See What's Happening at the SWCA Synod!
Visit the synod website to find out about  upcoming events . Please share this information as you are able. You can sign up to receivenewsletters and special emails from the synod office  here . 

Please send information about upcoming events to Samantha at  shenderson@socalsynod.org . 
Basketball Tournament
For anyone 16 or over! On Saturday, February 24, come to 600 West Queen Street in Inglewood and play basketball! You can sign up by calling (310) 874- 5103 or emailing contact@firstlutheran.org, but walk-ins are welcome. $5 to play! Flyer here .
Prepare to Care
On Saturday, February 24, at LifeHouse Church in Northridge, learn about important facts surrounding the aging process and the many challenges seniors and their families face when unprepared. Experts will provide valuable, in depth information and resources that all family members and caregivers need to know to prepare themselves and their loved ones through the aging process. Flyer here .
Los Angeles Recorder Orchestra
On Sunday, February 25 at 2:00 p.m, Emmanuel Friends of Music is sponsoring a concert featuring Los Angeles Recorder Orchestra's  Through the Looking Glass, featuring medieval and Renaissance dances reimagined by contemporary composers. A reception will follow. Join us at 6020 Radford Avenue in North Hollywood, For further information call (818) 761-6124.
Reimagining Justice in the Age of Mass Incarceration
Two of America’s leading prison-reform advocates,  Fr. Greg Boyle  and  Sr. Helen Prejean , will headline a major conference on mass incarceration and criminal justice reform at All Saints Church in Pasadena from March 5 – 7, featuring prominent speakers and panel members from around the United States.
Constitutional Workshop, March 10
During this workshop you will learn about reviewing your church's constitution and maintaining its relevance while taking into consideration both your congregation's particular needs and identity and the necessity of complying with required elements from the ELCA Churchwide body and the SWCA Synod. Register here.
Refugee and Migrant Sunday
As Lutherans, we have always been at the forefront of understanding the refugee experience and welcoming refugees. On March 11, the Synod Justice Team and Global Partners Team are calling on all our congregations to join us in a time of prayer and reflection on our call to welcome the stranger. Resources here .
2018 Bishop's Colloquy for Pastors and Deacons: A Bonhoeffer Moment? Theology & Ministry in Challenging Times
On March 12, come hear two distinguished leaders, share your own perspectives, and open yourselves to reflection on how your own ministry engages the questions we face together.   More information and registration here .
People are still hungry - what can you do to help?
Attend the SWCA WELCA Foothill Cluster event on Saturday, March 24 from 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m, featuring David Gist from Bread for the World and Sharon Heck from the Lutheran Office for Public Policy. Brunch is included - please register by March 19! Register online here , or download the form here .
Breaking the Silence, April 21
Addiction does not discriminate. It does not care about your social status, racial background or religion. It touches everyone in our society, workplaces, churches, and homes, in one form or another. "Breaking the Silence" will examine the stigmas and fallacies that surround the issue of addiction, then explore ways to find release and renewal that leads to a better way of living, in a safe and caring environment. Information here .
Practical Workshop for Church Musicians
On April, 28, church musicians are invited to a workshop at at Emmanuel, North Hollywood. More information here .


2018 SWCA Synod Assembly
June 1 – 2
California Lutheran University
60 West Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks
 Information and Registration Coming Soon! 
Mission Trip to El Salvador:
July 31 – August 7
Make this summer an adventure to remember forever! Mission projects include: medical and dental care; serving in the homeless shelter; helping to raise fish, animals, and crops, bringing God’s love to children, visiting rural congregations serving resettled refugees; bringing water and solar electricity to poor rural areas; and helping in construction projects in schools, churches and homes. Find out more here .
"God's Work. Our Hands." Sunday
Save the date! “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday will be Sunday, September 9, 2018. This day is an opportunity to celebrate who we are as the ELCA – one church, freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. - and it can be on any Sunday that works for your congregation. #GWOH resources available here !
Southwest California Synod of the ELCA| (818) 507-9591| news@socalsynod.org| www.socalsynod.org