Saint Paul Area Synod Fall 2014
Transcription
Saint Paul Area Synod Fall 2014
Saint Paul Area Synod Bridges Fall 2014 Volume 36 Number 4 A Communications link between the Synodical Women’s Organization & its women Triennial Gathering 2014 Are You Ready? by Tricia Niesche It's time to gear up for another program year. We've got a new Bible study and Thankoffering service. Our triennial convention delegates set before us new social justice issues that require our response. Luckily there were over 2,300 women fired up in Charlotte last month, so find someone in your community who attended the Ninth Triennial Gathering and have her help shape your plans. It's going to be a great year! Women everywhere, Hats, pins, take-aways, t-shirts, Fellowship, discussion, decisions, Learning, listening, laughing Eating, singing, worshiping, praying, walking. Working on Servant events, participating in Learning sessions, Bishop Eaton, Susan Sparks, and Becca Stevens of Thistle Farms; New Stewardship Guide, Thankoffering Service Online Engaging, entertaining, encouraging, inspiring one and all To be BOLD, to stand up, to move from angst to action. Is it time to plan your next Thankoffering event? The 2014-2015 Thankoffering service is now available, with songs, prayers, and litanies from the opening worship service, held July 24, 2014, at the Ninth Triennial Gathering. From fear to freedom. Guatemala Update All this and so much more. There has been a lot of activity within ILAG (the Lutheran church in Guatemala). Bishop Horatio retired in February and his daughter, Rev. Karen Castillo, has been installed as the new president of the ILAG. The ILAG continues to work hard growing and equipping leaders. The latrine project, in which our SWO participated, has been completed after 3 years. Over 250 new latrines have been constructed, replacing aging models or, in some villages, offering families their first dignified toilet. The next health project will provide water storage tanks for each family to ease the burden of collecting water every day. Each tank costs $200 plus a $35 water filter to purify the water. This, along with the latrines, will promote better health in the ILAG communities. contd. on page 3 The 9th Triennial Gathering. Bishop Eaton's Address Now Available Online The Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA, was a popular speaker at this summer’s Ninth Triennial Gathering. With Bishop Eaton’s permission, Women of the ELCA has posted her 28-minute address to the gathering on YouTube. - See more at: http:// www.womenoftheelca.org/bishop-s-addressnow-available-on-youtube-news 1 Diane Henning Saint Paul Area Synodical Organization President Psalm 100:5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. Summer is coming to an end and the fall activities are upon us. In this issue there will be comments on the Triennial that took place in Charlotte. Due to a broken leg, I was unable to attend. But thank all of you who did attend and your "faithfulness" to the Women of this Synod. It was just amazing to see how God worked among us. Faithful to All Generations is our GOD! The memorial that we went to Churchwide passed and a follow-up to adoption can be found in this publication. What a blessing to be in the St. Paul Area Synod. As I write this article, I just finished a 90 minute conference call with the Presidents in Region 3. Although some are in transition due to elections at the Triennial, it is always helpful to hear from each of them their joys of serving the Women in their respective synods as well as issues that cause some struggle. In many cases it is health issues of those on their Boards or family members which cause stress or anxiety. From personal experience these past months I understand this feeling of conflict. But as God gives us strength and answers to prayer, we are able to call on assistance as needed and travel down that long road of getting healthy. By the time you get this Newsletter, I will have started my PT, saw many of you at Bishop Lull's Installation or at Bible Study Enrichment. As the Board meets, we will continue to plan for the year and lift the prayers of health and healing as well as ministry to all those in need. The Spring Convention is May 1 &2 in North Branch at Trinity. I have already received program ideas from women in our synod - our women are just the best. Always thinking! Please pray for this Board of women as they take on the responsibilities assigned. Has anyone seen those chickens? I am sure they are running or dancing around somewhere and not too far away. You never know when they will show up again! Thank you for allowing me to be your President and for the many prayers, visitors and cards received during my convalescence . Thank you for the quilts that you continue to make, offerings that you give, participation in Bible Study, cooking for funerals, calling on those who are ill and homebound, kindness to people around you, and saying "yes" when called on to participate. Encourage your friends to come along on this journey of faith. God is Faithfull to All Generations! Remember that "little eyes see a lot" - be an example to all. We look forward to having Bishop Lull at the spring convention. For those who attended Bible Study Enrichment at Resurrection Church in Roseville, you will remember her quick wit and charming way to introduce the Bible Study. 