E-Spirit Weekly Newsletter | August 6, 2024 | |
| Deadline to Register for COM is August 13th | | |
Last Week to Register for 2024 Conference on Ministry! | |
We are excited to invite you to the 2024 Conference on Ministry, held this year at the stunning Mission Inn in Howey-in-the-Hills, FL. Join us from September 16-18, 2024, for an inspiring and rejuvenating retreat featuring our guest speaker, Dr. Barbara Rossing, professor of New Testament at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.
Our theme, "The Lamb's Alternative Power Story for the Healing of Creation," will guide us through the book of Revelation. Dr. Rossing will help us uncover its powerful message of hope and envision a renewed world where all are welcome and have enough. This is a unique opportunity to explore Revelation's theme of hope, not fear, as we journey to the beautiful city and river of life.
In addition to the enlightening sessions, the conference is a wonderful chance to connect with fellow rostered ministers, relax, and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of Mission Inn. We look forward to seeing you there for this enriching experience!
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Tee Off at Las Colinas!
Don’t miss your opportunity to play Las Colinas, opened in 1992 and voted one of top courses in Florida. With it’s unique inland links design, Las Colinas offers wide-open fairways and a gentle rolling landscape. You won’t be disappointed.
Didn’t sign up for golf when you registered? It’s not too late, come join your peers for a friendly tournament at this top ranked course. Sign up here.
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God’s Love Made Real: A Conversation With Bishop Eaton
The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), will join congregations in the Caribbean, Florida-Bahamas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Southeastern and Virginia synods on Tuesday, Aug. 13, at 12 p.m. Eastern time for a regional conversation on God’s Love Made Real. The Rev. Pedro M. Suárez, bishop of the ELCA Florida-Bahamas Synod, will host the online conversation.
God’s Love Made Real is a movement encouraging the ELCA to create a world experiencing the difference God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation.
During this discussion the presiding bishop will share why God’s Love Made Real is meaningful to her and the future of the church. Participants will have the opportunity to share experiences and ask questions.
“The Spirit is calling us to move together as one church to share the grace and love we experience every day,” said Eaton.
More conversations about God’s Love Made Real will be scheduled with regional groups in the future.
Join the discussion! You can learn more about God’s Love Made Real at lovemadereal.elca.org.
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Ordinations & Installations
August 10, 5 PM – Installation of the Rev. Matthew Shapton as Pastor of The Community Church Babcock Ranch; Bishop Suarez will officiate.
September 1, 3 PM – Installation of the Rev. Callie Torres as Associate Pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Miami; Bishop Suarez will officiate.
October 19, 2:30 PM - Installation of the Rev. Ben Mandrick as Pastor at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Fernandina Beach; Bishop Suarez will officiate.
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Has your congregation made the 2022 constitutional updates?
At the Churchwide Assembly in August of 2022, amendments to the Model Constitution for Congregations were adopted and mandated to be incorporated into each congregation’s constitution. Those amendments, as well as the updated Model Constitution can be found here.
Once the constitution has been updated, please send it to Linda Rosche at lindalou6451@gmail.com. A detailed review will be done, and she will get back to you if any corrections need to be made. Once complete and reviewed by Synod Council, it will be on file at the Synod office. If you have any questions, Linda can be reached at the above email address.
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| MINISTRY & PARTNER UPDATES |
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Just Love Civic Life and Faith Webinar
The ELCA is developing a social statement on civic life and faith, the relationship of church and state, and related matters, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.
Social statements are the ELCA’s primary documents to address significant social issues. They are intended to aid reflection, shape conscience, and set forth the ELCA’s teaching and policy on the major social issues and questions of contemporary life. Social statements are developed by task forces, using an established process of study and widespread participation across the church, to guide theological and moral deliberation.
Join Just Love and people around the synod to explore this draft social statement on August 28 from 7 - 9 p.m. on Zoom. A panel will present various aspects of the draft. Presenters include Cheryl Stuart (attorney in public policy), Professor William Rodriguez (ethics and philosophy), and Pastor Rani Abdulmasih (Hope Lutheran Church, The Villages). Please read the social statement prior to the webinar found here.
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Major Gift to Haiti
The Global Mission Table (and its hardworking Haiti Team led by Alonzo Batson) is pleased to announce a $75,000 gift to assist the people of Haiti. Through the ELCA's partnership with the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), the synod is joining in a $400,000 project in the south and western parts of Haiti providing (1) cash distributions to vulnerable families; (2) support to victims of gender-based violence; and (3) disaster preparedness to foster resilient communities. The target population includes the vast number of internally displaced people in Haiti. During the first five months of this year alone, nearly 600,000 have left their homes due to violence and unrest, and 2,500 have been killed or injured through violence (UN Report, 6/20/24).
Despite instability centered in Port-au-Prince and countrywide transportation challenges, LWF's partner organization ACT Alliance remains active in Haiti. The agency's extensive web of local relationships affords it the ability get assistance and helpful programs to the people. We are grateful for networks such as these that bring healing and hope in the face of extreme challenges.
