Join the RMS Hunger Network for

Housing and Homelessness: What Can Congregations Do?

Tuesday, October 10 at 6:30pm

ZOOM:

us06web.zoom.us/j/87461345638?pwd=5lbaYyu91oK1Zuvjyc404DDvShUZCA.1

Panel Members Are

Pastor Joel Pancoast – Safe Lot

Zion Lutheran in Loveland, CO

Pastor Joene Herr – Safe Outdoor Spaces

Christ Lutheran in Santa Fe, NM

Mr. Craig Tamminga – Habitat for Humanity

Augustana Lutheran in Denver, CO

Join us to learn and dream!

The world has changed, and the church is adapting. Do you have questions about setting a ministry strategy in this new world? Do you wonder how best to use your church building beyond Sundays? Are you curious about creative partnerships to reach new people? Some congregations have already taken risks in these areas and learned some things that will help us.

Join fellow congregational leaders around the Rocky Mountain Synod for a 90-minute zoom event exploring some inspiring ministry experiments. We will hear from three leaders who have taken some chances in ministry and gained insights they will share with us. After the short presentations we will enter into the small group of our choice for further conversation before returning back for a final debrief.

Zoom Link: us02web.zoom.us/j/85471053136

Zoom Meeting ID: 854 7105 3136

Please register ahead of time for this free event! 

ROCKY MOUNTAIN SYNOD

GENEROSITY CONFERENCE

STEWARDSHIP

September 25 – 27, 2023

This is a HYBRID EVENT from the Messiah Mountain Retreat Center.

The purpose of this conference is for the individuals interested in the financial health and well-being of our church to engage in the abundance-mindset work necessary to enhance and grow a culture of generosity that will sustain the future of our congregations, members, and leaders that make ministry possible!

The 2023 conference will focus on STEWARDSHIP and include:

• Stewardship Kaleidoscope Plenary and Workshop Sessions
• Rocky Mountain Synod Stewardship Best Practices
• Stewardship focused Worship & Devotions

For more information and list of presenters, download informational flyer here.

Discerning and Electing a New Bishop in 2024

The focus of the Synod Assembly April 25-27, 2024 will be the election of a new Bishop. To assist with this important, Spirit-led process, a new webpage called "2024 Synod Assembly Bishop Election" has been added to the Events section of the Rocky Mountain Synod website. This will serve as our hub for information regarding this election. Currently, it contains a timeline, information about the Bishop Election Committee, and an ELCA document outlining the responsibilities of synod Bishops. To help with the community's discernment, in late Fall feedback from conference meetings and Theological Conference discussions will be added. A biographical information form for those interested in being nominated as bishop will be added early 2024. Everyone- whether you will be a voting member at Assembly or not- is encouraged to visit the site and be informed about the process ahead.

CHECK FRAUD - PLEASE HELP

ENROLL IN RMS ACH DIRECT DEPOSIT

In response to our recent check fraud crisis, the synod has launched an ACH Direct Deposit system. Modeled after the process by which money is transferred to Portico, Clergy Financial, and ELCA Churchwide, congregations may enroll in our ACH Direct Deposit system. Once banking information is received and verified, the congregation will be set-up in our bank's secure ACH system and can start initiating electronic payments. 

Mission Support Remittance forms will be received via email. You will receive a Mission Support Remittance template to be completed according to your billing timeline in order to make a monthly mission support payment. Each congregation will continue to receive monthly contribution statements by email to verify that the correct funds have been withdrawn and distributed. It is extremely important to reconcile your monthly contribution statement to ensure that all transactions are recorded correctly. Discrepancies should be reported immediately.

ENROLL in the ACH Direct Deposit system by clicking the link below. To report missing contributions or if you have any questions, please contact Jon Johnson, Finance Director at finance@rmselca.org or Yvonne Wilken, Administrator at office@rmselca.org.

RMS Forms New Property Committee

The Synod is organizing a new Property Committee with the primary function to advise on strategic planning, resource allocation, and procedural systems related to the care and management of RMS properties (description here). This includes supporting the on-site work of managers at the Lutheran Center and Messiah Mountain Retreat Center.

The Synod is seeking three or four volunteers to serve as committee members for one- or two-year terms. This committee is best served by synod members who are lay or rostered individuals with the desire to share expertise related to one or more industries: property management, construction management, architecture, environmental issues, property inspection, real estate, or legal issues. Members do not need to live in the Denver area.

Send inquiries or recommendations to treasurer@rmselca.org.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Executive Director, Service and Justice

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Hybrid location, based in Chicago, IL.

