We read with great dismay that the Aryan Freedom Network, a white supremacist group, is having a gathering on March 12 at Hayden Lake and has said that part of their purpose is to identify "things we can do to make our communities a little better." That a poster for this event includes a swastika and the words "keep Idaho white" shows clearly that their vision for "a little better" is one that is in opposition to both the American ideals expressed in our Declaration of Independence and enshrined in our Constitution, and totally against the values of Christianity.
Preparing for Lent
We enter into the Lenten season in a few days. Are you ready? Have you made plans for these 40 days already? Or on Ash Wednesday does the imposition of ashes remind you to embark on this journey with setting some intentions? However you prepare and plan for Lent, this season offers you the opportunity for deepening your spiritual life in Christ.
"She" + Coaching
Share Your Memories - Holden Evening Prayer
Portico Updates for February, 2022
Global Mission Newsletter | February
For two years, as the world has reeled from the effects of a deadly pandemic, we have seen the number of hungry people around the world rise, watched as food pantries and soup kitchens expanded to serve an ever-growing number of guests, and longed for the time when we “will hunger no more, and thirst no more … and God will wipe away every tear from [our] eyes” (Revelation 7:16).
Thank you for all you are doing in your congregation and community to continue God’s work and to share the grace and love of Christ. We invite you to continue your work by connecting your congregation to the church’s global work to end hunger and poverty during ELCA World Hunger’s 40 Days of Giving, which begins on Ash Wednesday, March 2.
Global Mission Newsletter | January
TUMAINI GIRL’S SCHOLARSHIPS
After our Companion Synod partnership was formed, Bishop Keller and his wife Betty went to visit Ulanga Kilombero. While there, Betty developed a passion for the girls to be able to go to secondary school that at the time cost $150 for a year. She found that it was sometimes more than a family made in a year and if they did make enough to send a child, a son would have priority. She brought her concern to the Synod Women’s Organization at our next convention after they came back. From that our women’s board developed a plan to raise that $150 each for 10 girls to continue their education.
New Director for Consultation to Clergy
The Board of Directors is thrilled to announce that Pr. Laurin Vance is the new Executive Director of Consultation to Clergy.
Pastor Vance brings an impressive portfolio of walking with others in a difficult time. In addition to being a rostered pastor in the ELCA, Laurin is also a certified Conflict Mediation Facilitator.