The Global Mission Table maintains its relationship with the Lutheran Church in Haiti and Rev. Livenson, its president. Rev. Livenson is safe, though he must restrict his movements and maintain a low profile. ELH is not able to receive and distribute funds in this difficult period, however, ACT Alliance is active in communities where ELH churches are located. It is through YOUR donations that the Global Mission Table can make such a significant gift, bringing Gospel hope to desperate places. Thank you for your generosity. Thanks be to God!
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Women's Bible Study Date Change
The final meeting of summer Bible study with women from FBS and the Lutheran churches of Guyana and Suriname has been rescheduled to Wednesday, August 21 at 6 p.m. EST. Note that this is one week later than originally advertised. Leadership on August 21 will be from the women of ELKS--the Lutheran Church in Suriname. You are invited to join via Zoom for this one-hour time of conversation and prayer!
Connection information is as follows:
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83882799173
Meeting ID: 838 8279 9173
One tap mobile +13052241968,,83882799173# US +13126266799,,83882799173# US (Chicago)
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Messiah, Cape Coral Seeks Organist
This position supports the Messiah Lutheran Church mission by providing our congregation’s music during worship. Since the ministries of Messiah vary seasonally, the Organist shall also provide special music to the worshipers who are present. Click here to view complete job description. For questions, please contact office@messiahnfm.org.
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Paraments available from Joy, Ocala
Joy, Ocala has altar paraments that they wish to donate to any congregation in need. Photos of the paraments can be found here. For more information, please contact Bob Bonomo at 352-220-4307.
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Two job openings at Grace in Tallahassee
PT Keyboardist (Piano and Organ)
We are seeking a part-time Organ/Keyboard/Piano player. The keyboardist will serve as a member of the Music Ministry Team for Grace Lutheran Church, and will prepare and perform music for the weekly 9am and 11am Sunday services, as well as other special days in Lent and during Holy Week, and Advent and Christmas on organ and piano. This position is available immediately, and inquiries and resumes may be submitted to Dr. Leslie Heffner, Music Program Coordinator at heffnerl@gmail.com.
PT Guitarist/Song Leader for Contemporary Service
We are seeking a PT Guitarist/Song Leader. The position will serve as a member of the Music Ministry Team for Grace Lutheran Church, to prepare and provide music leadership for the Contemporary Worship Service (Sundays at 9 am) in coordination with the Music Program Coordinator and Keyboard Player. This position is available immediately, and inquiries and resumes may be submitted to Dr. Leslie Heffner, Music Program Coordinator at heffnerl@gmail.com.
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Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Palm Harbor seeks Interim Music Director
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection in Palm Harbor is in need of a Director of Music to plan and organize the music ministry for worship services. Their services are Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday morning. They are a small ELCA congregation currently in transition awaiting a full time pastor. Click here for details.
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Living Lord Lutheran Church In Vero Beach, FL is seeking a Director of Evangelism and Outreach
Living Lord Lutheran Church, a welcoming community of faith in Vero Beach, FL, seeks a passionate Director of Evangelism and Outreach to join our team! In this dynamic role, you'll play a key part in expanding our reach and fostering connections within the congregation and beyond.
Leveraging your social media expertise, you'll craft engaging content that showcases the church's vibrant ministries and develop impactful video testimonials from our members. You'll collaborate with church partners to strengthen existing relationships and identify new opportunities for service in the Vero Beach community. A strong communicator, you'll keep our congregation informed through regular newsletters, bulletins, and participation in worship services.
We're searching for a committed Christian with a heart for sharing the gospel and a talent for building relationships. If you're energized by the prospect of using your skills to connect people with God and each other, we encourage you to apply! Please submit your resume to info@livinglordlutheran.com.
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St. Andrews, Jacksonville Seeks PT Organist/Pianist
St. Andrews Lutheran Church by the Sea (ELCA)– Jacksonville Beach, FL
We are seeking a part-time Organist/Pianist. The position would include preparing and performing music for the weekly 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM services as well as other special days including Lent, Holy Week, Advent and Christmas using an organ and piano. This position is available immediately. Inquiries and resumes can be submitted to Pastor Jody Rice at jjrice2002@yahoo.com.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- Coordinate with the Pastor appropriate music for worship services and other church programs.
- Provides organ music for weddings and funerals as needed.
- Plan for seasonal choirs (Christmas and Easter). Accompany choirs during worship services.
- Accompany congregational singing.
- Work with worship committee to plan for the ministry of the church.
- Cooperate with the Pastor by performing any other duties as needed. Prelude, Lutheran Liturgy, Offertory, Background During Communion, Postlude. Certain music (Prelude, Postlude, and others) will be at your choosing.
Skills and Qualifications:
- College student or bachelor’s degree preferred
- Proficiency in playing organ with foot pedals
- Piano proficiency
- Familiarity with liturgy and the liturgical year
$12,000-$16,000 per year
St. Andrews Lutheran Church by the Sea 1801 Beach Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32250
Small Congregation of about 75 on Sunday between the 2 services
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September 21: School of Lay Ministry Annual Retreat and Graduation Worship, Mandarin Lutheran Church, Jacksonville
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