It’s been a long hot summer for many of us especially in the West. Wildfires have flared from east to west to north. One cannot help but wonder what is going on. Is it the end?
Well, maybe. But Jesus’ response to some news reports in his day give us a clue as to how to interpret news and current events in our own time.
Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? 3 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4 Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” Luke 13:1-5
The point is that such reports are not a call to us to pass judgement on others but rather to take a good look at ourselves and our own spiritual condition. Do you think that those people in the Northwest Territories or British Columbia are worse sinners than all other Canadians because they suffered this way? Or how about those people in Southern California where they not only had a tropical storm and subsequent flooding AND an earthquake. Jesus would say, “I tell you no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”
Be strong in the Lord!
Pastor Jim
Anglicans and Lutherans
Co-host a Bible Study in
Cambridge, Ontario
CALC and the Anglican Network in Canada (ANIC) are co-hosting a weekly Bible Study in Cambridge, Ontario. The study will be led by Pastor Zena of ANIC. The group will meet weekly beginning Wednesday September 13, 2023. Come and join the study on the 13th and take part in charting the course for the group for the 2023-24 study session. The group will select the book of the Bible they will study. If you can't be there - tell a friend you may know in the Cambridge area.
1:30 -3:30 PM
Wednesday
September 13, 2023
Location
Langs Village Community Health Centre
1145 Concession Road
Cambridge, ON N3H 4L5
GOAL: BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH THE WORD OF GOD
INSTITUTE of LUTHERAN THEOLOGY
NEWS & EVENTS
Reflections on Matthew 16:21-28
21 From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.
22 Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!”
23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”
24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life[f] will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. 26 What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 27 For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.
28 “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”
For this impassioned outburst, you could say that Peter earns himself the title of “Peter the Rebuked.” Jesus has just delivered to his disciples a prediction of his passion, i.e., the necessity of the cross. Peter, fully aware of the shame, dishonor, and death associated with that end denies the cross’ reality in Jesus’ future. For this denial, Jesus rebukes him, “Get thee behind me, Satan!” (vs. 23). Peter receives this rebuke for openly expressing himself as a theologian of glory. Jesus goes on to set forth the distinction between a theologian of glory and a theologian of the cross. The glory theologian (as Peter has just revealed himself to be) sets his mind on the things of men. A theologian of the cross, in contrast, sets his mind on the things of God—in this case, the cross. After making this distinction, Jesus speaks further about someone whose mind is set on the things of God. Such a theologian has his mind set on bearing the cross of God’s will, not his own… his mind set on losing that which constitutes his life—that is, the things of this world. Jesus will be his life. A theologian of the cross has her mind set on receiving her soul from Jesus Christ and not achieving it through her works in this world. Theologians of glory receive a rebuke while theologians of the cross receive Jesus Christ as their life.
Prayers from one worthy… or so very worthy… of rebuke from his Lord…
Heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ suffered the passion of your will worked upon him. Grant me to suffer the passion of your will worked upon me that I would know Christ and his salvation. Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayer.
Heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ suffered the passion of your will worked upon him. As I come to know Christ and his salvation, grant me, too, the confession of Jesus as your Son, the Son of the Living God. Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayer.
Heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ suffered the passion of your will worked upon him. In my confession of Christ as the Son of the Living God, grant me, as well, the confession of Christ as one who was crucified, died, and was buried. Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayer.
Heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ suffered the passion of your will worked upon him. As I confess the cross of Christ, grant me to confess that on the third day, he arose from the dead. Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayer.
Heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ suffered the passion of your will worked upon him. As I come to confess my Lord as both crucified and risen, grant me to live under him in his kingdom and serve him in everlasting righteousness and blessedness. Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayer.
Heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ suffered the passion of your will worked upon him. Grant that, as I suffer the passion of your will worked upon me, the Institute of Lutheran Theology also suffers the passion of your will to be worked upon it. Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayer.
Heavenly Father, your Son Jesus Christ suffered the passion of your will worked upon him. Grant that your will be worked upon me all the days of my baptism so that my days of waiting for your Son to come in his glory are filled with the passion of you having your way with me. Lord, in your mercy, hear my prayer.
Pictured from left to right: Abdul Messiah, Hailey Halmstad, David Knefelkamp, Corey J. Smith, Sharon (Chere) Ridel and Marc Lapointe.
