Equipping Congregations Day 2017

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1 Equipping Congregations Day 2017 Keynote and Workshop Descriptions Keynote by Rozella Haydée White The (Ongoing) Work of Reformation: Uncovering, Recovering and Discovering the Call of 21st Century Disciples Reformation for Lutherans is not a one-time event. It's a way of life informed by the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Not unlike the time of Martin Luther, society is on the precipice of many cultural shifts. Now is the time to reclaim the spirit of reformation in ways that speak to the changing contexts and needs of society. Choose 1 workshop from each group to attend. Group A: Really Good Things can Come in Rather Small Packages Presenters: Pastor Lori Wold & Team, Trinity Lutheran Church, Boyd Does the shrinking size of your congregation cause you concern? Do you wonder what ministry is possible with only a few people? Come and listen and share with folks from Trinity, a small rural congregation, as they tell you about some creative ideas they have tried. They found that a few people really can make a "BIG" difference in the lives of others Navigating Your Synod Online Presenters: Kristin Bakeberg & Caitlin Kodet, SW MN Synod Staff I m sure you know your SW MN Synod has a website but do you know all the online resources you can find there? Come learn what our NEW website has to offer to your congregation and how to navigate it. Your SW MN Synod offers a variety of online communication options, we will explore those. We will also offer time for questions about the website and general questions about your synod. Messy Church! Presenter: Pastor Jennifer Thul, Danebod Lutheran Church, Tyler Life is messy so why would church be any different? Worship is prime time for bringing generations together. This workshop will take a look at a way to do that called Messy Church. It's an opportunity to share the gospel in a nonthreatening way using (sometimes) messy activities, games and Bible stories. Myth Buster - A Millennial Talking About Young Adults Presenter: Pastor Courtney Young, Lutheran Campus Ministry, St. Cloud State University Spoiled? Inclusive? Entitled? Connected? Lazy? Optimistic? What are Millennials really like? Bring all the things that you have heard about those born between the good and the bad and the outrageous. Together we will sift through what rings true and what is just hot air. As a Millennial, I will brainstorm with you what things churches can try to make church and Christianity more approachable to young adults inspired by my own relationship with the church.

2 Death and Dying: Ministry at the End of Life Presenter: Judie Dunlop, LSW, CHP-SW, Social Work Coordinator, Rice Hospice Workshop objectives will identify: Four Things That Matter Most by Ira Byok, MD, Dying with Dignity, and Experiential presentation The Game of Life and Death. Judie has been practicing in the field of Social Work for over 35 years, including in Long Term Care, Senior Housing, Senior Center Director, Program Coordinator for in-house pregnant teenagers and 18 years in Hospice Care. She is also a certified Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker with the National Association of Social Workers and currently the Bereavement Program Coordinator, Camp GK Bear Coordinator and Healing Hearts Facilitator for Rice Hospice. Exploring Generosity: Having Conversations About Faith and Giving in Today's Congregation to Inspire Generosity Presenter: Larry Strenge, Director for Evangelical Mission, SW MN Synod That s none of your business! exclaimed the council member when asked about her net worth. An animated response like this one is all too common in our congregational settings when talk about money is explored. So how does one have a conversation about money in a culture like ours? This workshop teaches participants some practical ways to free people in their God-given ability to be generous and give broader witness to others as we live into our call to be Everyday Reformers Women of the ELCA: Not Your Mama s Ladies Aid Presenters: Kristy Henriksen, President SW MN SWO Women of the ELCA & Sara Larson, Board member Think you know all about the women s organization of the ELCA? Women of the ELCA does so much more that have coffee, raise money for missions, quilt, and study our Bibles. The 1950 s image of your mom s ladies aid has been reborn as Women of the ELCA with a wide scope of opportunities to serve as a disciple for the Lord. There is something for women of all ages. Women of the ELCA has raised funds for the Malaria Project, taken on human trafficking prevention and anti-bullying projects, are helping Phebe Hospital in Liberia become solar powered, and the women still study the Bible, do projects for Lutheran World Relief, and plan and conduct wonderful fundraisers. Come to hear and see what those Church Ladies are up to. Putting Conversations to Work: World Café Presenter: Tobias Spainer, University of Minnesota Southwest MN Extension Regional Office, Marshall World Cafe Conversations are an easy-to-use method for creating a living network of collaborative dialogue around questions that matter in service of the real work.in this workshop, participants will explore the principles and techniques of this popular method while experiencing it for themselves. Church Mutual Insurance Presenters: Timothy Marks & Dan Shultz, Church Mutual Insurance Company Description coming soon.

