Hearts for Ministry 2012

Transcription

1 Hearts for Ministry Welcome and Introduction This resource is offered to help leaders in the Eastern Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada meet some of the challenges described in our Vision for Mission This document may be used by a variety of groups: Congregations Councils, committees, or other local groups may use these devotions to focus their endeavours Conference Councils may wish to employ them at the start of planning for conference events or programs Boards which support the work of our camps, students and chaplains may find them helpful as they gather Eastern Synod Vision for Mission At its Assembly in 2010 the Eastern Synod adopted a Vision for Mission for the following biennium. A copy of this document appears as an appendix. The opening paragraph reads: A Church in Mission for Others Through the Gospel, God calls the whole church to be engaged in mission in response to the needs of others, celebrating what God has done and continues to do through us. Relying on the gifts of the Spirit, we will develop ministries that will inspire and equip us to care for others through the mission work of the synod, conferences, congregations and specialized ministries. As members of the Eastern Synod, we will help one another to embrace our vocations as ministers of the Gospel. It is in the spirit of this call to an outward looking ministry that this resource has been prepared. Page 1

2 Suggestions for Use Each devotion follows the same format. Under the title reference is made to a specific section of our Vision for Mission In some cases bold italics are used to identify a focal point. This is followed by the theme, songs, a passage from Scripture, discussion questions, suggestions for local ministries, and a prayer. The devotions may be used in whatever order seems best to you and your community. In its simplest form your group may want to spend five minutes at the start of your time together reading aloud the Vision for Mission section, the Scripture passage, and then the Prayer. This might take about five minutes. For a fuller experience set aside fifteen to twenty minutes and use more of the sections. After reading the pertinent paragraph from the Vision for Mission, you may sing a song, read the passage from Scripture, consider the discussion questions, look at the suggestions, and offer a prayer. Use the recommendations in this booklet, or choose other songs, Bible readings, questions, or prayers that may be better suited to your specific setting. Author This series has been prepared by Jim Slack. Please provide constructive feedback about your use of this material and suggestions about improving the resource to him through the Eastern Synod website. Page 2

3 Index Filled with Praise Page 4 Spirited Discipleship Joy in worship Wisdom, Transform Us Page 6 Spirited Discipleship Diligent in exploring God s Word You Are Witnesses Page 8 Spirited Discipleship Passionate in bearing witness to our faith A Generosity of Spirit Page 10 Spirited Discipleship Generous in sharing the gifts we have received Jesus Face Page 12 Diversity Reflecting the diversity of Canadian society Blessings Page 14 Diversity Welcoming those whose sexual orientation differs from ours Seeking the Truth in Love Page 16 Compassionate Justice Discussing challenging questions A Sacred Inheritance Page 18 Compassionate Justice Caring for the earth Gifts for Ministry Page 20 Focused Framework Identifying, calling, mentoring and equipping leaders Partners in Ministry Page 22 Effective Partnerships Strengthening existing partnership and developing new ones Page 3

4 Filled with Praise Vision for Mission We will practice Spirited Discipleship We will encourage one another to be joyful in worship, diligent in exploring God s Word, passionate in bearing witness to our faith, generous in sharing the gifts we have received, and wise in working with all our sisters and brothers in Christ. In our life together, we will be open to the creative and loving ways that God s Spirit works in and through us as members of the Eastern Synod. Theme The renewal of worship keeps our relationship with God, the world, other people and our selves healthy and faith inspiring Song Praise, My Soul, the God of Heaven ELW 864 or Praise to the Lord ELW 844 Scripture Psalm 148 Discussion A preacher once said that attending worship is to a Christian what filling up at a service station is to a driver. It is not so much a retreat from the world, and all of its busyness, worry and need, but a short pause at a refuelling centre. It is a time for us to check the map, gather our companions, top up the oil, receive a little more air in our tires, put fuel in the tank and then head back onto the road. Does this preacher have it right? What is the relationship between worship and discipleship? Describe an experience in worship that nourished your soul. Page 4

