Star. Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel. Synod leaders share their insights about preaching the gospel. know to the people they know.

Transcription

1 Star Northeastern Iowa Evangelical MARCH 2017 Volume 30, Issue 3 Lutheran Church in America Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel Luther s preaching advice still applies today Synod leaders share their insights about preaching the gospel by Marcia Hahn Martin Luther set the standard for preaching the gospel in a way that people can understand and embrace. His advice to preachers 500 years ago was to preach in a simple and plain manner the law, grace and the promise of forgiveness. Pastors still turn to Luther s example when preparing their own sermons today. Luther challenged pastors to preach law and gospel, and this year we celebrate the gospel, says Bishop Steven Ullestad, referring to the Northeastern Iowa Synod s celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. The law creates boundaries that we can never fully keep, but the gospel saves us not simply helps and not simply heals, but saves through Jesus Christ. Ullestad considers preaching the gospel to be the highest priority for pastors, to preach the word they know to the people they know. It s a big responsibility to preach from the pulpit, Ullestad says. The pulpit is the symbol that this is the gospel of Jesus Christ being proclaimed from the church for generations. Historical symbols such as the pulpit, alb and stole set the pastor apart and show the authority of the church to preach the gospel of the church. Steven Ullestad Ullestad says that the gospel message should tell people what God has done for them freely and graciously through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It should be a message that liberates people and makes them want to joyfully serve in the world. The Law says Do this and it is never done. Grace says Believe this and it is already done. Martin Luther, Heidelberg Disputation Study, reflection and conversation help pastors prepare for this important moment in life, when they can share the gospel with the people they serve, Ullestad says. Look for Inspiration Pastor Mark Anderson, assistant to the Bishop, finds inspiration for In This Issue >> Continued on page 2 Martin Luther points to Jesus while preaching the gospel, with his other hand placed on the Bible and the word of God in this Lucas Cranach painting from Luther s preaching advice still applies today Share the good news that we are saved 4 Synod Assembly 6 7 Congregations 8 Prayer Calendar Fund-raising Workshop

2 Luther s preaching advice still applies today << Continued from page 1 writing his sermons from a printed painting that hangs in his office. The painting of Martin Luther preaching, by Lucas Cranach the Elder (1547), shows Luther in the pulpit pointing to Jesus, while his other hand rests on the Bible for support from the word of God. Mark Anderson He s pointing people to Christ in the way that John the Baptist did, Anderson says. The painting shows how small Luther is and how big Christ is at the center. As a preacher, you want to make yourself as small as possible. You re not the message, it s not about you. Anderson says that his whole understanding of preaching in ministry is why he keeps this painting in his office where he writes sermons. Jesus is the center of everything, and it is the preacher s job to point people to Christ, always with a hand on the scripture. Show them Jesus The one question that Pastor Joelle Colville-Hanson asks herself when preparing a sermon is, What is the good news in this text? She says she wants her listeners to hear the good news of God s love, forgiveness and acceptance for them, and how it makes all the difference in their lives. Once you realize you don t have to do anything that it is all God s work it frees you to offer that >> Continued on page 3 Gospel Reflection God s Generosity by the Rev. DeWayne Teig, St. Peter Lutheran, Dubuque For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. Matthew 20:1 There are grapevines at Wartburg Seminary that have been producing a nice harvest for many years. The grapes are picked, crushed, and fermented into wine or made into grape juice that is then used for communion in the seminary chapel. Picking day is a community event where families come with their kids to pick the grapes and deliver them to a central location where the grapes are washed and processed. This past fall, one little guy (about three years old) was busy helping his family with the picking. He made multiple trips with his little bucket, many more than most people that day, but delivering only three or four grapes each time. Each time he arrived with his meager harvest, high praise and thanks were showered upon him. It s just a small example of the extravagant generosity God daily offers us despite our own meagerness maybe especially when our bucket feels empty. (Reflection based on Matthew 20:1-16) The Northeastern Iowa Synod is celebrating Renewal throughout 2017 by focusing on the Gospel and the witness of Martin Luther. Each issue of the Star newsletter will feature a Gospel Reflection based on familiar sayings The Parable of the Vineyard by Domenico Fetti and parables from Jesus. Look for companion art work and reflections in the synod s e-letter. 2 Northeastern Iowa Synod