3 Oh Great: Another Workshop on Youth, Family and Young Adult Ministry Presenter: Pastor Chad Peterson, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, St. Cloud So many books, seminars, and experts all offering the magic fix for what is now becoming more than a generation of young people walking away from institutionalized religion, it can all be overwhelming for congregations trying desperately to hang on to this demographic. And here is the thing most of it does not work! This is not such a workshop and I am by no means an expert. I do not have any magic fixes; instead, I am an experimenter trying to move beyond technical solutions (which is often what is peddled in the youth ministry world a new website, more programs, a coffee bar, etc) into adaptive solutions aimed at working to change the very DNA of our congregations into communities that speak the deep needs of our world today. Come join the conversation! Group B: Picturing the Reformation: Luther, Cranach and the Power of the Visual Presenter: Paul Daniels, ELCA Region 3 Archivist & Luther Seminary Archivist, St. Paul "Picturing the Reformation: Luther, Cranach and the Power of the Visual" will explore the dynamic relationship between the great reformer, Martin Luther, and Lucas Cranach, the equally effective artist and propagandist of the movement. Both men needed the other to extend the reach of their respective callings. This PowerPoint presentation will be a lively back and forth conversation with many compelling images demonstrating how much the success of the Reformation depended on the visual arts as well as on Luther's provocative writings. Luther and Cranach formed a partnership and a friendship that reaches out to us even today as we celebrate the 500 th anniversary of the Reformation. The Joy of Aging Living Better Not Just Longer While Embracing Change Presenter: Bev Werder, Founder of Compassionate Care, an in-home care service and Compassionate Cottage At its core, the golden years involve embracing numerous adjustments in one s life. How can we as family, friend and church stay connected and serve older adults at home, in the community and at church? Our Church Has Decided to Do a Narrative Budget; Now What? Presenters: Susan Lange, Faith Lutheran Church, Spicer & Rev. Kathryn Skoglund, Synod Minister, SW MN Synod For people whose congregations currently use a narrative budget, those who are in the process of implementing one, or those who are just thinking about doing so, this practical workshop will use round table conversations to share congregational experiences, challenges and successes in implementing narrative budgeting. Understanding Depression Presenter: Dr. Katie Wojtalewicz, Licensed Psychologist, southern Minnesota Depression is a condition widely discussed but frequently misunderstood. Learn how to recognize the more subtle symptoms in someone who s struggling and identify the best ways to help. Often it s the simplest of gestures a patient ear, a supportive witness that have the greatest impact. We need not be professional fixers to be an important ally to someone who s depressed. We ll discuss how to use the tools and gifts we already possess to care for those around us.