5 Suggestions Consider setting aside at least one Sunday each year to thank God for worship leaders and musicians. Such a service might also include some form of commissioning. Be sure to provide clear expectations for those who serve, and regular opportunities for training and support. Brainstorm a list of faith affirming worship innovations that may be introduced to your congregation in the coming year. Debbie Lou Ludolph, the synod s Ministry Director for Worship Ministries, would be pleased to assist you in identifying resources that may renew worship in your setting. She may be contacted through the synod s website or at deborah.ludolph@gmail.com Prayer God of mercy, fill us to over flowing with your grace. In times of quiet, personal prayer, and when we gather with others to boldly sing your praise draw us closer to yourself. From font, pulpit, and altar assure us of your never ending love for all people and the whole universe. In Jesus name. Amen. Page 5

6 Wisdom, Transform Us Vision for Mission We will practice Spirited Discipleship We will encourage one another to be joyful in worship, diligent in exploring God s Word, passionate in bearing witness to our faith, generous in sharing the gifts we have received, and wise in working with all our sisters and brothers in Christ. In our life together, we will be open to the creative and loving ways that God s Spirit works in and through us as members of the Eastern Synod. Theme Through a variety of Christian education programs and events we trust that people of all ages will be informed and transformed by the Spirit s wisdom Song Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word ELW 517 or Lord, Let My Heart Be Good Soil ELW 512 Scripture Proverbs 2:1 11 Discussion One of the amazing things about Scripture is that new things are revealed to us as our relationship with God unfolds. As the Holy Spirit serves as our interpreter even old and familiar passages from the Bible are able to convey something that is vital and contemporary. Perhaps the best approach as we study is to let Scripture interpret us more often than we interpret Scripture. Describe a significant moment or teacher in your Christian education. Identify a verse of Scripture that serves as a sort of motto or personal mission statement. What do we mean when we say the Bible is true? Page 6

7 Suggestions Seek to provide opportunities for study and the growth of wisdom for people of all ages in your congregation or ministry setting. Consider alternate means of teaching children, teens, adults and the elderly. Examine the ELCIC s Call to Spiritual Renewal resources, and devote yourself to a program of personal study. Waterloo Lutheran Seminary trains lay and ordained leaders of the church. Courses, Luther Hostel, Youth Day, retreats and special events allow the faculty to assist the synod as it seeks to wrestle with questions of faith. Find out what the school might offer you. Joel Crouse is the Ministry Director for Youth and Young Adults. He relates to our camps, campus ministries, and youth ministry, and may be contacted through the synod website or at jcrouse@elcic.ca Prayer God of light, turn our hearts and minds to you. As we teach our children, guide our youth, and study the Bible let your Spirit lead us. May truth be our perennial goal, but never our possession. For Wisdom s sake we pray. Amen. Page 7

8 You Are Witnesses Vision for Mission We will practice Spirited Discipleship We will encourage one another to be joyful in worship, diligent in exploring God s Word, passionate in bearing witness to our faith, generous in sharing the gifts we have received, and wise in working with all our sisters and brothers in Christ. In our life together, we will be open to the creative and loving ways that God s Spirit works in and through us as members of the Eastern Synod. Theme The welcome we extend to others is not an invitation to join our club, but encouragement to receive the Good News of God s love for us in Christ Jesus Song I Love to Tell the Story ELW 661 or Will You Come and Follow Me ELW 798 Scripture Luke 24:36 49 Discussion Research by sociologist Reginald Bibby indicates that loyalty to religious institutions (denominations and congregations) is waning. As worship attendance declines it may be tempting to try and turn back the hands of time, and do what we have been doing in recent decades. But few people have an interest in maintaining the status quo, including those who still long to hear Good News. Perhaps this is the Spirit s way of reminding us that what we offer others is not membership in an organisation but entry into a community of faith; not a call for allegiance to an institution but a relationship with the Lord of Life. Why did you join this congregation or become involved with this particular ministry? And why do you stay? What Good News do you long to hear? What are you able to share with others? How is inviting people to church different than telling them about Jesus? Page 8

9 Suggestions After greeting visitors and prospective members in worship consider the ways in which they might be drawn into the life of your congregation or ministry, which may lead to deeper faith. List some of the things that would help you speak with others more freely about the blessings God provides through Jesus. Mark Van House is the Ministry Director for Witness and Evangelism Ministries. He may be contacted through the synod website or at Prayer God of welcome, assure us of your grace. As you love us, encourage and equip us to love others, drawing those who long to hear Good News into a deeper relationship with you. For Jesus sake we pray. Amen. Page 9

