine Misinformation
Top Alberta Medical Professionals debunk vaccine misinformation by countering with facts.
Read the article and attached information here.

National Office of the ELCIC
                         


Website:  Canadian Lutheran History
 
ELCIC Praise Appeal

The ELCIC Praise Appeal  highlights the different aspects of the ministry of the wider church. This year's focus is on the National Church's work in the area of Compassionate Justice. Congregations are invited to designate one Sunday during the year at a time that works best within their own context. The 2022 resources which include prayer, hymn suggestions, sermon, etc. are available when you click here.


    

For the last two years, we have been sharing our National Bishop Susan Johnson's vision for a four-year emphasis on Living our Faith - as together we pray, read, worship and love (www.elcic.ca/LivingOurFaith).

As we enter into the third year, we begin our focus on worship with a goal to deepen our experience in worship when the community gathers (either together in person or online) and to deepen our individual practice of daily devotion.

Here is a highlight from an ELCIC member with suggestions and thoughts on becoming more engaged in a daily devotional practice and/or worship. 


Do you have a special way that you engage in a daily devotion or worship practice?  We want to hear from you!  Email us at info@elcic.ca
The Lutheran World Federation
                                                          
 

Read LWF's weekly newsletter here.


"Peace, land and dignity for all” 
A water committee water committee encouraging their community on better clean water standards in Arauca. LWF has been working with some of the most disadvantaged and remote communities. Photo: LWF Colombia 
A water committee water committee encouraging their community on better clean water standards in Arauca. LWF has been working with some of the most disadvantaged and remote communities. Photo: LWF Colombia 

(LWI) - “A marvelous job: Close to the most affected people and communities, seeking to empower them and amplify their voices.” - These words of appreciation from Claudia Rodriguez Burrell, OCHA Representative in Colombia are among many messages of appreciation for the two decades of LWF’s work in Colombia. This year, the LWF Colombia program celebrates its 20th anniversary. It is no coincidence that the program chose to mark this milestone on World Peace Day.  

“For two decades we have been accompanying some of the regions in Colombia most affected by armed conflict and inequality”, said Adriana Franco Chitanana, the LWF Representative for Colombia and Venezuela.“ Our commitment to peace focuses on respecting and working with the communities with the highest rates of poverty in the country and those most affected by the internal conflict, reaching the most remote places directly, building trust to work hand in hand with local partner organizations.” 

When LWF World Service started working in Colombia, the armed conflict was going into its fourth decade. In 2002, at the request of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia LWF started supporting conflict-affected communities, initially from the Central American program.  

When the human rights situation deteriorated further in 2006, LWF Colombia was registered as a country program, and started working in the departments of Arauca and Choco supporting rural, Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities. Until today, the regions are contested territory between armed groups, prone to natural disaster, and also used as drug and human trafficking routes.

Facilitating peace and reconciliation 

The department of Choco became known in 2002, when an explosive thrown by the FARC (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia, the main militia group in the armed conflict) exploded inside the village church of Bojayá. The bomb killed 119 people, and wounded 89 who had been seeking shelter inside the building. The explosion also blew away the arms and the legs of the crucifix. The “Christ of Bojayá” became emblematic of the populations’ suffering due to the armed conflict.  

LWF supported the community of Bojayá when the massacre was brought to court in 2015. During the same year, members of FARC went to the community asking the people of Bojayá for forgiveness. The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia (IELCO), an LWF member church, and the LWF World Service have supported the peace process and the importance of civil society participation leading up to the peace agreement in 2016, and since its implementation thereafter. 

The “Christ of Bojayá.” During an audience at the Vatican on 7 December 2017, a delegation from the LWF presented Pope Francis with a replica of the statue, as a symbol of reconciliation. Photo: LWF/S. Gallay

 

LWF worked with the communities in defending their rights and livelihoods, holding authorities accountable, and becoming resilient and autonomous. As part of working towards a peace which is just and fair for the most vulnerable, the rural population receives training on human rights, land rights and international law. In 2014, LWF became registered for mine-risk education

LWF supports vulnerable communities in getting their land restored to them, so that they can rebuild their lives and their livelihoods. At the same time, LWF has been advocating on national and international level for a lasting peace in Colombia, and contributed to the Human Rights Review of the Country by the UN Human Rights Council. 