2 Just a little history from LC & Alys! You will recognize us by our hats. Hello ladies! We had a great time in Charlotte! Some many of you wore your hat with the yellow ribbon! They knew we were from St. Paul Area Synod. There was lots of ladies and fellowship! Oh what a great time to share with one another, celebrate our faith and remember how God calls each of us by name. God is Faithful to All Generations! That means any age! So now we are back and rested up. What do you think we are going to do after the Bible Study Enrichment? Oh there will be Cluster Meetings! Another gathering we don't want to miss. It is always fun and noisy - talking, laughter and of course singing. We can't wait! Perhaps Diane will lead us in the Chicken Dance. Oh my! We all missed her in Charlotte, but she is on the mend now and raring to go. We are also invited to the Minneapolis Synodical Convention in October at Central Lutheran! Hope some of you will join us. The purpose of our organization has not wavered since we created our first constitution. “As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society and the world." We are so fortunate to be a part of this wonderful organization and gather so many wonderful women in prayer and singing. See you soon! We don't want to miss out on any events in our Synod and the food! Our favorite thing to share next to prayer. God is so good to us and we are so lucky to be Sisters in Christ! Convention Notes by Sandy Fabio This was my 4th triennial, and I preregistered for 2017. My favorite speaker was Susan Sparks and Bishop Easton I really enjoyed the opening worship service - it is so neat to be among so many Christian women and to hear everyone so enthusiastically singing the songs and participating in worship. The group leading the music at worship this time was really great. I think they were the best of the music leaders we have had at any of the triennials I have attended. The evening we went out for supper as a SWO group was also special. When Lori Burns asked us to join together to sing the doxology that was very special. The harmony of the group was outstanding and the response from others in the restaurant was really neat to see. I enjoyed being a delegate and being part of the process to elect the new board and pass memorials. The worship leaders were inspirational - music again very uplifting - and the chance to get to know delegates from all over was really fun. The chance to meet women from all over and to hear what they do in their units is always one of the nicest part of the triennial. I did not go on any tours but enjoyed walking around downtown Charlotte. The food prepared for the delegates was good and the restaurants in the downtown area that we tried were very good. We had stopped at the tourist center and got recommendations. I didn't experience any new food items though. I strongly recommend attending a triennial. It is an experience that will be a highlight in one's lifetime. Guatemala Update contd. from page 1 Currently 15 congregations in St Paul are partnered with 10 ILAG congregations. Lastly, please remember that at our 2013 SWO convention a resolution was approved to support the women’s ministry at ILAG for $1000 for 2 years. You can send a donation from your unit to Kathleen Nordaune earmarked for that resolution. 3 Tuesdays at Two Tuesdays @ two is a prayer reminder for women to pray on Tuesdays for Board members, clusters and units. A schedule of concerns is published in each Bridges. September 9 Pray for young people going off to schools and colleges that they will live in their Baptism and remain faithful to Christ. September 16 Pray for those who have wondered from their faith and struggled with spiritual questions. Pray that they will see their need and return to God. September 23 Pray for people in refugee camps, especially women and children, that they will be safe and have adequate food and shelter. Pray for Lutheran World Relief as it continues to provide care and support for many in need. September 30 Pray for Christians persecuted for their faith, that they will be bold in their witness and that they