SHARE:  
A Reconciling in Christ synod
Bishop Eaton and faith leaders issue statement on family separations
The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, has convened ELCA ecumenical and inter-religious partners in a statement addressing concerns over a recent U.S. government policy calling for more stringent enforcement of federal immigration laws. The policy will most likely result in an increase in family separations.

Read the ELCA statement here.
Call to Action here!
Family Separation: What can we do ?
From Bishop Gonia: This critical situation demands that we as Christ’s Church speak up and act.
Peter Severson, Director of Lutheran Advocacy Colorado introduces how we can respond ---

In early May, the United States federal government announced a new policy whereby families crossing the Mexico-U.S. border would be separated and criminally prosecuted. This policy has torn apart hundreds of families since it was enacted, and has separated over 1,300 children from their parents. Instead of addressing the root causes of why people migrate, this policy attacks those seeking refuge in the United States, causing further trauma and despair.
 
We echo the statement released by ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton , along with nearly two dozen of her colleagues in denominational and faith community executive leadership.
 
We also stand with the National Council of Churches in specifically rejecting “the misuse of Romans 13 by Attorney General Sessions…to justify reprehensible actions. Many more scripture passages insist on helping the immigrant, the sojourner, the poor, and those in need of aid.”

Many in our congregations are now wondering what they can do to help respond to this cruel, inhumane, and unjust policy. Here are some practical steps we encourage people to take:

  • Make your voice heard
  • Take advocacy action
  • Preach and teach the Holy Scriptures
  • Show up
  • Donate to churches and organizations on the front lines
  • Vote
  • Pray without ceasing

eConnection Spotlight: RMS in the Neighborhood
Pride: Loving our Neighbors
I sort of expected the booth to go unnoticed or ignored, but that wasn't the case. Some of that might have to do with Pastor Brigette Weier, who broke some festival rules by standing in the middle of walkways to hand out swag to, have conversation with and cheer on those passing by. People came up to us, thanked us, engaged in conversation about God and were reassured that they will always be loved. It was beautiful. 

Read more from RMS Intern Katie about her experience at Denver Pride
RMS-ELCA News and Events
Registration is now open for 2018 Theological Conference!
YMCA of the Rockies
Estes Park, CO

For the Life of the World: Re-framing our Perspectives
At this gathering we will be sharing stories that reframe our perspectives, not only about ourselves but about the world we are called to engage and serve. Through our guests we’ll be invited to let our existing beliefs be challenged – about money and land, culture and society, values and leadership – so that we may discern how the Spirit is re-forming us to be Christ’s Body for such a time as this.

Our conference guests will include:

  • Prairie Rose Seminole, ELCA American Indian-Alaska Native Ministries
  • Rev. Dr. Ray Pickett, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary
  • Rev. Ranaivomanana Albert, Betela Seminary, Madagascar

Registration is now open on the RMS Website.

A limited number of scholarships are available. The scholarship request is posted on the website, with a priority deadline of July 18.
Contact Deacon Erin Power with any questions or concerns.
Save the Date - Candidacy Discernment Retreat
August 15, 2018, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Come spend a day in reflection, prayer, discernment, and fellowship as you learn about rostered ministry in the ELCA. Whether you are just beginning to think about public ministry or you are ready to start the candidacy process, we would love to have you join us. For more information, contact Leslie Welton.
Save the Date: 2019 Word & Service Summit
More information will be available in late August, but mark your calendars for this important conversation! send email to Deacon Erin Power with any questions.
For Your Bulletin
Ordination & Installation

Joel Rothe
Christ the King , Denver, CO
Saturday, June 23, 3:00 p.m.
Color of the Day: Red

Installation

Rev. David Ryder
Spirit of Joy, Fort Collins, CO
Sunday, June 24, 4:00 p.m.
Color of the Day: Red
RMS Prayer Cycle

JUNE 2018:
SOUTHEAST COLORADO CONFERENCE

 Week of June 24

Shepherd of the Hills - Canon City, CO
Robert Kippley

St. Paul - Calhan, CO
Tim Bettger

St. Paul’s - Sugar City, CO

Tabor - Pueblo, CO
Stacie Dougherty

Trinity - Monument, CO
Tyg Taylor
Sandra Hanawalt
Missie Bonser

Trinity - Fowler, CO
Wayne Josephson
Christ and the Disciples on a Raging Sea
1854 - Delacroix, Eugène.