3 Bishop Share the good news that we are saved Some of us just can t be helped. Some of us are just too damaged. Law and Order: SVU That is why we look to the Savior and not the helper. His name is Jesus. He is the Christ. The Messiah. The One who saves us even when we believe that we just can not be helped. We are saved. No matter how damaged. That is Good News. This is the Lenten journey to the cross and the empty tomb. It is time to share this good news with others. Steven L. Ullestad Bishop, Northeastern Iowa Synod Luther s preaching advice still applies today << Continued from page 2 love and forgiveness to others, says Colville-Hanson, who serves as director for evangelical mission. It emboldens you to try new things and not worry about failing. It lifts the burden that leads to resentment, hate and Joelle Colville-Hanson selfishness. It is what makes us new people. Colville-Hanson starts planning her sermons early in the week by reading the assigned text so it is on her mind throughout the week. She looks for ways the scripture message applies to conversations she has with others and to stories in the news. She also searches online for related commentaries and resources, and she often posts a thought about the text on Facebook to see what kind of comments or discussions it elicits. Wherever she shares the gospel, Colville-Hanson says she always asks herself if she is showing people Jesus. I make sure that the only place for the law in my sermons is to drive people to the gospel, Colville-Hanson says. It s easy to talk about bad news, brokenness and failure because that s what we are all familiar with, but people need to hear the good news that God loves them and has done it all for them. People need to hear that God will use their brokenness, their sadness and even their failures to bring His good will, which is the redemption of the world. Keep it Relevant The greatest joy of preaching for Pastor Steve Brackett, assistant to the Bishop, is showing people how the gospel is good news for them today, and each and every day of their lives. It is not something that simply applied to a small number of people almost two thousand years ago, Brackett says. It is a message Steve Brackett that applies to all people of the past, present and future. Ultimately, people want to know how this story applies to them in their life today. It is important to march 2017 provide the bridge that makes that connection. For those who may not be familiar with the Bible, Brackett says he tries to retell the story in different words or provide modern examples that demonstrate what the Bible story is trying to say or teach. He will often approach familiar Bible stories from a different angle or from the point of view of a particular person mentioned in the story. I never assume that everyone knows the Lutheran interpretation of scripture passages, so I regularly remind people of Martin Luther s interpretation of scripture and the Lutheran theology that has developed based on his work. Brackett says that preachers of the gospel need to be willing to reach out to people in new ways beyond the pulpit. That may mean holding Bible studies and other Christian education offerings out in the community, developing local ecumenical and interfaith shared ministry relationships, and helping congregation members focus outward in mission >> Continued on page 5 3

4 Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel Time to register for Synod Assembly The 2017 Synod Assembly will gather at Luther College, Decorah, June 9-11, for business surrounded by word and sacrament. The assembly will participate in small group study on Sunday morning. Keynote The keynote address will be presented by the Rev. Dr. Jane E. Strohl of Indiana, Pa. Churchwide Representative Linda Norman, treasurer of the ELCA, will bring greetings and a report from the churchwide organization. Forums, Seminars, Ministry Exhibits Saturday s forums and seminars will focus on Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel, the year-long synod emphasis. Assembly Facts Theme/Emphasis Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel. Elections Voting members will elect synod council and committee members. Forms General information and registration forms are inserted in this issue of the Star. Fees Fee categories are non-commuter (meals, INVITE A Teen TO WIYLDE June 11-14, 2017 Luther College, Decorah WIYLDE, the Wholly Iowa Youth Leadership Discipling Event, is returning to Luther College this year to help high school youth learn how to become future leaders of the church. Youth will learn leadership skills through team building, worship, Bible study, prayer, small groups, and more. Invite a teen to attend June Watch for more information and registration materials at housing), commuter (meals, no housing), and visitor (no meals, no housing). Early bird registration fees will be available until Tuesday, May 9. An additional fee of $25 will be added after May 9. Information A pre-assembly notebook will be mailed or a digital copy ed to registered voting members on May 9. Youth Congregations are encouraged to elect a youth voting member. Voting Requirement Voting members must be voting members of their congregation. Resolutions Business is presented in resolution form. Resolutions may be submitted to the Resolutions Committee by a voting member of a congregation in the Northeastern Iowa Synod, a congregation, or a conference. Visitors Both adults and youth are welcome and encouraged to attend. Linda J. Hudgins Assistant to the Bishop Northeastern Iowa Synod Bishop Steven L. Ullestad ullestads@neiasynod.org Assistants to the Bishop Rev. Mark A. Anderson andersonm@neiasynod.org Rev. Stephen Brackett bracketts@neiasynod.org Linda J. Hudgins hudginsl@neiasynod.org ELCA Director for Evangelical Mission Rev. Dr. Joelle Colville-Hanson colville-hansonj@neiasynod.org Star Editor Marcia Hahn hahnm@neiasynod.org The Star is published 11 times a year by the Northeastern Iowa Synod, th Street SW, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA ; phone , FAX Send news for the April issue to Marcia Hahn by March 10. We welcome story ideas related to the 2017 theme, Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel. Articles in this newsletter may be duplicated for use in synod congregations and organizations, with credit to the Star newsletter. Please notify the synod office with name and address changes. To receive an electronic version of the Star, rather than paper, send your request to hahnm@neiasynod.org. 4 Northeastern Iowa Synod