4 How Many Lutherans Does it Take to Change a Worship Schedule? Presenter: John Jahr, Vinje Lutheran Church, Willmar As worship attendance patterns change, many congregations are beginning a conversation about change the types of conversations that strike fear into our hearts. Vinje recently made a major change in our worship life, by offering one service on Sunday and one on Wednesday instead of two on Sunday. In this workshop, we will discuss the process used, some of the questions we asked, and the challenges we have faced along the way. We ll also explore some of the opportunities that presented themselves as a result of the change. We ll take a look at what these services look like, how they are similar and how they are vastly different. (We might also sing a song or two) Safety and Security at Church: One Congregation s Experience Presenters: Safety & Security Team from Bethlehem Lutheran Church, St. Cloud Is your congregation ready to respond to a security threat during worship? Learn how one congregation prepared a Safety & Security Plan that can be adapted for use in your congregation. Bethlehem Lutheran of St Cloud formed a Safety & Security Team after attending a training called Worship without Worry; Safety and Security for Places of Worship by Tina Rowe, a former police officer and US Marshall. You will learn how the Safety and Security Team used this training to develop and implement a plan specific to Bethlehem. Some topics covered: why develop a plan, the role of the worship leaders in emergency situations, what it s like to use your plan the first time, developing safety & security procedures, and facility updates. My Neighbor is Muslim/Refugee Update Presenters: Cate Anderson, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota & Pastor Jon Nelson, Ebenezer & Tripolis Lutheran Churches, Kandiyohi In response to questions and concerns about refugees being resettled throughout Minnesota, LSS has heeded the call of the pastors for a resource to spread accurate information about foundations of the Muslim faith. In 2014, Minnesota resettled 2,232 refugees, the highest per capita in the country. Many of these new neighbors are Muslim. Because Minnesota has always had the reputation as a very welcoming state, we are sure to welcome more Muslim neighbors in the future. To learn more, take a look at our LSS refugee facts and figures resource. Using the Momentum of Synod Youth Gatherings to Complement Congregational Youth Ministry Presenters: Members of the SW MN Synod Lutheran Youth Organization & Sarah Hausken, Youth Ministry Coordinator, SW MN Synod We know that going to a youth gathering can have an incredible impact on youth and their faith journey. Join youth members of the synod s Lutheran Youth Organization to learn how to actively encourage the continuation of the Holy Spirit s work after returning home from a youth gathering. Explore ways to deepen the impact God made at the youth gathering by using the momentum of that event to complement congregational youth ministry.

5 Does Confirmation Still Matter? Presenter: Pastor Laura Aase, River of Hope, Hutchinson Well, sure. Probably. I think so. Wait, does it? I've been asking myself this question for 6 years and have come up with some ways to "do" confirmation that fit my context. This workshop is less about answers and more about "try and fail and try and fail and try..." I'll share my discoveries with you and invite you to share yours too. Behavioral Finance Beliefs not Budgets Presenter: Terri Endres, Portico Benefit Services Financial wellness is more than budgets, balance sheets or investment portfolios. Our emotions and money beliefs greatly impact our financial decisions. The field of Behavioral Finance helps us identify these beliefs and understand why we flourish or struggle with money. This workshop is designed to help us: Understand the impact our emotions have on our financial decisions Identify how to align our values with our financial decisions Learn how to begin to change beliefs that do not help us meet our financial goals Review resources and ideas that support manageable next steps Leave your calculators and Excel spread sheets at home. Bring a willingness to share stories and experiences to help us move forward in financial wellness. Group C: Spiritual Practices for Everyday Life Presenter: Pastor Mari Thorkelson, Spiritual Director We will engage in simple ways to open ourselves to the Spirit of God through a variety of prayer practices, meditation and mindfulness as well as how to be in the present moment. Included are practices that can help individuals, families and children deal with anxiety, health concerns, improve concentration and handle difficult emotions. Warning: this could change your life. Young Adult Roundtable: We're Glad You're Here! Presenter: Bishop Jon Anderson & young adults from your SW MN Synod How do we invite, welcome and receive the gifts of young adults in our congregations and community? Join a conversation between Bishop Jon Anderson and a group of young adults from your synod in a conversation about those three things, inviting relationships, welcoming young adults and receiving the gifts and insights of young adults in our congregations. One of the most frequently asked questions of your bishop is, How do we connect with our young adults in our community? Join the conversation and go home better equipped to be an Everyday Reformer sharing Good News. Becoming an Effective Treasurer Presenter: David Anfinson, CPA, Former SW MN Synod Treasurer Whether you are new to church finances or a veteran, equip yourself with the best practices to help your congregation manage its financial resources. It may not be the most popular job but it certainly is important.

