We 12 travelers are getting excited about our upcoming trip to our sister synod in the UKD (Ulanga Kilombero Diocese). We will be flying out of Portland, Oregon on June 5, and arrive in Dar es Salaam on June 6
Pastor Phil Misner's Sabbatical
A Response to Uncertainty and Fear in Minnesota and Our Communities
When I was with my mom in Minnesota writing my January column about the gift and need for communal singing and preparing for my trip the Holy Land, I could not have imagined what was about to unfold in Minneapolis and across the state of Minnesota. My heart has broken again and again as I watched videos of the shooting of individuals and violent apprehension of individuals by ICE agents. Our hearts go out to those families and to so many people living with uncertainty and fear in Minnesota and in our own communities.
Portico News
2026 Rostered Ministers Gathering
Registration for the 2026 Rostered Ministers Gathering , happening July 6-9 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis, Ind., is now open! All ELCA deacons, pastors and bishops (under call, on leave or disability, or retired) and candidates approved for call are invited to a time of intentional connection when we can renew our strength, enjoy camaraderie with colleagues and reflect on the Holy Spirit’s work among us.
Western States Youth Gathering
A Thank You from Lugala Lutheran Hospital
Lugala Hospital is the only medical facility operating in a large geographic area. They try to address all the medical needs for the area. One thing they have not had is a well-equipped dental office. When asked, they requested $5000 to repair the office and get a dental chair. With the generosity of the people of the Northwest Intermountain Synod, we were able to fill that request and the funds are in transit.
LWF Peace Messengers
YAGM Happenings
Holden Village - An Unknown Future
Community of Holden, we are abundantly aware of darkness brought on by grief, fear, and frustration from the closure of Holden from road washouts and the unknowing of what lies ahead for the people and infrastructure of the village we hold dear. Landslides of soil and forest debris may continue. Rather than allowing our grief to become landslides of frustration, our way forward is through the One who is the Life and Light so that we may reflect the Life and Light into the heaviness of the larger world and of the particularities of Holden.