Grounded in our purpose and priorities, the Executive Director (ED) will serve as the head of the Service and Justice home area. The ED will help the ELCA become a welcoming, thriving and sustainable church that is able to engage new, young and diverse people by demonstrating the compassion of Jesus in the world. This will occur by connecting communities through service and justice for transformation in the way of Jesus as well as through programs and ministries of the church that promote relevancy and engagement with new people. The incumbent in this position leads the team in building bridges between the three expressions of the ELCA, our companion and partners, and new ministries that foster a shared vision for a just and peaceful world.

This is a full-time, regular, exempt, hybrid position. This is a 4-year term position. Terms are renewed by the Presiding Bishop at their discretion.

See full position description and application instructions here, download here.

To obtain further details about this opportunity, contact Sophia LaFontant, Search Consultant at slafontant@nonprofithr.com.

Rev. Jeff Johnson Elected Bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod

Jeff R. Johnson, Berkeley, Calif., was elected Sept. 17 to serve a six-year term as bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The election took place during a live synod assembly. Johnson was elected on the fifth ballot, with 226 votes. The Rev. John Keuhner, pastor of Unity Lutheran Church of South San Francisco and bridge pastor of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church of San Mateo, Calif., received 168 votes. 

The bishop-elect has served as pastor of University Lutheran Chapel of Berkeley and as a member of the Spiritual Care Team at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Berkeley, since 2013. Previously he served as pastor of First United Lutheran Church in San Francisco (1990-1999), as a mission developer for Lutheran Lesbian and Gay Ministries in San Francisco (1990-1995), as HIV education director for Lutheran Social Services of Northern California (1988-1989), as assistant night minister for San Francisco Night Ministry (1987-1988), and was an intern at the Lutheran Office of Public Policy and at First English Lutheran Church in Sacramento (1986-1987).

Johnson received his Bachelor of Arts in history and Bachelor of Arts in German from California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, in 1984, and his Master of Divinity from Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in 1988. Johnson was ordained in 1990.

An official press release can be found here.

National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools

During September we remember the survivors and descendants of U.S. Indian Boarding Schools and on Saturday, Sept. 30, we will observe the National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools. You can participate by wearing an orange shirt and posting a photo of yourself or members of your congregation or community on social media. Use the hashtags #ELCA #TruthAndHealing and #DayOfRememberance. If you would like to support the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition (NABS), you can purchase an orange shirt with their logo. However, any orange shirt will work.

Throughout September the ELCA’s Truth and Healing Movement has provided opportunities to learn about Indian boarding schools, including conversations with boarding schools survivors and descendants of survivors, advocacy opportunities and more.

The ELCA is committed to understanding our role in the tragic and sinful history of Indian boarding schools so that we can begin to heal together. Further, our learning and advocacy related to Indian boarding schools will not end Sept. 30 as our journey toward healing will continue – throughout the Truth and Healing Movement and beyond. To learn more and get involved, visit elca.org/IndianBoardingSchools.

Next week an “Introduction to the Truth and Healing Movement” class will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 26, and an “Indian 101” class is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 28. This will be your last chance to attend these classes during the Truth and Healing Movement. Visit ELCA.org/TruthAndHealing for more information.

A Life Changing Faith Formation Event!

New Orleans, LA

July 13-16, 2024: MYLE & the tAble

July 16-20, 2024: ELCA Youth & Young Adult Gatherings

The Gathering’s mission of faith formation in young people is the hub from which all things come for MYLE, the tAble and the Gathering. Our goal is to create environments and opportunities for faith formation through worship, interactive learning, Bible study, service and fellowship. While some of the experiences can be replicated at home, some are unique and special to the Gathering because of the size and scope of this ministry.

Registration for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, the Multicultural Youth Leadership Event (MYLE), the tAble and the Young Adult Gathering will open on Sept. 15, 2023 at noon central.

BENEFITING ELCA WORLD HUNGER

Rainbow Trail's 5K Grace Race !!!

Saturday, October 7

Onsite registration opens at 2:00 p.m.

Race start is at 4:00 p.m.

Help erase World Hunger at Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp’s 16th Annual Grace Race on Saturday October 7, 2023 at Sloan's Lake Park in Denver!

This annual 5K run/walk was started as part of RTLC’s 50th anniversary in 2007 to raise money for ELCA World Hunger. The event is held in collaboration with the Rocky Mountain Synod Hunger Network. Over the last 16 years, RTLC and the participants of Grace Race have contributed over $88,000 to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal. We are aiming for 200 participants in this year’s race. Help RTLC send another $10,000 check to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal!

Online registration is open NOW until 4:30pm Friday, September 29. Day of race registration begins at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 7 at Sloan's Lake Park. Come run or walk, and make a difference!!