New challenges: COVID-19 and Venezuela 

Over the years, the LWF has touched the lives of many communities in the departments in Boyacá, Cundinamarca, La Guajira, Putumayo, Santander, Valle del Cauca, Arauca, Casanare, Chocó, Guaviare and Meta. Some of the communities were only accessible by boat – LWF Colombia was the first LWF country program which had its own boat as a means of transportation.

Some communities could only be visited by boat. Photo: LWF Colombia 

Recent years have brought a new set of challenges: Natural disaster and the COVID-19 pandemic made it necessary to strengthen community protection mechanisms, and to enhance the regional autonomy of different social, youth, indigenous, peasant and women's organizations. Throughout this period, accompanying the Venezuelan migrant population opened work as a bi-national program in order to support communities in the complex situation of Venezuela.  

“We celebrate two decades of this valuable work that would not be possible without the resilience, the struggle for permanence and the defense of the territory undertaken by local communities and organizations. Their knowledge, their own wisdom, organizational processes and leadership drive us to continue defending human rights and working with and for the populations affected by crises to achieve justice, peace and dignity in Colombia and Venezuela,” the LWF Representative concluded. 

 

LWF’s work in Colombia has been supported by many partners over the past two decades, including the ACT Alliance, the German National Committee, FELM, Church of Sweden, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, and many local organizations. 

LWF will commemorate its 20 year anniversary on 21 September, 4.30 pm Colombian time (GMT –5). Part of the event will be live streamed on the LWF Colombia facebook page.



Introducing the LWF Assembly Theme 

The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) has published a booklet introducing the Thirteenth Assembly and its Theme: “One Body, One Spirit, One Hope.” Discussion questions are provided to help small groups and councils engage with the theme. The Assembly will gather Sept. 13-19, 2023, in Krakow, Poland. You can download the brochure here:
https://www.lutheranworld.org/content/resource-one-body-one-spirit-one-hope
 

                                         

Exploring diverse expressions and spirituality of Lutherans today

On the first Wednesday of each month, you are invited to participate in "Being Lutheran", an online gathering for people across the global Lutheran communion. This is an opportunity to connect with Lutheran sisters and brothers and engage in the LWF study process on contemporary Lutheran identities.

In this series, we will explore themes that emerged from a 2019 consultation in Addis Ababa, and explore the creative, vibrant, life-giving diversity of what it means to be Lutheran today. Each month will begin with a moment of prayer and spiritual reflection. We will welcome a speaker to present a topic, then break out for small group reflection and communion building.

Check for more information or registration details here

Ecumenical and Interfaith Partnership Notices


For information, email Robin at wildchurchcalgary@gmail.com





For more information and to register, visit  www.bibleremixed.ca


Applications open for Spiritual Direction Training Program

The Studion School for Spiritual Direction offers a two-year program that combines teaching on topics relevant to the practice of spiritual direction with significant time spent in guided retreat and spiritual formation. The program is administered through The King's University in Edmonton and gatherings are held at Star of the North Retreat Centre in St. Albert. The next cohort is set to begin in January 2023. Please visit the thestudionschool.com for program details and to apply online.




 
Register at 780-701-1852  www.providencerenewal.ca

Fall Retreat: Prayer and Thanksgiving in the Tradition of St. Teresa of Ávila
This retreat will focus on excerpts from the works of St. Teresa of Ávila that communicate her spirit of thanksgiving and friendship with God through prayer and how this can be an example for our prayer. The retreat will begin with St. Teresa’s conviction that “God alone suffices” and end with her call to seek friendship with God in Christ in private and communal (liturgical) prayer. We will also take prayerful time to discern God’s presence in the ordinary events of our lives and to give thanks to God, especially in light of the week that follows Canadian Thanksgiving.
Friday, October 14 (7 pm) to Sunday, October 16 (12:00 noon)
Single: $240        Commute: $190                Register by October 5 by clicking this link:
https://providencerenewal.ca/tc-events/fall-retreat-prayer-and-thanksgiving-in-the-tradition-of-st-teresa-of-avila-event14385/

