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We are pleased to share with you the following news, information and ministry opportunities taking place within our synod. If you have items to share about the ministries happening through your congregation, please email Terri Robertson at
[email protected]. If you know of others who aren't receiving our emails, please share this with them and encourage them to sign up
here.
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Lutheran Disaster Response Relief Efforts
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From recent hurricanes in the U.S. and Caribbean, to earthquakes in Mexico, New Zealand and Japan, to refugee crises in Syria, Myanmar and several other nations - Lutheran Disaster Response is at work around the world. This year has been an especially challenging year for millions of people who have been impacted by natural disasters, famine and war or violence. Your generous donation today provides us with the resources we need to help rebuild the lives and communities of those impacted most. Most importantly, Lutheran Disaster Response is hard at work long after the first responders are gone.
Your support through Lutheran Disaster Response will bring hope and healing to those who have been or will be affected by these disasters. Gifts designated for
 will be used in full until the response is complete to help disaster survivors recover and rebuild.
Click here to be taken directly to Lutheran Disaster Response's donation page, where you can designate where your gift will be used, or allow it to be used where needed most.
The need is great and recovery efforts will continue for years to come.
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TheOasis & Safe Boundaries Workshop
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Following Christ into the Future:
The Lutheran Movement as Discipleship
October 23-26, 2017
Embassy Suites, La Quinta
A joint church leaders' event (a theological oasis): Rostered leaders, professional lay church staff, youth leaders, church administrators, office managers, outdoor ministry leaders, worship leaders... all are welcome!
Online registration is open through October 16. Follow this link to register online.
Visit the
TheOasis webpage
for more information about the event including speakers, costs, hotel info, schedule, recreation opportunities and more.
For those interested in participating in the book discussion during Tuesday afternoon's free time, the book that will be discussed is "Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right" by Arlie Russell Hochschild.
Safe Boundaries Workshop
At the 2017 Pacifica Synod Assembly, a resolution was passed strongly encouraging every rostered minister of this synod to have completed a Professional Ethics and Boundaries training sometime between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2018. This resolution also asked each rostered minister to renew this training every three years.
On Monday, October 23, a Safe Boundaries Workshop, led by Ms. Barbara Keller from the ELCA Churchwide Offices in Chicago, will be held from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church in Palm Desert (42695 Washington Street). The cost is $25 and includes lunch. To attend this workshop, please register in advance by selecting the Safe Boundaries option found on the TheOasis registration page. If you are NOT planning on attending TheOasis, but would like to attend the Safe Boundaries Workshop, please contact Terri Robertson at 714.692.2791, ext. 732 or by email at [email protected] to register for the workshop alone.
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"Congregational Leadership in Changing Times"
Bishop's Gatherings 2017
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Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9b)
On September 23, we began this year's Bishop's Gatherings in Fullerton. Our thanks to those congregations who hosted and those who attended our first two gatherings. There are four more remaining here on the mainland in October, plus one in Hawaii in January 2018. You are welcome to attend the gathering on the date that works best for your schedule and location.
To assist our host congregations in planning, we strongly encourage congregations or individuals to register using this link for the gathering they plan to attend. Congregations are encouraged to collect names from their members and register the entire group at one time. Individuals may also register on their own. There is NO cost to attend.
All gatherings will begin with the first 45 minutes for Rostered Ministers, followed by a 15 minute break. Lay leaders will then join the group at the second time listed.
Saturday, October 7
- 10:00 Rostered/11:00 Lay Leaders - until 12:30 p.m.
Lutheran Church of Our Savior, San Bernardino
Sunday, October 8 - 2:00 Rostered/3:00 Lay Leaders - until 4:30 p.m.
Bethany Lutheran, Norco
Saturday, October 21 - 9:30 Rostered/10:30 Lay Leaders - until noon
San Marcos LC, San Marcos
Sunday, October 22 - 2:00 Rostered/3:00 Lay Leaders - until 4:30 p.m.