5 Luther s preaching advice still applies today << Continued from page 3 and ministry, instead of inward. Study, Reflect, Converse Ullestad says that three key practices are helpful for preparing a sermon study the text, reflect on its meaning, and talk about it with others. He recommends that pastors read the entire chapter or section related to the assigned text so that they can see how it flows and relates in context to the overall message. His own practice includes reading the section, reflecting quietly, and reading it again before pursuing further research. Colville-Hanson encourages pastors to read Luther and the confessions to be reminded of the difference of law and gospel. She also recommends reading fiction and non-fiction material by authors from a variety of life circumstances. It helps us see the world and the Gospel differently, she says. the message is still the same to stand and talk about the grace of God. A favorite resource for Anderson is The Text This Week website, which provides an array of links to resources for study, reflection and liturgy related to each week s lectionary texts. The Working Preacher is another popular website, which was created by Luther Seminary. The website offers commentary on the coming week s lectionary, along with tips, insights, ideas and inspiration from colleagues. There are so many wonderful written resources for sermon preparation, but I believe that having conversations with trusted colleagues is one of the best ways to test sermon ideas and to get new ideas or approaches to scripture texts, Brackett says. Ullestad adds that text studies are important for support and encouragement. They work best when there is an open exchange of learning and ideas, with gentle corrections that can help pastors remain fresh in their preaching, he says. Preaching as a member of the synod staff is very different than preaching to the same congregation each week, but it is an opportunity the synod staff very much appreciates. When I had my own congregation I knew the people I was preaching to their joys, problems, successes and families for three generations, Anderson says. That is much easier than preaching to strangers, but the message is still the same to stand and talk about the grace of God. Plan to attend a Youth Gathering Workshop Getting Ready to Register for the 2018 ELCA Youth Gathering? Then you will want to attend an upcoming Getting Ready Workshop. The workshops will be presented by Pastor Mark Anderson, assistant to the Bishop. Topics to be covered include: How to register How to recruit youth and adults What to expect What s new and much more! Three identical workshops will be offered: Saturday, April 22, 4 p.m. Synod Office, Waverly Sunday, April 23, 4 p.m. First Lutheran, Decorah Monday, May 1, 6:30 p.m. Holy Trinity, Dubuque There is no cost to attend. To register or for more information, contact Anderson at or andersonm@neiasynod.org. march

6 GENEROSITY Workshop to teach fund-raising skills How to Teach Generosity through Excellence in Fund Raising April 27, a.m. - 2 p.m. St. Paul s, Waverly Congregational leaders are invited to learn financial development and fund-raising strategies at a workshop set for Thursday, April 27, at St. Paul s Lutheran Church in Waverly. The workshop How to Teach Generosity through Excellence in Fund Raising will share basic skills with pastors and other leaders on how to write effective letters, visit with donors, speak to congregation members about estate planning, and receive bequests to the congregation. The event is sponsored by the Northeastern Iowa Synod and the Iowa Chapter of the Association of Lutheran Development Executives. Fund-raising professionals will present on the best practices in their fields. Sessions begin at 10 a.m. with a presentation on when and how to write a great ask letter and thank you letter, presented by members of the Wartburg College Development Office Denny Haugen, senior major gift officer; Jay Boeding, major gift officer; and Don Meyer, senior gift planner. Pastor David Assmus, gift consultant with Wartburg Theological Seminary, will present how to make a great ask visit. Charitable giving can reduce IRA taxes Afternoon sessions include Pastor Mark Anderson, assistant to the Bishop, who will share how to communicate mission. Mike Klinefelter, regional gift planner for the ELCA Foundation, will discuss estate planning and when and who to call at the foundation for assistance. The cost to attend is a $50 non-refundable advance fee per person; however, those who complete the workshop will receive a certificate of completion and a $100 rebate. Continuing education credits are also available. Lunch is included. The workshop is limited to the first 25 people to register and send their checks to the synod office by the April 20 deadline. To register, download the registration form at stewardship or contact the synod office at boltec@neiasynod.org or Members of the baby boomer generation have been very good at saving for retirement. Combined, they hold roughly $10 trillion in taxdeferred savings accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs. Generally, people age 70 1/2 years and older are required to begin annual withdrawals from their taxsheltered retirement accounts, resulting in unwanted taxes on those withdrawals. The penalty for not taking those distributions on time is a 50 percent tax bill on funds the retired did not withdraw. But there is another option. Many people can have their required IRA distribution go directly to an eligible not-for-profit, such as their congregation. This tax-free qualified charitable distribution (QCD) goes directly from the IRA to the charity and does not have to be claimed as income. As you make your financial plans for 2017, consult your tax professional and ask about making a qualified charitable distribution. Pastor Mark Anderson Assistant to the Bishop Benefit Coverage During Transition When a call ends or starts, there are plenty of details and emotions to sort through. Portico Benefit Services can help with the complexity. In times of transition, it s important for each party involved pastor, current congregation and new congregation to contact Portico right away. Download the ELCA Benefit Coverage in Times of Transition guide at call-process. 6 Northeastern Iowa Synod

