From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 13 09:20:45 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:20:45 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 13 Message-ID: Due to the snowy and windy weather last week, I was unable to make it to work the latter part of the week and the Update did not go out as planned. Hopefully this will be the last interruption for quite some time. Thank you for your patience, and I apologize for any inconvenience this might have caused. [cid:image001.gif at 01CA9431.9EF81FD0] January 13, 2010 In this issue: Epiphany blessings! Last week the church celebrated Epiphany, the revelation of the Christ Child to the Gentiles at the visit of the Magi from the East. As the account of the Wise Men's visit is told in the Gospel of Matthew, we see these Magi searching for the "King of the Jews." As they told King Herod, "We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." They weren't sure who they were looking for, only that there was someone special they were moved to worship. Our celebration of Jesus' birth is over, and we are returning to our normal routines. How many of those around us "saw the star" of Christmas these past weeks without knowing the true meaning of the celebrations. They celebrated with Santa, stockings, trees, gifts, and food, but not with the Christ Child. As we visit with those we see every day - neighbors, friends, co-workers, whomever it might be - we should be mindful that they might be searching for the real reason for Christmas. God can use us to share the story of Jesus who came to earth as a baby to be the Savior for all, so that those who are searching might at last find the "King of the Jews" and worship Him as the Wise Men did so long ago. * Prayer Requests * LCMS World Relief/Human Care Response to Haiti Earthquake * Important 2009 Remittance Information * Upcoming Peacemaker Seminars * Pews Available * Stewardship Workshop Offered in Omaha * In the News: A New Church, An Old Story * Camp Luther Received $100,000 Grant * Therapist Needed for Short-Term Work in Turkey * Grace Place Lutheran Retreats * Good Shepherd, Gretna, to Celebrate Anniversary and Dedication * "Reaching Out Together" Conference * Tell CPH Your Story - Win a Free VBS Kit * Delegates Give Feedback on Proposed Structure Changes PRAYER REQUESTS Iglesia Luterana Jesus es el Senor, Omaha - This Hispanic ministry is reaching out to the Hispanic people living in the Omaha area through Sunday worship services, Bible studies, fellowship opportunities, VBS, and an English as a Second Language program that has reached more than 200 people since its beginning in 2008. Please pray for Vicar Obdulio Felix as he finishes up his studies at the Center for Hispanic Studies through Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and prepares to continue leading this mission church as its pastor. We also ask that God would continue to bless the church as they continue their efforts to share the love of Jesus with those around them. Back to top LCMS World Relief/Human Care Response to Haiti Earthquake (From http://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=16375) As news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years reached LCMS World Relief and Human Care (LCMS WR-HC) on Tuesday, the Synod's mercy arm began preparing to reach out in the Caribbean nation with much needed assistance and working in cooperation with Lutheran partners. Only hours after getting reports of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake, the Synod's mercy arm announced it was making available funds to meet initial emergency needs. "The unfolding drama in Haiti calls for unlimited mercy on the part of the people of the LCMS. The needs are urgent and overwhelming right now," said Glenn F. Merritt, LCMS WR-HC director of Disaster Response. "I appeal to God's people to respond as generously as possible during this most difficult time." Early reports indicate extensive property damage and terrible suffering among people trapped in collapsed buildings in an impoverished country already challenged by longtime political strife and poverty. Haiti is widely known as the poorest country in the western hemisphere. News of the devastation triggered numerous calls and e-mails to LCMS Life and Health Ministries Director Maggie Karner who, even before the earthquake, was preparing to send the first LCMS WR-HC Mercy Medical Team (MMT) to Haiti next month. Ironically, on Monday Karner sent a massive MMT recruitment appeal to LCMS pastors and congregations asking for physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to volunteer for the team that is scheduled to serve in Haiti March 11-21. "Our preliminary legwork for the first MMT team to Haiti in March will serve us well as we prepare to respond," Karner said Tuesday night. "Perhaps now, because of this tragedy, people will see the desperate need in Haiti and prayerfully consider how they can use their gifts and talents." To learn more about the MMT trip to Haiti, contact LCMS WR-HC's Jacob Fiene at 800-248-1930, ext. 1278, or jacob.fiene at lcms.org. Following is the full request: LCMS World Relief and Human Care offers medical professionals opportunities to volunteer abroad in underserved regions. We are in desperate need of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to work with Lutherans who share Christ's mercy. Pastors also are needed to serve as team chaplains. Teams work in conjunction with LCMS partner churches and local clinics to care for both body and soul. Since 2006, Mercy Medical Teams have provided free medical care to more than 10,000 people in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. Teams care for people suffering with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, parasites, dysentery, serious wounds, infections, malaria and other tropical diseases, and illnesses associated with unhealthy drinking water and sanitation. We treat both adults and children (including many youngsters orphaned by AIDS) and provide our own pharmacy for dispensing free medications. Please take a minute to watch a brief Mercy Medical Team video at: http://www.lcms.org/?16362 Today, our most desperate need is for a physician to volunteer with our Mercy Medical Team that will serve March 11-21 in Haiti. If you know of physicians interested in short-term missionary medical service, please touch base with Jacob Fiene immediately using his contact information listed below. Whether you have medical skills or a sincere heart for service, please consider becoming a Mercy Medical Team volunteer. Learn more at http://www.lcms.org/mercyteams. For a leader's perspective, log on to the Mercy Medical Team blog at http://mercyandmedical.blogspot.com. Please e-mail Jacob at mercyteams at lcms.org or call toll-free 800-248-1930, ext. 1278. LCMS WR-HC is working cooperatively with LCMS World Mission, Haitian missionaries, and partner churches to provide relief in a timely fashion. Funds are urgently needed to help Haitians who have lost loved ones and homes. To share Christ's mercy with suffering Haitians, make a gift online by visiting http://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=16375. Back to top IMPORTANT 2009 REMITTANCE INFORMATION The District's fiscal year closes on January 31, 2010. Any offerings or gifts your congregation would like to have applied to your 2009 support (February 1, 2009 - January 31, 2010) should be remitted by the end of January, and clearly titled 2009 Remittance. If you are unable to mail your support by the end of January, but would like your support applied to 2009, please send the District a letter indicating your anticipated additional commitment, clearly titled 2009 Remittance. Any other remittances will be applied toward your 2010 support. Back to top UPCOMING PEACEMAKER SEMINARS Do your new years' resolutions include mending relationships with family, friends, co-workers, or others? Let the Nebraska District help by attending one of the "Blessed Are the Peacemakers" seminars offered at various locations in the District. These one-day seminars will present how God's ministry of reconciliation is meant to be lived in everyday life and will help you learn how to deal Biblically with the conflict that inevitably occurs in our relationships. The $20 early-bird registration fee covers the cost of the presentation, breakfast, lunch, and take-home resources. Seminars are currently scheduled for the dates and locations listed below, with more being added. Information and registration forms for these seminars have been mailed to each congregation, and are available to be printed at the District website www.ndlcms.org/congregational/workercare/peacemakers.html February 6-Zion, Imperial (registration due January 22) February 13-Trinity, Auburn (registration due January 29) February 20-St. Paul, Utica (registration due February 5) March 20-Holy Savior, Lincoln (registration due March 5) Please consider attending the seminar most convenient for you-and invite others to join you! Contact the District Office at 888-643-2961with questions. Back to top PEWS AVAILABLE The Nebraska District has wooden pews available for any congregation in need of them. These wooden pews are in Omaha, and the interested congregation would be responsible for picking them up. For more information, contact Connie Borchers at connieb at ndlcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP OFFERED IN OMAHA Congregational leaders are invited to attend the Turning Donors Into Disciples: FAITH-RAISING, NOT FUND-RAISING workshop hosted by Beautiful Savior (7706 South 96th Street), La Vista, on Saturday, February 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This workshop will: * Change the "stewardship of giving" culture in your church * Send you home with the "Stewardship of Giving Toolbox" * Teach you how "Consecrated Stewards" can help increase giving * Teach about "Heart In Focus" - a personal, faith-focused money management plan Facilitators include nationally known leaders. Start planning today and get your congregation leaders registered. The cost is $25 per person or $100 for groups of five. For more information, email christinab at churchsmart.com or call David Wetzler at 800-253-4276. To register online, click on the "training" button at www.churchsmart.com. You may also register by emailing the Discipling/Stewardship Center (Dr. Waldo Werning) at wjwern at aol.com. Back to top IN THE NEWS: A NEW CHURCH, AN OLD STORY "Bethlehem. It wasn't the nice, peaceful, picturesque little town we picture in our minds." This was the picture Cross of Christ Lutheran Church tried to paint for the community of Aurora at its presentation of "A Night in Bethlehem" in December. Read about the newest Nebraska District congregation's efforts to share the real Bethlehem and the ancient story of Jesus' birth, as well as the community's response, in the newspaper article published by the Aurora News-Register on December 22. Find the article online at http://www.auroranewsregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1112:a-new-church-an-old-story&catid=1:local&Itemid=10. Back to top CAMP LUTHER RECEIVED $100,000 GRANT Camp Luther of Nebraska, Schuyler, recently received a $100,000 grant from the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation, Appleton, Wis., designed to generate thousands more in financial gifts to Camp Luther. The grant will make it possible for the camp to develop a program that involves working with the LCMS Foundation Gift Planner in Nebraska, Neal Koch, and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans representatives to host meetings with small groups of interested donors and to make a joint presentation on how individuals can support the future ministry of Camp Luther through their gifts, deferred gifts, wills, and other tools which Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and the LCMS Foundation have available. The LCMS Foundation and Thrivent Funds will manage the Camp's new endowment fund. This program is unique in that it will give donors the opportunity to support an area of their choice: camperships, capital improvements or endowment fund, while receiving a photo newsletter on the opportunities their gifts made available to children. The grant will also make it possible for the camp to hire a pastor to be the Director of Endowment. He will travel throughout the District to preach and speak about the unique ministry opportunity of Camp Luther. The grant is part of the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation Charitable Gifting Initiative designed to educate supporters of Lutheran institutions and ministries about the advantages of tax-wise charitable gifts. "This grant will give Camp Luther the boost it has needed for many years. Finally, we will be able to get the word out to the people of the area about the life-changing effects camp can have on the lives of children, youth and families," according to board president Allan Zietz of Norfolk, NE. "It is our hope that this grant will strengthen Camp Luther's ability to inform potential donors of various options available to them to financially support the Camp's work," said Brad Hewitt, president of the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation. "As people come alongside Camp Luther with charitable gifts, Camp Luther will become increasingly effective in carrying out its ministry/mission." For more information on this grant or on the ministry of Camp Luther, contact Hank Rausch, executive director of Camp Luther, at hank at campluther.org or 402-352-5655. Back to top THERAPIST NEEDED FOR SHORT-TERM WORK IN TURKEY There is a need for a therapist (PT, OT, or ST) that could travel to Turkey during the first week of April 2010 to be involved in a training project that involves training "care workers" who go into disabled people's homes and also into orphanages that house disabled children and adults. The therapist will be doing patient/family education with a local organization that supports people with disabilities. A second therapist is also needed to cover the following topics: * Basics of Wheelchair fitting - including doing a demonstration with a locally produced wheelchair with a patient and showing people what to look for to make it a "good fit" * Basics of Patient Hygiene - hints on keeping dependent patients clean and be able to explain the benefits and then risks of not doing so * Wound Care * Psychosocial issues - especially with caregiver fatigue There is assistance available for travel and accommodations. Please contact Bobbie Lautenschlager immediately at 314-503-4317 or at joliba at sbcglobal.net if you are interested or need additional information. Back to top GRACE PLACE LUTHERAN RETREATS Grace Place Lutheran Retreats is a recognized service organization of the LCMS. The goal of Grace Place Lutheran Retreats is to offer preventative wellness skills, attitudes, and resources to professional church workers and their spouses, so they can experience and live the abundant lives to which Jesus called them. Various donors generously support Grace Place and its ministry, which keeps the costs down for attendees. Congregations are encouraged to consider sending one or more church workers to be refreshed and renewed in ministry this year. For more information, contact Grace Place Lutheran Retreats at 314-842-3077 or visit www.graceplaceretreats.org. Nebraska District Pastors/Educators and Spouses June 21-25 - Snowmass, Colo. (registration: $360) Pastors/Educators and Spouses July 26-30 - Trego, Wis. (registration: $225 if Thrivent member) Single Clergy/Educators September 1-5 - Snowmass, Colo. (registration: $360) Back to top GOOD SHEPHERD, GRETNA, TO CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY AND DEDICATION Following is a congregation anniversary that was not listed in the Nebraska Lutheran Reporter. Everyone is invited to join them. Good Shepherd, Gretna, will celebrate its 30th Anniversary and the dedication of its new addition on Sunday, January 31, with one service at 10:30 a.m., followed by a dinner and program. Guest speaker is Rev. Bo Baumeister, former campus pastor of Concordia University, Seward. Back to top "REACHING OUT TOGETHER" CONFERENCE The second annual "Reaching Out Together" evangelism conference will take place on February 13, 2010. It is designed to inspire, encourage, teach, and give opportunity for putting into practice principles for talking about Jesus to others, especially the uncommitted or unchurched. This event is presented by the Saturday Outreach School in partnership with Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, the Missouri District LCMS, and North American Missions Ablaze! "Reaching Out Together" is for pastors, evangelism boards, church leaders, and laypeople in the Missouri District and adjacent LCMS districts. Featured break-out session speakers include Dr. Thomas R. Zehnder, executive director of LCMS World Mission; Kay L. Meyer, author of Witnessing-A Lifestyle; Rev. John Rathje, pastor of Christ in the City Lutheran Church, St. Louis; Rev. Peter Kirby, Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ; Rev. Kevin Parviz, Lutherans in Jewish Evangelism; and Rev. Brad Aldrich, CrossPollination Ministries. Registration fee is $20 per participant for the first four people from a single congregation, and $15 for each additional participant. Fee includes lunch and all materials. The registration deadline for "Reaching Out Together" is February 5, 2010. For more information contact Concordia Seminary Continuing Education at 314-505-7486 or email ce at csl.edu. Back to top TELL CPH YOUR STORY - WIN A FREE VBS KIT Did you know that in many countries, authorities arrest Christians just for meeting to worship? Though they face persecution, these Christians continue to believe. These believers are bold. Even if we don't face persecution, we are still called by the Gospel to be bold believers. This is what our 2010 VBS, Planet Zoom, teaches your children. But today, we want to hear from you. CPH's Bold Bee-liever Challenge is an opportunity for you to encourage others by sharing an example of God's Word in action within your congregation and community. Perhaps your story shares the experience you had on a mission project or other response to God's grace that touched lives in your community; you might recount the Baptism story of a new believer; or share with us the bold witness proclaimed by a member of your congregation to someone who did not know Jesus. Once we have all the stories, ten will be randomly selected and posted online, where you and the rest of the CPH community will help select one congregation to receive a completely free Planet Zoom Vacation Bible School with enough resources to serve 150 students! The Bold Bee-liever Project is about all of us, rejoicing together and giving thanks to God for the work He alone does in all of our congregations, homes, and communities in and through His Word and Sacraments. That's bold! Since not everyone who submits a story will be able to be featured on the site, we'll also randomly select one of you (who help to determine the final story) to receive a free VBS. So you'll want to encourage your congregation to visit the site, read the stories, and provide feedback! After the stories are posted on January 19, every person who votes will have the chance to enter his or her congregation to receive a FREE VBS. That means the more people your congregation gets to vote, the better chance you have to be selected! Simply submit your story to the CPH VBS website www.cph.org/planetzoom by 5 p.m. on January 17, 2010. Back to top DELEGATES GIVE FEEDBACK ON PROPOSED STRUCTURE CHANGES (from Reporter Online, December 31, 2009) Two of the nine regional gatherings planned for LCMS convention delegates already have taken place, and organizer-presenter Rev. Jon Braunersreuther says that, so far, the events are doing just what they're supposed to do: explain the current structure of the Synod and the 21 proposals of the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Synod Structure and Governance, and find out what delegates think about the proposals. "The objective here is to share the information, to make it clear to the delegates, many of whom don't know how the Synod is structured. And to make it clear what the proposals are, allow them to ask questions, and then, to get their feedback," said Braunersreuther, assistant to Synod President Dr. Gerald B. Kieschnick. "We want to know what they think so that the floor committee can take that information and use it to help mold the resolutions that they'll put forward on the floor of the convention." Some 1,250 delegates are expected to take part in the convention July 10-17 in Houston, spending the first two business days (July 11-12) determining which of the task force's proposals -- fine-tuned and presented as resolutions -- will best prepare The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod to carry out its mission in the years ahead. "We need structure and governance that are flexible and forward-looking -- receptive to new opportunities God is giving the Synod," Kieschnick said in introductory comments at each of the regional gatherings. "And we need a system of structure and governance that can help us maximize limited resources as faithful stewards, a need that has become even more critical in the current economic climate of our nation." Each of the pre-convention gatherings involves between 100 and 200 delegates. "People can really participate because of the size -- it's not intimidating," says Braunersreuther. One delegate told him that he had read through the task force's report "and didn't understand a thing" until he attended the pre-convention gathering, which "made all the difference in the world." The delegate said he now understands the issues "so much more." "So, that's a delegate who, if he had just come to Houston, would have been in the dark and it would have been confusing," Braunersreuther said. "And now he'll come and he'll be prepared to make good decisions about the proposals as they're put forward." Rev. Dennis Lassanske, a pastoral delegate from the Michigan District, attended the Dec. 11-12 regional meeting in Detroit. (The first meeting was held Dec. 4-5 in Denver, and it was this meeting the Nebraska District delegates attended.) After reading the task force's report, he says he is "convinced that the restructure of the Synod operation is long overdue" and that the proposals offer "some insightful options." "I better understand their thinking as a result of the pre-convention meeting," Lassanske said via e-mail. And, even though he realizes that the restructuring process will be difficult, he says he is "hopeful that delegates will be well-read and prepared to make supportive decisions that will move the Synod forward on these structure issues." Particularly helpful, he added, were the question-and-answer sessions, which "gave great information for making a more complete evaluation of the material and its historical context and impact." Said Lassanske: "I am more hopeful today than before the meeting and more determined to do my research and prepare for the convention this summer." Ron Jenkins, a lay delegate from the Indiana District, called the Detroit gathering "very informative and helpful." "I think it's always good to [re-examine] our Bylaws so we can understand why we do things and not do it just because it has always been done that way," he said. Eva Fronk, an advisory delegate from the English District, said the regional meeting she attended "made me very positive and hopeful for our Synod." "We are examining our present practices, evaluating our strengths and weaknesses, and prayerfully considering 'which course is best for the salvation of souls,'" Fronk said, quoting the Synod's first president, Dr. C.F.W. Walther. Even though the participants didn't agree on everything, the first two delegate gatherings "went very, very well," according to Braunersreuther. "There was a wonderful spirit in the room at both of those regional gatherings. People have been courteous and yet upfront about what their disagreements are. That's a good thing." Everyone taking part in the meetings is being asked to complete a survey about the task force proposals, explaining what they like and don't like. And, in table discussion groups, they are identifying the two or three most important proposals for convention action. After all the regional gatherings have ended, the results of the table discussions will be tabulated. That information, along with the written survey responses, will be considered by Convention Floor Committee 8, on Synod Structure and Governance, as it prepares the resolutions and decides which proposals are most critical for the convention to address. The remaining seven regional gatherings will take place in January and February in Madison, Wis.; Minneapolis; Boston; Newport Beach, Calif.; Atlanta; Dallas; and St. Louis. Braunersreuther asks delegates who will be attending those meetings to "read the report, keep an open mind, and come with your questions." Back to top The weekly Email Update is a resource offered to all in the Nebraska District to share information and to enrich the ministry God has called you to. Please continue to share information you feel would be of interest to others and let us know if there is any other way we at the District Office can be a resource to your ministry. Items for inclusion in the Update may be sent to communications at ndlcms.org. Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 77790 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100113/230d2ea9/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100113/230d2ea9/image001-0001.gif From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Fri Jan 15 12:18:26 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:18:26 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Special Haiti Relief Information Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CA95D8.D79967B0] January 15, 2010 Special Haiti Relief Issue In this issue: Greetings in the name of our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus. This special edition of the Email Update contains information on many of the Lutheran responses and relief efforts taking place for the people of Haiti. More information is available by following the web links in each article. * President Kieschnick Responds to the Haitian Earthquake * LCMS Begins Earthquake Response Efforts * Orphan Grain Train Responds to Needs * Lutheran World Relief Offers Aid to Earthquake Victims * CTS Reaches Out to Victims in Haiti * Free Bulletin Inserts for Haiti Relief * Serve on a Mercy Medical Team to Haiti This Spring PRESIDENT KIESCHNICK RESPONDS TO THE HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE To: The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod From: President Gerald B. Kieschnick Subject: LCMS response to Haitian earthquake Date: January 14, 2010 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As I write this letter, news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years is being covered nationwide by the media. Only hours after receiving reports of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake, we began preparing to reach out to the people of Haiti with critically needed assistance. We will be disbursing, through LCMS World Relief and Human Care, significant dollars to meet immediate and longer-term needs. Many lives have been lost, extensive property has been damaged, and terrible suffering has been inflicted upon people trapped in collapsed buildings in a country already challenged by longtime political strife and poverty. We praise God that our missionaries in Haiti are confirmed to be safe. In addition to an LCMS World Mission GEO (Globally Engaged in Outreach) missionary and family stationed in Haiti, there are at least three short-term mission teams in the country from LCMS congregations and mission organizations from Nebraska, New York, and Wisconsin. We are working to confirm the safety of pastors and others in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti (ELCH), which has been a partner church of the Missouri Synod's since 2001. While communications are still sketchy, we believe Rev. Marky Kessa, president of the ELCH, is safe. We are continuing our efforts to reach our other dear brothers and sisters in Christ in Haiti. The LCMS, working cooperatively through LCMS World Relief and Human Care, LCMS World Mission, Lutheran World Relief in Baltimore, Concordia Publishing House, and our U.S. and Haitian partners, will strive to serve the ongoing needs of the people of Haiti who have lost loved ones, homes, possessions, and means of livelihood as a result of this devastating natural disaster. With deepest gratitude I thank the generous LCMS members who have already responded with financial gifts for the people of Haiti. Within 24 hours, more than $100,000 has been received. We invite and urge our other dear brothers and sisters to help in this work. The links below will connect you with giving opportunities and provide you with information and resources for speaking about this tragedy to members, families, and friends. Giving Donations are urgently needed to provide relief efforts in Haiti. Gifts may be accepted online at http://givenowlcms.org. Information * For the most recent updates of the LCMS relief effort in Haiti, visit www.lcms.org/worldrelief. * To learn more about LCMS GEO missionary Alyssa Stone and her role in Haiti, visit www.lcms.org?15195 or view her print-ready prayer card at www.lcmsworldmission.org/prayercards. Resources Among the many materials available from LCMS ministries, these are some of the resources our members may find most useful: * For congregational use: Bulletin insert: www.lcms.org/ca/worldrelief/dnews * For young adults/adults: "Where is God Now" - 60 devotions specifically written for times of disaster, chaos, and grief: http://bit.ly/5OgH9j * For adult Bible study and reflection: "Comfort for Christians" - a four-part study by Rev. Roger Sonnenberg: http://bit.ly/8Rp7Et * Also for adults: "For the Faint of Heart" - by Craig Parrott http://bit.ly/8qw2UK * For teens/young adults: "Why? A Resource Kit for Talking to Students about Disaster & Tragedy" - www.youthesource.com/Index.asp?PageID=7082&Function=View&ArticleID=1329 * For children: "I Will Not Be Afraid" - by Michelle Medlock Adams: http://bit.ly/6hqURs Finally, but most importantly, I ask for your prayers as we respond to the needs of the Haitian people so tragically affected by the quake. With deep sincerity I give thanks to our almighty heavenly Father for keeping our missionaries safe. In addition, I pray for all those in Haiti whose lives have been devastated by the death of loved ones, personal injuries, loss of home and possessions. Moreover, I pray that God will bless our work in Haiti, along with that of many other humanitarian agencies, to relieve the suffering of those who have been so tragically impacted by the earthquake. Finally, I pray that the peace of God that passes all understanding, through Jesus Christ our Lord, will be of great comfort to all those affected by this horrendous disaster. The peace of the Lord be with you all! Gerald B. Kieschnick President The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod Back to top LCMS BEGINS EARTHQUAKE RESPONSE EFFORTS As estimates of the loss of life and destruction in Haiti emerged following Tuesday's magnitude 7.0 earthquake, LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC) began responding, while members of LCMS congregations prayed for the safety of their mission teams who were in the Caribbean nation at the time of the quake. "The unfolding drama in Haiti calls for unlimited mercy on the part of the people of the LCMS. The needs are urgent and overwhelming right now," said Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, WR-HC director of disaster response. "I appeal to God's people to respond as generously as possible during this most difficult time." Haitians piled bodies along the devastated streets of their capital, Port-au-Prince, on Wednesday after the strongest earthquake to hit the nation in more than 200 years crushed thousands of structures, from schools and shacks to the National Palace and the U.N. peacekeeping headquarters. An untold number of people were still trapped. Haitian President Rene Preval said the devastation was so complete that he estimated the death toll would run into the thousands. International Red Cross spokesman Paul Conneally said an estimated 3 million people may have been affected by the quake and that it would take a day or two for a clear picture of the damage to emerge. Safe after the quake is a missionary family, Alyssa Stone and her two daughters, who live west of the capital where the shaking wasn't as strong. Stone is a deaconess intern from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. Also reported as safe are at least three short-term mission teams in Haiti from LCMS congregations and mission organizations in Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, and Wisconsin. Jason Christ, director of Christian education at First Trinity Church in Tonawanda, N.Y., was glad to receive text messages Tuesday evening from 14 members of the church's mission team who had arrived in Haiti on Monday. "They are all OK," he said. He also said the group, which includes Rev. Chuck Whited, are in Les Cayes, about 120 miles away from the hard-hit capital. This was the sixth time a team from the church had visited Haiti to work at an orphanage there. News of the quake triggered numerous calls and e-mails to LCMS Life and Health Ministries Director Maggie Karner, who had been preparing to send the first LCMS WR-HC Mercy Medical Team (MMT) to Haiti in March. The day before the quake Karner had sent out an MMT recruitment appeal to LCMS pastors and congregations asking for physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to volunteer for the team that is scheduled to serve in Haiti March 11-21. "Our preliminary legwork for the first MMT team to Haiti in March will serve us well as we prepare to respond," Karner said Tuesday night. "Perhaps now, because of this tragedy, people will see the desperate need in Haiti and prayerfully consider how they can use their gifts and talents." To learn more about the MMT trip to Haiti, contact LCMS WR-HC's Jacob Fiene at 800-248-1930, ext. 1278, or jacob.fiene at lcms.org. To donate to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, click here. Back to top ORPHAN GRAIN TRAIN RESPONDS TO NEEDS Orphan Grain Train, in cooperation with LCMS World Relief and Human Care, will ship 513,216 "Kids Against Hunger" meals (two semi-loads) to Haiti next week. Orphan Grain Train is shipping to Haiti both by air and by sea. A semi-load relief shipment of food sent last month arrived on January 6 and is being used to respond to the disaster. Each semi-load contains 256,608 meals. The next two semi-loads will leave Norfolk the week of January 17. Other relief shipments are in the planning stage. "Kids Against Hunger" volunteers in Hastings, Lincoln, and Norfolk, Nebraska, prepared the "Kids Against Hunger" meal packets. Food distributions are intended for all people in need, regardless of church affiliation. Cash donations of any amount will help the survivors in Haiti. Shipping one semi-load to Haiti costs more than $5,000 in transportation costs. Checks may be sent to Orphan Grain Train, PO Box 1466, Norfolk, NE 68702-1466. Please write "Haiti" on the memo line. You may also give online by credit card at www.ogt.org. Click "Donate Now" and fill out the requested information. You will receive an email confirmation when your gift arrives in Orphan Grain Train's bank account. Thank you for your support and helping send Relief for Human Need Worldwide! Back to top LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF OFFERS AID TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS Baltimore, January 13, 2010 - A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the small island nation of Haiti on the evening of January 12, the worst earthquake to strike the region in more than 200 years. Thousands are feared dead; the quake's epicenter was located just 10 miles from the capital city of Port-au-Prince. "As the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, the people of Haiti will desperately need the help of the international community in the wake of this horrifying disaster," says Trevor Knoblich, LWR's Program Coordinator for Emergency Response. "A large response will be needed to even begin helping the people of Haiti," he adds. Throughout the night and into the morning powerful aftershocks, some as strong as 5.9 magnitude, continued. The initial quake toppled the presidential palace and destroyed the shanty homes where most Haitians live. Their homes destroyed, people are in the streets with nowhere to go. The greatest damage appears to be concentrated in Port-au-Prince, where critical services, such as electricity, water, and phone services are severely affected. Access to the capital city is limited due to debris and other obstacles on the roads. Reports of injuries and death tolls are still unknown because of communications problems; however, early indications suggest a large number of causalities and extensive damage. Haiti, by virtue of its location and its overwhelming poverty, is extremely vulnerable to natural disasters. Before the earthquake, people were still struggling to recover from the devastation caused by a succession of tropical storms that struck Haiti in 2008, killing hundreds, causing floods, destroying crops and leaving thousands homeless. Lutheran World Relief has supported that on-going recovery effort in partnership with World Neighbors. LWR has committed an initial $1,000,000 to the relief effort, and will reevaluate that commitment as new reports emerge. LWR is currently planning a two-phase relief and recovery response through their partners on the ground in Haiti. LWR is also responding through the Action by Churches Together (ACT) alliance to support immediate relief efforts of food, water, medicine, and shelter. LWR will continue to evaluate the needs on the ground as search, rescue, and relief efforts are updated. Every dollar donated to this life-saving effort is critical to providing the necessary emergency support to the people of Haiti. Lutheran World Relief president John Nunes adds, "We ask that you pray for the people of Haiti and for our local partners on the ground with whom we have lost contact. Lutheran World Relief will work expeditiously to put your prayers and gifts to work to save lives in Haiti." Donations to the Haiti Earthquake fund can be made by phone at 800-LWR-LWR-2, online at lwr.org, or by mailing a check or money order to Lutheran World Relief Haiti Earthquake Relief, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832. Back to top CTS REACHES OUT TO VICTIMS IN HAITI Although it is thousands of miles away, the victims of the Haitian earthquake are held closely in the hearts and prayers of the faculty, staff, and student body of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana. "This is a time when we go to the word of Jesus for guidance as we are tragically made aware of how frail and fragile human life is," offered Dr. Dean O. Wenthe, CTS President. "We encourage you to join your prayers with ours and lift up your hands with us to help those in Haiti." A video of Dr. Wenthe's comments may be found on the seminary's website, www.ctsfw.edu. In fact, there are CTS students and family members who are currently in Haiti. Deaconess Intern Alyssa Stone and her daughters, Andrea and Kristin, are in La Cayes which was not in the epicenter of the quake. Alyssa has been able to make contact with the U.S. and reports that some houses did collapse and there was some panic, but there is not the extreme damage as seen in other areas of the country. There are others in the seminary community who are still awaiting word from family members and we continue to hold them up in prayer. Dr. Wenthe also explained that the seminary will be sending a team of students and faculty to assist in Haiti as soon as they receive clearance to travel. Those interested in sending support for this mission may donate by going to www.ctsfw.edu/supporthaiti, or by phoning 260-452-2212. Information on how to support the efforts of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod's (LCMS) World Relief and Human Care relief effort may be found on the same webpage. Back to top FREE BULLETIN INSERTS FOR HAITI RELIEF As news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years reached LCMS World Relief and Human Care on Tuesday, the Synod's mercy arm began preparing to reach out with much needed assistance and working in cooperation with Lutheran partners. To help you communicate the LCMS response to this large-scale disaster with your congregation members this Sunday, LCMS World Relief and Human Care has prepared a bulletin insert. Please feel free to reproduce the insert, available in black and white or full color, for use in educating members about the urgent need for prayer and financial support for our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Haiti who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. Click here to download a color PDF Click here to download a black and white PDF Congregations may also consider collecting a congregational gift or special door offering to strengthen and support our men and women who will respond to disaster in Haiti in the weeks and months ahead. Thank you! Back to top SERVE ON A MERCY MEDICAL TEAM TO HAITI THIS SPRING LCMS World Relief and Human Care offers medical professionals opportunities to volunteer abroad in underserved regions. We are in desperate need of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to work with Lutherans who share Christ's mercy. Pastors also are needed to serve as team chaplains. Teams work in conjunction with LCMS partner churches and local clinics to care for both body and soul. Since 2006, Mercy Medical Teams have provided free medical care to more than 10,000 people in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. Teams care for people suffering with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, parasites, dysentery, serious wounds, infections, malaria and other tropical diseases, and illnesses associated with unhealthy drinking water and sanitation. We treat both adults and children (including many youngsters orphaned by AIDS) and provide our own pharmacy for dispensing free medications. Please take a minute to watch a brief Mercy Medical Team video at: http://www.lcms.org/?16362 Today, our most desperate need is for a physician to volunteer with our Mercy Medical Team that will serve March 11-21 in Haiti. If you know of physicians interested in short-term missionary medical service, please touch base with Jacob Fiene immediately using his contact information listed below. Whether you have medical skills or a sincere heart for service, please consider becoming a Mercy Medical Team volunteer. Learn more at http://www.lcms.org/mercyteams. For a leader's perspective, log on to the Mercy Medical Team blog at http://mercyandmedical.blogspot.com. Please e-mail Jacob at mercyteams at lcms.org or call toll-free 800-248-1930, ext. 1278. Back to top Blessings on your weekend, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 54143 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100115/41209cea/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100115/41209cea/image001-0001.gif From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 20 08:54:04 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:54:04 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 20 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CA99AD.BDBA5E20] January 20, 2010 In this issue: Epiphany greetings in the name of Jesus. Thanks to everyone who contributed information for this week's Update. Ministry news and event information is always welcome to be considered for inclusion in future newsletters, and may be sent to communications at ndlcms.org. This newsletter may also be forwarded to those who might be interested in the news shared here, or portions may be reproduced in congregational bulletins or newsletters as you wish. * Prayer Requests * Updates on Haiti Relief Efforts * Nebraska's Hospice Association Seeking Award Nominations * Lutheran Choir of Lincoln Begins Spring Season * Opportunities to Visit Germany This Year * At Ease Luncheon in Omaha * Connect with the Fiala Missionary Family in Eurasia * Send Phone Messages Instantly to Every Congregation Member * National Lutheran Schools Week Worship and Activity Manual Now Available * German Church Offers Camp for Teens and Young Adults * Do You Know a Future Church Worker? PRAYER REQUESTS The People and Relief Workers of Haiti - Please continue to remember in prayer the people of Haiti who were affected by the earthquake last week. So much information has been shared on the relief efforts, with more information being made available daily. Along with all of these efforts, the most important thing we can do is continue to pray - for the survivors, for the injured, for those who lost loved ones, and for those who are in Haiti to help them all. Ministry in the Sandhills - Rev. Andy Safarik serves three congregations, as well as a vacancy, across an area that covers a distance of more than 86 miles in the Western Sandhills of Nebraska. Please remember this ministry and Pastor Safarik in your prayers, as he travels many miles each week to share the love of Christ with those in the Sandhills. This ministry attends to the spiritual needs of the farmers and ranchers that live in this area. While the people may be spread out, the mission field is ripe in this part of Nebraska. Many of those who live in this area are not connected to a church, while many others are Mormon. This offers great opportunities for witnessing to the love of Jesus Christ. Just last month, a live nativity was offered to the community. Following is an excerpt from the description of the event: The children from our Midweek program then had a very simple presentation of the Gospel account of the birth of Jesus. . . . Mormons who looked at the cross in the star asked what it meant. Young people with parents and grandparents, and great-grandparents, people from all over the area, church-goers and non-church-goers, people from many different denominations heard the Gospel message that Jesus Christ came down from heaven to die for our sins and was raised so that we might be with Him forever. Back to top UPDATES ON HAITI RELIEF EFFORTS The relief agencies offering aid to the rescue efforts in Haiti continue to share information. Following are the most recent summaries we've received, along with links for more information. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans (from www.thrivent.com) Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will add $1 to every $2, up to a total Thrivent Financial contribution of $1 million, when members donate to one of the following: * Lutheran World Relief. * ELCA Disaster Response. * LCMS World Relief/Human Care. * WELS Committee on Relief. Thrivent Financial will add a maximum of $250 per member donation, and donations will be accepted through March 31, 2010. Here are ways to give to Haiti earthquake relief that will qualify for the matching gift: LCMS World Relief and Human Care in St. Louis: Online: https://catalog.lcms.org/givenow/Gift_input.asp?ID=800 Phone: 888-930-4438 (toll-free) Mail: LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861 (Mark checks "Haiti Earthquake Relief") Lutheran World Relief in Baltimore: Online: www.lwr.org/emergencies/10/HaitiEarthquake/index.asp Phone: 800-LWR-LWR-2 (toll-free) Mail: Lutheran World Relief - Haiti Earthquake, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832 Thrivent Financial for Lutherans: Online: www.thrivent.com/helpinghaiti Phone: 800-236-3736 (toll-free) - (when prompted, please say "directory" then enter ext. 83003.) Questions on this program may also be directed to this phone number. Thrivent expects that this response will result in more than $3 million to support the earthquake survivors: $2 million donated by members and an additional $1 million from Thrivent Financial. Be a part of the Helping Haiti effort and make a difference for the victims of this natural disaster. Lutherans in Medical Missions Lutherans in Medical Missions is funding the transportation costs of Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, and Dr. John Lautenschlager, M.D. of St. Louis to join the LCMS World Mission and World Relief and Human Care team in Santiago, Dominican Republic, on Thursday, January 19, 2010. They will help assess how to best use resources to aid the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. All donations designated for the work in Haiti will be used to help those affected by the earthquake. Please keep the people in Haiti and all relief workers in your thoughts and prayers. If you have any questions on the Lutherans in Medical Missions' relief efforts, please send a note to limm at limm.org. Donations to LIMM can be sent to: LIMM Haiti Earthquake Relief P.O. Box 766 Concordia, MO 64020 Orphan Grain Train Orphan Grain Train, a non-profit organization based out of Norfolk, Nebraska, is asking for your donations of new or used summer clothes and medical supplies such as: crutches, canes, walkers, walking shoes for broken foot, slings, braces, etc for survivors of the earthquake in Haiti. OGT is also asking for cash donations to assist with shipping costs. Cash donations should be sent directly to the corporate headquarters at Orphan Grain Train, PO Box 1466, Norfolk, NE 68702-1466. Orphan Grain Train is a Christian volunteer network that shares personal and material resources with needy people in America and around the world. Grain Train volunteers gather donations of clothing, medical supplies, and equipment. Donations can be dropped off during business hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Industrial Repair Services at 309 East 2nd Street, Suite 4, in Papillion, Nebraska. Chuck Martin, a local OGT volunteer, can be reached at 402-339-4691 for alternative drop off times. For more information on the Orphan Grain Train, please visit www.ogt.org Collect Food, Hygiene Items to Send to Haiti The Lutheran Church-Missouri-Synod (LCMS) is seeking donations of food, water, and hygiene items within the next two weeks for shipment to Haiti in cooperation with Lutheran partners. The request for donations is in response to last Tuesday's devastating earthquake. Two 40-foot shipping containers will be loaded with donated supplies and shipped to the capital of Haiti, Port-au-Prince, as soon as arrangements can be finalized. Requested items include bottled water, canned food with pop tops, peanut butter, dry rice and beans, bedding, shovels and tools, buckets, antibacterial ointment, bandages, washcloths, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, first-aid ointment, and clean, used clothing in good condition. The items can be sent to: Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 7601 SW 39th St. Davie, FL 33328 954-475-0683 St. Paul Lutheran Church 801 West Palmetto Park Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33486 561-395-0433 "I am deeply humbled by the generosity and mercy of the LCMS people and congregations,'' said Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, LCMS World Relief and Human Care director of disaster response. "They have opened their hearts and their wallets to help those suffering in Haiti, and for that, I am thankful. The needs are great and continuing. We are now asking our fellow Lutherans to help us collect food, hygiene, and medical items that we pray will ease some of the hardships and sorrows caused by the devastation.'' The donation drive is a joint effort of LCMS World Relief and Human Care (LCMS WR-HC), the LCMS Florida-Georgia District, MISSION: HAITI, and Orphan Grain Train (OGT). Through grants, LCMS WR-HC will assist with shipping charges. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Haiti (ELCH) as well as OGT and MISSION: HAITI partners in Haiti will receive the containers of donations in Port-au-Prince and oversee their distribution. Financial donations are also urgently required for the long-term Lutheran response in Haiti. To make a gift, visit http://givenowlcms.org, call toll-free 888-930-4438, or mail checks marked "Haiti Earthquake Relief" to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861. Lutheran World Relief Lutheran World Relief and its partners on the ground are rushing to provide water, water purification supplies, food, and shelter items to victims of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12. "At this point, water is a critical need on the ground. People have been without access to water for days in warm temperatures. Delivering clean water will help save lives in Haiti," says LWR president John Nunes. LWR has pledged $1 million to overall relief work in Haiti, and anticipates increasing that commitment as partners work to assess needs on the ground. LWR will send an initial $150,000 to the Lutheran World Federation immediately to deliver water containers and purification materials, as well as temporary shelter items. LWR is also coordinating with 400 people on the ground through partnerships with Catholic Relief Services, local partners in Haiti, and other international faith-based organizations. "Getting aid into Haiti has been challenging. We've been asking LWR supporters to please send cash so that we can quickly get aid in," adds Trevor Knoblich, LWR's Program Coordinator for Emergency Response. A shipment of Lutheran World Relief health kits and layettes left LWR's warehouse in New Windsor, Md., January 19 to be distributed to Haitian earthquake survivors. LWR partner Church World Service will distribute the shipment of 650 health kits and 1500 layettes, the first of multiple planned shipments to Haiti. LWR has committed material resources valued at nearly $500,000 and plans to send more health kits and layettes, along with quilts and school kits, in the near future. Health kits with soap, washcloth, towel, toothbrush and toothpaste, nail clippers, and a comb, help people living in desperate situations to maintain basic hygiene. Layettes, containing a baby blanket, diapers, and baby clothing, help parents care for their infants. Lutheran congregations and groups in the U.S. assemble the kits and donate them to LWR for use in overseas emergencies. "In the aftermath of a disaster, when people are living in very close quarters and without adequate sanitation, the spread of disease is a very real concern," said Trevor Knoblich, LWR's program coordinator for emergency response. "Something as simple as a bar of soap can make such a big difference." LWR issued an appeal to its U.S. supporters to increase their donations of quilts, health kits and school kits in order to meet the needs in Haiti. "Right now our stocks are running low, and we are critically low on health kits," said Knoblich. "We know from experience that Lutherans are compassionate people, and we are asking that they donate whatever quilts and kits they can to help us meet the incredible needs in Haiti." LWR is accepting donations to the "Haiti Earthquake Fund" on its website, www.lwr.org/Haiti, by phone at 800-LWR-LWR-2, and by mail at P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832. Members of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans can get their gifts to LWR matched. Thrivent is giving $1 for every $2 donated. For more information or to have your gift matched, visit www.lwr.org/Haiti. LWR has also launched a new "text-to-give" service, allowing supporters to quickly and easily text contributions to be billed to their monthly cell phone account. To give, text the keyword "LWR" to 40579 to donate $10. Remember to reply YES to the confirmation. Standard messaging and data rates may apply. Haiti Church President Gives Report (From www.lcms.org) President Marky Kessa of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti (ELCH) contacted Rev. S.T. Williams, Jr., of the Haiti Lutheran Mission Coordinating Committee and senior pastor at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Los Angeles, Calif., with the following report: * Port au Prince and Jacmel are in ruins. * Over 100,000 are estimated dead. * Three-quarters of the people are sleeping on the streets. * There is no power or water. * He has no idea how many ELCH members are dead. * All Lutheran pastors are alive as far as he knows. * He is going to each church and holding prayer and funeral services. * The church is focusing on the injured, to keep them alive. * Rev. Doris Jean Louis in Port-au-Prince is okay. However, the church and school are possibly destroyed. * Rev. Thomas Bernard in Port-au-Prince is okay. The church and school were damaged. * Lay Minister Lophane Laurent in Port-au-Prince is alive and helping others in Port-au-Prince. * The Isidor and Touloute family in Les Cayes is okay. * Rev. Jean Claude Marin in Central Platue is okay. * Rev. Eliona Bernard in Cap Haitian said the area was shaken, but there is limited damage. * Rev. Daniel Paul in Fort Liberty is okay and reports no problems. * President Revenel Benoit in Gonaives is okay. He said a mission team in Port-au-Prince is waiting for flight to the U.S./Canada. * He welcomes any mission teams as soon as possible with: cash, medical supplies, water, food, and clothing. At this time, medical supplies can get into the country for free. He is available to meet people at the airport. * The needs are overwhelming. He asked for prayer and immediate assistance. "As brothers and sisters in Christ we pray for wisdom and the grace and mercy of God to prevail as we respond in faith and Christian love," wrote Rev. Williams. "Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy." To make a gift that shares Christ's mercy and helps suffering Haitians, visit www.lcms.org, call toll free 888-930-4438, or mail donations marked "Haiti Earthquake Relief" to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861. Back to top NEBRASKA'S HOSPICE ASSOCIATION SEEKING AWARD NOMINATIONS The state's hospice association, the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership, is seeking nominations for its annual awards program. The awards will be presented at the Association's annual banquet. Held in conjunction with the Association's Annual "Living a Good Life...at the End of Life" Conference, the banquet is scheduled for March 31, 2010, at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln. The Shining Star Award recognizes an individual, group, or organization that has done outstanding work in the leadership of end-of-life care in their community or statewide. Nominees should have illustrated outstanding leadership in the promotion of end-of-life services; raised awareness of or educated others on end-of-life issues; developed a new program; or developed or completed outstanding work in an end-of-life coalition. The Spirit of Hospice Award recognizes individuals that have shown true commitment and outstanding dedication to the hospice philosophy of care. Nominees should have promoted quality hospice care over the last year. They should display openness to the needs of all they have cared for, reverencing the dignity of all areas of diversity. Outstanding Hospice Volunteer recognition will be given to exemplary hospice volunteers. Outstanding volunteers identified by their hospice programs will be invited to stand and be recognized as their names and hospice programs are announced at the banquet. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 12, 2010. Go to www.nehospice.org to view award details and nomination forms. The Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership is a collaborative effort of more than 50 organizations with an interest in good care for terminally and chronically ill Nebraskans. Established as a 501(c)3 community betterment non-profit in 1983, the Association includes Nebraska hospices, community end-of-life coalitions, and other health and elder-care organizations. Back to top LUTHERAN CHOIR OF LINCOLN BEGINS SPRING SEASON The Lincoln Lutheran Choir invites interested musicians to join them as they begin their spring concert season. Rehearsals begin January 31 with a retreat at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, Lincoln, from 2 to 6 p.m. Interested singers may contact Sandie Anderson at 402-489-3948 or email the choir board at lincolnlutheranchoir at gmail.com. This spring season's concert will be a special Mother's Day presentation on May 9. In collaboration with a professional orchestra, the choir will present J.S. Bach's Magnificat and Vivaldi's Gloria. Back to top OPPORTUNITIES TO VISIT GERMANY THIS YEAR ACT NOW - This is the last time these tours will be publicized in this newsletter, so contact the tour of your choice and make plans now to tour the "Land of Luther"! May 22 - June 1 Pastor Michael & Suzy Awe, in cooperation with Nawas International Travel, would like to invite you to join them May 22 - June 1, 2010, on an exciting 11 day Alpine Tour! Participants will enjoy the picturesque vistas of Switzerland, Austria, and Southern Germany. The absolute highlight of the trip will be the experience of the famous Oberammergau Passion Play. The group will be leaving from Omaha and flying in to Frankfurt, Germany. The $4099 per person cost will include most meals, first-class accommodations, roundtrip airfare from Omaha, and other amenities. If you are interested in joining them for this memorable experience, please contact Pastor Michael Awe at 402-368-9929 or 402-368-5690, or e-mail him at The1Rev at cableone.net for more information. There are only 6 spots left, so call today!. June 15-25 Join Rev. Randy Knuth on an unforgettable panoramic journey through the Land of Germany and experience the joys of traveling together in Christian fellowship. Join the group as they travel on an 11-day fully escorted deluxe tour of Germany and attend the "once-in-a-lifetime" experience of the 41st Passion Play in Oberammergau. Included in the tour will be significant places in the life of Martin Luther and the reformation, and some of the romantic towns and castles of Bavaria and Munich. For more information in regard to this Luther Tour, June 15-25, 2010, please contact Pastor Randy Knuth, pastor of Hope Lutheran Church, South Sioux City, at revrandyk at yahoo.com or 402-494-1847 or 712-540-8243. September 14-24 Pastor Bill and Martha Moorhead invite anyone to join them for a trip to Germany that incorporates Luther/Reformation sites, the Passion Play, and Oktoberfest, as well as some other off-the-beaten-path sites. The trip will be Sept 14-24, 2010. Contact Rev. Moorhead at pastormoorhead at pacifichillslutheran.org with questions or for details. Back to top AT EASE LUNCHEON IN OMAHA Please join Lutheran Family Services (LFS) and Chuck Hagel at an awareness luncheon at the Qwest Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., on Monday, January 25, at 11:45 a.m. Please arrive 20 minutes early for parking ($6) and seating. Come learn more about and support the LFS At Ease program, which provides trauma treatment and therapeutic support for active military, veterans, and their loved ones. Tickets are $50, with table and sponsorship packages available. Visit www.LFSneb.org or call 402-591-5063 to register or for event information. For At Ease program information, please contact Debra Jones, At Ease Program Manager, at 402-292-9105 or AtEase at LFSneb.org. Back to top CONNECT WITH THE FIALA MISSIONARY FAMILY IN EURASIA (from the Fiala family newsletter - December 2009) The following request was made by David and Radka Fiala, Nebraska missionaries serving LCMS World Mission in Slovakia. This would be a great opportunity if you or your congregation supports the Fiala family, or if you are looking for a missionary to support. Can we Skype with YOU? In recent newsletters, you've been able to read about the various uses of Skype to connect with people in the U.S. or elsewhere in the world. David and I would like to invite you to consider setting up a video Skype call during events, Bible study hours, or Sunday school at your church so we could see you and share news with you "in person" even though we're not physically present at your church. This would be a way for you to hear what we're currently working on so you can feel more connected to ministries happening far away. It would be a huge blessing for our family to pray with you and keep in touch across the miles. If you're interested in this idea, we're ready to try it out! Please email us at David.Fiala at lcms.org, so we can make this happen !!! Thank you! Back to top SEND PHONE MESSAGES INSTANTLY TO EVERY CONGREGATION MEMBER Studies have shown that people need to hear a message seven or more times before it sinks in. That may make you ask, "Should I count on a bulletin blurb alone to remind my members of tomorrow's event?" Probably not. Concordia Publishing House's resource, MemberCaller, could be the answer to your prayers. MemberCaller is a new technology that allows you to call every member in your congregation instantly. So, next time bad weather hits and choir practice is canceled, or you want to send a prayer request out to a large group, don't rely on e-mail or try to call every member in your group, instead use MemberCaller to send every member a pre-recorded message. MemberCaller is compatible with other CPH resources like Shepherd's Staff and MemberConnect and is great for congregations that are big or small. Visit www.ctsmemberconnect.net for more information or call 800-325-2399 to discover more. Back to top NATIONAL LUTHERAN SCHOOLS WEEK WORSHIP AND ACTIVITY MANUAL NOW AVAILABLE (from http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16391) Lutheran schools and their sponsoring congregations may order a variety of resources from LCMS District and Congregational Services -- School Ministry and Concordia Publishing House to promote "National Lutheran Schools Week," set for March 7-13. This year's theme, "Securing Each Child's Future -- for a Life of Service," is based on 1 Cor. 12:5: "and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord." "National Lutheran Schools Week is a chance for Lutheran schools to celebrate their special heritage and an opportunity to promote themselves to their communities," Bill Cochran, director of LCMS School Ministry, told Reporter. The ministry is offering a 71-page Worship and Resource Manual, available in downloadable PDF format, that includes an original song for this year's National Lutheran Schools Week ("To All of God's Children," by Dr. Jeffrey Burkart), worship resources, chapel services, devotionals, and suggested activities for all educational levels. Cost of the manual is $20 and it may be ordered online, with a credit card, or with a mail-in form, along with a check, from the DCS Store at www.lcms.org/?1774. Other Schools Week items -- including teacher appreciation items, stickers, bookmarks, and posters -- may be ordered from Concordia Publishing House's website at www.cph.org (click on the "Christian Education" link) or by calling 800-325-3040. For more information, call Kathy Fangmann in the LCMS School Ministry office at 800-248-1930, ext. 1285. Back to top GERMAN CHURCH OFFERS CAMP FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS (from Reporter Online, http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16290) The Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church, an LCMS partner church known by its German acronym, SELK, is offering a weeklong camp to Lutheran teens and young adults this summer in Wittenberg, Germany. "LutherCamp," set for July 30-Aug. 8 in a campground on the Elbe River, is offering young people ages 16 to 29 "from all over the world the opportunity to get to know the historical roots of the Lutheran faith, and to grow in their personal faith," according to a flier for the annual event. "We would like to bring young folks from different countries together to discuss how to live as a Lutheran in the 21st century, and how to spread the Good News of the Gospel." LutherCamp 2010 includes: * a video presentation, "Luther for Today," which explores how the teachings of Martin Luther are relevant for today's young people. * opportunities to take part in outreach projects in Wittenberg: serving a vacation Bible school, painting and doing other chores at a school, and helping "people in need" with shopping, cleaning, and other tasks. * tours to local Luther sites, including museums; Luther's home; the City Church, where Luther preached; the Castle Church, where he posted his 95 theses; and the house of Luther's co-worker, Philipp Melanchthon. * canoeing, swimming, and biking. * a night tour of Wittenberg. * Bible studies and worship. Cost for the week is 189 euros (about $285 at today's exchange rate), which includes accommodations in tents, meals, and entrance and excursion fees. A daily fee of 25 euros (about $38) also is available for those who wish to attend for a few days. Deadline for registrations is May 1. After that date, full registration will be 220 euros, and the one-day rate, 30 euros. The camp is limited to 30 English-speaking participants, so early registration is advised. For more information or to register, send an e-mail to Rev. Hinrich Muller at cottbus at selk.de or call him in Germany at 011-49-355-24542. Or, visit the website www.freizeitfieber.de (click on the LutherCamp logo, then "Flyer.pdf" for English information). Back to top DO YOU KNOW A FUTURE CHURCH WORKER? What would make someone decide to enter church work? We always hear stories from children who want to be a doctor, nurse, teacher, or firefighter when they grow up. But at what point, and in what way, do children begin considering a career in church work? According to a recent study by the What a Way committee of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod (LCMS), current church workers play a critical role identifying, informing, and encouraging the next generation to consider a career in church work. Ministry workers said church workers, when grouped together, were the leading reason for their career choice, at 64 percent. Pastors were the single most influential group followed by family, the study found. The ministry workers surveyed said the following influenced them the most: * 29 percent pastors * 28 percent family * 22 percent Christian teacher * 8 percent friends * 6 percent other church worker * 4 percent youth leader * 3 percent lay leader So what makes a good church worker? The apostle Paul referred to himself as a servant, as did Peter and the author of James. What would make someone want to be a church worker when "servant" is the primary job description? The answer comes from the Bible. On the night he was betrayed, Jesus took upon himself the role of a servant and washed the feet of His disciples. "When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, 'Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.' '' (John 13:12-16 ESV) L. Dean Hempelmann, director of What a Way, said that servant-minded church workers must have a love for God and his Word. They must also have "the ability to work with people, a passion for studying and applying God's Word, excellent communication skills, a love for sharing the Gospel with others, and patience,'' he said. "But at the center of it all, a church worker believes in Christ, follows His example, and joyfully serves God's people." * Sometimes this service is straightforward as with Anjee Stiles, a teacher at Gethsemane Lutheran School in Northglenn, Colo., who instructs her kindergarten children about Jesus the Good Shepherd as part of the academic curriculum. * Sometimes it is as simple as when Deaconess Carol Goldfish, from Trinity Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, visits a shut-in and shares the news of a God whose love is unending. * Other times it is as obvious as when Alaina Kleinbeck, director of Christian education from Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Charles, Mo., takes the time to visit youth in her school, reminding students that Jesus' love is not bound by walls or institutions. * Very often, it is as clear as when Pastor David Gunderson of St. John Lutheran Church in Yankton, S.D., prays with a couple before they are married. "Church work positions are rewarding on so many levels," said Hempelmann. "Our prayer is that men and women, no matter their stage in life, keep open hearts and minds in order to hear and respond to the call to church work." There are many professional church worker positions open throughout the world. For information about church work positions within The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, please visit www.WhataWay.org or www.LCMS.org. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 106906 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100120/b4f2bfb3/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100120/b4f2bfb3/image001-0001.gif From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 20 16:29:25 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 22:29:25 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Important Update on Haiti Relief Message-ID: Greetings in the name of our gracious heavenly Father! The following two pieces of information came in after the Email Update was sent this morning. Because of the time sensitive nature of the information, I wanted to share it with you right away. Thank you for helping spread this information on relief efforts with your congregation members and others. Lutherans in Medical Missions/LCMS World Relief and Human Care Teams to go to Haiti Another LCMS World Relief and Human Care team is forming to go into Haiti in the next week or two--one as early as next Tuesday. Please register on the World Relief and Human Care site at www.lcms.org/mercyteams and also send an email to mercymedical at lcms.org (and copy limm at limm.org) and tell your availability for service, what your specialty is, and experience you may have had in previous overseas and triage situations such as this. You must have a valid passport ready, and typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B series are recommended. If you have the series, you may consider a booster, especially for typhoid. You will need to take malaria prophylaxis as well. The conditions may be spartan and difficult, so team members must be in good health. General practice docs, surgeons, and ER personnel are especially needed. Please also let LIMM know if you are planning to serve in Haiti as a result of this email notification. If you have any questions, please send a note to limm at limm.org. Bulletin Insert on Thrivent Matching Gift Opportunity Thrivent Financial for Lutherans members who want to make a financial contribution to support disaster response efforts in Haiti can have their donations to one of four Lutheran relief agencies multiplied by the fraternal benefit society. The attached bulletin insert helps share this information with the members of your congregation. The information is also listed below. Please help get this word out to your members. To participate, visit www.thrivent.com/helpinghaiti and make a contribution to one of the following: Lutheran World Relief ELCA Disaster Response LCMS World Relief/Human Care WELS Committee on Relief Thrivent Financial will add $1 to every $2 its members donate, up to a total Thrivent Financial contribution of $1 million. That means a potential of $3 million or more to support relief efforts: $2 million + from its members and $1 million added by Thrivent Financial. For questions or alternative ways to donate through this program, please call 800-236-3736. When promoted, say "directory" and enter ext. 83003. Thank you for your help in spreading this important information through your congregations. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 10823 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100120/77062486/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Haiti Bulletin Insert.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 148423 bytes Desc: Haiti Bulletin Insert.pdf Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100120/77062486/HaitiBulletinInsert-0001.pdf From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu Jan 28 15:24:50 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 21:24:50 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 28 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CAA02E.040C86B0] January 28, 2010 In this issue: Greetings in the name of Jesus. This week's Update is a day late because I was out of the office unexpectedly earlier this week. Thanks to all who shared information for this week's newsletter. * Prayer Requests * Find Information on LCMS Haiti Relief in One Place * Still Time to Register for Stewardship Workshop in Omaha * Lutheran Hour Lenten Devotions Available * Rev. John Nunes Challenges Audience at Concordia University * Confirmation Retreat at Camp Luther * New Lenten Series Offered by Concordia Seminary * Worship is Lifted Up at 2010 Lutheran Summer Music Academy PRAYER REQUESTS Olivia Anson - We join with Harlan and Crissy Anson in prayers of thanksgiving for the gift of a baby daughter born on January 21. We thank God for this precious new life and for the gift of eternal life given to her through Holy Baptism. Harlan serves Our Redeemer, Staplehurst, as teacher/principal. Back to top FIND INFORMATION ON LCMS HAITI RELIEF IN ONE PLACE The LCMS has created a link from the LCMS home page where visitors can go to find all the latest news about the response to the Haiti earthquake. Visitors to www.lcms.org just need to click on the "Haiti Update" banner near the top of the home page. This will take them to a collection of links to World Relief/Human Care, World Mission, Reporter, secular news coverage, photos, video, etc. Those who wish to bookmark this page can visit directly at www.lcms.org/help. Some of the news articles available from this site include: * Next steps begin with relief shipments to Haitian cities * Additional missionaries deploy to Dominican Republic to assist with ongoing work in Haiti * Images seen by the LCMS assessment team in Haiti * IRS extends tax break deadline for Haiti donations * Messages from the Directors of LCMS World Mission, World Relief/Human Care, and others who have been to Haiti * Much, much more! Back to top STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP IN OMAHA Congregational leaders are invited to attend the Turning Donors Into Disciples: FAITH-RAISING, NOT FUND-RAISING workshop hosted by Beautiful Savior (7706 South 96th Street), La Vista, on Saturday, February 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This workshop will: * Change the "stewardship of giving" culture in your church * Send you home with the "Stewardship of Giving Toolbox" * Teach you how "Consecrated Stewards" can help increase giving * Teach about "Heart In Focus" - a personal, faith-focused money management plan Facilitators include nationally known leaders such as: Dr. Waldo Werning, author of "Turning Donors into Disciples;" Mr. Lloyd Probasco on effective leadership; Rev. Walt Waddell of Neibauer Press; and Rev. Eugene Gierke about Consecrated Stewards. Start planning today and get your congregation leaders registered. The cost is $25 per person or $100 for groups of five. Note the new registration contact! Please register with Joyce Gierke at cjgierke at cox.net or 402-697-8215. Back to top LUTHERAN HOUR LENTEN DEVOTIONS AVAILABLE Download and customize Lutheran Hour Ministries' Lenten Devotions now at www.lentendevotions.net. Two versions of the devotions are available to help your church or school minister to both the believers and the seekers in your community. Both sets of devotions help readers focus on the magnitude of Christ's resurrection and its impact on mankind. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary - A Lenten Journey renders in a style familiar to long-time readers the salient events in Christ's life inaugurated by His transfiguration and accomplished by His atoning work on Calvary. Walking With Jesus follows the Lord in a contemporary voice as He ministers to those around Him, befriending and encouraging those who would follow Him, all the time displaying compassion for a sinful and renegade world. Both versions capture how the gift of God's pure love-a love that is simply beyond our comprehension-found its full expression in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod Pastor and Chaplain Vern Gundermann takes the reader alongside Jesus as He completes His earthly mission in His Father's service. Everywhere Jesus went-whether along a dusty back road or a paved city street-what stood front and center for Him was the cross. And it was against those rough timbers that He-the Christ, God's "anointed one"-would ultimately find Himself nailed. Walking With Jesus During the Lenten season, the Church acknowledges Christ's passion and celebrates His victory over the forces of darkness. The consequences of misapprehending the significance of Christ's atoning work on the cross and what His resurrection from the dead means for each of us cannot be overstated. In Walking With Jesus, Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod educator Chuck Strohacker puts the reader on an inside track showing what that victory means in the life of a believer. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary and Walking With Jesus have been created in a PDF format making them easily customizable when adding church information for distribution throughout your community. Find printable files of these devotions for your congregation, as well as outreach ideas and more at www.lentendevotions.net. Back to top REV. JOHN NUNES CHALLENGES AUDIENCE AT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY Concordia University, Nebraska welcomed Rev. John Nunes, president of Lutheran World Relief and prominent Lutheran leader, thinker, and speaker, as the first presenter in its spring speaker series. Nunes gave Concordia's Martin Luther King Day presentation. Rev. Nunes focused his message on the idea of being subversive while maintaining a servant's heart to all people of the world. According to Nunes, "We've been lulled into complacency in the West. We don't understand what service means. So much injustice needs challenging, and so much suffering needs comforting. I encourage you to have a subversive spirit of service." Nunes also tackled the difficult issue of racial identity, saying there is no scientific proof that race is a classification system for human beings. He encouraged the Concordia community to remember this as it goes out into the world to serve as Christ's body. When asked what he really wanted Concordia's reaction to be, Nunes stated, "I want some people to be disturbed, some to question their apathy and others to be encouraged and motivated to go into the world. I want the entire community as a whole, through this message, to take time to engage in critical and self-critical reflection on the big questions of how we relate to one another as members of the body of Christ." In reference to the current situation in Haiti, Nunes discussed the challenges facing relief groups, including Lutheran World Relief. He was looking forward to returning to his team at LWR and preparing for those challenges in Haiti. Senior Zach Baedke enjoyed the message. "I really enjoyed his [Nunes'] ability to connect with the audience. He was so engaging. I learned a lot." Rev. Nunes agreed to speak at Concordia because he believes the university has "a core value to engage the world and make a difference. It is refreshing to be in a place that shares a common Lutheran identity- that cares about the poorest of the poor and allows for a forum to address difficult and challenging questions like race, justice and social action. I commend Concordia on tackling a tough set of questions." Concordia will continue its speaker series with Rev. Mitri Rahab giving the Maehr talk on March 8, and 1989 Concordia alumnus Philip Droege, director of White House records, speaking on April 13. The public is welcome to attend. Back to top CONFIRMATION RETREAT AT CAMP LUTHER Camp Luther will host a Confirmation Retreat for small congregations on Friday and Saturday, February 26 and 27. The program involves three group-teaching sessions by Rev. Keith Christiansen. Following each group session, time will be set aside for individual pastors to meet with their confirmation class. Other activities, games, and campfires will be led by camp staff members. Email Camp Luther for a registration form at campluther at campluther.org. Overnight accommodations, Friday night snack, and two meals on Saturday are included with the $42.00 per person registration fee. Back to top NEW LENTEN SERIES OFFERED BY CONCORDIA SEMINARY Dr. Dale A. Meyer, president of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, recently released a Lenten series for use in the parish. Below are his comments: "Do you need a Lenten series? I'm teaching a class on preaching in our postmodern times, these times when an authoritative word from God is rejected out of hand by many people. 'You have your opinion; I have mine. Don't impose your views on me.' So how do we get into their heads and hearts? 'Why should I listen to sermons if there's nothing in them for me?' So for a class project we're working on a Lenten series that tries to get listeners to sit up and think, 'He's talking about my life! I need to hear this.' If you want, we'll make available to you the results of our efforts." Here is what's included in the series, free of charge: 1. Announcements for each upcoming Wednesday sermon to put in a bulletin or on a website. The Seminary's goal for the announcements is to catch the interest of people. In broadcasting it's called the "tease." 