Clairemont Lutheran, San Diego
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Workshop for Congregational Treasurers & Administrators
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Saturday, September 30, 2017
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Lutheran Center for Mission & Learning
1801-C Parkcourt Place, Santa Ana
As of September 27, registration for this event has closed. If you did not get a chance to register, but would like to attend, p
lease contact Terri Robertson at 714.692.2791) or by email at
[email protected] to see if space still remains.
Although it won't be live-streamed, this workshop will be recorded. Once recorded, it will be uploaded to YouTube for congregations to view at their convenience. Our hope is to have it available to view by Friday, October 6. Watch for information in our synod e-news directing you to our website where any workshop resources will be posted, along with a link to the video.
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Shining Your Light, Telling Your Story"
Region 2 Deacon's Gathering
~Affirm Your Call ~ Discern a Call~
~See the Broader Picture ~ Converse with Synodical Bishops~
ALL are welcome!
January 9-11, 2018
Gathering Location:
Rocky Mountain Synod Office of the Bishop, Denver, CO
Gathering Hotel:
Hampton Inn Denver-Northwest, Westminster, CO
Speaker: Carol Jacobson, Ph.D.,
Associate Professor of Practical Theology
Diaconal Ministry Program Director,
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Berkeley
All deacons presently serving in a congregation or specialized ministry, waiting to serve, retired, on leave or discerning a call to ministry, are invited to attend. More information about this event and the link to register, may be found on the event webpage.
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Matthew 25 Fund - Apply Now!
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The purpose of The Matthew 25 Fund is to honor Christ as he spoke in Matthew
 25:35-40. Jerry and Lynda Engelhardt established the fund through a strong desire to help people as in the verse. The primary criteria for making awards shall be Matthew 25:35-40. A secondary criterion shall be to evaluate if the proposed project will help establish or maintain congregational outreach and unity as in the spirit of the verse.
The fund is intended for ELCA Pacifica Synod congregations. However, awards may be given to other well-managed organizations not in the Pacifica Synod that meet the spirit of the verse. Grant applications may be downloaded here or obtained by contacting the Synod office at 714.692.2791. Questions about this fund may be directed to The Rev. Hitoshi Adachi (Ext. 734) or Terri Robertson (Ext. 732). The deadline for applications is October 15, 2017 and grants will be awarded by January 15, 2018.
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Apply Now for Stephen Ministry Training Scholarships!
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Pacifica Synod is pleased to announce available scholarships for the Stephen Ministry Leader's Training Course to be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Anaheim, February 4-10, 2018.
This scholarship is made possible by the Cathryn W. Wright Bequest specifically designated for Stephen Ministry lay leaders.
It is expected that congregations send a pastor and two to four lay leaders for the training.
For more information about Stephen Ministries, please go to their website at www.stephenministries.org. For training course information and to receive a registration packet, call Stephen Ministries at 314.428.2600.
The synod scholarship program will provide the following:
1. $800 scholarship per lay leader, available for up to two lay leaders per congregation. Additional $285 scholarship per lay leader for non-commuters will be added.
2. $1,000 per congregation toward your congregation's enrollment in the Stephen Series, if not currently enrolled. The Leader's Training Course is designed for congregations enrolled in the Stephen Series.
3. $400 travel assistance per lay person for up to two people for Hawaii congregations.
To apply for this synod scholarship, please use the attached application form. All applications must be received by close of business on December 15, 2017. Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until available funds are exhausted.
If you have any questions, please contact the Rev. Hitoshi Adachi at 714.352.8734 or by email at [email protected].
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Murray and Rhoda Finck
Global Engagement Mission Fund
Applications Now Being Accepted!
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 In 2016, "The Murray and Rhoda Finck Global Engagement Mission Fund" (GEM Fund) was established. It is named in honor of Bishop Emeritus Murray Finck and his wife Rhoda, in recognition and appreciation of their service and accomplishments during the 18 years that Bishop Murray served as Bishop of the Pacifica Synod from 1998 through 2016.