7 events MARCH EVENTS 2 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 2 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, Holy Trinity, Dubuque, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 4 Meeting, Synodical Women s Organization Board, 8 a.m.-12 noon 5-7 Conference, Rural Ministry, Wartburg Theological Seminary, Dubuque 11 Meeting, Synod Council, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 16 Event, Day of Renewal, Nazareth, Cedar Falls, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 18 Meeting, (Snow Date) Synodical Women s Organization Board 18 Meeting, Resolution Committee, 9:30-11 a.m. 26 Event, Safeguarding God s Children, St. Peter, Greene, 2-5 p.m. April EVENTS 6 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 6 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, First, Northwood, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 14 Office Closed, Good Friday 19 Event, Confest, Shepherd of the Hills, St. Paul, Volga, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 22 Youth Gathering Getting Ready Workshop, Synod Office, Waverly, 4 p.m. 23 Youth Gathering Getting Ready Workshop, First, Lutheran, Decorah, 4 p.m Event, First Call Theological Education Retreat, American Martyrs, Cedar Falls 27 Workshop, How to Teach Generosity Through Excellence in Fundraising, St. Paul s, Waverly, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 27 Meeting, Assembly Planning, Luther College, Decorah, 4-6 p.m. May EVENTS 1 Youth Gathering Getting Ready Workshop, Holy Trinity, 6:30 p.m. 4 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 4 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, St. John, Guttenberg, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 20 Meeting, Synodical Women s Organization (tentative) 8 a.m.-noon 29 Office Closed, Memorial Day june EVENTS 1 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 1 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, St. John, Charles City, 10 a.m.-1 p.m Event, Synod Assembly, Luther College, Decorah Event, WIYLDE (Wholly Iowa Leadership Discipling Event), Luther College, Decorah Office Closed Congregations INSTALLING La Porte City, Zion (Jubilee), Rev. Michael Ashman, April 2 Dubuque, Lord of Life, Rev. Paul Amlin, April 30 INTERVIEWING Allison, St. James, Rev. Paul Schaedig, interim Calmar, Calmar and Decorah, Springfield, Rev. Phillip Olson, interim Clermont, West Clermont Decorah, Decorah (staff), Rev. Charis Combs-Lay, interim Frederika, St. John La Porte City, American, Rev. Rick Biedermann, interim Oelwein, Zion Osage, Our Savior s, Rev. Alan Schulz, interim Sumner, St. John SELF-STUDY Alta Vista, Zion and Lawler, Immanuel (Crane Creek), Rev. Vincent Fricke, interim Charles City, St. John, Rev. Bill Odermann, interim Chester, United Coulter, Nazareth; and Hampton, St. John s Decorah, St. John s and Hauge Elma, St. Paul Greene, St. John (Vilmar) Lime Springs, St. Paul Mason City, St. Paul, Rev. Michael Last, interim Roland, Bergen, John Sheahan, interim lay minister Ryan, Peace and Dundee, St. John (Unity of the Cross Lutheran Parish) Waterloo, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd Waukon, St. John Waverly, Redeemer, Rev. Nancy Larson, interim ROSTER CHANGES Rev. Mark Hendrickson, on leave from call Rev. Norman Bauer, transferred to Western Iowa Synod Deacon Denise Lindemann, transferred to Western Iowa Synod Rev. Donna Ruggles, transferred to Virginia Synod LIKE US ON FACEBOOK march