Holy Listening: Exploring Spiritual Direction
How does it feel to be listened to? What does it mean to listen with the ears of the heart? Learn about the art of holy listening and the ministry of spiritual direction–a relationship which encourages listening for the direction of the spirit in one’s life. Curious? Join us for an evening of exploration and informal discussion.
Tuesday, October 25 (7:00 - 8:30 pm)
FREE.     Register by clicking this link:
https://providencerenewal.ca/tc-events/holy-listening-exploring-spiritual-direction-free-event-14979/



Register at 780-701-1852  www.providencerenewal.ca

                     World Council of Churches (WCC) Updates                                   

       In God's Hands: The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle 

  At the very heart of the ecumenical movement is the reality of prayer.       
  Jesus prayed that we may all be one, united in God in the mystery of the
  Trinity. That is the basis and the goal of our search for unity.

  The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle enables us to journey in prayer
  through every region of the world and through every week of the year affirming our solidarity with Christians all over the world, brothers and sisters living in diverse     
situations, experiencing diverse problems and sharing diverse gifts. Lord, hear our prayer...

October 2 - 8 we pray for Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela
October 9 - 15 we pray for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Panama
October 16 - 22 we pray for Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico
Job Opportunities
The Wider Community



World Food Day is observed across the globe on October 16th each year. Join us in prayer and taking action against global hunger. CLWR and Canadian Foodgrains Bank have new resources available for your congregation to use in marking this day, including a prayer and prayer petitions, a bulletin insert and announcement and activities for children and youth.
Resources are available here.



Together with the Humanitarian Coalition/ Coalition Humanitaire, CLWR is appealing for donations to respond to a historic hunger crisis. As a record 50 million people are on the brink of starvation, the Government of Canada is matching donations from Canadians to provide emergency assistance.

Your gift today will be doubled to provide life-saving aid in countries like Somalia, Ethiopia and South Sudan which are facing years of drought, climate shocks and supply disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine.

Please give generously! clwr.org/hungercrisis

#TogetherAgainstHunger
#FightHungerTogether

Help spread the word.  The following resources are available for the use of congregations in responding to this crisis:

Click here to preview and download these resources .
 
Outdoor Ministry




Check out the camp website.
 
Hastings Lake Bible Camp
135-51268 Range Road 204
Sherwood Park, AB T8G1E9
Canada
 
 

                         
        

THANKSGIVING AT THE LAKE - October 14-16

FALL WORK WEEK (volunteers needed!) - October 11-14

Camp is beautiful in the fall! Volunteer for a free weekend of helping around camp.

Service weekends are a great opportunity to work and play together. All ages are welcome; there is something for everyone to do to help out. Tools and equipment are provided, although you may choose to bring your own. When not working, there will be games, worship, campfires, and time to hang out with new friends. You provide the labor, we provide the food, accommodations, activities, worship, and jobs that need to be done.

THANKSgiving Dinner and Volunteer Celebration - October 16

3pm Worship service, 4:30pm Dinner

Can’t come for the weekend? Join us for dinner!

In particular, we’d like to invite any volunteers from the past year for a special celebration and thank-you. Volunteers have an important role to play, as Kuriakos is built on people!

Interested in volunteering at camp? We have a need for all skills! On board or staff committees, construction projects, painting, cooking, planning. Please visit kuriakos.ab.ca/support/volunteer for opportunities.

 

Re-connect with the latest news in the e-newsletter here.
For information, check out the website.
Thank you for your continued support. 
Please let us know if we can offer other resources for your community.

Paul Kopjar
Assistant Director


         

 


Click here to register.

 

If you have not yet been introduced to Mulhurst Camp, we are a community located on the north shore of Pigeon Lake near Edmonton. Mulhurst Camp abides by its Lutheran roots, providing an environment that fosters love, service and grace for all who come here. We believe in the power of fellowship and a strong community. Mulhurst Camp is a place for all. More information on our camp’s mission can be found at https://www.mulhurstcamp.ca/ 

We very much appreciate your support for Mulhurst Camp and the faith development of our young people. Thank you for your ongoing support of and prayers for summer camp ministries.
Connect with Mulhurst:  mulhurstcamp.ca

Contact us at: 780.439.2636 / 866.430.2636 / abtsynodoffice@elcic.ca 






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Synod of Alberta and the Territories of the ELCIC · 10014-81 Avenue NW · Edmonton, Ab T6E 1W8 · Canada

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