The goals of the fund are:
- To assist congregations of the Pacifica Synod in their Global Mission efforts.
- To initiate and/or continue direct support of present and future Companion Synods of the Pacifica Synod.
- To share in ministry with God's people as we together strive for a lasting world peace.
Distribution of funds may be given to increase awareness of global mission work, to fund domestic and/or foreign projects related to Pacifica Companion Synods and Lutheran partners and provide assistance in travel expenses related to the fund's stated goals.
Attached please find the grant application, which must be completed and submitted along with a one-page description of the project/program and how the money will be spent. The maximum amount that can be requested is $3,000. The application deadline is October 15, 2017.
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Pacifica Synod Women of the ELCA News
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"LOVE FULLY - LIVE FULLY"
30th Annual Pacifica Synod Women of the ELCA Convention
November 3 - 4, 2017
Calvary Lutheran Church
Solana Beach
Pacifica Women of the ELCA are excited to share their updated website - www.pacificawomen.org. Check it out!
It has the last two published newsletters with information about our convention speakers. The website also now has the convention registration form, as well as the lists of Love Gifts that you may have seen on our Facebook page. You'll also find the nomination form, as we will be electing a treasurer and four board members. Finally, it has an updated column from the president. We will continue to share more information on the convention. It is now important to send in your registrations! You are invited!!
Artists - Crafters - Small Business Retailers... Looking for a place to market your creations and products? Why not consider being a VENDOR at the Pacifica Women of the ELCA Convention, November 3-4, 2017, at Calvary Lutheran Church, Solana Beach.
To qualify for a space you must be a member of an ELCA congregation. There is no fee for use of the space; however a donation will be much appreciated. Contact Jackie Severa at [email protected] or 760.464.2309 for an application form. (Space is limited.)
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Save the Dates - Synod Assembly 2018!
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2018 Synod Assembly 
May 18-19, 2018
The 2018 Pacifica Synod Assembly will meet at Hope Lutheran in Palm Desert for a two-day assembly in an effort to make the assembly more affordable and more efficient. Look for more details of agenda and speakers as we get closer.
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From the Presiding Bishop - "Supper's Ready"
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In her September column for Living Lutheran, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton
 shares memories of family Thanksgivings, where all would come to the table together. That is true for our church, too, as Jesus invites us all to a meal of healing, forgiveness and thanksgiving.
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Portico Benefit Services - 2017 Live Well Challenge
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With Portico Benefit Services' 2017 Live Well Challenge, you can earn up to $400 wellness dollars for ELCA-Primary members and spouses!
- Step 1 - Register & Complete Your Health Assessment by November 30 (new extended deadline): Earn $100 Each
- Step 2 - Save or Implement a Retirement Plan With Your Spouse by November 30: Earn $200 Each
- Step 3 - Report Your Healthy Change by November 30: Earn $100 each
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Celebrating Ministry Together!
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 We are pleased to welcome Pastor Sarah Sumner-Eisenbraun to Pacifica Synod. Pastor Sarah has been called to serve St. Andrew's Lutheran in San Diego as their Associate Pastor, alongside Pastor Manuel Retamoza, now serving as Senior Pastor.
Pastor Sarah shares the following...
"Hello there! My name is Sarah Sumner-Eisenbraun and I'm so excited to be joining the pastoral staff of St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in San Diego! My husband Kevin and I are originally from Rapid City, SD. I've been a pastor for 10 years, serving 2 congregations in the Southwest California Synod before being called here. Kevin has also been a rostered minister for 8 years, serving as chaplain in both hospital and hospice settings. We have two small children and a cat and enjoy exploring the arts and culture of our communities. I look forward to meeting all my new colleagues here in Pacifica!"