Join us in daily prayer:
Download  ELCA Prayer Ventures  for daily guides to prayer for the global, social and outreach ministries of the ELCA, as well as for the needs and circumstances of our neighbors, communities and world. 
Sunday, June 24
Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
Prayer of the Day

O God of creation, eternal majesty, you preside over land and sea, sunshine and storm. By your strength pilot us, by your power preserve us, by your wisdom instruct us, and by your hand protect us, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

In God's Hands: Ecumenical Prayer Cycle from the World Council of Churches

Around the Synod
The Place of Ancient Texts in our Faiths
A Presentation by Distinguished Professors Dr. Samuel Boyd, Dr. Richard Hess, and Dr. Donald Parry
Thursday, June 21, 7:00 p.m.
Temple Emanuel
51 Grape Street, Denver

Please join JEWISHcolorado, Colorado Council of Churches, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Temple Emanuel for a stimulating conversation about the important role the Dead Sea Scrolls play in many faiths. Click on image, or here, for larger view of the flyer.
Retirement celebration for Pastor Frank Philipp!
Sunday, June 24, 2018
Join us on June 24 to celebrate the retirement, following 40 years of ministry, of Pastor Frank Philipp.
 
Reception from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Advent Lutheran Church, 7979 Meade Street, Westminster, CO. Directions here. (No RSVP needed)
Fine Arts Academy
Monday, July 9 through Thursday, July 12, 12:30 - 4:30 p.m. each day

St. Philip is holding a Fine Arts Academy for youth entering 5th grade and older, with the theme "This Changes Everything". Students will take choir and Bible study classes and may choose two electives. More information and registration forms can be found at http://www.stphilip-co.org/arts-academy/.
Community Summer Camp Help!
Monday - Friday, July 9 - 20
8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
111 Del Mar Circle
Aurora, CO 80011

We are in dire need of snack food donations, monetary donations, but even more so, ADULT VOLUNTEERS for our annual Summer Camp! I already have 90 kids registered, and have to cap it at 100 because we need more adults!!!! I need adults who love children, who can shepherd them from one activity to the next. We do crafts, games, water days, field events, mini worship, Zumba, POUND Fitness, etc. You would be in charge with another adult and youth volunteers to shepherd a group of around 20 kids. We provide snacks throughout the day since we live in an area where 75% of the kids are on free or reduced lunch. We are also in need of some camp-like musicians from 9:30-10:30 each day!
Thank you for anything you can help us with! If you can help or have questions, call 303-366-9702, email misskinna.cyf@gmail.com , or MissKinna Kemp on Facebook!
A Group Coaching Opportunity -
Growing as Leaders: From Complaint to Authentic Leadership
A Group Coaching Opportunity from Finding a Way Coaching, presented by Kim Gonia.

Thursdays at 1:00 p.m. MDT
July 5, July 19, August 2, August 16, and August 30
This is a group coaching experience for women in their 2nd or 3rd call who want to strengthen leadership skills.  It includes five group conversations on topics such as: the gift of coaching in ministry; outerwear and inner beauty; intergenerational trust; showing emotion: power and risk; leading while under construction.

Plus, five individual one-on-one coaching sessions focusing on issues specific to your context. Individual coaching (by phone) on Thursdays or Fridays.

Cost: $500 (REDUCED RATE FOR THE FIRST FIVE REGISTRATIONS: $300)

For more information go to kimgonia.com/finding-a-way-coaching or send email to kimgonia11@gmail.com .
Mary Sue Hale - ELEA's 2018 Early Childhood Director of the Year!
Join us in celebrating Mary Sue Hale, Director of Cross of Hope Lutheran PreSchool in Albuquerque, New Mexico , being selected as the Evangelical Lutheran Education Association’s 2018 Early Childhood Director of the Year. ELEA is the national membership association of private secondary, elementary and early childhood schools throughout the ELCA. “Director Hale was nominated by a colleague, and selected by her fellow administrators through a national search process conducted by the Evangelical Lutheran Education Association”, said Gayle Denny, Executive Director of ELEA. Read the press release here.
Our Life Together
WELCA at the 2018 ELCA Youth Gathering-Women of the...