8 Prayer CALENDAR MarCH 2017 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI sat Luther Manor, Dubuque 5 Rev. Virginia A. Olson, Eldorado 12 Faith Lutheran Home, Osage 19 East Clermont, Clermont 26 Rev. Kent Mechler, Mason City 6 Rev. Robert F. Lehmann, Dubuque 13 St. John, Clarksville 20 Rev. Gary K. Lee, Decorah 27 Messiah, Charles City 7 United, Chester 14 Good Samaritan Center, Postville 21 Rev. Harold R. McMillin Jr., Garnavillo 28 H. George Anderson Fund for Leaders Julie Nordstrom, Cedar Falls 1 Good Neighbor Home, Manchester 8 Lutheran Retirement Home, Northwood 15 Rev. William F. Nielsen, Nashua Rev. Ronald L. Roberts, Clermont 22 Rev. Dennis E. Bauer, Cedar Falls Rev. Dave A. Nerdig, Jewell 29 St. Paul, Cedar Falls 2 St. John, Charles City 9 Rev. Roger L. Buhr, Decorah Rev. Kristen Briner Wipperman, Cedar Falls 16 Rev. Mark J. Hendrickson, Minneapolis, Minn. 23 Sarah Andersen, Decorah Rev. H. Allen Vik, Decorah 30 Bethany Life Communities, Story City 3 Rev. Dr. H. George Anderson, Green Valley, Ariz. 10 Middle East Peace First, Clarion 17 Galilean, Clear Lake 24 Rev. Karen R. Grandall, Spring Valley, Minn. 31 Ruth E. Groth, Chassell, Mich. Rev. David L. Lenth, Ossian 4 Good Shepherd, Mason City 11 Rev. David H. Andreae, Waukon 18 Good Samaritan Center, St. Ansgar 25 Men s Bold Gathering July 21-23, 2017 Minneapolis, Minn. Those planning to attend the Lutheran Men in Mission s Triennial Gathering in July can save $60 if registered before April 1. The event is set for July 21-23, 2017, at the Marriott Minneapolis City Center in Minneapolis. This Bold Gathering is a weekend for men to come together to learn, to worship, to network, and to be equipped to boldly live out their faith. The early registration fee is $139 per person (add $25 for spouse). Regular pricing beginning April 1 is $199 (add $25 for spouse). The Friday night banquet is $50 per person. To learn more or to register online, visit Safeguarding God s Children March 26, p.m. St. Peter, Greene A Safeguarding God s Children workshop will be offered 2-5 p.m. Sunday, March 26, at St. Peter, Greene. To register, call St. Peter at Register by March 9 for Day of Renewal March 16, :30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Nazareth, Cedar Falls Registration for the Day of Renewal is due Thursday, March 9. This free event, set for Thursday, March 16, is open to all rostered ministers from the Northeastern Iowa Synod. The Rev. Dr. Kathryn Kit Kleinhans will present on Martin Luther s Large and Small Catechisms. Fellowship, Holy Communion and lunch are also included. The event will take place at Nazareth Lutheran in Cedar Falls from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. To register, call the synod office at or hamiltonl@ neiasynod.org.

9 Good News March 2017 Volume 30 Number 3 As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world. From the President: Taste and see that the Lord is good. Ps. 34:8 Our theme for the 2017 NE IA Women s convention and gathering on June 17 will be Hungering for Renewal, based on the verse Ps. 34:8 and this year s Triennial Gathering theme of renewal. The emphasis will be on seeking out the many ways we as followers of Christ can find new ways to serve him. Perhaps you are hungering for a renewal of spirit, service, fellowship and/or worship. As women, I think we sometimes get bogged down, stuck in a rut, or just need something to remind us of whose we are. If you are looking for a day to recharge and renew, plan on coming to the Gathering on June 17 at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. We will commune in worship, make business decisions, enjoy fellowship and have lots of opportunities to learn and share. You will find a registration form on the website. The price is very reasonable, only $45, which includes at least 2 workshops, a muffin and coffee buffet and a great luncheon. I am looking forward to seeing you all there! Renewing daily in Christ, Diane Wills Mission Area: Discipleship Scholarship Money Available The NE IA SWO board offers three $600 educational scholarships every year. These scholarships are designated for women who are active in their local units and seeking to improve in the work force through educational opportunities. That could be needed education to get a promotion or education for a job change or a new job. There is no age restriction, but there is an application that must be completed and returned to Diane Wills by May 15 th. If you or someone you know is interested, you can find the application on the SWO website. Keep on learning! Submitted by Diane Wills Mission Area: Justice It s Thanksgiving (or Christmas or Easter) and you can t wait for the meal to start. There s turkey or ham or both with mounds of potatoes and boats of gravy. There are three or more dishes of vegetables. And just when you think you can t eat any more, the pies are brought out pumpkin, apple, pecan and banana cream. You can t resist the pies, so you have a little of all of them, please. Sound like any meal you ve had? We are a land of plenty or are we? Hunger still exists in China, Africa, South America and yes, even in America. Still not close enough for you? Go to an inner city and see what you find. But we are RURAL America, and we don t have that problem. Think again. O.K. you re convinced that there s huger all around us, so what can we do about it? First of all, answer this question. Is there any justice in having so much to eat when others have so little? Following are some ways to help right this wrong. Take a basket of Welcome food to someone who s just moved in. Put a list of local places where he/she can get food or volunteer. You may have to do some legwork to find the local agencies that can help you with the list. Several counties have a drop-off spot where the northeast Iowa food bank drops off food mainly from grocery stores and warehouses. They hand out food to those in need with only their names and addresses needed. This a great place for volunteering; you can see firsthand what hunger looks like. In larger areas, there are soup kitchens that offer not only a good meal, but companionship and warmth in the winter If you re like me, you get many letters in the mail asking for money to help the hungry in Africa, China, and places here in the United States like Appalachia. There s never enough money to go around. There is only one organization that gives ALL the money received to hunger programs and that is the ELCA. Its administrative costs are all covered by the benevolent giving that comes from local churches. So I always give to the World Hunger Fund at church rather than to the appeals from the mail, even if it sounds like a good cause.