will be aware of God’s surrounding love and strength. Pray for their persecutors that they, too, might know the love of Jesus. October 7 Pray for the Women of the ELCA’s newly elected officers and executive board that were elected at the Ninth Triennial Convention in Charlotte, NC. Pray that God’s will be done in all matters of business as they lead us through these next three years. October 14 Pray for peace in our world. Pray for God’s blessing on world leaders that they have wisdom, courage, persistence, and understanding in working toward peace. October 21 Pray for our sisters in the Iringa Diocese in Tanzania. Pray in thanksgiving for pastors and lay pastors and lay ministers, health workers, teachers, and all those in positions of service. Pray that God’s blessing will be upon the Tanzanian people and land. October 28 Pray in remembrance of those saints who have gone before us. Pray with thanksgiving for the strong faith of our forefathers and mothers and their examples of love and service for the Lord. November 4 Pray for the wisdom and guidance for the voters as they go to the polls today. Pray for those campaigning for office, that the candidates will seek God’s will and govern wisely and with justice for the good of all people. November 11 Pray that units of the St. Paul Area Synodical Women’s Organization act boldly to support Lutheran Social Services its work with homeless youth. Pray that safe and stable homes may be provided for all Minnesota children and youth. November 18 Give thanks for our many blessings, for a bountiful harvest, for family and friends, and for caring and inspirational pastors and church staff. November 25 Pray that during the Advent season the loving Christ Child will be present in our thoughts and actions. Pray that we will focus more on giving than receiving and on sharing the love of Christ through our tie and talents. December 2 Pray that Christ will be at the center of our lives in all we think, say or do. December 9 Pray for our military and for their families, as they are far from each other during this holiday season. Help us to share our love and support through words and deeds. December15 Pray that all women reflect on the purpose statement of the Women of the ELCA and how it speaks to them and that it will enable them to Act Boldly on their faith. December 22 Give thanks for God’s miraculous gift! Pray that Christ our Savior is born anew in our hearts. We pray that Christ is the center of this day’s worship and celebration. Pray for the protection of those who are traveling during the Christmas Season. December 29 Pray that all women reflect on the mission statement and hear the prompting of God’s spirit. 4 CRAFT & BAKE SALE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25th 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM YUMMY BAKED GOODS & CANDY! INTERESTING CRAFTS! LUNCH AVAILABLE! LUTHERAN CHURCH OF PEACE 47 SOUTH CENTURY AVENUE MAPLEWOOD, MN 651.739.7094 (1 Mile South of Interstate 94 on Century) A Day for Making Comfort The last few years women from around the St Paul Area Synod have gathered at Our Savior’s in October in Stillwater and worked on completing comfort to be given locally and globally. It is a wonderful day of fellowship along with action. That Day for Making Comfort is moving to January 24, the same day that we previously gathered for the one day retreat. We hope you will mark your calendar now and join us! Craft and Bake Sale Luther Memorial Annual Craft and Bake Sale Saturday, October 11 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p. m. There will be delicious baked goods and great gift ideas. Crafters from all over Minnesota will participate. A lunch of wild rice soup, bread, and pie can be purchased starting at 11 a.m. Tables are available to rent for $20 per table. If you are interested, please call Judy @ 651-451 -2067 or Verna @ 651-455-0428. Luther Memorial church is located at 315 – 15th Ave. North, South St. Paul. Contact the church office @ 651-451-2400, for additional info. Susan Drane joined us as our Church-wide rep. in May. From our May convention, some old & new Board members: Front row l—r, Jackie Boorman, Deb Bowman, Gail Ahrens, Barb Greaves, Virginia Coller. Back row l-r, Sue Long, Barbara Bartok, Diane Henning, Abby Nordaune, Vernell Colston, Kathleen Nordaune. Current Board member Jackie Brueggemann not pictured. 