Many mainline denominational churches are seeking faithful innovation amidst our changing ecclesial landscape. For example, 75% of churches in the Presbytery of the Inland Northwest have fewer than 100 members and are continuing to shrink. Inspired by the ecclesial imagination of other innovative congregations, some of these churches are seeking renewal and transformation by creating housing with their land to meet the needs of the community.
RESOURCES ABOUND!
Are you looking for new ideas? Or new ways of bringing the Way of Jesus to people in your community? Or methods for becoming a more sustainable congregation financially? Or even how to adapt your worship practices to draw in younger generations by meeting their needs and desires? If so, here’s some good news - help is available!
Portico Updates for February, 2022
Annual Meeting – 2022 Budget Approval - Update your changes
At Home Over-the-Counter COVID-19 Tests
Details are emerging daily for our ELCA-Primary members. You can find the most up to date information on our website: At-Home Over-The-Counter COVID-19 Tests (porticobenefits.org).
BSA Bankruptcy
Congregations may have received information from the Boy Scouts of America (the “BSA”) including a “Plan Solicitation” package concerning voting on its proposed chapter 11 plan of reorganization (the “Plan”) and/or whether that congregation wishes to opt out of the treatment provided in the Plan for “Chartered Organizations.”
ELCA Churchwide Attorneys have prepared this information overview to help member congregations. It is not legal advice and should not be considered as such. Please retain and consult with an attorney if your congregation needs or wants legal advice concerning the BSA and its Plan. Under the polity and structure of the ELCA, each Chartered Organization (such as each individual congregation) must make its own independent decision, and the ELCA cannot give legal advice or dictate what a congregation should do.
Talking points on ELCA social teaching regarding vaccination during a pandemic
2021 SHARE Grants
The synod office is accepting applications for 2021 SHARE Grants. Contact office@nwimsynod.org to request an application. Learn more about the SHARE Fund here.