10 A Generosity of Spirit Vision for Mission We will practice Spirited Discipleship We will encourage one another to be joyful in worship, diligent in exploring God s Word, passionate in bearing witness to our faith, generous in sharing the gifts we have received, and wise in working with all our sisters and brothers in Christ. In our life together, we will be open to the creative and loving ways that God s Spirit works in and through us as members of the Eastern Synod. Theme Generosity allows us to experience what it means to love as God loves Song Take My Life, That I May Be ELW 685 or Praise and Thanksgiving ELW 689 Scripture 2 Corinthians 9:1 8 Discussion In light of his arguments with the leaders of the church in Jerusalem it is surprising and inspiring to read that the apostle Paul gathers an offering for his brothers and sisters in the Holy City. He butters the Corinthian congregation up a bit, but in the end he knows that if their money is to become a gift pleasing to God it will be offered freely and gladly. Why does God love and bless us? Is there something we must do to obtain such gifts? When we are generous in sharing our income, time, and spiritual gifts what are the costs and benefits? How might your offerings nurture faith (yours and others)? Page 10

11 Suggestions It may be better to have a Budget Consultant, Finance Officer, and a Stewardship Resource Person in your congregation or ministry setting than to confuse the three tasks in a single committee. A brief comment before or during the offering each Sunday might be used to encourage generosity. Jeff Pym is the Ministry Director for Stewardship and Resources Development. He also provides support for Planned Giving. Ask him for help through the synod website or at jpym@elfec.ca Prayer God of boundless grace, teach us to give voice to our gratitude. As you love us without limit show us how to generously and gladly share the blessings we have received with others. Free us from our love of things, that we may be wholly devoted to you. In the name of Christ we pray. Amen. Page 11

12 Jesus Face Vision for Mission We will welcome Diversity We will meet our neighbours and become more familiar with those living in our communities who may vary from us in age, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, and religious beliefs. We will foster a climate of welcome and hospitality within our synod, conferences and congregations. We will seek to reflect the diversity of Canadian society within our church, recognizing that others may challenge us with new ideas. Theme When we dare to believe that we have been made in God s image it s impossible to look at another including a stranger or an enemy without seeing a sister or brother Song In Christ There Is No East or West ELW 650 or Shine, Jesus, Shine ELW 671 Scripture Genesis 1:27, Matthew 22:15 21 Discussion When the opening story in Scripture declares that we human beings have been made in God s image a unique relationship between us and our Maker is established. And when Jesus asks his critics about the image on a coin, and then directs them to give to God the things that are God s he s setting a very high standard. Theologians continue to debate what aspects of God we reflect what it means to be made in the Divine image but usually say it has something to do with exercising our imaginations, making choices and demonstrating compassion. What characteristics of God are reflected in human beings? What makes it so hard for us to see Jesus in the face of others? And for others to see the image of our Lord revealed in us? Is diversity a problem we face, or a gift we have received? Page 12

13 Suggestions Census data from the federal government provides information about the age distribution, ethnic diversity, and socio economic status of the people living in your neighbourhood. Music and food are two of the means by which we celebrate and share our cultures with one another. Consider how songs and meals might help you meet others in your community, or invite them to get to know you. Phil Heinze is the Ministry Director for Public Policy and Public Service Ministries. Some of his work includes an encouragement for us to become better neighbours. He may be contacted through the synod website or at Prayer God of splendour, you have made the world and your people rich with diversity. When we are frightened or confused by a vast array of genders, ages, races, languages and beliefs give us eyes of faith with which to discern you in all whom we meet. Then show us how to welcome and serve them in Jesus name. Amen. Page 13

14 Blessings Vision for Mission We will welcome Diversity We will meet our neighbours and become more familiar with those living in our communities who may vary from us in age, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, and religious beliefs. We will foster a climate of welcome and hospitality within our synod, conferences and congregations. We will seek to reflect the diversity of Canadian society within our church, recognizing that others may challenge us with new ideas. Theme Meeting, welcoming and offering blessings to those who do not share our sexual orientation requires us to put our trust in God s graciousness Song Son of God, Eternal Saviour ELW 655 or All Are Welcome ELW 641 Scripture Colossians 1:11 20 Discussion Many of us are weary of the debates regarding the marriage or blessing of same sex couples. Those opposed believe that our interpretation of Scripture has been compromised. Those in favour are frustrated by what they experience as a delay in justice and love. It is important for us to remember that all of us stand in need of deliverance from the dominion of darkness. Our doctrines and deeds do not save us; Jesus does. In the end we place our trust in the grace of God, who was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross. Recall a time when you felt like an outsider. If God has not required anything of us in order to benefit from Jesus crucifixion, what is behind the impulse for us to ask others to meet certain standards? Is it possible to love others, even if we do not agree with them? Does blessing require our approval? Page 14