Support Women of the ELCA (WELCA) at the ELCA Youth Gathering We will be helping young Lutherans advocate against human trafficking in our exhibit space at the ELCA Youth Gathering in Houston, June 27-July 1, 2018.

Read more
www.firstgiving.com
Clergy Pilgrimage to Spain: Walking the Ancient Camino to Santiago De Compostela
November 6 - 16, 2018
For more than a thousand years, millions have made their way through the varied landscape of Spain, traversing what’s known as the Camino de Santiago or the Way of St. James. The Episcopal Church in Colorado invites clergy to make this journey November 6-16, 2018. 

Designed especially for clergy, we will experience the spiritual renewal of walking the Camino firsthand, share a unique opportunity to deepen relationships with diverse clergy colleagues, and learn how to lead our own parish group pilgrimages. Participants will join in preparation ahead of the journey and gain valuable pilgrimage resources. Clergy traveling on this Familiarization Pilgrimage to Spain will be awarded a discount on a future Camino pilgrimage of 20 or more participants when arranged through Worldwide Pilgrimage Ministries for travel in 2019 or 2020. This clergy pilgrimage is not just a great backpacking trip, but a chance for pilgrims to experience their faith and calling like never before.

View the  Pilgrimage Itinerary  for a more detailed overview of our time together.
Trip leader: The Rev. Canon Greg Foraker, Missioner for Faith Formation, The Episcopal Church in Colorado.
Trip cost: $2,839-$2,999 depending on the number of travelers.

To register, please download and complete the  Spain Pilgrimage Reservation Form , and mail it to Worldwide Pilgrimage Ministries along with:
  • A copy of your passport. Please note that your passport must be valid for at least six months after your return date.
  • A nonrefundable deposit check for $800 made out to Worldwide Pilgrimage Ministries.
Mailing address for registration materials: Worldwide Pilgrimage Ministries, 1131 N. Laura St., Jacksonville, FL 32206-3296.

Space for this inspiring journey is limited. To reserve your place, send your materials and deposit by June 15, 2018.

Questions? Contact the Rev. Canon Greg Foraker, at Greg@EpiscopalColorado.org.
LFS June Bulletin Announcements
  • Are you interested in reducing isolation and enriching the life of an older adult with limited to no social support? Join our NEW Friendly Visitor Program and LFS will carefully match you with a participant in our Guardianship or Care Management programs. Visits may include conversation, card playing, crafting, or helping with practical tasks. Volunteer orientation is on July 14 from 10-11:30 a.m. and will include an introduction with the person you will be visiting. For more information or to apply please contact Shilo Christiansen at 303-217-5835 or visit our website at www.lfsrm.org/get-involved/volunteer.
Foster Homes Needed for Refugee Children
There are Central American children and youth in the Colorado, specifically in Denver and Colorado Springs that are in great need of either short or long term family foster care. These children and youth may have had family members in the US but for a variety of reasons, can't be united with them. Our request to you is to get the word out in the specific area where these children need to be placed to help us to find either long or short term foster care placements for these children. The need is high. 

Right now, there are over 20 children in the US, connected to LIRS supported agencies who are need short or long-term foster care placements. 

It's no small thing to 'give the gift of family.' It takes an open heart to accept a child or young person into your home from another culture. It takes time to provide an environment in which that young person can thrive. It takes passion for nurturing a young person into independent adulthood.

If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to Alena Lamirato at pastoralena@yahoo.com, or contact LaMar Rice, Program Manager for Foster Care at LRice@lirs.org.

Resource Corner
check back each week for a new or featured resource for your congregation
Here's Your Stewardship "Toolkit" for July!
Here's the "  Stewardship Toolkit" from the Lower Susquehanna Synod for July 2018. It's a Word file that has weekly "Stewardship Snippet" reflections tied to the Sunday RCL readings that can be cut and pasted into bulletins. There's also a "cut and paste" newsletter article and links to resources. This month's theme for the article and resources is "Stewardship of Your Leisure Time."

This and lots of other resources are posted on the  Lower Susquehanna Stewardship page -- feel free, also, to  steal borrow or link to anything there. 
Employment Opportunities
New Listings
Music Director (part-time)
St. Paul Lutheran Church - Albuquerque, NM
St. Paul Lutheran Church (SPLC), an ELCA and Reconciling in Christ congregation in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is seeking a part time Director of Music for approximately 15 hours per week. The role of this position is to lead, seek out, encourage, and coordinate the music ministry to enrich the worship and spiritual life of the congregation and the community.