10 CALENDAR Mar. 4 SWO Board, Synod office, 9 12 (snow date 3/18) Mar. 19 Cluster B Little Flock Human Trafficking program, Emanuel, Strawberry Point Apr. 2 Spring Women s Event, St. Paul s Lutheran, Waverly, 2 p.m. Apr. 8 LWR Ingathering, Zion-St. John, Sheffield Apr. 22 Shechem Cluster Spring Gathering, St. Peter s - Richfield, St., Sumner Apr. 22 Living Waters Spring Salad Luncheon, 10-noon, Faith Lutheran, Miller Apr. 29 Upper Iowa River Cluster Spring Event, St. Paul s LC, Lime Springs May 20 SWO Board, Wartburg College, 9 12 June 16 SWO Board, Wartburg College, TBD Jun. 17 NEI Synod WELCA Convention Jul Triennial Convention and Gathering, Minneapolis, MN (welcatg.org) Jesus told us in Matthew 25:31 46 that we are to feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, welcome strangers, clothe the naked, take care of the sick, and visit the prisoners. But notice that feeding the hungry is first on Jesus list. It should be first on our list, too. Submitted by Jane Godson Mission Area: Stewardship Taken from the WELCA website... ELCA Resource Centers are like libraries for the church. They loan books, movies, Sunday School curriculum, resources for confirmation class and small group ministry, and so much more. There are approximately 54 resource centers located throughout the country. ELCA resource centers are important centers of stewardship. They collect resources, take care of those resources, and make them available to congregations. In their care, one copy of one book can reach hundreds of readers. A single DVD can reach multiple congregations. When you borrow a resource, you help continue this cycle of stewardship. NEIA Women of the ELCA Executive Board Diane Wills, President wills.dianes@gmail.com Cindy Pogge, Vice President jpogge@comm1net.net Anna Jetson, Secretary amjetson@yahoo.com Beverly Sheridan, Treasurer Jwbsheridan@live.com 701 Serenity Drive Decorah, IA You care for that gift while it s in your possession, using it to educate and inspire, and you return it to the resource center so it is available for the next user. As stewards of Katie s Fund, Women of the ELCA use Katie s Fund dollars to purchase films. As stewards of the DVDs, resource center staff now make the films available for others. Upon receiving the DVD in May, Bonnie Weber reminded us that all these acts of stewardship are rooted in gratitude. She wrote: As assistant director of the NW Synod of WI Resource Center, located in Eau Claire, I just received the 2 DVD's in the mail. I am thrilled with this addition to our Center. Thank you, churchwide women, for the thoughtfulness of sharing these timely, touching and soul-searching videos. I will advertise them in our synod, especially at the Assembly coming on June 7 & 8. How are you acting as a steward of its gifts? Our resource center for the NE IA Synod is: Reu Memorial Library in Dubuque, IA (NB: the Clear Lake resource center has closed). Submitted by Melissa Miller Around the Synod Women of the Reformation and Lutheran Women Today, presented by Dr. Kit Kleinhans of Wartburg College, will be the theme of the annual spring women s event at St. Paul s Lutheran Church in Waverly. This event will take place on Sunday, April 2, beginning at 2:00 PM, in the narthex. Questions may be referred to the church office at Cluster B-Little Flock We will be having a program by Johnathan Chambers on Human Trafficking on March 19th, a Sunday afternoon at 2:00 P.M. at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Strawberry Point, IA. He will be bringing two survivors with him to tell their stories. Come and join us as we learn more about Human Trafficking that happens in Iowa. Good News Editor Jan Harbaugh 112 W. Wilbur St., Hawkeye, IA jan.harbaugh@gmail.com Articles are due the 1st of the month for the next month's newsletter (e.g. April 1 for May issue). Please put WELCA in your subject line. (You can also send paper copies by snail mail.) Contact Women of the ELCA at: or , ext W. Higgins Road Chicago, IL NEIA Women of the ELCA website: neiasynod.org/women-of-the-elca