15 Suggestions In light of the votes at the 2011 convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada is your congregation or ministry aware of the process that might lead to same sex marriages or blessings in your setting? Visit the synod and national church websites. Develop a friendship with someone who trusts Jesus and whose sexual orientation differs from your own, and speak with him or her about God s graciousness and human expectations. Bishop Michael Pryse has composed congregational letters on the subject. He would be pleased to speak with you about this further. Contact him at mpryse@elcic.ca Prayer God of infinite love, hear us. Rescue us from the power of darkness, and transfer us into the kingdom of your Son. Help us to welcome our gay, lesbian, bi sexual and transgendered sisters and brothers, and to offer them rich blessing. Together let us revel in your grace. Amen. Page 15

16 Seeking the Truth in Love Vision for Mission We will demonstrate Compassionate Justice We will be mindful of the biblical principles of justice and compassion, striving to work with and for others who live on the margins of society. We will also seek to take better care of the earth, and play a leading role in preserving all that God has made. In the synod, conference and congregations this mission priority may include: a. becoming familiar with the issues of our day by engaging in the study and discussion of challenging questions. Theme Being just and compassionate disciples of Jesus requires us to consider difficult questions Song God of Grace and God of Glory ELW 705 or Will You Let Me Be Your Servant ELW 659 Scripture Luke 6:37 42 Discussion Some have suggested that God asked Adam and Eve to refrain from eating fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil because such discernment often leads to judgement. Becoming the arbiters of good and evil causes us to believe we are usually right, and that others are usually wrong. In time we regard them as rivals or fools. The life of faith includes a generous helping of humility, which allows us to acknowledge that God has revealed important truths to others. Share with a partner an experience of being forgiven by another. What challenging question faces your group, and how could you prepare to discuss it in a loving and constructive way? How are we changed when we learn to discuss difficult issues with those whom we recognise as our brothers and sisters in Christ? Page 16

17 Suggestions Consider forming a Faith in the News group in your ministry setting or congregation. Practice listening to one another. Focus on understanding issues in the public realm, before trying to come up with a common response. Remember that those who disagree with you have also been made in God s image, and that they too are seeking Wisdom from the Spirit. Phil Heinze is the Ministry Director for Public Policy and Public Service Ministries. He may be able to identify some of the leading questions of our day, and direct you to resources that may help you to better understand them. Contact him through the synod website or at pheinze@elcic.ca Prayer God above all, teach us to seek and to speak the truth in love. Let our old selves die, that your new life may emerge in us. With your Spirit and love as our guides give us courage to ask challenging questions, and to discuss them with others. Then, together, let us serve you. Amen. Page 17

18 A Sacred Inheritance Vision for Mission We will demonstrate Compassionate Justice We will be mindful of the biblical principles of justice and compassion, striving to work with and for others who live on the margins of society. We will also seek to take better care of the earth, and play a leading role in preserving all that God has made. Theme God s concern for us is often expressed through the gifts of creation; caring for them is a form of worship and discipleship Song For the Beauty of the Earth ELW 879 or Touch the Earth Lightly ELW 739 Scripture Psalm 136:1 9, 26 Discussion Christians have sometimes been criticised for being so heavenly minded that they re of no earthly good. Our longing for eternal life in Paradise prevents us from living in the present moment, and caring for the earth in which we live. We do not regard fresh air, clean water, and rich soil as gifts that have been entrusted to us and future generations, so much as resources to be exploited. We think of ourselves as consumers. Describe a place you have visited which inspires wonder and awe. What role has God asked us to play in caring for the earth? How does consumerism undermine faith in God? Page 18