5 South Cluster Gathering Easter Lutheran will host the South cluster gathering on Monday, Oct 20th in the evening. The theme will be "Making an Inner Home for Jesus” . Annual Swedish Kroppkakor Supper Spring Lake Lutheran Church will host their Annual Swedish Kroppkakor Supper (potato and pork dumplings), Craft and Bake Sale on Saturday, October 25th, serving from 3:00-7:00pm. Tickets may be purchased at the door: Adults $12.00, ages 6-12 $5.00, 5 and younger free. Take outs, $12.00, must be ordered ahead. Spring Lake Lutheran Church is located 4 miles west of North Branch or 9 miles east of Cambridge on Hwy 95, then one block north on Erickson Rd NE (Co. Rd. 48). The church is handicap accessible and parking is abundant. Information: [email protected] or 651-674-4606. South Central Cluster Gathering South East Cluster Brunch and Fellowship Date: September 27 Hosted by Lutheran Church of Peace Women Time: 9 a.m.-noon Cost is $4.00 Registration is from 8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. At 9:00 we share a light brunch and fellowship. The program following the brunch is entitled- “BREAKING FREE”. Our speaker, Jennifer Gaines, will share information about this program which helps women break free of prostitution. A freewill offering will also be taken for "Breaking Free". A short business meeting will end the morning. Any question, call Gail at 651-739-1551, Carol at 651-455-3441, or Naomi at 651-451-8126 East Central Fall Cluster Meeting Thursday, October 30, 2014 Bethlehem Lutheran Church 490 N. 4th Street Bayport, MN 6:30 p.m. registration $5.00 / refreshments 7:00 p.m. Meeting / Program Program: The “W’s” of Guatemala Water Project (Who, What, When, Where, Why) Presenter: Janet Metcalfe Monetary offering: Guatemala Water Project / SWO projects Material offering: Items for Shobi’s Table The South Central Cluster Invites you to their fall meeting. It will be held on Saturday October 4th Saint Mark Lutheran Church, 550 West Seventh Street (across the street from Mancini's Char House). Registration begins at 9:30 AM, with a Brunch at 10:00 AM. The cost for the event is $8.50. Make checks out to the Saint Paul Area SWO. Program will include a presentation from Life Haven, Safe House and Rezek House Hope to see you ALL there!! Our Mission To mobilize women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ. Purpose Statement As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, We commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world. 6 Treasurer’s Report by Kathleen Norduane 1 Kings 17: 7-16 Mark 12:42-44 Generosity does not depend on our bank balance, but upon our heart. For those of us who could attend the Triennial this message was brought home to us through one of the speakers – Becca Stevens, an Episcopal priest. She is the founder of Magdalene & Thistle Farms which is a community and social enterprise that stands with women recovering from violence, prostitution, addiction and life on the streets. She started with a good heart and pure intentions and not much education in running a business. She is a modern day example of the blessings of the Lord and the Holy Spirit moving in today’s society. Magdalene is the name of the residence and Thistle Farms is their social Enterprise that helps support the residence. She explained that she chose the name “Thistle Farms” because thistles grow on the streets and alleys and are considered weeds; but, thistles have a deep root that can shoot through concrete and survive a drought. They are prickly in appearance but the royal and soft purple center makes the thistle a mysterious and gorgeous flower. Being a thistle farmer means the world is our farm and that we choose to love all creation. What a beautiful thought for the women who have been helped by this enterprise. Kathleen’s Convention Notes: Was it your first time -- Yes Did you pre-register for 2017 -- not yet, but intend to Favorite speaker -- for Christian humor - Susan Sparks and for Christian substance Becca Stevens. And we have a dynamic, spirited speaker who can use both humor and substance in our new bishop - Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. Favorite event or activity -- the movie on Saturday night about "Miss Representation" of the underrepresentation of women in positions of power and influence in society. It made me think of how male athletes are held up as men to look up to by young males and yet women do not get to be on the same level even though we have women who have used their brains instead of their brawn. Other activities, tours -- I had read the night before that the City of Charlotte had so much urban renewal that the history of the old south had been erased. I found that to be true on the tour of Charlotte. Nevertheless, Charlotte is a beautiful city and it is a "happenin" city. General comments -- While in Charlotte we took one lunch hour and visited the Bill Graham home place and museum. Charlotte has many interesting attractions and I always love exploring both history and scenery. Just wish we could have spent more time doing that also. Newly Elected Churchwide Board