2. Two or three weeks before the Lenten date we'll send you by e-mail... a. A sermon outline b. Manuscript c. Short notes about the sermon d. A responsive prayer e. Suggestions for the service's Bible reading f. One or two hymn suggestions 1. This series does not include a whole order of service. The LSB has basic service orders or each church may create its own. The series is titled "Life Together"-based upon Dietrich Bonhoeffer's classic book, Life Together-that describes in challenging ways what it means to be the body of Christ in community. Bonhoeffer wrote the book about seminary life, and Concordia Seminary has been studying it as a campus community, but his insights apply to congregational life in both modern and postmodern times. Hopefully these offerings will speak to older people, "moderns," and to younger people, "postmoderns." Dr. Meyer adds, "As a 60-something, I've been stimulated by the discussions we're having in this class where the average age is 20-something." Here is an overview. Life Together 1. February 17 (Ash Wednesday): * Title: Life's Better in My Hands! * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit." Hand over your life to someone else? No way! * Text: 1 Peter 2:20-25 2. February 24: * Title: I'm Being True to Myself! * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." But of course, you do know what you are doing! * Text: 1 Peter 1:22-25 3. March 3: * Title: This Is It??? * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Today you will be with Me in paradise." Huh? Life is short; get the most out of it here-and-now! * Text: 1 Peter 1:3-5 4. March 10: * Title: How Do You Know Who I Am? * Attention getter: Jesus said to Mary, "Woman, here is your son," and to John, "Here is your mother." Do you bristle when people make claims on your life? * Text: 1 Peter 2:9-12 5. March 17: * Title: How Can I Believe in a God Who Would... * Attention getter: Jesus cried, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me." Is there vindication for believing in God? * Text: 1 Peter 4:12-25 6. March 24: * Title: I Need This...and This...and This... * Attention getter: Jesus said, "I thirst." What do you need? Why do you need it? * Text: 1 Peter 4:1-6 These are for Wednesdays. Also provided will be similar resources for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. If your church is interested in these materials, please go to http://preaching.csl.edu and complete the form. Only those who sign up will receive the materials. Please contact the Seminary's Technology Services department at 314-505-7231 with any questions. Back to top WORSHIP IS LIFTED UP AT 2010 LUTHERAN SUMMER MUSIC ACADEMY Lutheran Music Program recently announced its worship theme for the 2010 Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) Academy to be held June 20 to July 18, 2010, at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. "Sing with All the Saints in Glory" will remember and celebrate the lives of the saints in all times and places. With the aid of texts and music, both ancient and new, the LSM community of 150 students and 50 faculty and staff will explore the calling of our baptism and what it means for us, too, to be called saints and children of God. The LSM worship team will be led by Michael D. Costello, an alum of the program and the first time one has served as the Academy's chaplain. "I knew I loved music before I attended LSM," says Michael, "but it was my years at LSM that really guided me to a career in the church and as a church musician." Michael is now an ordained Lutheran minister and cantor at Grace Lutheran Church in River Forest, Illinois. This past summer, one third of the 150-student community came from congregations who were enrolled in the Young Musicians Partnership (YMP). The YMP program is a unique opportunity for congregations to join with Lutheran Music Program in a core commitment to transform lives and connect people through faith and music. To enroll, congregations need only to establish a local scholarship toward attendance at LSM, which has proven in many current YMP-enrolled congregations to ignite the spark in their young people. This has led to more refined musical skills, more conscious connection between music and worship, and more motivation for youth to share their gifts within the church. Lutheran Music Program extends a 10% tuition discount to all YMP youth and a 33% match to the congregational scholarship, completing the circle of support for gifted musicians to grow both musically and spiritually. Through the YMP, students are-in a very real way-called to LSM through the support of their church, equipped and empowered in their musical gifts, and sent to serve in their church and community. If your congregation has a youth musician who would like to apply to LSM or if your church seeks more information about joining the YMP, contact Admissions Director Susan Olstad toll free at 888-635-6583 or via email at solstad at lutheransummermusic.org. Visit us online at www.lutheransummermusic.org. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 59214 bytes Desc: not available Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100128/a0a2b0dc/attachment.txt -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif Url : http://lists.ndlcms.org/pipermail/distupd/attachments/20100128/a0a2b0dc/image001-0001.gif From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 13 09:20:45 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:20:45 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 13 Message-ID: Due to the snowy and windy weather last week, I was unable to make it to work the latter part of the week and the Update did not go out as planned. Hopefully this will be the last interruption for quite some time. Thank you for your patience, and I apologize for any inconvenience this might have caused. [cid:image001.gif at 01CA9431.9EF81FD0] January 13, 2010 In this issue: Epiphany blessings! Last week the church celebrated Epiphany, the revelation of the Christ Child to the Gentiles at the visit of the Magi from the East. As the account of the Wise Men's visit is told in the Gospel of Matthew, we see these Magi searching for the "King of the Jews." As they told King Herod, "We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." They weren't sure who they were looking for, only that there was someone special they were moved to worship. Our celebration of Jesus' birth is over, and we are returning to our normal routines. How many of those around us "saw the star" of Christmas these past weeks without knowing the true meaning of the celebrations. They celebrated with Santa, stockings, trees, gifts, and food, but not with the Christ Child. As we visit with those we see every day - neighbors, friends, co-workers, whomever it might be - we should be mindful that they might be searching for the real reason for Christmas. God can use us to share the story of Jesus who came to earth as a baby to be the Savior for all, so that those who are searching might at last find the "King of the Jews" and worship Him as the Wise Men did so long ago. * Prayer Requests * LCMS World Relief/Human Care Response to Haiti Earthquake * Important 2009 Remittance Information * Upcoming Peacemaker Seminars * Pews Available * Stewardship Workshop Offered in Omaha * In the News: A New Church, An Old Story * Camp Luther Received $100,000 Grant * Therapist Needed for Short-Term Work in Turkey * Grace Place Lutheran Retreats * Good Shepherd, Gretna, to Celebrate Anniversary and Dedication * "Reaching Out Together" Conference * Tell CPH Your Story - Win a Free VBS Kit * Delegates Give Feedback on Proposed Structure Changes PRAYER REQUESTS Iglesia Luterana Jesus es el Senor, Omaha - This Hispanic ministry is reaching out to the Hispanic people living in the Omaha area through Sunday worship services, Bible studies, fellowship opportunities, VBS, and an English as a Second Language program that has reached more than 200 people since its beginning in 2008. Please pray for Vicar Obdulio Felix as he finishes up his studies at the Center for Hispanic Studies through Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and prepares to continue leading this mission church as its pastor. We also ask that God would continue to bless the church as they continue their efforts to share the love of Jesus with those around them. Back to top LCMS World Relief/Human Care Response to Haiti Earthquake (From http://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=16375) As news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years reached LCMS World Relief and Human Care (LCMS WR-HC) on Tuesday, the Synod's mercy arm began preparing to reach out in the Caribbean nation with much needed assistance and working in cooperation with Lutheran partners. Only hours after getting reports of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake, the Synod's mercy arm announced it was making available funds to meet initial emergency needs. "The unfolding drama in Haiti calls for unlimited mercy on the part of the people of the LCMS. The needs are urgent and overwhelming right now," said Glenn F. Merritt, LCMS WR-HC director of Disaster Response. "I appeal to God's people to respond as generously as possible during this most difficult time." Early reports indicate extensive property damage and terrible suffering among people trapped in collapsed buildings in an impoverished country already challenged by longtime political strife and poverty. Haiti is widely known as the poorest country in the western hemisphere. News of the devastation triggered numerous calls and e-mails to LCMS Life and Health Ministries Director Maggie Karner who, even before the earthquake, was preparing to send the first LCMS WR-HC Mercy Medical Team (MMT) to Haiti next month. Ironically, on Monday Karner sent a massive MMT recruitment appeal to LCMS pastors and congregations asking for physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to volunteer for the team that is scheduled to serve in Haiti March 11-21. "Our preliminary legwork for the first MMT team to Haiti in March will serve us well as we prepare to respond," Karner said Tuesday night. "Perhaps now, because of this tragedy, people will see the desperate need in Haiti and prayerfully consider how they can use their gifts and talents." To learn more about the MMT trip to Haiti, contact LCMS WR-HC's Jacob Fiene at 800-248-1930, ext. 1278, or jacob.fiene at lcms.org. Following is the full request: LCMS World Relief and Human Care offers medical professionals opportunities to volunteer abroad in underserved regions. We are in desperate need of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to work with Lutherans who share Christ's mercy. Pastors also are needed to serve as team chaplains. Teams work in conjunction with LCMS partner churches and local clinics to care for both body and soul. Since 2006, Mercy Medical Teams have provided free medical care to more than 10,000 people in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. Teams care for people suffering with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, parasites, dysentery, serious wounds, infections, malaria and other tropical diseases, and illnesses associated with unhealthy drinking water and sanitation. We treat both adults and children (including many youngsters orphaned by AIDS) and provide our own pharmacy for dispensing free medications. Please take a minute to watch a brief Mercy Medical Team video at: http://www.lcms.org/?16362 Today, our most desperate need is for a physician to volunteer with our Mercy Medical Team that will serve March 11-21 in Haiti. If you know of physicians interested in short-term missionary medical service, please touch base with Jacob Fiene immediately using his contact information listed below. Whether you have medical skills or a sincere heart for service, please consider becoming a Mercy Medical Team volunteer. Learn more at http://www.lcms.org/mercyteams. For a leader's perspective, log on to the Mercy Medical Team blog at http://mercyandmedical.blogspot.com. Please e-mail Jacob at mercyteams at lcms.org or call toll-free 800-248-1930, ext. 1278. LCMS WR-HC is working cooperatively with LCMS World Mission, Haitian missionaries, and partner churches to provide relief in a timely fashion. Funds are urgently needed to help Haitians who have lost loved ones and homes. To share Christ's mercy with suffering Haitians, make a gift online by visiting http://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=16375. Back to top IMPORTANT 2009 REMITTANCE INFORMATION The District's fiscal year closes on January 31, 2010. Any offerings or gifts your congregation would like to have applied to your 2009 support (February 1, 2009 - January 31, 2010) should be remitted by the end of January, and clearly titled 2009 Remittance. If you are unable to mail your support by the end of January, but would like your support applied to 2009, please send the District a letter indicating your anticipated additional commitment, clearly titled 2009 Remittance. Any other remittances will be applied toward your 2010 support. Back to top UPCOMING PEACEMAKER SEMINARS Do your new years' resolutions include mending relationships with family, friends, co-workers, or others? Let the Nebraska District help by attending one of the "Blessed Are the Peacemakers" seminars offered at various locations in the District. These one-day seminars will present how God's ministry of reconciliation is meant to be lived in everyday life and will help you learn how to deal Biblically with the conflict that inevitably occurs in our relationships. The $20 early-bird registration fee covers the cost of the presentation, breakfast, lunch, and take-home resources. Seminars are currently scheduled for the dates and locations listed below, with more being added. Information and registration forms for these seminars have been mailed to each congregation, and are available to be printed at the District website www.ndlcms.org/congregational/workercare/peacemakers.html February 6-Zion, Imperial (registration due January 22) February 13-Trinity, Auburn (registration due January 29) February 20-St. Paul, Utica (registration due February 5) March 20-Holy Savior, Lincoln (registration due March 5) Please consider attending the seminar most convenient for you-and invite others to join you! Contact the District Office at 888-643-2961with questions. Back to top PEWS AVAILABLE The Nebraska District has wooden pews available for any congregation in need of them. These wooden pews are in Omaha, and the interested congregation would be responsible for picking them up. For more information, contact Connie Borchers at connieb at ndlcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP OFFERED IN OMAHA Congregational leaders are invited to attend the Turning Donors Into Disciples: FAITH-RAISING, NOT FUND-RAISING workshop hosted by Beautiful Savior (7706 South 96th Street), La Vista, on Saturday, February 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This workshop will: * Change the "stewardship of giving" culture in your church * Send you home with the "Stewardship of Giving Toolbox" * Teach you how "Consecrated Stewards" can help increase giving * Teach about "Heart In Focus" - a personal, faith-focused money management plan Facilitators include nationally known leaders. Start planning today and get your congregation leaders registered. The cost is $25 per person or $100 for groups of five. For more information, email christinab at churchsmart.com or call David Wetzler at 800-253-4276. To register online, click on the "training" button at www.churchsmart.com. You may also register by emailing the Discipling/Stewardship Center (Dr. Waldo Werning) at wjwern at aol.com. Back to top IN THE NEWS: A NEW CHURCH, AN OLD STORY "Bethlehem. It wasn't the nice, peaceful, picturesque little town we picture in our minds." This was the picture Cross of Christ Lutheran Church tried to paint for the community of Aurora at its presentation of "A Night in Bethlehem" in December. Read about the newest Nebraska District congregation's efforts to share the real Bethlehem and the ancient story of Jesus' birth, as well as the community's response, in the newspaper article published by the Aurora News-Register on December 22. Find the article online at http://www.auroranewsregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1112:a-new-church-an-old-story&catid=1:local&Itemid=10. Back to top CAMP LUTHER RECEIVED $100,000 GRANT Camp Luther of Nebraska, Schuyler, recently received a $100,000 grant from the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation, Appleton, Wis., designed to generate thousands more in financial gifts to Camp Luther. The grant will make it possible for the camp to develop a program that involves working with the LCMS Foundation Gift Planner in Nebraska, Neal Koch, and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans representatives to host meetings with small groups of interested donors and to make a joint presentation on how individuals can support the future ministry of Camp Luther through their gifts, deferred gifts, wills, and other tools which Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and the LCMS Foundation have available. The LCMS Foundation and Thrivent Funds will manage the Camp's new endowment fund. This program is unique in that it will give donors the opportunity to support an area of their choice: camperships, capital improvements or endowment fund, while receiving a photo newsletter on the opportunities their gifts made available to children. The grant will also make it possible for the camp to hire a pastor to be the Director of Endowment. He will travel throughout the District to preach and speak about the unique ministry opportunity of Camp Luther. The grant is part of the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation Charitable Gifting Initiative designed to educate supporters of Lutheran institutions and ministries about the advantages of tax-wise charitable gifts. "This grant will give Camp Luther the boost it has needed for many years. Finally, we will be able to get the word out to the people of the area about the life-changing effects camp can have on the lives of children, youth and families," according to board president Allan Zietz of Norfolk, NE. "It is our hope that this grant will strengthen Camp Luther's ability to inform potential donors of various options available to them to financially support the Camp's work," said Brad Hewitt, president of the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation. "As people come alongside Camp Luther with charitable gifts, Camp Luther will become increasingly effective in carrying out its ministry/mission." For more information on this grant or on the ministry of Camp Luther, contact Hank Rausch, executive director of Camp Luther, at hank at campluther.org or 402-352-5655. Back to top THERAPIST NEEDED FOR SHORT-TERM WORK IN TURKEY There is a need for a therapist (PT, OT, or ST) that could travel to Turkey during the first week of April 2010 to be involved in a training project that involves training "care workers" who go into disabled people's homes and also into orphanages that house disabled children and adults. The therapist will be doing patient/family education with a local organization that supports people with disabilities. A second therapist is also needed to cover the following topics: * Basics of Wheelchair fitting - including doing a demonstration with a locally produced wheelchair with a patient and showing people what to look for to make it a "good fit" * Basics of Patient Hygiene - hints on keeping dependent patients clean and be able to explain the benefits and then risks of not doing so * Wound Care * Psychosocial issues - especially with caregiver fatigue There is assistance available for travel and accommodations. Please contact Bobbie Lautenschlager immediately at 314-503-4317 or at joliba at sbcglobal.net if you are interested or need additional information. Back to top GRACE PLACE LUTHERAN RETREATS Grace Place Lutheran Retreats is a recognized service organization of the LCMS. The goal of Grace Place Lutheran Retreats is to offer preventative wellness skills, attitudes, and resources to professional church workers and their spouses, so they can experience and live the abundant lives to which Jesus called them. Various donors generously support Grace Place and its ministry, which keeps the costs down for attendees. Congregations are encouraged to consider sending one or more church workers to be refreshed and renewed in ministry this year. For more information, contact Grace Place Lutheran Retreats at 314-842-3077 or visit www.graceplaceretreats.org. Nebraska District Pastors/Educators and Spouses June 21-25 - Snowmass, Colo. (registration: $360) Pastors/Educators and Spouses July 26-30 - Trego, Wis. (registration: $225 if Thrivent member) Single Clergy/Educators September 1-5 - Snowmass, Colo. (registration: $360) Back to top GOOD SHEPHERD, GRETNA, TO CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY AND DEDICATION Following is a congregation anniversary that was not listed in the Nebraska Lutheran Reporter. Everyone is invited to join them. Good Shepherd, Gretna, will celebrate its 30th Anniversary and the dedication of its new addition on Sunday, January 31, with one service at 10:30 a.m., followed by a dinner and program. Guest speaker is Rev. Bo Baumeister, former campus pastor of Concordia University, Seward. Back to top "REACHING OUT TOGETHER" CONFERENCE The second annual "Reaching Out Together" evangelism conference will take place on February 13, 2010. It is designed to inspire, encourage, teach, and give opportunity for putting into practice principles for talking about Jesus to others, especially the uncommitted or unchurched. This event is presented by the Saturday Outreach School in partnership with Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, the Missouri District LCMS, and North American Missions Ablaze! "Reaching Out Together" is for pastors, evangelism boards, church leaders, and laypeople in the Missouri District and adjacent LCMS districts. Featured break-out session speakers include Dr. Thomas R. Zehnder, executive director of LCMS World Mission; Kay L. Meyer, author of Witnessing-A Lifestyle; Rev. John Rathje, pastor of Christ in the City Lutheran Church, St. Louis; Rev. Peter Kirby, Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ; Rev. Kevin Parviz, Lutherans in Jewish Evangelism; and Rev. Brad Aldrich, CrossPollination Ministries. Registration fee is $20 per participant for the first four people from a single congregation, and $15 for each additional participant. Fee includes lunch and all materials. The registration deadline for "Reaching Out Together" is February 5, 2010. For more information contact Concordia Seminary Continuing Education at 314-505-7486 or email ce at csl.edu. Back to top TELL CPH YOUR STORY - WIN A FREE VBS KIT Did you know that in many countries, authorities arrest Christians just for meeting to worship? Though they face persecution, these Christians continue to believe. These believers are bold. Even if we don't face persecution, we are still called by the Gospel to be bold believers. This is what our 2010 VBS, Planet Zoom, teaches your children. But today, we want to hear from you. CPH's Bold Bee-liever Challenge is an opportunity for you to encourage others by sharing an example of God's Word in action within your congregation and community. Perhaps your story shares the experience you had on a mission project or other response to God's grace that touched lives in your community; you might recount the Baptism story of a new believer; or share with us the bold witness proclaimed by a member of your congregation to someone who did not know Jesus. Once we have all the stories, ten will be randomly selected and posted online, where you and the rest of the CPH community will help select one congregation to receive a completely free Planet Zoom Vacation Bible School with enough resources to serve 150 students! The Bold Bee-liever Project is about all of us, rejoicing together and giving thanks to God for the work He alone does in all of our congregations, homes, and communities in and through His Word and Sacraments. That's bold! Since not everyone who submits a story will be able to be featured on the site, we'll also randomly select one of you (who help to determine the final story) to receive a free VBS. So you'll want to encourage your congregation to visit the site, read the stories, and provide feedback! After the stories are posted on January 19, every person who votes will have the chance to enter his or her congregation to receive a FREE VBS. That means the more people your congregation gets to vote, the better chance you have to be selected! Simply submit your story to the CPH VBS website www.cph.org/planetzoom by 5 p.m. on January 17, 2010. Back to top DELEGATES GIVE FEEDBACK ON PROPOSED STRUCTURE CHANGES (from Reporter Online, December 31, 2009) Two of the nine regional gatherings planned for LCMS convention delegates already have taken place, and organizer-presenter Rev. Jon Braunersreuther says that, so far, the events are doing just what they're supposed to do: explain the current structure of the Synod and the 21 proposals of the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Synod Structure and Governance, and find out what delegates think about the proposals. "The objective here is to share the information, to make it clear to the delegates, many of whom don't know how the Synod is structured. And to make it clear what the proposals are, allow them to ask questions, and then, to get their feedback," said Braunersreuther, assistant to Synod President Dr. Gerald B. Kieschnick. "We want to know what they think so that the floor committee can take that information and use it to help mold the resolutions that they'll put forward on the floor of the convention." Some 1,250 delegates are expected to take part in the convention July 10-17 in Houston, spending the first two business days (July 11-12) determining which of the task force's proposals -- fine-tuned and presented as resolutions -- will best prepare The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod to carry out its mission in the years ahead. "We need structure and governance that are flexible and forward-looking -- receptive to new opportunities God is giving the Synod," Kieschnick said in introductory comments at each of the regional gatherings. "And we need a system of structure and governance that can help us maximize limited resources as faithful stewards, a need that has become even more critical in the current economic climate of our nation." Each of the pre-convention gatherings involves between 100 and 200 delegates. "People can really participate because of the size -- it's not intimidating," says Braunersreuther. One delegate told him that he had read through the task force's report "and didn't understand a thing" until he attended the pre-convention gathering, which "made all the difference in the world." The delegate said he now understands the issues "so much more." "So, that's a delegate who, if he had just come to Houston, would have been in the dark and it would have been confusing," Braunersreuther said. "And now he'll come and he'll be prepared to make good decisions about the proposals as they're put forward." Rev. Dennis Lassanske, a pastoral delegate from the Michigan District, attended the Dec. 11-12 regional meeting in Detroit. (The first meeting was held Dec. 4-5 in Denver, and it was this meeting the Nebraska District delegates attended.) After reading the task force's report, he says he is "convinced that the restructure of the Synod operation is long overdue" and that the proposals offer "some insightful options." "I better understand their thinking as a result of the pre-convention meeting," Lassanske said via e-mail. And, even though he realizes that the restructuring process will be difficult, he says he is "hopeful that delegates will be well-read and prepared to make supportive decisions that will move the Synod forward on these structure issues." Particularly helpful, he added, were the question-and-answer sessions, which "gave great information for making a more complete evaluation of the material and its historical context and impact." Said Lassanske: "I am more hopeful today than before the meeting and more determined to do my research and prepare for the convention this summer." Ron Jenkins, a lay delegate from the Indiana District, called the Detroit gathering "very informative and helpful." "I think it's always good to [re-examine] our Bylaws so we can understand why we do things and not do it just because it has always been done that way," he said. Eva Fronk, an advisory delegate from the English District, said the regional meeting she attended "made me very positive and hopeful for our Synod." "We are examining our present practices, evaluating our strengths and weaknesses, and prayerfully considering 'which course is best for the salvation of souls,'" Fronk said, quoting the Synod's first president, Dr. C.F.W. Walther. Even though the participants didn't agree on everything, the first two delegate gatherings "went very, very well," according to Braunersreuther. "There was a wonderful spirit in the room at both of those regional gatherings. People have been courteous and yet upfront about what their disagreements are. That's a good thing." Everyone taking part in the meetings is being asked to complete a survey about the task force proposals, explaining what they like and don't like. And, in table discussion groups, they are identifying the two or three most important proposals for convention action. After all the regional gatherings have ended, the results of the table discussions will be tabulated. That information, along with the written survey responses, will be considered by Convention Floor Committee 8, on Synod Structure and Governance, as it prepares the resolutions and decides which proposals are most critical for the convention to address. The remaining seven regional gatherings will take place in January and February in Madison, Wis.; Minneapolis; Boston; Newport Beach, Calif.; Atlanta; Dallas; and St. Louis. Braunersreuther asks delegates who will be attending those meetings to "read the report, keep an open mind, and come with your questions." Back to top The weekly Email Update is a resource offered to all in the Nebraska District to share information and to enrich the ministry God has called you to. Please continue to share information you feel would be of interest to others and let us know if there is any other way we at the District Office can be a resource to your ministry. Items for inclusion in the Update may be sent to communications at ndlcms.org. Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 77790 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Fri Jan 15 12:18:26 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:18:26 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Special Haiti Relief Information Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CA95D8.D79967B0] January 15, 2010 Special Haiti Relief Issue In this issue: Greetings in the name of our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus. This special edition of the Email Update contains information on many of the Lutheran responses and relief efforts taking place for the people of Haiti. More information is available by following the web links in each article. * President Kieschnick Responds to the Haitian Earthquake * LCMS Begins Earthquake Response Efforts * Orphan Grain Train Responds to Needs * Lutheran World Relief Offers Aid to Earthquake Victims * CTS Reaches Out to Victims in Haiti * Free Bulletin Inserts for Haiti Relief * Serve on a Mercy Medical Team to Haiti This Spring PRESIDENT KIESCHNICK RESPONDS TO THE HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE To: The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod From: President Gerald B. Kieschnick Subject: LCMS response to Haitian earthquake Date: January 14, 2010 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As I write this letter, news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years is being covered nationwide by the media. Only hours after receiving reports of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake, we began preparing to reach out to the people of Haiti with critically needed assistance. We will be disbursing, through LCMS World Relief and Human Care, significant dollars to meet immediate and longer-term needs. Many lives have been lost, extensive property has been damaged, and terrible suffering has been inflicted upon people trapped in collapsed buildings in a country already challenged by longtime political strife and poverty. We praise God that our missionaries in Haiti are confirmed to be safe. In addition to an LCMS World Mission GEO (Globally Engaged in Outreach) missionary and family stationed in Haiti, there are at least three short-term mission teams in the country from LCMS congregations and mission organizations from Nebraska, New York, and Wisconsin. We are working to confirm the safety of pastors and others in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti (ELCH), which has been a partner church of the Missouri Synod's since 2001. While communications are still sketchy, we believe Rev. Marky Kessa, president of the ELCH, is safe. We are continuing our efforts to reach our other dear brothers and sisters in Christ in Haiti. The LCMS, working cooperatively through LCMS World Relief and Human Care, LCMS World Mission, Lutheran World Relief in Baltimore, Concordia Publishing House, and our U.S. and Haitian partners, will strive to serve the ongoing needs of the people of Haiti who have lost loved ones, homes, possessions, and means of livelihood as a result of this devastating natural disaster. With deepest gratitude I thank the generous LCMS members who have already responded with financial gifts for the people of Haiti. Within 24 hours, more than $100,000 has been received. We invite and urge our other dear brothers and sisters to help in this work. The links below will connect you with giving opportunities and provide you with information and resources for speaking about this tragedy to members, families, and friends. Giving Donations are urgently needed to provide relief efforts in Haiti. Gifts may be accepted online at http://givenowlcms.org. Information * For the most recent updates of the LCMS relief effort in Haiti, visit www.lcms.org/worldrelief. * To learn more about LCMS GEO missionary Alyssa Stone and her role in Haiti, visit www.lcms.org?15195 or view her print-ready prayer card at www.lcmsworldmission.org/prayercards. Resources Among the many materials available from LCMS ministries, these are some of the resources our members may find most useful: * For congregational use: Bulletin insert: www.lcms.org/ca/worldrelief/dnews * For young adults/adults: "Where is God Now" - 60 devotions specifically written for times of disaster, chaos, and grief: http://bit.ly/5OgH9j * For adult Bible study and reflection: "Comfort for Christians" - a four-part study by Rev. Roger Sonnenberg: http://bit.ly/8Rp7Et * Also for adults: "For the Faint of Heart" - by Craig Parrott http://bit.ly/8qw2UK * For teens/young adults: "Why? A Resource Kit for Talking to Students about Disaster & Tragedy" - www.youthesource.com/Index.asp?PageID=7082&Function=View&ArticleID=1329 * For children: "I Will Not Be Afraid" - by Michelle Medlock Adams: http://bit.ly/6hqURs Finally, but most importantly, I ask for your prayers as we respond to the needs of the Haitian people so tragically affected by the quake. With deep sincerity I give thanks to our almighty heavenly Father for keeping our missionaries safe. In addition, I pray for all those in Haiti whose lives have been devastated by the death of loved ones, personal injuries, loss of home and possessions. Moreover, I pray that God will bless our work in Haiti, along with that of many other humanitarian agencies, to relieve the suffering of those who have been so tragically impacted by the earthquake. Finally, I pray that the peace of God that passes all understanding, through Jesus Christ our Lord, will be of great comfort to all those affected by this horrendous disaster. The peace of the Lord be with you all! Gerald B. Kieschnick President The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod Back to top LCMS BEGINS EARTHQUAKE RESPONSE EFFORTS As estimates of the loss of life and destruction in Haiti emerged following Tuesday's magnitude 7.0 earthquake, LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC) began responding, while members of LCMS congregations prayed for the safety of their mission teams who were in the Caribbean nation at the time of the quake. "The unfolding drama in Haiti calls for unlimited mercy on the part of the people of the LCMS. The needs are urgent and overwhelming right now," said Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, WR-HC director of disaster response. "I appeal to God's people to respond as generously as possible during this most difficult time." Haitians piled bodies along the devastated streets of their capital, Port-au-Prince, on Wednesday after the strongest earthquake to hit the nation in more than 200 years crushed thousands of structures, from schools and shacks to the National Palace and the U.N. peacekeeping headquarters. An untold number of people were still trapped. Haitian President Rene Preval said the devastation was so complete that he estimated the death toll would run into the thousands. International Red Cross spokesman Paul Conneally said an estimated 3 million people may have been affected by the quake and that it would take a day or two for a clear picture of the damage to emerge. Safe after the quake is a missionary family, Alyssa Stone and her two daughters, who live west of the capital where the shaking wasn't as strong. Stone is a deaconess intern from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. Also reported as safe are at least three short-term mission teams in Haiti from LCMS congregations and mission organizations in Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, and Wisconsin. Jason Christ, director of Christian education at First Trinity Church in Tonawanda, N.Y., was glad to receive text messages Tuesday evening from 14 members of the church's mission team who had arrived in Haiti on Monday. "They are all OK," he said. He also said the group, which includes Rev. Chuck Whited, are in Les Cayes, about 120 miles away from the hard-hit capital. This was the sixth time a team from the church had visited Haiti to work at an orphanage there. News of the quake triggered numerous calls and e-mails to LCMS Life and Health Ministries Director Maggie Karner, who had been preparing to send the first LCMS WR-HC Mercy Medical Team (MMT) to Haiti in March. The day before the quake Karner had sent out an MMT recruitment appeal to LCMS pastors and congregations asking for physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to volunteer for the team that is scheduled to serve in Haiti March 11-21. "Our preliminary legwork for the first MMT team to Haiti in March will serve us well as we prepare to respond," Karner said Tuesday night. "Perhaps now, because of this tragedy, people will see the desperate need in Haiti and prayerfully consider how they can use their gifts and talents." To learn more about the MMT trip to Haiti, contact LCMS WR-HC's Jacob Fiene at 800-248-1930, ext. 1278, or jacob.fiene at lcms.org. To donate to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, click here. Back to top ORPHAN GRAIN TRAIN RESPONDS TO NEEDS Orphan Grain Train, in cooperation with LCMS World Relief and Human Care, will ship 513,216 "Kids Against Hunger" meals (two semi-loads) to Haiti next week. Orphan Grain Train is shipping to Haiti both by air and by sea. A semi-load relief shipment of food sent last month arrived on January 6 and is being used to respond to the disaster. Each semi-load contains 256,608 meals. The next two semi-loads will leave Norfolk the week of January 17. Other relief shipments are in the planning stage. "Kids Against Hunger" volunteers in Hastings, Lincoln, and Norfolk, Nebraska, prepared the "Kids Against Hunger" meal packets. Food distributions are intended for all people in need, regardless of church affiliation. Cash donations of any amount will help the survivors in Haiti. Shipping one semi-load to Haiti costs more than $5,000 in transportation costs. Checks may be sent to Orphan Grain Train, PO Box 1466, Norfolk, NE 68702-1466. Please write "Haiti" on the memo line. You may also give online by credit card at www.ogt.org. Click "Donate Now" and fill out the requested information. You will receive an email confirmation when your gift arrives in Orphan Grain Train's bank account. Thank you for your support and helping send Relief for Human Need Worldwide! Back to top LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF OFFERS AID TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS Baltimore, January 13, 2010 - A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the small island nation of Haiti on the evening of January 12, the worst earthquake to strike the region in more than 200 years. Thousands are feared dead; the quake's epicenter was located just 10 miles from the capital city of Port-au-Prince. "As the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, the people of Haiti will desperately need the help of the international community in the wake of this horrifying disaster," says Trevor Knoblich, LWR's Program Coordinator for Emergency Response. "A large response will be needed to even begin helping the people of Haiti," he adds. Throughout the night and into the morning powerful aftershocks, some as strong as 5.9 magnitude, continued. The initial quake toppled the presidential palace and destroyed the shanty homes where most Haitians live. Their homes destroyed, people are in the streets with nowhere to go. The greatest damage appears to be concentrated in Port-au-Prince, where critical services, such as electricity, water, and phone services are severely affected. Access to the capital city is limited due to debris and other obstacles on the roads. Reports of injuries and death tolls are still unknown because of communications problems; however, early indications suggest a large number of causalities and extensive damage. Haiti, by virtue of its location and its overwhelming poverty, is extremely vulnerable to natural disasters. Before the earthquake, people were still struggling to recover from the devastation caused by a succession of tropical storms that struck Haiti in 2008, killing hundreds, causing floods, destroying crops and leaving thousands homeless. Lutheran World Relief has supported that on-going recovery effort in partnership with World Neighbors. LWR has committed an initial $1,000,000 to the relief effort, and will reevaluate that commitment as new reports emerge. LWR is currently planning a two-phase relief and recovery response through their partners on the ground in Haiti. LWR is also responding through the Action by Churches Together (ACT) alliance to support immediate relief efforts of food, water, medicine, and shelter. LWR will continue to evaluate the needs on the ground as search, rescue, and relief efforts are updated. Every dollar donated to this life-saving effort is critical to providing the necessary emergency support to the people of Haiti. Lutheran World Relief president John Nunes adds, "We ask that you pray for the people of Haiti and for our local partners on the ground with whom we have lost contact. Lutheran World Relief will work expeditiously to put your prayers and gifts to work to save lives in Haiti." Donations to the Haiti Earthquake fund can be made by phone at 800-LWR-LWR-2, online at lwr.org, or by mailing a check or money order to Lutheran World Relief Haiti Earthquake Relief, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832. Back to top CTS REACHES OUT TO VICTIMS IN HAITI Although it is thousands of miles away, the victims of the Haitian earthquake are held closely in the hearts and prayers of the faculty, staff, and student body of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana. "This is a time when we go to the word of Jesus for guidance as we are tragically made aware of how frail and fragile human life is," offered Dr. Dean O. Wenthe, CTS President. "We encourage you to join your prayers with ours and lift up your hands with us to help those in Haiti." A video of Dr. Wenthe's comments may be found on the seminary's website, www.ctsfw.edu. In fact, there are CTS students and family members who are currently in Haiti. Deaconess Intern Alyssa Stone and her daughters, Andrea and Kristin, are in La Cayes which was not in the epicenter of the quake. Alyssa has been able to make contact with the U.S. and reports that some houses did collapse and there was some panic, but there is not the extreme damage as seen in other areas of the country. There are others in the seminary community who are still awaiting word from family members and we continue to hold them up in prayer. Dr. Wenthe also explained that the seminary will be sending a team of students and faculty to assist in Haiti as soon as they receive clearance to travel. Those interested in sending support for this mission may donate by going to www.ctsfw.edu/supporthaiti, or by phoning 260-452-2212. Information on how to support the efforts of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod's (LCMS) World Relief and Human Care relief effort may be found on the same webpage. Back to top FREE BULLETIN INSERTS FOR HAITI RELIEF As news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years reached LCMS World Relief and Human Care on Tuesday, the Synod's mercy arm began preparing to reach out with much needed assistance and working in cooperation with Lutheran partners. To help you communicate the LCMS response to this large-scale disaster with your congregation members this Sunday, LCMS World Relief and Human Care has prepared a bulletin insert. Please feel free to reproduce the insert, available in black and white or full color, for use in educating members about the urgent need for prayer and financial support for our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Haiti who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. Click here to download a color PDF Click here to download a black and white PDF Congregations may also consider collecting a congregational gift or special door offering to strengthen and support our men and women who will respond to disaster in Haiti in the weeks and months ahead. Thank you! Back to top SERVE ON A MERCY MEDICAL TEAM TO HAITI THIS SPRING LCMS World Relief and Human Care offers medical professionals opportunities to volunteer abroad in underserved regions. We are in desperate need of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to work with Lutherans who share Christ's mercy. Pastors also are needed to serve as team chaplains. Teams work in conjunction with LCMS partner churches and local clinics to care for both body and soul. Since 2006, Mercy Medical Teams have provided free medical care to more than 10,000 people in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. Teams care for people suffering with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, parasites, dysentery, serious wounds, infections, malaria and other tropical diseases, and illnesses associated with unhealthy drinking water and sanitation. We treat both adults and children (including many youngsters orphaned by AIDS) and provide our own pharmacy for dispensing free medications. Please take a minute to watch a brief Mercy Medical Team video at: http://www.lcms.org/?16362 Today, our most desperate need is for a physician to volunteer with our Mercy Medical Team that will serve March 11-21 in Haiti. If you know of physicians interested in short-term missionary medical service, please touch base with Jacob Fiene immediately using his contact information listed below. Whether you have medical skills or a sincere heart for service, please consider becoming a Mercy Medical Team volunteer. Learn more at http://www.lcms.org/mercyteams. For a leader's perspective, log on to the Mercy Medical Team blog at http://mercyandmedical.blogspot.com. Please e-mail Jacob at mercyteams at lcms.org or call toll-free 800-248-1930, ext. 1278. Back to top Blessings on your weekend, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 54143 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 20 08:54:04 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:54:04 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 20 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CA99AD.BDBA5E20] January 20, 2010 In this issue: Epiphany greetings in the name of Jesus. Thanks to everyone who contributed information for this week's Update. Ministry news and event information is always welcome to be considered for inclusion in future newsletters, and may be sent to communications at ndlcms.org. This newsletter may also be forwarded to those who might be interested in the news shared here, or portions may be reproduced in congregational bulletins or newsletters as you wish. * Prayer Requests * Updates on Haiti Relief Efforts * Nebraska's Hospice Association Seeking Award Nominations * Lutheran Choir of Lincoln Begins Spring Season * Opportunities to Visit Germany This Year * At Ease Luncheon in Omaha * Connect with the Fiala Missionary Family in Eurasia * Send Phone Messages Instantly to Every Congregation Member * National Lutheran Schools Week Worship and Activity Manual Now Available * German Church Offers Camp for Teens and Young Adults * Do You Know a Future Church Worker? PRAYER REQUESTS The People and Relief Workers of Haiti - Please continue to remember in prayer the people of Haiti who were affected by the earthquake last week. So much information has been shared on the relief efforts, with more information being made available daily. Along with all of these efforts, the most important thing we can do is continue to pray - for the survivors, for the injured, for those who lost loved ones, and for those who are in Haiti to help them all. Ministry in the Sandhills - Rev. Andy Safarik serves three congregations, as well as a vacancy, across an area that covers a distance of more than 86 miles in the Western Sandhills of Nebraska. Please remember this ministry and Pastor Safarik in your prayers, as he travels many miles each week to share the love of Christ with those in the Sandhills. This ministry attends to the spiritual needs of the farmers and ranchers that live in this area. While the people may be spread out, the mission field is ripe in this part of Nebraska. Many of those who live in this area are not connected to a church, while many others are Mormon. This offers great opportunities for witnessing to the love of Jesus Christ. Just last month, a live nativity was offered to the community. Following is an excerpt from the description of the event: The children from our Midweek program then had a very simple presentation of the Gospel account of the birth of Jesus. . . . Mormons who looked at the cross in the star asked what it meant. Young people with parents and grandparents, and great-grandparents, people from all over the area, church-goers and non-church-goers, people from many different denominations heard the Gospel message that Jesus Christ came down from heaven to die for our sins and was raised so that we might be with Him forever. Back to top UPDATES ON HAITI RELIEF EFFORTS The relief agencies offering aid to the rescue efforts in Haiti continue to share information. Following are the most recent summaries we've received, along with links for more information. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans (from www.thrivent.com) Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will add $1 to every $2, up to a total Thrivent Financial contribution of $1 million, when members donate to one of the following: * Lutheran World Relief. * ELCA Disaster Response. * LCMS World Relief/Human Care. * WELS Committee on Relief. Thrivent Financial will add a maximum of $250 per member donation, and donations will be accepted through March 31, 2010. Here are ways to give to Haiti earthquake relief that will qualify for the matching gift: LCMS World Relief and Human Care in St. Louis: Online: https://catalog.lcms.org/givenow/Gift_input.asp?ID=800 Phone: 888-930-4438 (toll-free) Mail: LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861 (Mark checks "Haiti Earthquake Relief") Lutheran World Relief in Baltimore: Online: www.lwr.org/emergencies/10/HaitiEarthquake/index.asp Phone: 800-LWR-LWR-2 (toll-free) Mail: Lutheran World Relief - Haiti Earthquake, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832 Thrivent Financial for Lutherans: Online: www.thrivent.com/helpinghaiti Phone: 800-236-3736 (toll-free) - (when prompted, please say "directory" then enter ext. 83003.) Questions on this program may also be directed to this phone number. Thrivent expects that this response will result in more than $3 million to support the earthquake survivors: $2 million donated by members and an additional $1 million from Thrivent Financial. Be a part of the Helping Haiti effort and make a difference for the victims of this natural disaster. Lutherans in Medical Missions Lutherans in Medical Missions is funding the transportation costs of Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, and Dr. John Lautenschlager, M.D. of St. Louis to join the LCMS World Mission and World Relief and Human Care team in Santiago, Dominican Republic, on Thursday, January 19, 2010. They will help assess how to best use resources to aid the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. All donations designated for the work in Haiti will be used to help those affected by the earthquake. Please keep the people in Haiti and all relief workers in your thoughts and prayers. If you have any questions on the Lutherans in Medical Missions' relief efforts, please send a note to limm at limm.org. Donations to LIMM can be sent to: LIMM Haiti Earthquake Relief P.O. Box 766 Concordia, MO 64020 Orphan Grain Train Orphan Grain Train, a non-profit organization based out of Norfolk, Nebraska, is asking for your donations of new or used summer clothes and medical supplies such as: crutches, canes, walkers, walking shoes for broken foot, slings, braces, etc for survivors of the earthquake in Haiti. OGT is also asking for cash donations to assist with shipping costs. Cash donations should be sent directly to the corporate headquarters at Orphan Grain Train, PO Box 1466, Norfolk, NE 68702-1466. Orphan Grain Train is a Christian volunteer network that shares personal and material resources with needy people in America and around the world. Grain Train volunteers gather donations of clothing, medical supplies, and equipment. Donations can be dropped off during business hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Industrial Repair Services at 309 East 2nd Street, Suite 4, in Papillion, Nebraska. Chuck Martin, a local OGT volunteer, can be reached at 402-339-4691 for alternative drop off times. For more information on the Orphan Grain Train, please visit www.ogt.org Collect Food, Hygiene Items to Send to Haiti The Lutheran Church-Missouri-Synod (LCMS) is seeking donations of food, water, and hygiene items within the next two weeks for shipment to Haiti in cooperation with Lutheran partners. The request for donations is in response to last Tuesday's devastating earthquake. Two 40-foot shipping containers will be loaded with donated supplies and shipped to the capital of Haiti, Port-au-Prince, as soon as arrangements can be finalized. Requested items include bottled water, canned food with pop tops, peanut butter, dry rice and beans, bedding, shovels and tools, buckets, antibacterial ointment, bandages, washcloths, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, first-aid ointment, and clean, used clothing in good condition. The items can be sent to: Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 7601 SW 39th St. Davie, FL 33328 954-475-0683 St. Paul Lutheran Church 801 West Palmetto Park Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33486 561-395-0433 "I am deeply humbled by the generosity and mercy of the LCMS people and congregations,'' said Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, LCMS World Relief and Human Care director of disaster response. "They have opened their hearts and their wallets to help those suffering in Haiti, and for that, I am thankful. The needs are great and continuing. We are now asking our fellow Lutherans to help us collect food, hygiene, and medical items that we pray will ease some of the hardships and sorrows caused by the devastation.'' The donation drive is a joint effort of LCMS World Relief and Human Care (LCMS WR-HC), the LCMS Florida-Georgia District, MISSION: HAITI, and Orphan Grain Train (OGT). Through grants, LCMS WR-HC will assist with shipping charges. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Haiti (ELCH) as well as OGT and MISSION: HAITI partners in Haiti will receive the containers of donations in Port-au-Prince and oversee their distribution. Financial donations are also urgently required for the long-term Lutheran response in Haiti. To make a gift, visit http://givenowlcms.org, call toll-free 888-930-4438, or mail checks marked "Haiti Earthquake Relief" to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861. Lutheran World Relief Lutheran World Relief and its partners on the ground are rushing to provide water, water purification supplies, food, and shelter items to victims of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12. "At this point, water is a critical need on the ground. People have been without access to water for days in warm temperatures. Delivering clean water will help save lives in Haiti," says LWR president John Nunes. LWR has pledged $1 million to overall relief work in Haiti, and anticipates increasing that commitment as partners work to assess needs on the ground. LWR will send an initial $150,000 to the Lutheran World Federation immediately to deliver water containers and purification materials, as well as temporary shelter items. LWR is also coordinating with 400 people on the ground through partnerships with Catholic Relief Services, local partners in Haiti, and other international faith-based organizations. "Getting aid into Haiti has been challenging. We've been asking LWR supporters to please send cash so that we can quickly get aid in," adds Trevor Knoblich, LWR's Program Coordinator for Emergency Response. A shipment of Lutheran World Relief health kits and layettes left LWR's warehouse in New Windsor, Md., January 19 to be distributed to Haitian earthquake survivors. LWR partner Church World Service will distribute the shipment of 650 health kits and 1500 layettes, the first of multiple planned shipments to Haiti. LWR has committed material resources valued at nearly $500,000 and plans to send more health kits and layettes, along with quilts and school kits, in the near future. Health kits with soap, washcloth, towel, toothbrush and toothpaste, nail clippers, and a comb, help people living in desperate situations to maintain basic hygiene. Layettes, containing a baby blanket, diapers, and baby clothing, help parents care for their infants. Lutheran congregations and groups in the U.S. assemble the kits and donate them to LWR for use in overseas emergencies. "In the aftermath of a disaster, when people are living in very close quarters and without adequate sanitation, the spread of disease is a very real concern," said Trevor Knoblich, LWR's program coordinator for emergency response. "Something as simple as a bar of soap can make such a big difference." LWR issued an appeal to its U.S. supporters to increase their donations of quilts, health kits and school kits in order to meet the needs in Haiti. "Right now our stocks are running low, and we are critically low on health kits," said Knoblich. "We know from experience that Lutherans are compassionate people, and we are asking that they donate whatever quilts and kits they can to help us meet the incredible needs in Haiti." LWR is accepting donations to the "Haiti Earthquake Fund" on its website, www.lwr.org/Haiti, by phone at 800-LWR-LWR-2, and by mail at P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832. Members of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans can get their gifts to LWR matched. Thrivent is giving $1 for every $2 donated. For more information or to have your gift matched, visit www.lwr.org/Haiti. LWR has also launched a new "text-to-give" service, allowing supporters to quickly and easily text contributions to be billed to their monthly cell phone account. To give, text the keyword "LWR" to 40579 to donate $10. Remember to reply YES to the confirmation. Standard messaging and data rates may apply. Haiti Church President Gives Report (From www.lcms.org) President Marky Kessa of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti (ELCH) contacted Rev. S.T. Williams, Jr., of the Haiti Lutheran Mission Coordinating Committee and senior pastor at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Los Angeles, Calif., with the following report: * Port au Prince and Jacmel are in ruins. * Over 100,000 are estimated dead. * Three-quarters of the people are sleeping on the streets. * There is no power or water. * He has no idea how many ELCH members are dead. * All Lutheran pastors are alive as far as he knows. * He is going to each church and holding prayer and funeral services. * The church is focusing on the injured, to keep them alive. * Rev. Doris Jean Louis in Port-au-Prince is okay. However, the church and school are possibly destroyed. * Rev. Thomas Bernard in Port-au-Prince is okay. The church and school were damaged. * Lay Minister Lophane Laurent in Port-au-Prince is alive and helping others in Port-au-Prince. * The Isidor and Touloute family in Les Cayes is okay. * Rev. Jean Claude Marin in Central Platue is okay. * Rev. Eliona Bernard in Cap Haitian said the area was shaken, but there is limited damage. * Rev. Daniel Paul in Fort Liberty is okay and reports no problems. * President Revenel Benoit in Gonaives is okay. He said a mission team in Port-au-Prince is waiting for flight to the U.S./Canada. * He welcomes any mission teams as soon as possible with: cash, medical supplies, water, food, and clothing. At this time, medical supplies can get into the country for free. He is available to meet people at the airport. * The needs are overwhelming. He asked for prayer and immediate assistance. "As brothers and sisters in Christ we pray for wisdom and the grace and mercy of God to prevail as we respond in faith and Christian love," wrote Rev. Williams. "Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy." To make a gift that shares Christ's mercy and helps suffering Haitians, visit www.lcms.org, call toll free 888-930-4438, or mail donations marked "Haiti Earthquake Relief" to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861. Back to top NEBRASKA'S HOSPICE ASSOCIATION SEEKING AWARD NOMINATIONS The state's hospice association, the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership, is seeking nominations for its annual awards program. The awards will be presented at the Association's annual banquet. Held in conjunction with the Association's Annual "Living a Good Life...at the End of Life" Conference, the banquet is scheduled for March 31, 2010, at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln. The Shining Star Award recognizes an individual, group, or organization that has done outstanding work in the leadership of end-of-life care in their community or statewide. Nominees should have illustrated outstanding leadership in the promotion of end-of-life services; raised awareness of or educated others on end-of-life issues; developed a new program; or developed or completed outstanding work in an end-of-life coalition. The Spirit of Hospice Award recognizes individuals that have shown true commitment and outstanding dedication to the hospice philosophy of care. Nominees should have promoted quality hospice care over the last year. They should display openness to the needs of all they have cared for, reverencing the dignity of all areas of diversity. Outstanding Hospice Volunteer recognition will be given to exemplary hospice volunteers. Outstanding volunteers identified by their hospice programs will be invited to stand and be recognized as their names and hospice programs are announced at the banquet. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 12, 2010. Go to www.nehospice.org to view award details and nomination forms. The Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership is a collaborative effort of more than 50 organizations with an interest in good care for terminally and chronically ill Nebraskans. Established as a 501(c)3 community betterment non-profit in 1983, the Association includes Nebraska hospices, community end-of-life coalitions, and other health and elder-care organizations. Back to top LUTHERAN CHOIR OF LINCOLN BEGINS SPRING SEASON The Lincoln Lutheran Choir invites interested musicians to join them as they begin their spring concert season. Rehearsals begin January 31 with a retreat at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, Lincoln, from 2 to 6 p.m. Interested singers may contact Sandie Anderson at 402-489-3948 or email the choir board at lincolnlutheranchoir at gmail.com. This spring season's concert will be a special Mother's Day presentation on May 9. In collaboration with a professional orchestra, the choir will present J.S. Bach's Magnificat and Vivaldi's Gloria. Back to top OPPORTUNITIES TO VISIT GERMANY THIS YEAR ACT NOW - This is the last time these tours will be publicized in this newsletter, so contact the tour of your choice and make plans now to tour the "Land of Luther"! May 22 - June 1 Pastor Michael & Suzy Awe, in cooperation with Nawas International Travel, would like to invite you to join them May 22 - June 1, 2010, on an exciting 11 day Alpine Tour! Participants will enjoy the picturesque vistas of Switzerland, Austria, and Southern Germany. The absolute highlight of the trip will be the experience of the famous Oberammergau Passion Play. The group will be leaving from Omaha and flying in to Frankfurt, Germany. The $4099 per person cost will include most meals, first-class accommodations, roundtrip airfare from Omaha, and other amenities. If you are interested in joining them for this memorable experience, please contact Pastor Michael Awe at 402-368-9929 or 402-368-5690, or e-mail him at The1Rev at cableone.net for more information. There are only 6 spots left, so call today!. June 15-25 Join Rev. Randy Knuth on an unforgettable panoramic journey through the Land of Germany and experience the joys of traveling together in Christian fellowship. Join the group as they travel on an 11-day fully escorted deluxe tour of Germany and attend the "once-in-a-lifetime" experience of the 41st Passion Play in Oberammergau. Included in the tour will be significant places in the life of Martin Luther and the reformation, and some of the romantic towns and castles of Bavaria and Munich. For more information in regard to this Luther Tour, June 15-25, 2010, please contact Pastor Randy Knuth, pastor of Hope Lutheran Church, South Sioux City, at revrandyk at yahoo.com or 402-494-1847 or 712-540-8243. September 14-24 Pastor Bill and Martha Moorhead invite anyone to join them for a trip to Germany that incorporates Luther/Reformation sites, the Passion Play, and Oktoberfest, as well as some other off-the-beaten-path sites. The trip will be Sept 14-24, 2010. Contact Rev. Moorhead at pastormoorhead at pacifichillslutheran.org with questions or for details. Back to top AT EASE LUNCHEON IN OMAHA Please join Lutheran Family Services (LFS) and Chuck Hagel at an awareness luncheon at the Qwest Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., on Monday, January 25, at 11:45 a.m. Please arrive 20 minutes early for parking ($6) and seating. Come learn more about and support the LFS At Ease program, which provides trauma treatment and therapeutic support for active military, veterans, and their loved ones. Tickets are $50, with table and sponsorship packages available. Visit www.LFSneb.org or call 402-591-5063 to register or for event information. For At Ease program information, please contact Debra Jones, At Ease Program Manager, at 402-292-9105 or AtEase at LFSneb.org. Back to top CONNECT WITH THE FIALA MISSIONARY FAMILY IN EURASIA (from the Fiala family newsletter - December 2009) The following request was made by David and Radka Fiala, Nebraska missionaries serving LCMS World Mission in Slovakia. This would be a great opportunity if you or your congregation supports the Fiala family, or if you are looking for a missionary to support. Can we Skype with YOU? In recent newsletters, you've been able to read about the various uses of Skype to connect with people in the U.S. or elsewhere in the world. David and I would like to invite you to consider setting up a video Skype call during events, Bible study hours, or Sunday school at your church so we could see you and share news with you "in person" even though we're not physically present at your church. This would be a way for you to hear what we're currently working on so you can feel more connected to ministries happening far away. It would be a huge blessing for our family to pray with you and keep in touch across the miles. If you're interested in this idea, we're ready to try it out! Please email us at David.Fiala at lcms.org, so we can make this happen !!! Thank you! Back to top SEND PHONE MESSAGES INSTANTLY TO EVERY CONGREGATION MEMBER Studies have shown that people need to hear a message seven or more times before it sinks in. That may make you ask, "Should I count on a bulletin blurb alone to remind my members of tomorrow's event?" Probably not. Concordia Publishing House's resource, MemberCaller, could be the answer to your prayers. MemberCaller is a new technology that allows you to call every member in your congregation instantly. So, next time bad weather hits and choir practice is canceled, or you want to send a prayer request out to a large group, don't rely on e-mail or try to call every member in your group, instead use MemberCaller to send every member a pre-recorded message. MemberCaller is compatible with other CPH resources like Shepherd's Staff and MemberConnect and is great for congregations that are big or small. Visit www.ctsmemberconnect.net for more information or call 800-325-2399 to discover more. Back to top NATIONAL LUTHERAN SCHOOLS WEEK WORSHIP AND ACTIVITY MANUAL NOW AVAILABLE (from http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16391) Lutheran schools and their sponsoring congregations may order a variety of resources from LCMS District and Congregational Services -- School Ministry and Concordia Publishing House to promote "National Lutheran Schools Week," set for March 7-13. This year's theme, "Securing Each Child's Future -- for a Life of Service," is based on 1 Cor. 12:5: "and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord." "National Lutheran Schools Week is a chance for Lutheran schools to celebrate their special heritage and an opportunity to promote themselves to their communities," Bill Cochran, director of LCMS School Ministry, told Reporter. The ministry is offering a 71-page Worship and Resource Manual, available in downloadable PDF format, that includes an original song for this year's National Lutheran Schools Week ("To All of God's Children," by Dr. Jeffrey Burkart), worship resources, chapel services, devotionals, and suggested activities for all educational levels. Cost of the manual is $20 and it may be ordered online, with a credit card, or with a mail-in form, along with a check, from the DCS Store at www.lcms.org/?1774. Other Schools Week items -- including teacher appreciation items, stickers, bookmarks, and posters -- may be ordered from Concordia Publishing House's website at www.cph.org (click on the "Christian Education" link) or by calling 800-325-3040. For more information, call Kathy Fangmann in the LCMS School Ministry office at 800-248-1930, ext. 1285. Back to top GERMAN CHURCH OFFERS CAMP FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS (from Reporter Online, http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16290) The Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church, an LCMS partner church known by its German acronym, SELK, is offering a weeklong camp to Lutheran teens and young adults this summer in Wittenberg, Germany. "LutherCamp," set for July 30-Aug. 8 in a campground on the Elbe River, is offering young people ages 16 to 29 "from all over the world the opportunity to get to know the historical roots of the Lutheran faith, and to grow in their personal faith," according to a flier for the annual event. "We would like to bring young folks from different countries together to discuss how to live as a Lutheran in the 21st century, and how to spread the Good News of the Gospel." LutherCamp 2010 includes: * a video presentation, "Luther for Today," which explores how the teachings of Martin Luther are relevant for today's young people. * opportunities to take part in outreach projects in Wittenberg: serving a vacation Bible school, painting and doing other chores at a school, and helping "people in need" with shopping, cleaning, and other tasks. * tours to local Luther sites, including museums; Luther's home; the City Church, where Luther preached; the Castle Church, where he posted his 95 theses; and the house of Luther's co-worker, Philipp Melanchthon. * canoeing, swimming, and biking. * a night tour of Wittenberg. * Bible studies and worship. Cost for the week is 189 euros (about $285 at today's exchange rate), which includes accommodations in tents, meals, and entrance and excursion fees. A daily fee of 25 euros (about $38) also is available for those who wish to attend for a few days. Deadline for registrations is May 1. After that date, full registration will be 220 euros, and the one-day rate, 30 euros. The camp is limited to 30 English-speaking participants, so early registration is advised. For more information or to register, send an e-mail to Rev. Hinrich Muller at cottbus at selk.de or call him in Germany at 011-49-355-24542. Or, visit the website www.freizeitfieber.de (click on the LutherCamp logo, then "Flyer.pdf" for English information). Back to top DO YOU KNOW A FUTURE CHURCH WORKER? What would make someone decide to enter church work? We always hear stories from children who want to be a doctor, nurse, teacher, or firefighter when they grow up. But at what point, and in what way, do children begin considering a career in church work? According to a recent study by the What a Way committee of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod (LCMS), current church workers play a critical role identifying, informing, and encouraging the next generation to consider a career in church work. Ministry workers said church workers, when grouped together, were the leading reason for their career choice, at 64 percent. Pastors were the single most influential group followed by family, the study found. The ministry workers surveyed said the following influenced them the most: * 29 percent pastors * 28 percent family * 22 percent Christian teacher * 8 percent friends * 6 percent other church worker * 4 percent youth leader * 3 percent lay leader So what makes a good church worker? The apostle Paul referred to himself as a servant, as did Peter and the author of James. What would make someone want to be a church worker when "servant" is the primary job description? The answer comes from the Bible. On the night he was betrayed, Jesus took upon himself the role of a servant and washed the feet of His disciples. "When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, 'Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.' '' (John 13:12-16 ESV) L. Dean Hempelmann, director of What a Way, said that servant-minded church workers must have a love for God and his Word. They must also have "the ability to work with people, a passion for studying and applying God's Word, excellent communication skills, a love for sharing the Gospel with others, and patience,'' he said. "But at the center of it all, a church worker believes in Christ, follows His example, and joyfully serves God's people." * Sometimes this service is straightforward as with Anjee Stiles, a teacher at Gethsemane Lutheran School in Northglenn, Colo., who instructs her kindergarten children about Jesus the Good Shepherd as part of the academic curriculum. * Sometimes it is as simple as when Deaconess Carol Goldfish, from Trinity Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, visits a shut-in and shares the news of a God whose love is unending. * Other times it is as obvious as when Alaina Kleinbeck, director of Christian education from Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Charles, Mo., takes the time to visit youth in her school, reminding students that Jesus' love is not bound by walls or institutions. * Very often, it is as clear as when Pastor David Gunderson of St. John Lutheran Church in Yankton, S.D., prays with a couple before they are married. "Church work positions are rewarding on so many levels," said Hempelmann. "Our prayer is that men and women, no matter their stage in life, keep open hearts and minds in order to hear and respond to the call to church work." There are many professional church worker positions open throughout the world. For information about church work positions within The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, please visit www.WhataWay.org or www.LCMS.org. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 106906 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 20 16:29:25 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 22:29:25 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Important Update on Haiti Relief Message-ID: Greetings in the name of our gracious heavenly Father! The following two pieces of information came in after the Email Update was sent this morning. Because of the time sensitive nature of the information, I wanted to share it with you right away. Thank you for helping spread this information on relief efforts with your congregation members and others. Lutherans in Medical Missions/LCMS World Relief and Human Care Teams to go to Haiti Another LCMS World Relief and Human Care team is forming to go into Haiti in the next week or two--one as early as next Tuesday. Please register on the World Relief and Human Care site at www.lcms.org/mercyteams and also send an email to mercymedical at lcms.org (and copy limm at limm.org) and tell your availability for service, what your specialty is, and experience you may have had in previous overseas and triage situations such as this. You must have a valid passport ready, and typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B series are recommended. If you have the series, you may consider a booster, especially for typhoid. You will need to take malaria prophylaxis as well. The conditions may be spartan and difficult, so team members must be in good health. General practice docs, surgeons, and ER personnel are especially needed. Please also let LIMM know if you are planning to serve in Haiti as a result of this email notification. If you have any questions, please send a note to limm at limm.org. Bulletin Insert on Thrivent Matching Gift Opportunity Thrivent Financial for Lutherans members who want to make a financial contribution to support disaster response efforts in Haiti can have their donations to one of four Lutheran relief agencies multiplied by the fraternal benefit society. The attached bulletin insert helps share this information with the members of your congregation. The information is also listed below. Please help get this word out to your members. To participate, visit www.thrivent.com/helpinghaiti and make a contribution to one of the following: Lutheran World Relief ELCA Disaster Response LCMS World Relief/Human Care WELS Committee on Relief Thrivent Financial will add $1 to every $2 its members donate, up to a total Thrivent Financial contribution of $1 million. That means a potential of $3 million or more to support relief efforts: $2 million + from its members and $1 million added by Thrivent Financial. For questions or alternative ways to donate through this program, please call 800-236-3736. When promoted, say "directory" and enter ext. 83003. Thank you for your help in spreading this important information through your congregations. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 10823 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Haiti Bulletin Insert.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 148423 bytes Desc: Haiti Bulletin Insert.pdf URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu Jan 28 15:24:50 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 21:24:50 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 28 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CAA02E.040C86B0] January 28, 2010 In this issue: Greetings in the name of Jesus. This week's Update is a day late because I was out of the office unexpectedly earlier this week. Thanks to all who shared information for this week's newsletter. * Prayer Requests * Find Information on LCMS Haiti Relief in One Place * Still Time to Register for Stewardship Workshop in Omaha * Lutheran Hour Lenten Devotions Available * Rev. John Nunes Challenges Audience at Concordia University * Confirmation Retreat at Camp Luther * New Lenten Series Offered by Concordia Seminary * Worship is Lifted Up at 2010 Lutheran Summer Music Academy PRAYER REQUESTS Olivia Anson - We join with Harlan and Crissy Anson in prayers of thanksgiving for the gift of a baby daughter born on January 21. We thank God for this precious new life and for the gift of eternal life given to her through Holy Baptism. Harlan serves Our Redeemer, Staplehurst, as teacher/principal. Back to top FIND INFORMATION ON LCMS HAITI RELIEF IN ONE PLACE The LCMS has created a link from the LCMS home page where visitors can go to find all the latest news about the response to the Haiti earthquake. Visitors to www.lcms.org just need to click on the "Haiti Update" banner near the top of the home page. This will take them to a collection of links to World Relief/Human Care, World Mission, Reporter, secular news coverage, photos, video, etc. Those who wish to bookmark this page can visit directly at www.lcms.org/help. Some of the news articles available from this site include: * Next steps begin with relief shipments to Haitian cities * Additional missionaries deploy to Dominican Republic to assist with ongoing work in Haiti * Images seen by the LCMS assessment team in Haiti * IRS extends tax break deadline for Haiti donations * Messages from the Directors of LCMS World Mission, World Relief/Human Care, and others who have been to Haiti * Much, much more! Back to top STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP IN OMAHA Congregational leaders are invited to attend the Turning Donors Into Disciples: FAITH-RAISING, NOT FUND-RAISING workshop hosted by Beautiful Savior (7706 South 96th Street), La Vista, on Saturday, February 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This workshop will: * Change the "stewardship of giving" culture in your church * Send you home with the "Stewardship of Giving Toolbox" * Teach you how "Consecrated Stewards" can help increase giving * Teach about "Heart In Focus" - a personal, faith-focused money management plan Facilitators include nationally known leaders such as: Dr. Waldo Werning, author of "Turning Donors into Disciples;" Mr. Lloyd Probasco on effective leadership; Rev. Walt Waddell of Neibauer Press; and Rev. Eugene Gierke about Consecrated Stewards. Start planning today and get your congregation leaders registered. The cost is $25 per person or $100 for groups of five. Note the new registration contact! Please register with Joyce Gierke at cjgierke at cox.net or 402-697-8215. Back to top LUTHERAN HOUR LENTEN DEVOTIONS AVAILABLE Download and customize Lutheran Hour Ministries' Lenten Devotions now at www.lentendevotions.net. Two versions of the devotions are available to help your church or school minister to both the believers and the seekers in your community. Both sets of devotions help readers focus on the magnitude of Christ's resurrection and its impact on mankind. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary - A Lenten Journey renders in a style familiar to long-time readers the salient events in Christ's life inaugurated by His transfiguration and accomplished by His atoning work on Calvary. Walking With Jesus follows the Lord in a contemporary voice as He ministers to those around Him, befriending and encouraging those who would follow Him, all the time displaying compassion for a sinful and renegade world. Both versions capture how the gift of God's pure love-a love that is simply beyond our comprehension-found its full expression in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod Pastor and Chaplain Vern Gundermann takes the reader alongside Jesus as He completes His earthly mission in His Father's service. Everywhere Jesus went-whether along a dusty back road or a paved city street-what stood front and center for Him was the cross. And it was against those rough timbers that He-the Christ, God's "anointed one"-would ultimately find Himself nailed. Walking With Jesus During the Lenten season, the Church acknowledges Christ's passion and celebrates His victory over the forces of darkness. The consequences of misapprehending the significance of Christ's atoning work on the cross and what His resurrection from the dead means for each of us cannot be overstated. In Walking With Jesus, Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod educator Chuck Strohacker puts the reader on an inside track showing what that victory means in the life of a believer. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary and Walking With Jesus have been created in a PDF format making them easily customizable when adding church information for distribution throughout your community. Find printable files of these devotions for your congregation, as well as outreach ideas and more at www.lentendevotions.net. Back to top REV. JOHN NUNES CHALLENGES AUDIENCE AT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY Concordia University, Nebraska welcomed Rev. John Nunes, president of Lutheran World Relief and prominent Lutheran leader, thinker, and speaker, as the first presenter in its spring speaker series. Nunes gave Concordia's Martin Luther King Day presentation. Rev. Nunes focused his message on the idea of being subversive while maintaining a servant's heart to all people of the world. According to Nunes, "We've been lulled into complacency in the West. We don't understand what service means. So much injustice needs challenging, and so much suffering needs comforting. I encourage you to have a subversive spirit of service." Nunes also tackled the difficult issue of racial identity, saying there is no scientific proof that race is a classification system for human beings. He encouraged the Concordia community to remember this as it goes out into the world to serve as Christ's body. When asked what he really wanted Concordia's reaction to be, Nunes stated, "I want some people to be disturbed, some to question their apathy and others to be encouraged and motivated to go into the world. I want the entire community as a whole, through this message, to take time to engage in critical and self-critical reflection on the big questions of how we relate to one another as members of the body of Christ." In reference to the current situation in Haiti, Nunes discussed the challenges facing relief groups, including Lutheran World Relief. He was looking forward to returning to his team at LWR and preparing for those challenges in Haiti. Senior Zach Baedke enjoyed the message. "I really enjoyed his [Nunes'] ability to connect with the audience. He was so engaging. I learned a lot." Rev. Nunes agreed to speak at Concordia because he believes the university has "a core value to engage the world and make a difference. It is refreshing to be in a place that shares a common Lutheran identity- that cares about the poorest of the poor and allows for a forum to address difficult and challenging questions like race, justice and social action. I commend Concordia on tackling a tough set of questions." Concordia will continue its speaker series with Rev. Mitri Rahab giving the Maehr talk on March 8, and 1989 Concordia alumnus Philip Droege, director of White House records, speaking on April 13. The public is welcome to attend. Back to top CONFIRMATION RETREAT AT CAMP LUTHER Camp Luther will host a Confirmation Retreat for small congregations on Friday and Saturday, February 26 and 27. The program involves three group-teaching sessions by Rev. Keith Christiansen. Following each group session, time will be set aside for individual pastors to meet with their confirmation class. Other activities, games, and campfires will be led by camp staff members. Email Camp Luther for a registration form at campluther at campluther.org. Overnight accommodations, Friday night snack, and two meals on Saturday are included with the $42.00 per person registration fee. Back to top NEW LENTEN SERIES OFFERED BY CONCORDIA SEMINARY Dr. Dale A. Meyer, president of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, recently released a Lenten series for use in the parish. Below are his comments: "Do you need a Lenten series? I'm teaching a class on preaching in our postmodern times, these times when an authoritative word from God is rejected out of hand by many people. 'You have your opinion; I have mine. Don't impose your views on me.' So how do we get into their heads and hearts? 'Why should I listen to sermons if there's nothing in them for me?' So for a class project we're working on a Lenten series that tries to get listeners to sit up and think, 'He's talking about my life! I need to hear this.' If you want, we'll make available to you the results of our efforts." Here is what's included in the series, free of charge: 1. Announcements for each upcoming Wednesday sermon to put in a bulletin or on a website. The Seminary's goal for the announcements is to catch the interest of people. In broadcasting it's called the "tease." 2. Two or three weeks before the Lenten date we'll send you by e-mail... a. A sermon outline b. Manuscript c. Short notes about the sermon d. A responsive prayer e. Suggestions for the service's Bible reading f. One or two hymn suggestions 1. This series does not include a whole order of service. The LSB has basic service orders or each church may create its own. The series is titled "Life Together"-based upon Dietrich Bonhoeffer's classic book, Life Together-that describes in challenging ways what it means to be the body of Christ in community. Bonhoeffer wrote the book about seminary life, and Concordia Seminary has been studying it as a campus community, but his insights apply to congregational life in both modern and postmodern times. Hopefully these offerings will speak to older people, "moderns," and to younger people, "postmoderns." Dr. Meyer adds, "As a 60-something, I've been stimulated by the discussions we're having in this class where the average age is 20-something." Here is an overview. Life Together 1. February 17 (Ash Wednesday): * Title: Life's Better in My Hands! * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit." Hand over your life to someone else? No way! * Text: 1 Peter 2:20-25 2. February 24: * Title: I'm Being True to Myself! * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." But of course, you do know what you are doing! * Text: 1 Peter 1:22-25 3. March 3: * Title: This Is It??? * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Today you will be with Me in paradise." Huh? Life is short; get the most out of it here-and-now! * Text: 1 Peter 1:3-5 4. March 10: * Title: How Do You Know Who I Am? * Attention getter: Jesus said to Mary, "Woman, here is your son," and to John, "Here is your mother." Do you bristle when people make claims on your life? * Text: 1 Peter 2:9-12 5. March 17: * Title: How Can I Believe in a God Who Would... * Attention getter: Jesus cried, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me." Is there vindication for believing in God? * Text: 1 Peter 4:12-25 6. March 24: * Title: I Need This...and This...and This... * Attention getter: Jesus said, "I thirst." What do you need? Why do you need it? * Text: 1 Peter 4:1-6 These are for Wednesdays. Also provided will be similar resources for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. If your church is interested in these materials, please go to http://preaching.csl.edu and complete the form. Only those who sign up will receive the materials. Please contact the Seminary's Technology Services department at 314-505-7231 with any questions. Back to top WORSHIP IS LIFTED UP AT 2010 LUTHERAN SUMMER MUSIC ACADEMY Lutheran Music Program recently announced its worship theme for the 2010 Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) Academy to be held June 20 to July 18, 2010, at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. "Sing with All the Saints in Glory" will remember and celebrate the lives of the saints in all times and places. With the aid of texts and music, both ancient and new, the LSM community of 150 students and 50 faculty and staff will explore the calling of our baptism and what it means for us, too, to be called saints and children of God. The LSM worship team will be led by Michael D. Costello, an alum of the program and the first time one has served as the Academy's chaplain. "I knew I loved music before I attended LSM," says Michael, "but it was my years at LSM that really guided me to a career in the church and as a church musician." Michael is now an ordained Lutheran minister and cantor at Grace Lutheran Church in River Forest, Illinois. This past summer, one third of the 150-student community came from congregations who were enrolled in the Young Musicians Partnership (YMP). The YMP program is a unique opportunity for congregations to join with Lutheran Music Program in a core commitment to transform lives and connect people through faith and music. To enroll, congregations need only to establish a local scholarship toward attendance at LSM, which has proven in many current YMP-enrolled congregations to ignite the spark in their young people. This has led to more refined musical skills, more conscious connection between music and worship, and more motivation for youth to share their gifts within the church. Lutheran Music Program extends a 10% tuition discount to all YMP youth and a 33% match to the congregational scholarship, completing the circle of support for gifted musicians to grow both musically and spiritually. Through the YMP, students are-in a very real way-called to LSM through the support of their church, equipped and empowered in their musical gifts, and sent to serve in their church and community. If your congregation has a youth musician who would like to apply to LSM or if your church seeks more information about joining the YMP, contact Admissions Director Susan Olstad toll free at 888-635-6583 or via email at solstad at lutheransummermusic.org. Visit us online at www.lutheransummermusic.org. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 59214 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 13 09:20:45 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:20:45 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 13 Message-ID: Due to the snowy and windy weather last week, I was unable to make it to work the latter part of the week and the Update did not go out as planned. Hopefully this will be the last interruption for quite some time. Thank you for your patience, and I apologize for any inconvenience this might have caused. [cid:image001.gif at 01CA9431.9EF81FD0] January 13, 2010 In this issue: Epiphany blessings! Last week the church celebrated Epiphany, the revelation of the Christ Child to the Gentiles at the visit of the Magi from the East. As the account of the Wise Men's visit is told in the Gospel of Matthew, we see these Magi searching for the "King of the Jews." As they told King Herod, "We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." They weren't sure who they were looking for, only that there was someone special they were moved to worship. Our celebration of Jesus' birth is over, and we are returning to our normal routines. How many of those around us "saw the star" of Christmas these past weeks without knowing the true meaning of the celebrations. They celebrated with Santa, stockings, trees, gifts, and food, but not with the Christ Child. As we visit with those we see every day - neighbors, friends, co-workers, whomever it might be - we should be mindful that they might be searching for the real reason for Christmas. God can use us to share the story of Jesus who came to earth as a baby to be the Savior for all, so that those who are searching might at last find the "King of the Jews" and worship Him as the Wise Men did so long ago. * Prayer Requests * LCMS World Relief/Human Care Response to Haiti Earthquake * Important 2009 Remittance Information * Upcoming Peacemaker Seminars * Pews Available * Stewardship Workshop Offered in Omaha * In the News: A New Church, An Old Story * Camp Luther Received $100,000 Grant * Therapist Needed for Short-Term Work in Turkey * Grace Place Lutheran Retreats * Good Shepherd, Gretna, to Celebrate Anniversary and Dedication * "Reaching Out Together" Conference * Tell CPH Your Story - Win a Free VBS Kit * Delegates Give Feedback on Proposed Structure Changes PRAYER REQUESTS Iglesia Luterana Jesus es el Senor, Omaha - This Hispanic ministry is reaching out to the Hispanic people living in the Omaha area through Sunday worship services, Bible studies, fellowship opportunities, VBS, and an English as a Second Language program that has reached more than 200 people since its beginning in 2008. Please pray for Vicar Obdulio Felix as he finishes up his studies at the Center for Hispanic Studies through Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and prepares to continue leading this mission church as its pastor. We also ask that God would continue to bless the church as they continue their efforts to share the love of Jesus with those around them. Back to top LCMS World Relief/Human Care Response to Haiti Earthquake (From http://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=16375) As news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years reached LCMS World Relief and Human Care (LCMS WR-HC) on Tuesday, the Synod's mercy arm began preparing to reach out in the Caribbean nation with much needed assistance and working in cooperation with Lutheran partners. Only hours after getting reports of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake, the Synod's mercy arm announced it was making available funds to meet initial emergency needs. "The unfolding drama in Haiti calls for unlimited mercy on the part of the people of the LCMS. The needs are urgent and overwhelming right now," said Glenn F. Merritt, LCMS WR-HC director of Disaster Response. "I appeal to God's people to respond as generously as possible during this most difficult time." Early reports indicate extensive property damage and terrible suffering among people trapped in collapsed buildings in an impoverished country already challenged by longtime political strife and poverty. Haiti is widely known as the poorest country in the western hemisphere. News of the devastation triggered numerous calls and e-mails to LCMS Life and Health Ministries Director Maggie Karner who, even before the earthquake, was preparing to send the first LCMS WR-HC Mercy Medical Team (MMT) to Haiti next month. Ironically, on Monday Karner sent a massive MMT recruitment appeal to LCMS pastors and congregations asking for physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to volunteer for the team that is scheduled to serve in Haiti March 11-21. "Our preliminary legwork for the first MMT team to Haiti in March will serve us well as we prepare to respond," Karner said Tuesday night. "Perhaps now, because of this tragedy, people will see the desperate need in Haiti and prayerfully consider how they can use their gifts and talents." To learn more about the MMT trip to Haiti, contact LCMS WR-HC's Jacob Fiene at 800-248-1930, ext. 1278, or jacob.fiene at lcms.org. Following is the full request: LCMS World Relief and Human Care offers medical professionals opportunities to volunteer abroad in underserved regions. We are in desperate need of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to work with Lutherans who share Christ's mercy. Pastors also are needed to serve as team chaplains. Teams work in conjunction with LCMS partner churches and local clinics to care for both body and soul. Since 2006, Mercy Medical Teams have provided free medical care to more than 10,000 people in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. Teams care for people suffering with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, parasites, dysentery, serious wounds, infections, malaria and other tropical diseases, and illnesses associated with unhealthy drinking water and sanitation. We treat both adults and children (including many youngsters orphaned by AIDS) and provide our own pharmacy for dispensing free medications. Please take a minute to watch a brief Mercy Medical Team video at: http://www.lcms.org/?16362 Today, our most desperate need is for a physician to volunteer with our Mercy Medical Team that will serve March 11-21 in Haiti. If you know of physicians interested in short-term missionary medical service, please touch base with Jacob Fiene immediately using his contact information listed below. Whether you have medical skills or a sincere heart for service, please consider becoming a Mercy Medical Team volunteer. Learn more at http://www.lcms.org/mercyteams. For a leader's perspective, log on to the Mercy Medical Team blog at http://mercyandmedical.blogspot.com. Please e-mail Jacob at mercyteams at lcms.org or call toll-free 800-248-1930, ext. 1278. LCMS WR-HC is working cooperatively with LCMS World Mission, Haitian missionaries, and partner churches to provide relief in a timely fashion. Funds are urgently needed to help Haitians who have lost loved ones and homes. To share Christ's mercy with suffering Haitians, make a gift online by visiting http://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=16375. Back to top IMPORTANT 2009 REMITTANCE INFORMATION The District's fiscal year closes on January 31, 2010. Any offerings or gifts your congregation would like to have applied to your 2009 support (February 1, 2009 - January 31, 2010) should be remitted by the end of January, and clearly titled 2009 Remittance. If you are unable to mail your support by the end of January, but would like your support applied to 2009, please send the District a letter indicating your anticipated additional commitment, clearly titled 2009 Remittance. Any other remittances will be applied toward your 2010 support. Back to top UPCOMING PEACEMAKER SEMINARS Do your new years' resolutions include mending relationships with family, friends, co-workers, or others? Let the Nebraska District help by attending one of the "Blessed Are the Peacemakers" seminars offered at various locations in the District. These one-day seminars will present how God's ministry of reconciliation is meant to be lived in everyday life and will help you learn how to deal Biblically with the conflict that inevitably occurs in our relationships. The $20 early-bird registration fee covers the cost of the presentation, breakfast, lunch, and take-home resources. Seminars are currently scheduled for the dates and locations listed below, with more being added. Information and registration forms for these seminars have been mailed to each congregation, and are available to be printed at the District website www.ndlcms.org/congregational/workercare/peacemakers.html February 6-Zion, Imperial (registration due January 22) February 13-Trinity, Auburn (registration due January 29) February 20-St. Paul, Utica (registration due February 5) March 20-Holy Savior, Lincoln (registration due March 5) Please consider attending the seminar most convenient for you-and invite others to join you! Contact the District Office at 888-643-2961with questions. Back to top PEWS AVAILABLE The Nebraska District has wooden pews available for any congregation in need of them. These wooden pews are in Omaha, and the interested congregation would be responsible for picking them up. For more information, contact Connie Borchers at connieb at ndlcms.org or 888-643-2961. Back to top STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP OFFERED IN OMAHA Congregational leaders are invited to attend the Turning Donors Into Disciples: FAITH-RAISING, NOT FUND-RAISING workshop hosted by Beautiful Savior (7706 South 96th Street), La Vista, on Saturday, February 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This workshop will: * Change the "stewardship of giving" culture in your church * Send you home with the "Stewardship of Giving Toolbox" * Teach you how "Consecrated Stewards" can help increase giving * Teach about "Heart In Focus" - a personal, faith-focused money management plan Facilitators include nationally known leaders. Start planning today and get your congregation leaders registered. The cost is $25 per person or $100 for groups of five. For more information, email christinab at churchsmart.com or call David Wetzler at 800-253-4276. To register online, click on the "training" button at www.churchsmart.com. You may also register by emailing the Discipling/Stewardship Center (Dr. Waldo Werning) at wjwern at aol.com. Back to top IN THE NEWS: A NEW CHURCH, AN OLD STORY "Bethlehem. It wasn't the nice, peaceful, picturesque little town we picture in our minds." This was the picture Cross of Christ Lutheran Church tried to paint for the community of Aurora at its presentation of "A Night in Bethlehem" in December. Read about the newest Nebraska District congregation's efforts to share the real Bethlehem and the ancient story of Jesus' birth, as well as the community's response, in the newspaper article published by the Aurora News-Register on December 22. Find the article online at http://www.auroranewsregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1112:a-new-church-an-old-story&catid=1:local&Itemid=10. Back to top CAMP LUTHER RECEIVED $100,000 GRANT Camp Luther of Nebraska, Schuyler, recently received a $100,000 grant from the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation, Appleton, Wis., designed to generate thousands more in financial gifts to Camp Luther. The grant will make it possible for the camp to develop a program that involves working with the LCMS Foundation Gift Planner in Nebraska, Neal Koch, and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans representatives to host meetings with small groups of interested donors and to make a joint presentation on how individuals can support the future ministry of Camp Luther through their gifts, deferred gifts, wills, and other tools which Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and the LCMS Foundation have available. The LCMS Foundation and Thrivent Funds will manage the Camp's new endowment fund. This program is unique in that it will give donors the opportunity to support an area of their choice: camperships, capital improvements or endowment fund, while receiving a photo newsletter on the opportunities their gifts made available to children. The grant will also make it possible for the camp to hire a pastor to be the Director of Endowment. He will travel throughout the District to preach and speak about the unique ministry opportunity of Camp Luther. The grant is part of the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation Charitable Gifting Initiative designed to educate supporters of Lutheran institutions and ministries about the advantages of tax-wise charitable gifts. "This grant will give Camp Luther the boost it has needed for many years. Finally, we will be able to get the word out to the people of the area about the life-changing effects camp can have on the lives of children, youth and families," according to board president Allan Zietz of Norfolk, NE. "It is our hope that this grant will strengthen Camp Luther's ability to inform potential donors of various options available to them to financially support the Camp's work," said Brad Hewitt, president of the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Foundation. "As people come alongside Camp Luther with charitable gifts, Camp Luther will become increasingly effective in carrying out its ministry/mission." For more information on this grant or on the ministry of Camp Luther, contact Hank Rausch, executive director of Camp Luther, at hank at campluther.org or 402-352-5655. Back to top THERAPIST NEEDED FOR SHORT-TERM WORK IN TURKEY There is a need for a therapist (PT, OT, or ST) that could travel to Turkey during the first week of April 2010 to be involved in a training project that involves training "care workers" who go into disabled people's homes and also into orphanages that house disabled children and adults. The therapist will be doing patient/family education with a local organization that supports people with disabilities. A second therapist is also needed to cover the following topics: * Basics of Wheelchair fitting - including doing a demonstration with a locally produced wheelchair with a patient and showing people what to look for to make it a "good fit" * Basics of Patient Hygiene - hints on keeping dependent patients clean and be able to explain the benefits and then risks of not doing so * Wound Care * Psychosocial issues - especially with caregiver fatigue There is assistance available for travel and accommodations. Please contact Bobbie Lautenschlager immediately at 314-503-4317 or at joliba at sbcglobal.net if you are interested or need additional information. Back to top GRACE PLACE LUTHERAN RETREATS Grace Place Lutheran Retreats is a recognized service organization of the LCMS. The goal of Grace Place Lutheran Retreats is to offer preventative wellness skills, attitudes, and resources to professional church workers and their spouses, so they can experience and live the abundant lives to which Jesus called them. Various donors generously support Grace Place and its ministry, which keeps the costs down for attendees. Congregations are encouraged to consider sending one or more church workers to be refreshed and renewed in ministry this year. For more information, contact Grace Place Lutheran Retreats at 314-842-3077 or visit www.graceplaceretreats.org. Nebraska District Pastors/Educators and Spouses June 21-25 - Snowmass, Colo. (registration: $360) Pastors/Educators and Spouses July 26-30 - Trego, Wis. (registration: $225 if Thrivent member) Single Clergy/Educators September 1-5 - Snowmass, Colo. (registration: $360) Back to top GOOD SHEPHERD, GRETNA, TO CELEBRATE ANNIVERSARY AND DEDICATION Following is a congregation anniversary that was not listed in the Nebraska Lutheran Reporter. Everyone is invited to join them. Good Shepherd, Gretna, will celebrate its 30th Anniversary and the dedication of its new addition on Sunday, January 31, with one service at 10:30 a.m., followed by a dinner and program. Guest speaker is Rev. Bo Baumeister, former campus pastor of Concordia University, Seward. Back to top "REACHING OUT TOGETHER" CONFERENCE The second annual "Reaching Out Together" evangelism conference will take place on February 13, 2010. It is designed to inspire, encourage, teach, and give opportunity for putting into practice principles for talking about Jesus to others, especially the uncommitted or unchurched. This event is presented by the Saturday Outreach School in partnership with Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, the Missouri District LCMS, and North American Missions Ablaze! "Reaching Out Together" is for pastors, evangelism boards, church leaders, and laypeople in the Missouri District and adjacent LCMS districts. Featured break-out session speakers include Dr. Thomas R. Zehnder, executive director of LCMS World Mission; Kay L. Meyer, author of Witnessing-A Lifestyle; Rev. John Rathje, pastor of Christ in the City Lutheran Church, St. Louis; Rev. Peter Kirby, Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ; Rev. Kevin Parviz, Lutherans in Jewish Evangelism; and Rev. Brad Aldrich, CrossPollination Ministries. Registration fee is $20 per participant for the first four people from a single congregation, and $15 for each additional participant. Fee includes lunch and all materials. The registration deadline for "Reaching Out Together" is February 5, 2010. For more information contact Concordia Seminary Continuing Education at 314-505-7486 or email ce at csl.edu. Back to top TELL CPH YOUR STORY - WIN A FREE VBS KIT Did you know that in many countries, authorities arrest Christians just for meeting to worship? Though they face persecution, these Christians continue to believe. These believers are bold. Even if we don't face persecution, we are still called by the Gospel to be bold believers. This is what our 2010 VBS, Planet Zoom, teaches your children. But today, we want to hear from you. CPH's Bold Bee-liever Challenge is an opportunity for you to encourage others by sharing an example of God's Word in action within your congregation and community. Perhaps your story shares the experience you had on a mission project or other response to God's grace that touched lives in your community; you might recount the Baptism story of a new believer; or share with us the bold witness proclaimed by a member of your congregation to someone who did not know Jesus. Once we have all the stories, ten will be randomly selected and posted online, where you and the rest of the CPH community will help select one congregation to receive a completely free Planet Zoom Vacation Bible School with enough resources to serve 150 students! The Bold Bee-liever Project is about all of us, rejoicing together and giving thanks to God for the work He alone does in all of our congregations, homes, and communities in and through His Word and Sacraments. That's bold! Since not everyone who submits a story will be able to be featured on the site, we'll also randomly select one of you (who help to determine the final story) to receive a free VBS. So you'll want to encourage your congregation to visit the site, read the stories, and provide feedback! After the stories are posted on January 19, every person who votes will have the chance to enter his or her congregation to receive a FREE VBS. That means the more people your congregation gets to vote, the better chance you have to be selected! Simply submit your story to the CPH VBS website www.cph.org/planetzoom by 5 p.m. on January 17, 2010. Back to top DELEGATES GIVE FEEDBACK ON PROPOSED STRUCTURE CHANGES (from Reporter Online, December 31, 2009) Two of the nine regional gatherings planned for LCMS convention delegates already have taken place, and organizer-presenter Rev. Jon Braunersreuther says that, so far, the events are doing just what they're supposed to do: explain the current structure of the Synod and the 21 proposals of the Blue Ribbon Task Force on Synod Structure and Governance, and find out what delegates think about the proposals. "The objective here is to share the information, to make it clear to the delegates, many of whom don't know how the Synod is structured. And to make it clear what the proposals are, allow them to ask questions, and then, to get their feedback," said Braunersreuther, assistant to Synod President Dr. Gerald B. Kieschnick. "We want to know what they think so that the floor committee can take that information and use it to help mold the resolutions that they'll put forward on the floor of the convention." Some 1,250 delegates are expected to take part in the convention July 10-17 in Houston, spending the first two business days (July 11-12) determining which of the task force's proposals -- fine-tuned and presented as resolutions -- will best prepare The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod to carry out its mission in the years ahead. "We need