The NWIM Synod has been in relationship with the Ulanga Kilombero Diocese (UKD) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania for 38 years now! We walk Bega kwa Bega (Swahili for Shoulder to Shoulder) with the people of the UKD. Yet, not everyone knows the life-giving value of our relationship with siblings in Christ so very far away.
Wildfires - Designating Gifts to LDR and Request for Prayer in Spokane Wildfires
This afternoon, pastors from Spokane to Wenatchee and I met with Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) staff and volunteers. LDR is part of the ELCA and is also a partner with the Washington State VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster). You might be seeing adds for Lutheran World Relief, which is now Corus International, great with international disasters and of course please sending them your quilts! However, we are encouraging you to give to LDR during this time of wildfires.
Engaging Our Faith Communities for Free and Democratic Elections
The right to vote is sacred, fought for over generations and defended throughout the years. In the current administration, we have seen a renewed effort to suppress and limit the right to vote of eligible groups, suppress voter turnout, and purposefully create confusion and mistrust in the electoral system. As trusted messengers, faith communities can share accurate, up-to-date information about voting and have the relational networks to encourage voter turnout through honest conversations and timely reminders.
All Together in One Place
Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry issues his third in a series of monthly messages that continue through the end of this year, titled "All Together in One Place." Each message will share a pastoral word, rooted in Scripture, that witnesses to God’s presence today, our rich theological tradition and the social teaching that connects us.
Wildfires - Pastoral Message During a Time of Wildfires
Dear Saints of the Northwest Intermountain Synod,
My heart breaks for the greater Spokane Community in the face of wildfires, which are still burning as I write this.
We pray for firefighters and those coordinating responses to the wildfires and planning for recovery.
Links are provided of who can receive your financial donations.
I offer a Litany in Time of Wildfires
2027 ELCA National Youth Gathering
Why the 2027 ELCA National Youth Gathering
I am a huge fan of the ELCA Youth Gatherings. When I stood for the bishop’s election in our synod in 2023, I quoted Galatians 5:13-14 as a central verse for my life and ministry. Guess where I first really heard that verse—the 1991 Gathering in Dallas when the theme was “Called to Freedom.” I attended again in Atlanta.
Church Property Resource Hub Newsletter
Greetings from the road!
It has been a joy to connect with many of you at recent events. This month, the Church Property Resource Hub team has traveled widely, leading workshops, engaging with rostered ministers and gathering with colleagues across the church. Read our newsletter for a few highlights from our July travels.
United at the Font: Up Next October 10
United at the Font: Partnering for the Future 2026
Register now for October 10th in Ontario, OR.