11 Living Faith Dear Faith Shapers, Lent is always a time when I think about faith practices. How am I living out my faith? How does my family live out faith. Lent is a time to draw closer to Jesus and walk with him on his journey to the cross. This issue is full of hands on activities to make Lent a meaningful experience for you and your family. Here s how my family celebrates Lent. We chose to give something up as a family. There are some great outside the box ideas to try in this newsletter. We also try to add something too. Sometimes it s a prayer, sometimes it is a family service project or collecting money for a cause that my kids are passionate about. Whatever you choose, do it together. Our kids are learning about faith and Jesus by what we live and do. May you live out your baptismal promises and shape the faith of the next generation. Lisa Kammerer, Deacon The Sights, Sounds, and Smells of Lent Sights Display a cross in a prominent place in your house Use a Lent calendar. If you don t have one, there are several on our synod page. ideas-resources/liturgical-seasons/lent-easter/ Plant a seed and watch it grow during Lent. Sounds Learn a simple prayer of confession, you can pray together. Here s an example. One person says, Create in me a clean heart, o God, and the rest of the family responds with And renew a right spirit within me. Learn a new table grace to say or sing before meals. Read a book with a Lenten theme out loud as a family Make wind chimes as a joyful sound just like Jesus triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Collect coins in a jar and use the money to help others Smells Use soap & wash each other s hands or feet just as Jesus washed the disciples feet Smell perfume and read the Bible story of Jesus feet being anointed with perfume. Bake bread to remind us of the Last Supper Jesus had with his disciples This information is prepared for you by the Northeastern Iowa Synod-Home Life Network for use by families and local congregations. Like our page on Facebook and our posted resources will appear in your newsfeed. Our page is Northeastern Iowa Synod Home Life Network ELCA

12 5 Ways to use Luther s Small Catechism with kids Luther s Morning Prayer Make a poster of Luther s morning prayer & place it by the door so you can pray it daily. Read the 10 commandments and Martin Luther s explanations Rewrite the 10 commandments in your own words. Draw pictures of each commandment to help you remember them. Luther s Evening Prayer Say it at bedtime. Luther said, It is a good thing to let prayer be the first business of the morning and the last of the evening. Printing Press Potatoes Luther s writings were able to be reproduced and shared all over Europe due to the invention of the printing press. Cut shapes into potatoes or sponges to make your own printed pictures. Memorize the Apostle s Creed Martin Luther said, Christian truth could not possibly be put into a shorter and clearer statement than the Apostle s Creed. Creeds remind us that there are some beliefs worth fighting for. Our creeds give our children accurate summaries of the essentials of our faith. It also teaches our children to value church tradition and history. Substitute a costly VBS craft for one of these ideas. Advent Candle Holder Lent Candle Holder Out of the box ideas of things to give up or add for Lent Wearing jewelry Text 3 people a day to ask if you can pray for them Go one day a week without any make up or hair products Tip 30% anytime you go out to eat Leave a post it note with a kind thought in every bathroom you visit Only check your phone 3x a day Pick 4 outfits to wear all of Lent Give away $1 every time you complain When you buy a treat, buy a second one for someone else Turn off your phone when you are with your family

13 2017 Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel Luther College Decorah, Iowa June 9-11, 2017 Registration Materials EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FEE AVAILABLE UNTIL MAY 9 After this date, an additional fee of $25 per person will be added. This fee cannot be waived. No exceptions. Every person attending must register. Please copy the attached information for each voting member and visitor.