6 Live More, Spend Less Presenter: Cherrish Holland, LSS Financial Counselor Increase your enjoyment and quality of life with less spending. Reduce financial stress by understanding the true Fulfillment Curve of a happy life. Learn methods to gain a healthy sense of control, including money mission statements and behavioral finance tips to change old money habits into new ones. Practice how to talk back to marketing and peer pressures, and to resist the dead-end of consumerism. Hear new strategies to get more joy and quality of life without more spending. How Congregations can Support Healthy Boundaries Presenter: Rick Loseth, PACT for Families Collaborative, Willmar The Synod and the ELCA have devoted a significant amount of time to support pastors and staff on the topic of Professional Boundaries or how pastors and staff can do their work in the most safe and effective way. The SW MN Synod requires all clergy coming to the synod to attend a day long boundaries seminar and has built in discussion at other synod gatherings for clergy. While the focus of these trainings is on the role of clergy, the topic of boundaries is really much larger. Congregations play a key role in setting the foundation for all who walk through the door to experience a setting that is welcoming and safe, and provide the foundation to support their pastors and staff to also provide a safe and welcoming setting. The information and discussion will focus on what congregations can do to support positive boundaries how to be pro-active in their planning, policies, and practices to provide both a welcoming and safe place for all. And Who is My Neighbor? Presenter: Jodi Harpstead, Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota This workshop is another LSS of MN congregational discussion guide in the format of My Neighbor is Muslim. This one addresses the questions of race and racial equity with Biblical readings from theologians and pastors of color and rich video material drawn from LSS's own Anti-Racism work. Come think about how you might use this in your congregation. Men s Ministry in Three Movements Presenter: Roland Martinson, Luther Seminary Here s our vision: beginning where men live, starting with their stories and what they are doing, initiated by the accompanying work of as few as one or two men, men s ministry can move from involving small groups of men to expanded men s ministry practices, and, on to participation with women in a bold mission of the whole Church. Participants will learn how, through three movements, to build men s ministry from the ground up; through: A Ministry of Presence-Go there, listen and walk alongside; A Ministry of Action-Do something about what matters; and, Mutual Ministry-Living together so the Church and world can thrive. So invite another person to join you and together join the journey into a new future of ministry! Wondering About the Church Presenter: Jayme Winter, Our Savior s Lutheran Church, Bird Island Wondering about the church in a time of cultural shift. We were born for this. This is our watch as leaders and we want more than survival for our congregations and especially for the children, youth, and families we serve. This session will focus on developing the courage and faith necessary to become the leaders we are called to be.

7 Exploring New Worship Styles: The Circus of the Holy Spirit Presenters: Pastor Daryl Thul, Sillerud & Trinity Lutheran Churches, Balaton & Pastor Lori Von Holtum, Balaton United Methodist Church Pastors Thul & Von Holtum are the lead ministers of J.A.M. (Jesus and Me), the Wednesday evening Worship, Outreach and Christian Education effort of their respective churches. In a town of 637 people, it is not uncommon to see 250- people-plus at church on Wednesdays. The heart of every Wednesday is Worship, and over the past seven years Thul and Von Holtum have developed and enhanced a worship experience that combines driving 90 miles an hour with newera call and response liturgy and interactive everything. They refer to it on the calendar as the "Volume 11 Service," but sometimes it is referred to as "The Circus of the Holy Spirit." And it is certainly not for everyone. Von Holtum is the steady voice, her years of experience working with young families being key to directing the flow of worship. Thul uses plain language and an in-your-face style of preaching to hammer home the message. The weekly stories pulled out of the Narrative Lectionary allow for incredible opportunities for role playing and sharing insight. Our primary focus is to share the Bible stories and assisting people to see themselves in them. Jesus the Millennial: Fostering Faith in the Next Generation Presenter: Maddie Gray, Program Director, LutherCrest Bible Camp Find out how to reach the millennial generation through faith practices, worship, social media, and more. We'll look at what researchers, theologians, employers, and campus ministry folks are saying about millennial motivation. We'll dive into effective practices for increasing numbers of millennials in congregations and where millennials are already finding homes within the church. Most importantly, we'll look at how Christ resembled the Millennial generation and how we can learn from Him to reach out to this young community. Mini Lunch Session for Young Adults with our Keynote Speaker Presenter: Rozella Haydée White A chance for young adults to have a conversation with Rozella during lunch. Continuing Education Opportunity If you need proof of attendance for continuing education, certificates will be available for 5 hours of continuing education. Sign up for the printed certificate at the registration table at the event. Updated 1/20/17