2023 Graduation Ceremony Highlights
We are delighted to share with you the highlights of the Institute of Lutheran Theology’s 2023 Graduation Service, held on June 15th in Brookings, SD. This memorable event brought together our esteemed graduates, their families, board members, faculty, staff, and other distinguished guests to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and spiritual growth.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the six outstanding individuals who received their well-deserved degrees during the graduation service:
Hailey Halmstad - Master of Divinity
David Knefelkamp - Master of Sacred Theology
Abdul Messiah - Master of Arts
Sharon (Chere) Riedel - Master of Divinity
Marc Lapointe - Doctor of Ministry
Corey Jay Smith - Doctor of Ministry
These graduates have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their studies and have exhibited profound understanding of Lutheran theology. As they embark on their respective paths, we pray that God’s blessings accompany them and guide them as they share the word of God with the world.
The Graduation Service was graced by two remarkable speakers who shared their wisdom and insights with the ILT community. Dr. Dennis Bielfeldt, our esteemed President, delivered the Commencement Address, inspiring the graduates and attendees with his thought-provoking words. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and dedication to the Institute.
Furthermore, we were honored to welcome Teresa Peters, an ILT alumna, who delivered the Alumni Representative Address. Teresa’s presence and uplifting message reminded us of the lifelong impact of an ILT education and the importance of fostering a strong community of support and mentorship.
The event was not only a celebration of our graduates’ achievements but also a testament to the unity and solidarity within the ILT community. Attendees from far and wide gathered to be part of this special occasion, many of whom had also participated in the week-long campus events preceding the graduation service. The Christ School of Theology’s 2023 Theologian in Residence Conference and the alumni picnic were both enriching experiences that further fostered a spirit of intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and camaraderie.
Following the graduation service, a joyful banquet and celebration took place, providing an opportunity for everyone to mingle, reminisce, and extend their congratulations to the graduates. It was heartening to witness the genuine connections and bonds formed within our community.
Once again, we congratulate our graduates for their remarkable accomplishments. They have exemplified the values and principles that define the Institute of Lutheran Theology, and we have no doubt that they will continue to make a significant impact in their ministries and vocations.
May God bless each graduate abundantly as they embark on their unique journeys, equipped with the knowledge, faith, and compassion they acquired during their time at ILT.
Congratulations, Graduates!
Reverend Marc Lapointe, DMin, is rostered with CALC. He most recently served St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, Kamloops, BC. Congratulations Rev. Lapointe on achieving this great milestone.
Back to School at ILT
Classes resumed at ILT on Monday, August 21. This is the beginning of ILT’s 13th fall semester. Much has changed for ILT students and faculty over the last 13 years. The inclusion of additional and expanded programs gives students many more options when it comes to completing their educational goals. Students now can complete undergraduate degrees as well as seminary and post graduate programs.
While registration is not closed and the head count number may still change some, here is what we can say about the student body at the end of the first week of classes.
Christ School of Theology
The Christ School of Theology is ILT’s Seminary and Graduate School. This semester there are 94 students taking courses at the Christ School of Theology. Thirty-two (32) are students who are working toward a ministry degree or certification. These students are working in congregational ministry or chaplaincy. Some are Master of Divinity students, some are taking the set of Lutheran classes, and some are going to serve in military chaplaincy. Fifty-six (56) of these students are working on graduate work after their master’s degree. These students are working on STM, Doctor of Ministry, and Ph.D. programs.
Christ College
Christ College is ILT’s Undergraduate School. This semester there are 30 students at Christ College. These students are taking classes toward an associate or baccalaureate degree, a certificate or as continuing education. There are currently 16 A.A. and B.A. students, four of whom are on the pre-seminary track and planning to become pastors. There are also 10 Pastoral Ministry Students who are taking classes while they serve their home congregations.
Every year, ILT raises money to support our students. Financial concerns continue to be one of the biggest challenges which students face as they try to complete their education. The money in the financial aid fund goes directly to the students who have the greatest financial need. Money should not be the only reason why students, who have a genuine call from God to serve his church, do not study at ILT.
Currently, financial aid covers about $1,200 for each student, depending on their program. This typically covers the cost of one course for every ministry student who qualifies. We try to keep the tuition cost low and students do not take out loans for their tuition. ILT students graduate with no debt. For us to continue to do this, we need your help. If you gave $1,200, you would be supporting one student this semester. If you gave $25, your money will go directly to students to support them. Please consider giving a gift, knowing that this gift will help provide the future generation of pastors.