RAINBOW TRAIL LUTHERAN CAMP

Rainbow Trail Women's Retreat

Friday, October 6 to Sunday, October 8

It’s time for you to free yourself from your daily stressors and escape to Rainbow Trail for some spiritual freedom, fellowship, and fun! Don’t miss this opportunity to be immersed in community on the mountain, in which we will discover and affirm the gifts that God has given us. Call your best gal pals, staff alumni sisters, church buddies, neighbor that God has been nudging you about. But do it soon… registration will fill fast!

Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp Confirmation Retreat

Friday, October 20 to Sunday, October 22

Join us for a Confirmation Retreat at Rainbow Trail this fall and let us be partners with you in creating a fun atmosphere for learning in your confirmation program! We will sing songs, play games, learn together and play together in God’s beautiful creation.

Learning in a fun-filled camp atmosphere may be just what your kids need to bond together as a group and build relationships with other confirmands. Spend time in fellowship and learning with our extraordinary Rainbow Trail staff in the place your confirmands have grown to love. Our staff will lead your kids in crafts, team-building activities, outdoor activities such as hiking or archery, fun games and camp-style songs!

Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp Senior High Retreat

Friday, November 17 to Sunday, November 19

The Senior High Retreat is specifically geared for high school youth. This retreat can be an opportunity to connect on the real struggles that high school presents, explore what life after high school might look like, and how we can live faithfully through it all.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be immersed in community on the mountain, in which we will discover and affirm the gifts that God has given us. November in the mountains can be chilly, but also refreshing both physically and spiritually. Join us and other senior high youth in the Synod for a faith adventure in the mountains!

It’s official- our Paint & Pour is now a down the mountain experience!

Join us on December 9th as we give thanks for and explore the creativity that lives inside of each of us! ?????

If you have any questions, contact Bekah at bekah@skyranchcolorado.org!

RMS WOMEN'S ORGANIZATION

RMSWO Fall Gathering

"Walking Together in God’s Way"

Friday, Oct 6 - Sunday, Oct 8

First Lutheran-Peel House

1515 N. Cascade, Colorado Springs

Have you registered for the Fall Gathering in Colorado Springs on October 6-7? It will be wonderful to see all our sisters in Christ together again. We have a full agenda with Bishop Gonia leading us in opening worship on Friday night. Come learn, share, meditate, hug and sing with your sisters.

Enjoy reading about:

• Ralph Patrick and Cindy Weaver and their work for Family Promise in Colorado Springs
• Vicki Profitt serving as Executive Director for both SARAH’S HOME and DANIEL ACADEMY
• Pastor Stephani Shumaker, the new Associate Pastor at Atonement Lutheran Church in Boulder
• Susan Bolduc who serves as president of our Rocky Mountain Synod’s Advocacy Policy Committee and has led congregational and community social justice groups
• Pastor Kelsey Fauser, who serves as Pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs
• a short bio about Bishop Jim Gonia
• how to make Elder Boxes, and more!!!

Download the newsletter here, sign up for the Fall Gathering!

AUGUSTANA ARTS PRESENTS

Music Without Boundaries

Stratus Chamber Orchestra Concert

Saturday, Sept. 23 at 7pm

Augustana Lutheran Church

5000 E. Alameda Ave., Denver

Sunday, Sept. 24 at 3pm

City Park Pavilion

2001 Steele St., Denver

Join us for an exceptional Stratus Chamber Orchestra concert experience that celebrates the limitless creativity of female composers and composers of color, forging a unique connection between performers and audience while championing diversity through captivating works that transcend traditional boundaries.

The program features Arturo Marquez's lively "Danzón No. 4"; Kevin Puts' expressive Flute Concerto, featuring Stratus’s own Tamara Maddaford on flute; Nkeiru Okoye's vibrant Charlotte Mecklenburg; and Florence Price's powerful Concert Overture No. 1. Through this concert, especially with SCO's unique immersive seating at the Sunday performance, we transcend boundaries, champion diversity, and highlight the universal language of music.

Join us on Saturday evening, September 23, at Augustana Lutheran Church, or on Sunday afternoon, September 24, at City Park Pavilion.

TUVAYHUN

Colorado Chorale & Augustana Chancel Choir in Concert

7:00pm on Friday, October 27

Augustana Lutheran Church, 5000 E Alameda Ave

Cost: $25 general, $20 senior, free child/student

“Tuvayhoon” in Aramaic is “blessed.” Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing choral journey as the Colorado Chorale collaborates with the Augustana Lutheran Church Chancel Choir to present Kim André Arnesen’s ethereal masterpiece.

This extraordinary work begins from the biblical Beatitudes and responds with new poetry that sheds light on who among us might be in need of blessing. The texts––ancient and new––are woven into a colorful tapestry of music inspired by a variety of traditions, highlighting the universality of the human experience.

Tuvayhun is more than a concert. It’s a celebration of the human spirit, expressed through the unifying power of music!