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Do you need extra NRSV Bibles, Spark Bibles, ELW hymnals? Would you like a few dozen elementary age-kid crafts for Christmas? If so, please contact Pastor Brenda Bos at Christ Lutheran San Clemente at 949.496.2621.
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Lutheran Social Services Walk to Fight Poverty - October 1
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Event Location:
First Lutheran Church
215 N Lemon St., Unit A
Fullerton CA 92832
Join us for the Open House and Blessing of our New Corporate Offices!
Light refreshments will be served.
Event Schedule:
Sunday, October 1, 2017
Worship, Dedication, and Blessing 10:00 am - 10:30 am
Registration 10:30 am - 11:00 am
Walk 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
NO Registration Fee!
Contact:
Lutheran Social Services of Southern California
Maxine Abbott
Phone: 714-534-6450
Click here for the event website and more information.
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"Catechism Revisited: Reformation"
Rejoice Conference Day of Theological Education
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Saturday, October 14
9:00 am-1:00 pm
Danish Lutheran Church,
16881 Bastanchury Road, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
The Rejoice Conference of the Pacifica Synod invites you to attend our 4th 
"Catechism Revisited" and in the year of Reformation 500 we will be focusing on important aspects of The Reformation in historical, present and musical perspectives. Rev. Jarmo Tarkki and Singer/Conductor James Koenig will be our speakers with a chance for questions and discussion after each speaker.
Cost $15 - Includes coffee and pastry in the morning and lunch at 12:00.
SCHEDULE:
9:00 am Check in, coffee and Danish pastry, Invocation and Opening Remarks
9:30 am Rev. Jarmo Tarkki - "Ecclesia Semper Reformanda Est?"
What did it mean in the 16th century and what does it mean for us today? How far can we "reform" the church before it becomes unrecognizable?
10:45 am James Koenig, conductor/singer - "Chorale-ing the Reformation:
Catechism in the Key of C." Much of the theology, heart, and soul of the Reformation made its way to Scandinavia on wings of song. We shall explore "sound" theology and the spirit of Luther's lyric influence via music from or inspired by the Reformation.
12:00 pm Lunch provided by Danish Lutheran Church (included in cost)
12:30 pm Short Closing Worship
Please RSVP by October 4, 2017 to Pastor Anne-Grethe Nielsen
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Centering Prayer Workshop, La Mesa - October 14
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DO YOU HUNGER FOR A DEEPER PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD?
CENTERING PRAYER may be for you. Centering Prayer is a renewal of the rich tradition of contemplative prayer in the Christian Church. It is designed to reduce the obstacles to an intimate personal relationship with God, and to provide personal healing and transformation in your life. Our Centering Prayer Program, which includes a four-hour introductory workshop along with six one-hour-and-a-half continuing sessions, is an excellent way to enhance your spiritual growth.
* WHO: Presented by CONTEMPLATIVE OUTREACH OF SAN DIEGO
* WHAT: An Introductory Program on Centering Prayer
* WHERE: Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church,
10842 Fury Lane, La Mesa
* WHEN: October 14, 2017, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm
* REGISTRATION: 8:30 am -
Six Continuing Sessions day and time TBD
* INFORMATION & PRE-REGISTRATION - Karen Downs (858) 922-9103 OR
Jennifer Fenner (619) 670-7656 / [email protected]
This is a free program, but pre-registration is requested and appreciated.
Please come join us!
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Lutheran, Anglican, and Roman Catholic Prayer Service Commemorating the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation
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You are invited to a joint-sponsored Lutheran, Anglican, and Roman Catholic Service of Common Prayer on Sunday, October 29, 2017, commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. It will take place in the beautiful church of The Immaculata on the campus of the University of San Diego at 3:00 p.m. There is designated parking and a light reception will follow.
The event is sponsored by the Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego, and the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego. Bishops from all three traditions will be participating. The service both commemorates an historic movement as well as celebrates the gift of strong ecumenical relationships that shape Christianity today, and in particular, the San Diego area. People from all denominations and faiths are welcome.
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