19 Suggestions Take a group from your congregation or ministry to an outdoor setting (perhaps one of our camps) to take a closer look at the world God has formed, making note of some of the relationships among all of its parts. Make a list of things that could be done in your building or property to treat the earth more gently, and forward at least three of them to the appropriate leaders. Phil Heinze is the Ministry Director for Public Policy and Public Service Ministries. He works with several organisations that are concerned about the well being of our planet. He may be contacted through the synod website or at pheinze@elcic.ca Prayer God of heaven and earth, we are your creatures. As you have fashioned us and the whole universe with love, teach us to reflect such love in the way we use air, water and soil, and the way we relate to others. Equip us to be faithful and vigilant care takers of all that you have given us. In our Saviour s name we pray. Amen. Page 19

20 Gifts for Ministry Vision for Mission We will establish a Focused Framework We will develop effective and flexible structures which will be suited to the tasks to which the Gospel calls us. We will be challenged by on going evaluation of our various ministries, mindful that God may lead us to end some of them and begin others. We will identify, call, mentor and equip ordained and lay leaders to meet the challenges that are before us. Theme As God s gifts to us are identified, developed, and shared loving communities are established Songs Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart ELW 800 or Take, Oh, Take Me As I Am ELW 814 Scripture Romans 12:1 8 Discussion It s tempting to think there is one right way to be a congregation or community of faith, and then for us to begin to list the leaders, committees and activities that are needed to meet such expectations. And if we fail to find people or resources to do all the things we think need to be done we feel grief or guilt. But when the apostle Paul and others in the New Testament speak about the gifts we receive from the Holy Spirit they tell us we might have it all backwards. In Baptism what does God tell us, and give to us? What relationship is there between the gifts I have received, and the ones others have received? If God is the giver of all gifts what does this have to do with the ministries to which we commit ourselves, personally and corporately? What would happen if our mission arose from the gifts God has given us? Page 20

21 Suggestions Invite as many members as possible to complete a Spiritual Gifts Inventory (a good one is called Opening our Spiritual Gifts, from Augsburg Fortress), and then use the list of the community s gifts to chart its goals for ministry. If it is difficult finding members to fill vacancies on a standing committee consider replacing the group with a single coordinator, who will bring proposals to your Council or board. Another way to deploy the Spirit s gifts more effectively may be to gather members to form a task force or working group to perform specific tasks, rather than a committee to oversee broad areas of ministry. Prayer God of rich blessing, giver of all gifts, we owe our lives to you. Your Spirit, within, prompts us to pray, to trust and to love. Reveal our unique gifts and abilities, and show us where they may be used to meet the needs of Christ s body. For his sake we pray. Amen. Page 21

22 Partners in Ministry Vision for Mission We will develop Effective Partnerships We will strengthen our existing partnerships and develop new ones. This includes collaboration with congregations, conferences, other synods, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, as well as ecumenical, interfaith, and community organizations. We will frequently ask ourselves, Do we have to do this alone? Theme Faith in God and the imitation of Christ leads us to work with others Song The Church of Christ, In Every Age ELW 729 or The Peace of the Lord ELW 646 Scripture Mark 9:38 41 Discussion Soren Kierkegaard said The proud person always wants to do the right thing, the great thing. But because he wants to do it in his own strength, he is fighting not with man, but with God. It is an apt description of the way we often work in the church. Individual members fail to work with partners. Congregations resist the invitation to work with neighbouring parishes. Denominations function as if the body of Christ is divided. What leads us to work in isolation? List five things your congregation or ministry could do better with another group. Does cooperation require compromise and conformity? Page 22

23 Suggestions Partnerships with a local food bank and Canadian Lutheran World Relief will allow members of your congregation to feed the hungry more effectively than trying to do this on your own. While many local partners may benefit from your generous offerings they may also welcome some hands on assistance. This may also have the effect of helping you to better understand the needs of your community. Phil Heinze is the Ministry Director for Public Policy and Public Service Ministries. He works with a wid variety of organisations that might partner with you. He may be contacted through the synod website or at pheinze@elcic.ca Prayer Loving God, graft us all to the body of your Son. Allow us to set fear and pride aside, that we may find partners in the Gospel. As we are confronted with the needs of the world help us to imagine what may be accomplished when we work together. In the name of Jesus Christ, our head. Amen. Page 23