Members include: Lois Bylund Lisa Plorin Joyce Gibson Karen Voris Cindy Arnett Nancy Giddings Joan Iverson Dinah Dutta Gwen Edwards Jackie Wilson Deborah Banks-Williams Barbara Miller Dawn Smith Moorhead, MN Upham, ND Miles City, Montana Eagle River, Alaska Santa Clara, CA Ramsey, MN Lamberton, MN Lawrence, Kansas Bellevue, Nebraska Hot Springs, Arkansas Chicago, IL Washington, MI Midland, MI Gwendolyn King Anna Sarver Lydia Davila Philadelphia, PA Greensburg, PA Bayamon, Puerto Rico Patti Austin President Decatur, Georgia Jody Smiley Vice Pres Blacksburg, VA Becky Shurson Secretary Yucaipa, CA Ely Smith Treasurer Fircrest, WA 7 HOW WILL YOU RESPOND? Delegates to the Ninth Triennial Convention took action last month on several social justice issues, including human trafficking, bullying, creating safe places and the current immigration crisis involving children. These actions call into action every expression of Women of the ELCA--congregational units, synodical women's organizations and the churchwide women's organization. Memorials and resolutions acted on by the Ninth Triennial Convention Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: Memorial 1 – Awareness and Prevention of Human Trafficking On the matter of awareness and prevention of human trafficking, the Memorials Committee recommended adoption of this resolution as amended (amendments are in bold). RESOLVED, that each synodical board convene a committee, in which at least one but no more than half of committee members shall be board members. This committee shall be charged with reviewing resources and helping the synodical organization to promote resources that can help units to inform, educate, and mobilize their congregations and communities, through prayer, ministry and political action. RESOLVED, that units use this committee and the resources they recommend to inform, educate, and mobilize their congregations and communities, through prayer, ministry and political action. RESOLVED, that each synodical president report to the 2016 Conference of Presidents about how the recommended committee has functioned in her synodical women’s organization. The convention voted: 314 aye, 41 no Memorial 2 – Bullying, Harassment and Related Violence On the matter of bullying, harassment and related violence, the Memorials Committee recommended adoption of this resolution as amended (amendments are in bold). RESOLVED, that the delegates of the Ninth Triennial convention encourage synodical organizations to identify other organizations that are working to combat bullying, harassment, and related violence, and partner with these organizations to facilitate presentations at synodical events to introduce curriculum that: a. Utilizes positive, inclusive, empowering and developmentally appropriate materials, b. Raises participants’ awareness about the issue, c. Focuses on prevention, d. Seeks to change bystander behavior into ally behavior, e. Creates partnerships between youth and adults; and be it further RESOLVED, that all expressions of Women of the ELCA champion this concern for safety of our children and to advocate for congregational education to prevent bullying, harassment, and related violence in church, school and society. As part of an en bloc action, the convention voted: aye 331, no 20 Memorial 3 – Creating Safe Churches for Children On the matter of creating safe churches for children, the Memorials Committee recommended adoption of this resolution as amended (amendments are in bold). RESOLVED, that the Upstate New York Synodical Women’s Organization strongly encourages all our congregations and their ministries to offer child abuse education and prevention training for all staff and volunteers who have contact with children and youth; and, be it further contd. on page 9 8 Memorials & Resolutions contd. From page 8 RESOLVED, that the delegates of the Ninth Triennial Convention encourage participants and congregational units of Women of the ELCA to support their congregations in reviewing their childcare policies and providing child abuse education and prevention training for all staff and volunteers who have contact with children and youth. As part of an en bloc action, the convention voted: aye 331, no 20 Memorial 5 – Solar Power for Phebe Hospital The Memorials Committee recommended adoption of this resolution as amended (amendments are in bold). RESOLVED, that the delegates of the Ninth Triennial Convention encourage Women of the ELCA in all its expressions to hold in prayer the fragile country of Liberia as it struggles to recover from the tragedy of fourteen years of war; and be it further RESOLVED, that the delegates of the Ninth Triennial Convention affirm the extraordinary efforts of the Northeastern Minnesota Synodical