“The Metaverse and the Ecclesiology of the Future:
A Lutheran Perspective”
CALC pastor Roland Weisbrot, is the author of "The Metaverse and the Ecclesiology of the Future: A Lutheran Perspective." His publication was well received and sparked interest. In a recent podcast interview found on Issues Etc., he was given an opportunity to discuss his paper. He de described the interview this way in a recent online post:
It was my absolute pleasure (and a fulfillment of a childhood dream) to be interviewed today about my "Ecclesiology of the Metaverse" paper by Pastor Todd Wilken of "Issues Etc.!" Here is a link to the interview: Link to Podcast
Pastor Weisbrot is the the Lead Pastor of Victory Lutheran Church of Medicine Hat, Alberta. Website
CALC's Annual General Convention &
Pastors' Study Retreat
2024
Mark your calendars!
CALC's Annual General Convention and Annual Pastors' Study Retreat for 2024 will held in the same venue: the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Edmonton Airport Conference Centre, 1100 4th Street, Nisku, AB, T9E8E2. Holiday Inn Edmonton Airport hosted our convention for the past two years. They will also be hosting our pastors' retreat for the first time.
The dates for the Pastors' Retreat are: April 17-18, 2024 (Wed. & Thur.)
The dates for the Convention are: April 19-20, 2024 (Fri. & Sat.)
Information concerning registration fees for the convention and retreat, speakers for these events, schedules, agendas, and room rates will be shared as these details become available. Updates will also be found on our website.
Financial Assistance. If your congregation requires financial assistance in order to send a delegate to convention 2024, please make a request for financial assistance to the National Council. Individuals are eligible for up to $750.00. Applications for more assistance will be given special consideration on a case-by-case basis. Please email requests for financial assistance to: sarahdunphy@calc.ca.
Introducing
St. Matthews Lutheran Church, Cornwall ON is a confessional and liturgical Lutheran congregation in the East Ontario community of Cornwall. While we are a small and largely elderly congregation we are growing quickly, particularly with the young adult demographic. In all things we are dedicated to the study of Scripture, catechesis, frequent liturgical prayer, and the administration of the sacraments, holding 2 Bible studies, one catechetical-confirmation class, divine service, and 2 Vespers services every week.
St. Matthew's is served by Pastor Connor Longaphie. He is married to Lacey. They are the proud parents of two sons.
All general correspondence addressed to CALC should be mailed as follows:
Canadian Association of Lutheran Congregations Att: Sarah Dunphy P.O. Box 6295 Manotick, ON K4M 1J4
Telephone: (613) 324-6554
Correspondence to CALC's Treasurer should be addressed as follows:
Helen Zacharias, Treasurer
890 Gilmour Street,
Morden, MB, R6M 1R9
Pastoral Leadership Seminar
The word “seminar” is from the same root for seed or seed bed. PLS is meant to be a productive seed bed for pastoral imagination—a gospel greenhouse! Usually we number around 15-20 people interested in the pastoral vocation, including an active pastor and two vital retired pastors. This year we will read Nathan Hoff's Building Benedict--Benedict Builds: Benedictine Wisdom in Building Leaders who Build Communities in a Seismic Age.
Commitment? Most Tuesdays from Sept 2023-May 2024. We will begin promptly at 7:30-8:30 AM (Pacific time).
Cost?
Donation if you would like to give to Trinity Greenhouse at www.trinitysanpedro.org/giving (Pull down fund memo: Greenhouse)
Schedule: Anyone may join! You can give it a shot, and if it is helpful—stay on. But, this will not be a drop in and out seminar. Out goal is to develop a safe space where we can be vulnerable with each other in the presence of Jesus.
Date Assignment for Discussion Sept 12: Earthquake: then and now
Sept 19: What is God building?
Sept 26: Building Benedict
Oct 10: Excursus: Miracles
Oct 17: Benedict’s Excavation
Oct 24: Utility
Oct 31: Mobility
Nov 14: Excursus: Acedia
Nov 21: Benedict’s Foundation
Nov 28: Rhythm
Dec 5: Rule
Dec 12: Benedict Builds
Dec: 19: Altar
Feb 6: Excursus: Cloister
Feb 13: Table
Feb 20: Excursus: Garden
Feb 27 to May 28 TBA
We hope you were blessed by this month's edition of the e-Connector. Our hope and prayer is that this electronic newsletter will truly keep CALC informed and connected.
If your congregation is celebrating a milestone, such an anniversary, the installation of a new pastor, new construction, a mission activity, and/or the launch of a special new ministry, let us know. We would love to share your joy with the other members of CALC
Contact info for the editorial team: Pastor Ed Skutshek: Tel: (250) 801-3860 Email: skutsheke@gmail.com Sarah Dunphy: Tel: (613) 324-6554 Email: sarahdunphy@calc.ca
