SA registration open (EL08-13) - Feb. 18, 2008

The E-Letter

Feb. 18, 2008 - No. 13X via blog

We're continuing to use the blog in lieu of the E-Letter until we can get a new list-serv up and running. Please spread the word that this is the procedure. Subscribe to the blog by typing your e-mail address in the yellowish block to the right, then follow through on the procedure described. Note that you must click the link in the e-mail you'll receive in order to complete the subscription - this is a protection for you as well as for the system.


+ Online registration for Synod Assembly open
+ Register now for 'Opening Windows, Opening Doors' council training events
+ Are you reading the online Lenten devotions?
+ Watch for draft of next ELCA social statement
+ Bishop to convene three hearings on ELCA social statement draft
+ Circles of prayer


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Online registration for Synod Assembly open

For the first time ever, you're able to register and pay for the DE-MD Synod Assembly online! In fact, congregations may register and pay as a group, greatly simplifying the process. Visitors also may register online. This year, you'll also be registering and paying for meals at the same time as you register for the assembly, as well as registering for child care. It's safe, it's secure, and it's simple. Just go to the DE-MD Synod website and look for the link on the front page. Questions? Event Planner Linda Chinnia, (410)230-2860, (800)869-5492.

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Register now for 'Opening Windows, Opening Doors'

council training events

While you're on the front page of the synod website, you'll also want to be sure to download and print the information/registration brochure for "Opening Windows, Opening Doors: Exploring Fresh Ideas for Congregation Councils." Five identical events are set at various places around the synod between April and November to make it as easy as possible for your congregation council and other church leaders to attend as a group. The requested donation is only $5, and young adults, ages 18-30, are free.

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Are you reading the online Lenten devotions?

Be sure to check out this year's Lenten devotions, again written by volunteers from the Delaware-Maryland Synod and our ELCA Partner Synod, Northern Great Lakes. Look for the link from the synod website on the front page, or go directly to the devotions website, LentDevotions.org. (Note: It's LentDevotions, not LentenDevotions.) For unknown reasons, the blog set up to provide daily reminders and links is not working this year. Watch for it to return for next year's devotions.

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Watch for draft of next ELCA social statement

The draft of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's (ELCA) proposed social statement on human sexuality will be available March 13. Find everything you need to know on the ELCA website page devoted to Journey Together Faithfully.

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Bishop to convene three hearings on ELCA social statement draft

Bishop Jerry Knoche will convene three hearings on the draft of the proposed ELCA statement on human sexuality. All are invited to attend the location and date most convenient. Beverages and light refreshments will be available. For information, contact A2B Ginny Price, (410)230-2860, (800)869-5492. The hearings are scheduled for:

Sat., Apr. 26. 9:30-11:30 a.m.
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 24 E. Baltimore St., Funkstown, MD 21734

Weds., Apr. 30. 7-9 p.m.
St. Stephen Lutheran Church (Arbutus), 901 Courtney Rd., Baltimore, MD 21227

Sat., May 10. 9:30-11:30 a.m.
St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, 425 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover, DE 19901

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Circles of prayer

(Due to the public nature of the blog, these announcements will be limited.)

We surround with our love and prayers two of our parsonage families who have experienced loss recently.

…the family of Reynold Greenstone, father of Pr. Jon Greenstone (Elias Church, Emmitsburg, Md.), who died Feb. 7. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family in case of Pr. Jon Greenstone, P.O. Box 465, Emmitsburg, MD 21727-0465.

…the family of Edna Hudson, mother of Pr. Lee Hudson (Messiah Church, Canton, Baltimore), who, after a lengthy illness, died peacefully at the age of 88 on Mon., Feb. 11. The funeral will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on Mar. 7 at 1:30 p.m. The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Heart Association or to a cause of your choice. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family in care of Pr. Lee Hudson, Messiah English Lutheran Church, 1025 S. Potomac St., Baltimore, MD 21224-4920.