Women’s Organization to work with RREAL and the National Lutheran Church Women Fellowship of Liberia to develop a proposal for providing solar power to the Phebe hospital in Liberia; and be it further resolved RESOLVED, that the Northeastern Minnesota SWO continue to inform the churchwide women’s organization about the progress of this project over the next triennium and encourage women throughout the organization to pray for and support this extraordinary initiative. The convention voted: 336 aye, 17 no Resolution 2014.02, Immigration of Children in Crises The Committee on Reference and Council recommended adoption of this resolution as amended (amendments are in bold). RESOLVED that we call upon Women of the ELCA to pray for God's guidance and direction in this current humanitarian crisis; RESOLVED that the synodical and congregational units of Women of the ELCA educate themselves and others about this humanitarian crisis of unaccompanied children and about the broader issue of undocumented immigrants seeking work and a better life in our country; and that they work and advocate with established programs such as Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services; RESOLVED that synodical and congregational units of Women of the ELCA encourage their congregations to be places of hospitality to reach out to local Latino, Hispanic communities, and to offer assistance and shelter for children. RESOLVED that this resolution be sent to the Presiding Bishop of the ELCA and the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of our government, reminding them to welcome the children who are seeking refuge from violence and treat them with compassion. The convention voted 318 aye, 30 no Save the Date! May 1 & 2, 2015 The next Saint Paul Area Synod WELCA Convention will be at Trinity Lutheran Church North Branch. Café is an award-winning Web-based magazine for young women who want to build Community, participate in Advocacy, strengthen Faith, and strive toward Enlightenment (CAFE!). Sign up at www.womenoftheelca.org to receive email alerts to new issues of Café today! +Things to remember every month +Remind women to use their Thankoffering Boxes & Share information received from SWO and Churchwide . Send offerings to Synodical Treasurer. 9 2014-15 Saint Paul Area Synodical Women’s Organization Executive Board Members Vice President Secretary President Gail Ahrens Sue Long 651-739-1551 651-402-0493 or 651-707-7257 [email protected] [email protected] Lutheran Church of Peace/ Maplewood (SE) St. John’s, Lakeville (S) Diane J. Henning Treasurer Kathleen Nordaune 651-331-1015 Gloria Dei, St. Paul (SC) prescottbirders@ centurylink.net 651-674-4861 [email protected] Trinity, North Branch (N) North Cluster Leader Board Members Non-Board Barabara Bartok 651-772-9322 [email protected] No. Emanuel, St. Paul (SC) Mission Action Cluster Leaders Lois Berg 763-789-9113 [email protected] Christ the King, New Brighton (NC) Information Coordinator North Cluster Carol Johnson 651-257-5918 [email protected] Trinity/Lindstrom Jackie Boorman 651-436-5430 [email protected] Christ, Lake Elmo (EC) East Central Cluster Liaison Mission Community Wanda Hurtgen 651-770-1905 [email protected] St. Mark, No. St. Paul (EC) Communication Coordinator Barb Greaves 651-578-7916 [email protected] Grace, St. Paul (SC) South East Cluster Liaison Historian, Mission Growth Jackie Brueggemann 651-291-7960 [email protected] St. Mark, St. Paul (SC) South Cluster Liaison Mission Action Virgina Coller 651-777-0584 [email protected] St, Mark, No. St. Paul (EC) North Cluster Liaison Mission Community Nancy Johnson 651-436-7833 [email protected] Memorial, Afton (EC) Lucinda Pins Becky Maier 651-439-4459 [email protected] Our Savior’s, Stillwater (EC) Guatemala Lynette Zika 651-642-1691 [email protected] Immanuel, St. Paul (SC) Racial Justice Advocate Julie Atkinson 715-309-2819 [email protected] Bridges Editor North Central Cluster Lu Zibell 651-482-1965 Church of the Resurrection/Roseville East Central Cluster Susan Fredricksen 651-430-1111 [email protected] Our Savior’s/Stillwater Jolyne Peterson 651-777-2946 [email protected] St Mark’s/N St Paul South Central Cluster Helen Bandow 651-222-2328 Judy Carney 651-645-9912 [email protected] Gloria Dei/St Paul JoAnn Hogenson 651-698-5783 [email protected] Immanuel/St. Paul South East Cluster Carol Bidwell 651-455-3441 [email protected] Luther Memorial/S St Paul Naomi Dorau Bethesda/Inver Grove Hgts South Cluster Robin Kieffer 651-216-3611 [email protected] Easter/Eagan (S) Deb Bowman 651-340-1796 [email protected] Bethesda, Inver Grove Hgts (SE) Mission Growth Debbie Bloedow 952-895-0083 [email protected] Cluster Key: (N) North (EC) East Central (NC) North Central (SE) South East (S) South (SC) South Central 10 To continue your present subscription or to begin receiving Bridges please send $5.00/year and this form to: Lois Berg, 3912 Roosevelt St, St. Anthony, MN 55421. For more information call Lois at 763-7899113 or [email protected] Name __________________________________________________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________________ State __________ Zip ________________ Congregation/City _______________________________________________________________________ Renewal ___ New Subscription ___ $5.00/year Enclosed $_________ for ___ Year(s) Change of Address Yes___ No ___ Phone ___________________ Email ______________________ Your mailing label should indicate an expiration date. Please renew when necessary. Checks should be made payable to: W/ELCA Saint Paul Area Synod Constitutional Changes Churchwide is in the process of updating the model constitutions to reflect the changes voted into existence at the Ninth Triennial Convention. Copies will be provided that show the changes as well as copies that reflect the constitution as amended. Because these were acted upon at the convention, they became effective immediately and no further action is required in the SWO or CU expressions to make them effective. Reflections on Triennial Convention 2014 Being a delegate to the 2014 Triennial Convention was a wonderful experience. Even after attending several synod assemblies and synodical women’s conventions, I was taken aback by the serious way in which business and debate were handled. Roberts Rules of Order guided the procedures, but because the parliamentarian and our president were so responsive to the delegates and officers, there was a lot of fun involved as well. “Unauthorized” women”, and “The assembly will stand at recess” became buzzwords, both serious and laughable at the same time. “Unauthorized women” came about because of a delegate wanting to make sure that all synodically authorized leaders were recognized as well as rostered leaders. When it became apparent that much of the work of the organization gets done by women who have no official role, or authorized role, the name for this huge group of women became, “unauthorized women”. “The assembly will stand at recess” became code for “time for chocolate” or “talk among yourselves”. Along with the business of approving a budget, electing officers, and voting on memorials and constitutional amendments, there were wonderful worship services and speakers. Getting to hear from Bishop Eaton on more than one occasion was inspiring. This organization is respectful and responsive to the members and to society around us. I was proud to be a part of such a well-run convention with an amazing group of Bold Women. Thank you for granting me the privilege of representing our SWO at this assembly. - Tricia Niesche SHARE. When you have read this newsletter, please pass it on to others. Also available on www.spas-elca.org 11 Non Profit Org. U. S. Postage Paid Twin Cities, MN Permit No. 395 Saint Paul Area Synod 105 University Avenue St. Paul, MN 55103-2094 Change Service Requested Fall 2014 Women of the ELCA Calendar of Events 2014—2015 September 27 October 3-4 October 4 October 11 October 20 October 25 October 25 October 30 January 24 SE Cluster Meeting :Lutheran Church of Peace, Maplewood Minneapolis Synod Women’s Convention, Central Lutheran South Central Cluster Meeting: Saint Mark Lutheran, St. Paul Craft & Bake Sale: Luther Memorial, South St. Paul South Cluster Meeting: Easter Lutheran, Eagan Craft & Bake Sale,: Lutheran Church of Peace, Maplewood Swedish Kroppkakor Supper: Spring Lake Lutheran East Central Cluster Meeting: Bethlehem Lutheran, Bayport A Day for Making Comfort: Our Savior’s, Stillwater Bridges is published four times a year. Information for the Winter 2015 issue must be submitted by December 15th. Send Bridges articles via e-mail to: Julie Atkinson [email protected] (715) 309-2819 For subscription information contact: Lois Berg [email protected] 3912 Roseville St., St. Anthony, 55421 (763-789-9113 ) Bold Connections is the free monthly e-newsletter of Women of the ELCA. Whether you participate a lot or a little in Women of the ELCA, and no matter what your role, you'll find helpful news and information on our programs and activities, and stories of how together we are living out our purpose and mission. Sign up at www.womenoftheelca.org for Bold Connections Bridges is emailed as a PDF file to all churches in the Saint Paul Area Synod. Please encourage your church to post or link it to their website, and share with other women in your church. If the email is not being received, or another address should be used, please contact Julie Atkinson, Bridges editor at [email protected]. 12