24 Appendix 1 Vision for Mission in the Eastern Synod A Church in Mission for Others God calls the whole church through the Gospel to be engaged in mission in response to the needs of others, celebrating what God has done and continues to do through us. Relying on the gifts of the Spirit, we will develop ministries that will inspire and equip us to care for others through the mission work of the synod, conferences, congregations, and specialized ministries. As members of the Eastern Synod, we will help one another to embrace our vocations as ministers of the Gospel. Mission Priorities 1. We will practice Spirited Discipleship We will encourage one another to be joyful in worship, diligent in exploring God s Word, passionate in bearing witness to our faith, generous in sharing the gifts we have received, and wise in working with all our sisters and brothers in Christ. In our life together, we will be open to the creative and loving ways that God s Spirit works in and through us as members of the Eastern Synod. In the synod, conference and congregations this mission priority may include: work a. renewing worship through workshops, retreats, and the efforts of the Director of Worship Ministries, b. encouraging clergy and laity throughout the synod to study the Bible and wrestle with questions of faith through program resources, educational events, and leadership from the faculty of Waterloo Lutheran Seminary, c. sharing faith stories and promoting resources through the In Mission for Others initiative, the synod s publications and communication network, and the efforts of the Director of Witness and Evangelism Ministries, d. inviting generosity of spirit and offerings through events, publications and the of the Director of Stewardship and Resource Development, and e. fostering a sense of collegiality through a variety of events, retreats, conference meetings and gatherings for clergy and laity. 2. We will welcome Diversity We will meet our neighbours and become more familiar with those living in our communities who may vary from us in age, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic class, and religious practices. We will foster a climate of welcome and hospitality within our synod, conferences and congregations. We will seek to reflect Page 24

25 the diversity of Canadian society within our church, recognizing that others may challenge us with new ideas. In the synod, conference and congregations this mission priority may include: a. integrating children, youth and young adults into the life of our church through programs, gatherings, the camps, campus ministries, and the work of the Director for Youth and Young Adults Ministries, b. identifying and encouraging the use of resources that help us understand and appreciate the cultures and practices of others with the support of the Director of Ecumenical and Multi Faith Ministries, c. entering into dialogue with our multi faith neighbours, d. welcoming those whose sexual orientation may differ from our own, and e. keeping a diversity of faces before us as we choose leaders. 3. We will demonstrate Compassionate Justice We will be mindful of the biblical principles of justice and compassion, striving to work with and for people who live on the margins of society. We will also seek to take better care of the earth, and play a leading role in preserving all that God has made. In the synod, conference and congregations this mission priority may include: a. becoming familiar with the issues of our day by engaging in the study and discussion of challenging questions, b. identifying and supporting initiatives which seek justice tempered with mercy through the work of the Director of Public Policy and Service Ministries, and KAIROS, and c. supporting the work of Canadian Lutheran World Relief, d. identifying and promoting ways in which the church and individuals can exercise greater care of the earth s environment and resources. 4. We will establish a Focused Framework We will develop effective and flexible structures which will be suited to the tasks to which the Gospel calls us. We will be challenged by on going evaluation of our various ministries, mindful that God may lead us to end some of them and begin others. We will identify, call, mentor, and equip ordained and lay leaders to meet the challenges that are before us. In the synod, conference and congregations this mission priority may include: a. evaluating the effectiveness of our leaders and committees and making changes Page 25

26 in our organization which allow us to more fully participate in the mission to which God calls us, b. recruiting leaders with gifts and skills that match the needs of our church today and in the future, c. training these leaders for service in the conferences, congregations and specialized ministries through the leadership of Waterloo Lutheran Seminary and a variety of educational events for both clergy and lay leaders, d. proposing specific programs of continuing education for our rostered ministers, and e. identifying and establishing partnerships which will help us to effectively use all of the resources that have been entrusted to us. 5. We will develop Effective Partnerships We will strengthen our existing partnerships and develop new ones. This includes collaboration with congregations, conferences, other synods, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, as well as ecumenical, multi faith, and community organizations. We will frequently ask ourselves, Do we have to do this alone? In the synod, conference and congregations this mission priority may include: a. strengthening our working relationship among the Synod Council, Conference Deans and Ministry Directors, b. improving communication within the synod through its publications, programs and communication network, c. continuing to work in partnership with women s groups and networks in the Eastern Synod, d. deepening our relationship with our companion synod, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana, e. continuing to explore possibilities for shared ministry with the Anglican Church of Canada, especially at the diocesan, regional and parish level, and g. seeking justice for all by working with ecumenical coalitions like KAIROS, interfaith groups, multi faith groups, as well as groups sharing similar goals and values. Page 26