The position reports to the Senior Pastor and is responsible for: Leading the Senior Choir and continuing a rich heritage of excellence in music; developing the music ministry of SPLC; working with the Pastor and members of the Worship and Music committee to plan the weekly worship.

The successful candidate will: have a background in or understanding of liturgical worship; demonstrate a high comfort level with a variety of styles of worship; exhibit leadership skills needed to coordinate the music ministry; possess skills to develop the youth music ministry; and have the ability to work as a team member both with the other music and ministerial staff. Knowledge and experience in conducting choral and instrumental music, as well as a deep and demonstrated Christian faith, are essential qualifications to serve in this role of inspiring and motivating others to deepen and share their faith through music.

Candidates for this position must have a minimum of two years as a successful music program director with an emphasis in choral music. A bachelor’s degree in music is required and a master’s degree in music is preferred.

A position description is available here and on our website, www.stpaulabq.org. Please submit a cover letter, resume and list of three references to:
St. Paul Lutheran Church
ATTN: Personnel Committee
PO Box 25001
Albuquerque, NM 87125

or by email to jobs.stpaulabq@gmail.com. If submitting your letter and resume by e-mail please indicate “ Director of Music Search” in the subject line of your e-mail.

Application deadline: July 18, 2018. Start date: June 12, 2018
Organist/Pianist
Trinity Lutheran Church - Laramie, WY
Trinity Lutheran in Laramie is looking for an Organist and/or Pianist to lead worship on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. This is a paid position!! If you would like to give the gift of worship to our faith community please email pastornate3421@gmail.com. More information is at http://www.telclaramie.com/organist-pianist-job-position/.
All Non-Rostered Positions 
Music Director (part-time)
St. Paul Lutheran Church - Albuquerque, NM

Organist/Pianist
Trinity Lutheran Church - Laramie, WY

National Coordinator
Lutheran Peace Fellowship (LPF)
Seattle, WA

Administrative Assistant
Epiphany Lutheran Church - Denver, CO

Program Director, Advocacy Engagement
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Washington, D.C.

Faith Formation Director
Trinity Lutheran Church - Laramie, WY
Office of the Bishop This Week
 
Bishop Gonia
  • Region 2 Meeting and Mobility Conference, Santa Ana, CA
  • Prince of Peace, Logan UT
  • Ordination/installation of Joel Rothe, Christ the King Denver
  • Installation of Rev. David Ryder, Spirit of Joy, Fort Collins, CO
  • Dean's Zoom Meeting
  • Synod Council 

Pastor Kent Mueller (1/2 time)
  • Vacation
  • Dean's Zoom Meeting

Ruth Hoffman
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM
  • Hunger Council
  • Dental Therapy Coalition
  • Kids Count Conference

Peter Severson
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-CO
  • Colorado SNAP coalition
  • Vacation
  • ELCA Youth Gathering
Pastor Judith VanOsdol
  • Region Two Mobility Conference, Pacifica Synod
  • Christ the King, Denver: Joel Rothe Ordination/ Installation 
  • Well of Hope, Castle Rock: Worship + Exec. Board meeting
  • Dean's Zoom meeting
  • Staff meeting
  • In-office appointments 

Deacon Erin Power
  • Region 2 Meeting and Mobility Conference, Santa Ana, CA
  • Theological Conference Planning
  • Dean's Zoom Meeting
  • Colorado Council of Churches

Pastor Sarah Moening
  • Sabbatical until August 14

Pastor Leslie Welton
  • Sky Ranch Confirmation Camp
  • ELCA tABLE Gathering, Houston, TX
  • ELCA Youth Gathering, Houston, TX
Quick Links
Share the News
Erin Power ,   Assistant to the Bishop
You are welcome to directly contact Andrew Nakatan i , Communications Assistant, with questions, comments, or concerns you may have about eConnection or our website!

Rocky Mountain Synod  
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
800-525-0462 / 303-777-6700 / fax 303-339-4744

Articles for eConnection are due noon Monday for the issue the following Wednesday.
Event announcements are included for about two weeks then copied to the Events & News Web Page , and may be submitted via the eConnection Submission link above.