14 Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther The Gospel 2017 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD ASSEMBLY DATES PLACE BUSINESS KEYNOTE Friday-Sunday, June 9-11, Registration begins on Friday at 4:30 p.m., opening worship at 7:00 p.m. The Synod Assembly will close with the noon meal on Sunday. Luther College, Decorah, Iowa Resolutions and elections. The Synod Assembly will elect synod council and committee members. The keynote address will be presented by the Rev. Dr. Jane E. Strohl of Indiana, Pa. CHURCHWIDE REPRESENTATIVE Linda Norman, treasurer of the ELCA, will bring greetings and a report from the churchwide organization. COST EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FEES, UNTIL MAY 9: Voting member registration: $190 for those staying on campus, $140 for commuters Visitor registration: $160 for those staying on campus, $110 for commuters Visitor and ministry exhibit staff registration: $60 (no meals, no housing) WHO MAY REGISTER? AFTER MAY 9: An additional fee of $25 per person is added Please make checks payable to the Northeastern Iowa Synod and send with registration forms to: Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA Voting members to the Synod Assembly will be the following: 1. All rostered individuals under call on the roster of the synod. 2. The formula for congregational representation for the Synod Assembly follows: The total lay delegation from any congregation be as nearly as possible 50% male and 50% female. Two voting members elected by each congregation, plus one youth voting member elected by each congregation (must be eligible to vote in their congregation), plus an additional lay voting member for every 750 baptized members, i.e., 750=1 additional, 1500=2 additional, 2250=3, etc. 3. Members of the Synod Council. 4. All retired clergy on the roster of the synod shall elect 10 percent of their number to be voting members; all other retired clergy shall be advisory members with voice but not vote. 5. All rostered persons on leave from call for reasons of disability shall elect 10 per cent of their number to be voting members to the Synod Assembly. There shall be a minimum of one (1) such person provided both voice and vote.

15 VISITORS Any interested person may register as a visitor to the Synod Assembly; visitors do not have voice or vote. Rostered persons-not under call and retired clergy-not elected to represent retired clergy are permitted voice but not vote. ON-CAMPUS HOUSING Housing will be assigned on a first-registered, first-assigned basis. All rooms are air conditioned. Most rooms are double occupancy and have single beds, none are bunks. Sheets, blanket, pillow, towel and washcloth are provided. Bathroom and shower facilities are shared, but designated as Men s or Women s. MEALS Registration fees include the following meals: (no meals on Friday, June 9) Saturday, June 10: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sunday, June 11: breakfast and lunch. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Questions concerning registration and campus facilities may be directed to the Northeastern Iowa Synod office, 319/ On May 9, a pre-assembly notebook will be mailed/or a digital copy ed to registered voting members.

16 2017 Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly Luther College--Decorah, Iowa, June 9-11, 2017 Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther - The Gospel VOTING MEMBER REGISTRATION FORM Please type or print. Name Telephone No. Mailing Address City State Zip Congregation/Institution Address Pre-Assembly Report: Please send me a printed copy OR Digital copy to: Please check one (1) in each Category: Category A: Ordained Minister (under call) Associate in Ministry (under call) Diaconal Minister (under call) Lay Adult Youth Retired Clergy (elected by retired clergy) Clergy On-Leave from Call for Disability (elected) Synod Council Category B: Male Female Category C: Early Bird Registration UNTIL May 9 Commuter $140 (meals, no housing) Non-Commuter $190 (meals, housing) AFTER May 9 Add $25 Fee Amount Enclosed $ Housing: Most rooms are double occupancy, all beds are single. If you do not indicate a roommate, one will be assigned. I would like to room with: Name Address Handicap Accessible needed Children Accompanying Age/s Dietary: Special needs: Please include payment with this registration. Make checks payable to Northeastern Iowa Synod, ELCA. Send to: Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA REGISTRATION FEES will be refunded for cancellations received by May 9. Photo Consent Photos will be taken during the Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly. By registering for this event, you hereby give permission that photos containing your image/likeness may be used for publicity or general information purposes. The synod will not seek any further permission nor provide any notification before using such photos.

17 2017 Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly Luther College--Decorah, Iowa, June 9-11, 2017 Celebrating Renewal: Martin Luther - The Gospel VISITOR REGISTRATION FORM Please type or print. Name Telephone No. Mailing Address City State Zip Congregation/Institution Address Please check one (1) in each Category: Category A: Ordained Minister (not under call) Associate in Ministry (not under call) Diaconal Minister (not under call) Lay Adult Youth Ministry Exhibit Staff Invited Guest (No Charge) includes speakers/presenters, Assembly Committees Category B: Male Female Category C: Early Bird Registration UNTIL May 9 Commuter $110 (meals, no housing) Non-Commuter $160 (meals, housing) Visitor/Exhibit Staff $60 (no meals, no housing) AFTER May 9 Add $25 Fee Amount Enclosed $ Housing: Most rooms are double occupancy, all beds are single. If you do not indicate a roommate, one will be assigned. I would like to room with: Name Address Handicap Accessible needed Children Accompanying Age/s Dietary: Special needs: Please include payment with this registration. Make checks payable to Northeastern Iowa Synod, ELCA. Send to: Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA REGISTRATION FEES will be refunded for cancellations received May 9. Photo Consent Photos will be taken during the Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly. By registering for this event, you hereby give permission that photos containing your image/likeness may be used for publicity or general information purposes. The synod will not seek any further permission nor provide any notification before using such photos.