Reflecting on God's Gifts in our Diocese

In the tradition of the Advent calendar, in this newsletter, and in the remaining weeks of this holy season, we will bring you the Good News of some of the wonderful ministries that are taking place in our midst. Please be generous in your support.

This year, EFNC is contributing a challenge grant of $1,000 if the annual appeal reaches $15,000 in donations. The Diocese will also contribute $1,000 if this goal is achieved.

Click here to read more about our ministries and how you can support the Appeal.

If your congregation or ministry is a participant in the Appeal, you should receive an envelope for your donation. Online giving is available here.

See below for this week's featured ministries.

The fund provides assistance for candidates and postulants to the Diaconate. Schooling can be over $7,5000 for the deacons' unpaid ministry that adds so much to the life of our church. Because of the generosity of the Appeal's participants, the fund has been able to raise the amount of scholarships available from $500 to $750. The Bishop's Partnership Appeal is the only fundraising for this ministry.


The Center at St. Matthew's

Partnerships and renewal of facilities are key to the goal of making St. Matthew's a diocesan center for outreach and ministry programs as it continues to be a multilingual place of worship, providing welcome for all. With the Diocesan Board of Trustees' support, the Center is in the process of transforming to better address the needs of a changing community.

  The Belfry

"Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths." Psalm 25:4

The Belfry is the home of the Lutheran Episcopal Campus Ministry at UC Davis, and LEVN: the Lutheran Episcopal Volunteer Network, a young adult service corps. These ministries give young adults the opportunity to grow in their faith in an ecumenical setting.

Camp Living Waters

"Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'" Matthew 19:14

 A week-long camp for ages 9-15 at Cookson Ranch in Humboldt County. Young adults ages 16-18 serve as counselors. The unofficial motto of the camp is, "Come for the food, stay for Jesus." Often, this is the first or primary experience of Christian community for both campers and counselors. About one-third to one-half of campers and counselors need a full or partial scholarship to participate.