FROM THE CENTER OF ADDICTION AND FAITH

Father Ed: The Story of Bill W's Spiritual Sponsor

Wednesday, Sept. 27

11:00am - 12:00pm MT

with follow-up 30 minute Zoom discussion

As we recognize National Recovery Month, we are pleased to be joined for our September FREE Webinar with Dawn Eden Goldstein, author of Father Ed: The Story of Bill W.'s Spiritual Sponsor. 

About Father Ed: The Story of Bill W.'s Spiritual Sponsor



Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Bill Wilson called St. Louis Jesuit Father Edward Dowling, "the greatest and most gentle soul to walk this planet." Although Father Ed was not himself an alcoholic, he opened his heart to alcoholics and other people with problems, including couples in strained marriages and people suffering from mental illness. Dawn Eden Goldstein, author of the Christopher Award-winning biography Father Ed: The Story of Bill W.'s Spiritual Sponsor, will share the life and message of this remarkable priest, who played a key role in spreading the good news of recovery.

Registrants receive 30% discount when ordering copies of Father Ed with promo code FRE23 at OrbisBooks.com.

Christ the Servant in Louisville is collaborating with MOTUS Theater to bring personal stories from the frontlines of immigration policy to our community. All are welcome to join us for the powerful performance of monologues and music. Tickets are $10. Grab a friend and get your tickets now!!

CONTEMPLATIVE OUTREACH OF COLORADO

Fall Conference with Brian McLaren

Faith, Doubt and Contemplation: Being Contemplatives in a Dangerous Time

Saturday, October 7, 9am-3pm MT

(in person & via zoom)

Join theologian and author, Brian McLaren, for his talk on Faith Doubt and Contemplation: Being Contemplatives in a Dangerous Time. "The road to faith after doubt is often lonely. But beyond the loneliness, you discover a place of solidarity where everything is sacred and everything belongs, including your doubts and including you..." Register below or call 303-698-7729.

ONLINE EVENT

From Wedding Rings to Nose Rings - Generational Differences in the Pews

Presented By Faith Roberts, MSN, RN, NEA-BC

Tuesday, October 10, 5:00 - 7:00 pm MT

Registration fee: $30 for LFCNA members/ $50 for non-members

Have you been wondering why some churches elect to rent a high school gym or area hotel for worship? Or why the front of the worship space is an electronic haven? For some, church attendance is a given for others it is "nice if you can make it".

At the time of this presentation worship is being done with up to SIX generations attending/ watching/listening. The world we live in changes continually as has attendance patterns and financial support of places of worship.

Understanding what defines each generation helps the practicing Faith Community Nurse (FCN) to support programming and services that speak to different age groups. 

THE CORNERSTONE CHORALE & BRASS PRESENTS A POWERFUL MESSAGE OF RECONCILIATION AND UNITY     

Friday, November 3. 6:00pm

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 6322 South Lakeview Street, Littleton, CO

The program features a unique combination of traditional choral and instrumental

music with narration woven together with newly composed musical themes. The 2023 Tour program offers a unique faith experience reflecting on the pervasive fear that underlies our everyday lives, and focusing on the message that “Perfect love casts out fear.” ( I John 4:18 )

Cornerstone is the creation of its conductor, DR. BRUCE VANTINE, and consists of 30 professional vocalists, instrumentalists, narrator and staff currently on a 3½ week tour including 20 performances in 12 states across the Midwest and Southwest. Members of the ensemble include experienced professional performers from all over the United States. The group has presented more than 480 performances since 1988, offering unique and uplifting programs which often help raise awareness and funds for charities in the local sponsoring community. (Read more here)

Revised Compensation Guidelines for Congregations from Synod Council

The Synod Council updated compensation guidelines for rostered ministers. Here is the revised Compensation Guidelines Narrative, and an Excel Worksheet to aid with your financial calculations.

• Compensation Guidelines Narrative - revised June 2023 (PDF)
• RMS Rostered Leader Salary Worksheet (Excel)

• These resources are also available at: rmselca.org/compensation

"There are 109 congregations in the synod and around 45,000 baptized members. In addition to congregations the synod has 13 new mission starts located in Bellevue, Bothell, Burlington, Edmonds, Everett, Sammamish, and Seattle; three second site congregations located in Mukilteo, Renton and Seattle; and two campus ministries located in Bellingham and Seattle."

The Rev. Shelley Bryan Wee was elected May 19, 2019 to serve a six-year term as bishop. Synod offices are at 5519 Phinney Ave N, Seattle, Washington 98103.

See the Northwest Washington Synod Data Toolkit 2021, visit www.lutheransnw.org, and on Facebook.

Click here to view a Bishops and Synods map of our 65 ELCA synods and 9 regions.