October 2016 (2)

Our Mission:
Supporting lifelong faith formation in the home and congregation.


From the President's Desk

This month I have been privileged to facilitate conversations at Families at the Center of Faith Formation Symposiums in Connecticut and Minnesota hosted by Lifelong Faith , and also at a retreat for faith formation leaders in the Virginia Synod. These October events are among many that are happening across the country, like the Cross+Gen event in Colorado. They affirm for me our desire as a church to live the Reformation today. It is exciting to be part of the church today as we embrace the rich history of our Lutheran heritage and envision effective ways to place God's word, our faith and an understanding of God's grace into the hands of parents and grandparents. As the priesthood of all believers, we, of all ages, are ministers in our own homes, our congregations and our communities. This is really good news!
 
For many congregations, Reformation Sunday will be the beginning of a year-long recognition and observance of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. There are many resources and websites featuring resources for our ministries.
 
I look forward to seeing posts and blogs sharing ways the Reformation is being observed throughout the coming year.
 
Blessings to you in your work, my fellow ministers,
 
 
Debbie Streicher
President of the CENetwork


Resources for Ministry



Papa Luther: A Graphic Novel  

The exciting story of Martin Luther, told through the eyes of his children Hans and Magda. This colorful, 88-page "comic book" is geared especially toward children ages 8 to 13, but will intrigue all ages.  Available here from Augsburg Fortress.





Check out "Flat Marty" and Reformation  curriculum ideas from CENetwork members on our website.
 
 
 
 
It's not too early to check out Pinterest boards for Advent activities and crafts.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Youth Ministry Links has a good selection of Advent, Christmas and Epiphany resources available.
 
 
  Good Reads
 
Book of Faith Advent Reflections
You Shall Have a Song
.
This Advent devotional resource includes readings for each day, weekly study questions for small groups, and a variety of family activities to celebrate the season. This engaging seasonal resource will inspire and refresh participants during this season of expectation.
Use the daily reflections on your own or with a friend or family member. Explore the weekly Bible studies in an existing group or form a group with others. Check out the activities and choose some hands-on ways to celebrate this Advent season.


Advent in Narnia: Reflections for the Season

"Walking into Advent can be like walking through the wardrobe."

With its enchanting themes of snow and cold, light and darkness, meals and gifts, temptation and sin, forgiveness and hope, C. S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe fits naturally into the Advent season. Each devotion includes questions for reflection. The book also provides several resources for churches, including four sessions for small group discussion and ideas for creating a "Narnia Night" for families.
  
    
     Christian Education    
 Network of the ELCA
  Vision Statement

Building a community which equips, encourages, and empowers those engaged in lifelong faith  formation in a changing world by:
  • Providing resources and educational opportunities
  • Facilitating communication and conversation 
  • Offering networking, idea sharing, and mutual support
  • Nurturing spiritual growth
  
Prayer Pause
 
 
God of the Reformation, as we prepare to celebrate the 500th anniversary, help us to see how far we have come and how your Spirit has been active in our lives and the lives of those who came before us.  Remind us to celebrate the things we have in common and to understand other points of view.  Guide us in our everyday interactions. 

Amen.

Rev. Elizabeth A. Cummings
CENetwork Chaplain

 

  

 

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Upcoming Events
 
 

Friday, January 20, 2017 - Monday, January 23, 2017
Louisville, Kentucky

The Extravaganza is an annual four-day conference that draws together 500-750 adults who work with youth in congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It is the premier renewal, education and networking event of our church.

Check out event details here.

  


Contact Us
  
CENetwork of the ELCA 
P.O. Box 9304
Rochester, MN 55903


Phone messages may be left at 
(507) 721-0057