structure and governance that are flexible and forward-looking -- receptive to new opportunities God is giving the Synod," Kieschnick said in introductory comments at each of the regional gatherings. "And we need a system of structure and governance that can help us maximize limited resources as faithful stewards, a need that has become even more critical in the current economic climate of our nation." Each of the pre-convention gatherings involves between 100 and 200 delegates. "People can really participate because of the size -- it's not intimidating," says Braunersreuther. One delegate told him that he had read through the task force's report "and didn't understand a thing" until he attended the pre-convention gathering, which "made all the difference in the world." The delegate said he now understands the issues "so much more." "So, that's a delegate who, if he had just come to Houston, would have been in the dark and it would have been confusing," Braunersreuther said. "And now he'll come and he'll be prepared to make good decisions about the proposals as they're put forward." Rev. Dennis Lassanske, a pastoral delegate from the Michigan District, attended the Dec. 11-12 regional meeting in Detroit. (The first meeting was held Dec. 4-5 in Denver, and it was this meeting the Nebraska District delegates attended.) After reading the task force's report, he says he is "convinced that the restructure of the Synod operation is long overdue" and that the proposals offer "some insightful options." "I better understand their thinking as a result of the pre-convention meeting," Lassanske said via e-mail. And, even though he realizes that the restructuring process will be difficult, he says he is "hopeful that delegates will be well-read and prepared to make supportive decisions that will move the Synod forward on these structure issues." Particularly helpful, he added, were the question-and-answer sessions, which "gave great information for making a more complete evaluation of the material and its historical context and impact." Said Lassanske: "I am more hopeful today than before the meeting and more determined to do my research and prepare for the convention this summer." Ron Jenkins, a lay delegate from the Indiana District, called the Detroit gathering "very informative and helpful." "I think it's always good to [re-examine] our Bylaws so we can understand why we do things and not do it just because it has always been done that way," he said. Eva Fronk, an advisory delegate from the English District, said the regional meeting she attended "made me very positive and hopeful for our Synod." "We are examining our present practices, evaluating our strengths and weaknesses, and prayerfully considering 'which course is best for the salvation of souls,'" Fronk said, quoting the Synod's first president, Dr. C.F.W. Walther. Even though the participants didn't agree on everything, the first two delegate gatherings "went very, very well," according to Braunersreuther. "There was a wonderful spirit in the room at both of those regional gatherings. People have been courteous and yet upfront about what their disagreements are. That's a good thing." Everyone taking part in the meetings is being asked to complete a survey about the task force proposals, explaining what they like and don't like. And, in table discussion groups, they are identifying the two or three most important proposals for convention action. After all the regional gatherings have ended, the results of the table discussions will be tabulated. That information, along with the written survey responses, will be considered by Convention Floor Committee 8, on Synod Structure and Governance, as it prepares the resolutions and decides which proposals are most critical for the convention to address. The remaining seven regional gatherings will take place in January and February in Madison, Wis.; Minneapolis; Boston; Newport Beach, Calif.; Atlanta; Dallas; and St. Louis. Braunersreuther asks delegates who will be attending those meetings to "read the report, keep an open mind, and come with your questions." Back to top The weekly Email Update is a resource offered to all in the Nebraska District to share information and to enrich the ministry God has called you to. Please continue to share information you feel would be of interest to others and let us know if there is any other way we at the District Office can be a resource to your ministry. Items for inclusion in the Update may be sent to communications at ndlcms.org. Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 77790 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Fri Jan 15 12:18:26 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Fri, 15 Jan 2010 18:18:26 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Special Haiti Relief Information Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CA95D8.D79967B0] January 15, 2010 Special Haiti Relief Issue In this issue: Greetings in the name of our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus. This special edition of the Email Update contains information on many of the Lutheran responses and relief efforts taking place for the people of Haiti. More information is available by following the web links in each article. * President Kieschnick Responds to the Haitian Earthquake * LCMS Begins Earthquake Response Efforts * Orphan Grain Train Responds to Needs * Lutheran World Relief Offers Aid to Earthquake Victims * CTS Reaches Out to Victims in Haiti * Free Bulletin Inserts for Haiti Relief * Serve on a Mercy Medical Team to Haiti This Spring PRESIDENT KIESCHNICK RESPONDS TO THE HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE To: The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod From: President Gerald B. Kieschnick Subject: LCMS response to Haitian earthquake Date: January 14, 2010 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, As I write this letter, news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years is being covered nationwide by the media. Only hours after receiving reports of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake, we began preparing to reach out to the people of Haiti with critically needed assistance. We will be disbursing, through LCMS World Relief and Human Care, significant dollars to meet immediate and longer-term needs. Many lives have been lost, extensive property has been damaged, and terrible suffering has been inflicted upon people trapped in collapsed buildings in a country already challenged by longtime political strife and poverty. We praise God that our missionaries in Haiti are confirmed to be safe. In addition to an LCMS World Mission GEO (Globally Engaged in Outreach) missionary and family stationed in Haiti, there are at least three short-term mission teams in the country from LCMS congregations and mission organizations from Nebraska, New York, and Wisconsin. We are working to confirm the safety of pastors and others in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti (ELCH), which has been a partner church of the Missouri Synod's since 2001. While communications are still sketchy, we believe Rev. Marky Kessa, president of the ELCH, is safe. We are continuing our efforts to reach our other dear brothers and sisters in Christ in Haiti. The LCMS, working cooperatively through LCMS World Relief and Human Care, LCMS World Mission, Lutheran World Relief in Baltimore, Concordia Publishing House, and our U.S. and Haitian partners, will strive to serve the ongoing needs of the people of Haiti who have lost loved ones, homes, possessions, and means of livelihood as a result of this devastating natural disaster. With deepest gratitude I thank the generous LCMS members who have already responded with financial gifts for the people of Haiti. Within 24 hours, more than $100,000 has been received. We invite and urge our other dear brothers and sisters to help in this work. The links below will connect you with giving opportunities and provide you with information and resources for speaking about this tragedy to members, families, and friends. Giving Donations are urgently needed to provide relief efforts in Haiti. Gifts may be accepted online at http://givenowlcms.org. Information * For the most recent updates of the LCMS relief effort in Haiti, visit www.lcms.org/worldrelief. * To learn more about LCMS GEO missionary Alyssa Stone and her role in Haiti, visit www.lcms.org?15195 or view her print-ready prayer card at www.lcmsworldmission.org/prayercards. Resources Among the many materials available from LCMS ministries, these are some of the resources our members may find most useful: * For congregational use: Bulletin insert: www.lcms.org/ca/worldrelief/dnews * For young adults/adults: "Where is God Now" - 60 devotions specifically written for times of disaster, chaos, and grief: http://bit.ly/5OgH9j * For adult Bible study and reflection: "Comfort for Christians" - a four-part study by Rev. Roger Sonnenberg: http://bit.ly/8Rp7Et * Also for adults: "For the Faint of Heart" - by Craig Parrott http://bit.ly/8qw2UK * For teens/young adults: "Why? A Resource Kit for Talking to Students about Disaster & Tragedy" - www.youthesource.com/Index.asp?PageID=7082&Function=View&ArticleID=1329 * For children: "I Will Not Be Afraid" - by Michelle Medlock Adams: http://bit.ly/6hqURs Finally, but most importantly, I ask for your prayers as we respond to the needs of the Haitian people so tragically affected by the quake. With deep sincerity I give thanks to our almighty heavenly Father for keeping our missionaries safe. In addition, I pray for all those in Haiti whose lives have been devastated by the death of loved ones, personal injuries, loss of home and possessions. Moreover, I pray that God will bless our work in Haiti, along with that of many other humanitarian agencies, to relieve the suffering of those who have been so tragically impacted by the earthquake. Finally, I pray that the peace of God that passes all understanding, through Jesus Christ our Lord, will be of great comfort to all those affected by this horrendous disaster. The peace of the Lord be with you all! Gerald B. Kieschnick President The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod Back to top LCMS BEGINS EARTHQUAKE RESPONSE EFFORTS As estimates of the loss of life and destruction in Haiti emerged following Tuesday's magnitude 7.0 earthquake, LCMS World Relief and Human Care (WR-HC) began responding, while members of LCMS congregations prayed for the safety of their mission teams who were in the Caribbean nation at the time of the quake. "The unfolding drama in Haiti calls for unlimited mercy on the part of the people of the LCMS. The needs are urgent and overwhelming right now," said Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, WR-HC director of disaster response. "I appeal to God's people to respond as generously as possible during this most difficult time." Haitians piled bodies along the devastated streets of their capital, Port-au-Prince, on Wednesday after the strongest earthquake to hit the nation in more than 200 years crushed thousands of structures, from schools and shacks to the National Palace and the U.N. peacekeeping headquarters. An untold number of people were still trapped. Haitian President Rene Preval said the devastation was so complete that he estimated the death toll would run into the thousands. International Red Cross spokesman Paul Conneally said an estimated 3 million people may have been affected by the quake and that it would take a day or two for a clear picture of the damage to emerge. Safe after the quake is a missionary family, Alyssa Stone and her two daughters, who live west of the capital where the shaking wasn't as strong. Stone is a deaconess intern from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne. Also reported as safe are at least three short-term mission teams in Haiti from LCMS congregations and mission organizations in Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, and Wisconsin. Jason Christ, director of Christian education at First Trinity Church in Tonawanda, N.Y., was glad to receive text messages Tuesday evening from 14 members of the church's mission team who had arrived in Haiti on Monday. "They are all OK," he said. He also said the group, which includes Rev. Chuck Whited, are in Les Cayes, about 120 miles away from the hard-hit capital. This was the sixth time a team from the church had visited Haiti to work at an orphanage there. News of the quake triggered numerous calls and e-mails to LCMS Life and Health Ministries Director Maggie Karner, who had been preparing to send the first LCMS WR-HC Mercy Medical Team (MMT) to Haiti in March. The day before the quake Karner had sent out an MMT recruitment appeal to LCMS pastors and congregations asking for physicians, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to volunteer for the team that is scheduled to serve in Haiti March 11-21. "Our preliminary legwork for the first MMT team to Haiti in March will serve us well as we prepare to respond," Karner said Tuesday night. "Perhaps now, because of this tragedy, people will see the desperate need in Haiti and prayerfully consider how they can use their gifts and talents." To learn more about the MMT trip to Haiti, contact LCMS WR-HC's Jacob Fiene at 800-248-1930, ext. 1278, or jacob.fiene at lcms.org. To donate to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, click here. Back to top ORPHAN GRAIN TRAIN RESPONDS TO NEEDS Orphan Grain Train, in cooperation with LCMS World Relief and Human Care, will ship 513,216 "Kids Against Hunger" meals (two semi-loads) to Haiti next week. Orphan Grain Train is shipping to Haiti both by air and by sea. A semi-load relief shipment of food sent last month arrived on January 6 and is being used to respond to the disaster. Each semi-load contains 256,608 meals. The next two semi-loads will leave Norfolk the week of January 17. Other relief shipments are in the planning stage. "Kids Against Hunger" volunteers in Hastings, Lincoln, and Norfolk, Nebraska, prepared the "Kids Against Hunger" meal packets. Food distributions are intended for all people in need, regardless of church affiliation. Cash donations of any amount will help the survivors in Haiti. Shipping one semi-load to Haiti costs more than $5,000 in transportation costs. Checks may be sent to Orphan Grain Train, PO Box 1466, Norfolk, NE 68702-1466. Please write "Haiti" on the memo line. You may also give online by credit card at www.ogt.org. Click "Donate Now" and fill out the requested information. You will receive an email confirmation when your gift arrives in Orphan Grain Train's bank account. Thank you for your support and helping send Relief for Human Need Worldwide! Back to top LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF OFFERS AID TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS Baltimore, January 13, 2010 - A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the small island nation of Haiti on the evening of January 12, the worst earthquake to strike the region in more than 200 years. Thousands are feared dead; the quake's epicenter was located just 10 miles from the capital city of Port-au-Prince. "As the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, the people of Haiti will desperately need the help of the international community in the wake of this horrifying disaster," says Trevor Knoblich, LWR's Program Coordinator for Emergency Response. "A large response will be needed to even begin helping the people of Haiti," he adds. Throughout the night and into the morning powerful aftershocks, some as strong as 5.9 magnitude, continued. The initial quake toppled the presidential palace and destroyed the shanty homes where most Haitians live. Their homes destroyed, people are in the streets with nowhere to go. The greatest damage appears to be concentrated in Port-au-Prince, where critical services, such as electricity, water, and phone services are severely affected. Access to the capital city is limited due to debris and other obstacles on the roads. Reports of injuries and death tolls are still unknown because of communications problems; however, early indications suggest a large number of causalities and extensive damage. Haiti, by virtue of its location and its overwhelming poverty, is extremely vulnerable to natural disasters. Before the earthquake, people were still struggling to recover from the devastation caused by a succession of tropical storms that struck Haiti in 2008, killing hundreds, causing floods, destroying crops and leaving thousands homeless. Lutheran World Relief has supported that on-going recovery effort in partnership with World Neighbors. LWR has committed an initial $1,000,000 to the relief effort, and will reevaluate that commitment as new reports emerge. LWR is currently planning a two-phase relief and recovery response through their partners on the ground in Haiti. LWR is also responding through the Action by Churches Together (ACT) alliance to support immediate relief efforts of food, water, medicine, and shelter. LWR will continue to evaluate the needs on the ground as search, rescue, and relief efforts are updated. Every dollar donated to this life-saving effort is critical to providing the necessary emergency support to the people of Haiti. Lutheran World Relief president John Nunes adds, "We ask that you pray for the people of Haiti and for our local partners on the ground with whom we have lost contact. Lutheran World Relief will work expeditiously to put your prayers and gifts to work to save lives in Haiti." Donations to the Haiti Earthquake fund can be made by phone at 800-LWR-LWR-2, online at lwr.org, or by mailing a check or money order to Lutheran World Relief Haiti Earthquake Relief, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832. Back to top CTS REACHES OUT TO VICTIMS IN HAITI Although it is thousands of miles away, the victims of the Haitian earthquake are held closely in the hearts and prayers of the faculty, staff, and student body of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana. "This is a time when we go to the word of Jesus for guidance as we are tragically made aware of how frail and fragile human life is," offered Dr. Dean O. Wenthe, CTS President. "We encourage you to join your prayers with ours and lift up your hands with us to help those in Haiti." A video of Dr. Wenthe's comments may be found on the seminary's website, www.ctsfw.edu. In fact, there are CTS students and family members who are currently in Haiti. Deaconess Intern Alyssa Stone and her daughters, Andrea and Kristin, are in La Cayes which was not in the epicenter of the quake. Alyssa has been able to make contact with the U.S. and reports that some houses did collapse and there was some panic, but there is not the extreme damage as seen in other areas of the country. There are others in the seminary community who are still awaiting word from family members and we continue to hold them up in prayer. Dr. Wenthe also explained that the seminary will be sending a team of students and faculty to assist in Haiti as soon as they receive clearance to travel. Those interested in sending support for this mission may donate by going to www.ctsfw.edu/supporthaiti, or by phoning 260-452-2212. Information on how to support the efforts of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod's (LCMS) World Relief and Human Care relief effort may be found on the same webpage. Back to top FREE BULLETIN INSERTS FOR HAITI RELIEF As news of what is being called the largest earthquake to hit Haiti in more than 200 years reached LCMS World Relief and Human Care on Tuesday, the Synod's mercy arm began preparing to reach out with much needed assistance and working in cooperation with Lutheran partners. To help you communicate the LCMS response to this large-scale disaster with your congregation members this Sunday, LCMS World Relief and Human Care has prepared a bulletin insert. Please feel free to reproduce the insert, available in black and white or full color, for use in educating members about the urgent need for prayer and financial support for our Lutheran brothers and sisters in Haiti who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods. Click here to download a color PDF Click here to download a black and white PDF Congregations may also consider collecting a congregational gift or special door offering to strengthen and support our men and women who will respond to disaster in Haiti in the weeks and months ahead. Thank you! Back to top SERVE ON A MERCY MEDICAL TEAM TO HAITI THIS SPRING LCMS World Relief and Human Care offers medical professionals opportunities to volunteer abroad in underserved regions. We are in desperate need of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals to work with Lutherans who share Christ's mercy. Pastors also are needed to serve as team chaplains. Teams work in conjunction with LCMS partner churches and local clinics to care for both body and soul. Since 2006, Mercy Medical Teams have provided free medical care to more than 10,000 people in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. Teams care for people suffering with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, parasites, dysentery, serious wounds, infections, malaria and other tropical diseases, and illnesses associated with unhealthy drinking water and sanitation. We treat both adults and children (including many youngsters orphaned by AIDS) and provide our own pharmacy for dispensing free medications. Please take a minute to watch a brief Mercy Medical Team video at: http://www.lcms.org/?16362 Today, our most desperate need is for a physician to volunteer with our Mercy Medical Team that will serve March 11-21 in Haiti. If you know of physicians interested in short-term missionary medical service, please touch base with Jacob Fiene immediately using his contact information listed below. Whether you have medical skills or a sincere heart for service, please consider becoming a Mercy Medical Team volunteer. Learn more at http://www.lcms.org/mercyteams. For a leader's perspective, log on to the Mercy Medical Team blog at http://mercyandmedical.blogspot.com. Please e-mail Jacob at mercyteams at lcms.org or call toll-free 800-248-1930, ext. 1278. Back to top Blessings on your weekend, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 54143 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 20 08:54:04 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 14:54:04 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 20 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CA99AD.BDBA5E20] January 20, 2010 In this issue: Epiphany greetings in the name of Jesus. Thanks to everyone who contributed information for this week's Update. Ministry news and event information is always welcome to be considered for inclusion in future newsletters, and may be sent to communications at ndlcms.org. This newsletter may also be forwarded to those who might be interested in the news shared here, or portions may be reproduced in congregational bulletins or newsletters as you wish. * Prayer Requests * Updates on Haiti Relief Efforts * Nebraska's Hospice Association Seeking Award Nominations * Lutheran Choir of Lincoln Begins Spring Season * Opportunities to Visit Germany This Year * At Ease Luncheon in Omaha * Connect with the Fiala Missionary Family in Eurasia * Send Phone Messages Instantly to Every Congregation Member * National Lutheran Schools Week Worship and Activity Manual Now Available * German Church Offers Camp for Teens and Young Adults * Do You Know a Future Church Worker? PRAYER REQUESTS The People and Relief Workers of Haiti - Please continue to remember in prayer the people of Haiti who were affected by the earthquake last week. So much information has been shared on the relief efforts, with more information being made available daily. Along with all of these efforts, the most important thing we can do is continue to pray - for the survivors, for the injured, for those who lost loved ones, and for those who are in Haiti to help them all. Ministry in the Sandhills - Rev. Andy Safarik serves three congregations, as well as a vacancy, across an area that covers a distance of more than 86 miles in the Western Sandhills of Nebraska. Please remember this ministry and Pastor Safarik in your prayers, as he travels many miles each week to share the love of Christ with those in the Sandhills. This ministry attends to the spiritual needs of the farmers and ranchers that live in this area. While the people may be spread out, the mission field is ripe in this part of Nebraska. Many of those who live in this area are not connected to a church, while many others are Mormon. This offers great opportunities for witnessing to the love of Jesus Christ. Just last month, a live nativity was offered to the community. Following is an excerpt from the description of the event: The children from our Midweek program then had a very simple presentation of the Gospel account of the birth of Jesus. . . . Mormons who looked at the cross in the star asked what it meant. Young people with parents and grandparents, and great-grandparents, people from all over the area, church-goers and non-church-goers, people from many different denominations heard the Gospel message that Jesus Christ came down from heaven to die for our sins and was raised so that we might be with Him forever. Back to top UPDATES ON HAITI RELIEF EFFORTS The relief agencies offering aid to the rescue efforts in Haiti continue to share information. Following are the most recent summaries we've received, along with links for more information. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans (from www.thrivent.com) Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will add $1 to every $2, up to a total Thrivent Financial contribution of $1 million, when members donate to one of the following: * Lutheran World Relief. * ELCA Disaster Response. * LCMS World Relief/Human Care. * WELS Committee on Relief. Thrivent Financial will add a maximum of $250 per member donation, and donations will be accepted through March 31, 2010. Here are ways to give to Haiti earthquake relief that will qualify for the matching gift: LCMS World Relief and Human Care in St. Louis: Online: https://catalog.lcms.org/givenow/Gift_input.asp?ID=800 Phone: 888-930-4438 (toll-free) Mail: LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861 (Mark checks "Haiti Earthquake Relief") Lutheran World Relief in Baltimore: Online: www.lwr.org/emergencies/10/HaitiEarthquake/index.asp Phone: 800-LWR-LWR-2 (toll-free) Mail: Lutheran World Relief - Haiti Earthquake, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832 Thrivent Financial for Lutherans: Online: www.thrivent.com/helpinghaiti Phone: 800-236-3736 (toll-free) - (when prompted, please say "directory" then enter ext. 83003.) Questions on this program may also be directed to this phone number. Thrivent expects that this response will result in more than $3 million to support the earthquake survivors: $2 million donated by members and an additional $1 million from Thrivent Financial. Be a part of the Helping Haiti effort and make a difference for the victims of this natural disaster. Lutherans in Medical Missions Lutherans in Medical Missions is funding the transportation costs of Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, and Dr. John Lautenschlager, M.D. of St. Louis to join the LCMS World Mission and World Relief and Human Care team in Santiago, Dominican Republic, on Thursday, January 19, 2010. They will help assess how to best use resources to aid the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. All donations designated for the work in Haiti will be used to help those affected by the earthquake. Please keep the people in Haiti and all relief workers in your thoughts and prayers. If you have any questions on the Lutherans in Medical Missions' relief efforts, please send a note to limm at limm.org. Donations to LIMM can be sent to: LIMM Haiti Earthquake Relief P.O. Box 766 Concordia, MO 64020 Orphan Grain Train Orphan Grain Train, a non-profit organization based out of Norfolk, Nebraska, is asking for your donations of new or used summer clothes and medical supplies such as: crutches, canes, walkers, walking shoes for broken foot, slings, braces, etc for survivors of the earthquake in Haiti. OGT is also asking for cash donations to assist with shipping costs. Cash donations should be sent directly to the corporate headquarters at Orphan Grain Train, PO Box 1466, Norfolk, NE 68702-1466. Orphan Grain Train is a Christian volunteer network that shares personal and material resources with needy people in America and around the world. Grain Train volunteers gather donations of clothing, medical supplies, and equipment. Donations can be dropped off during business hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Industrial Repair Services at 309 East 2nd Street, Suite 4, in Papillion, Nebraska. Chuck Martin, a local OGT volunteer, can be reached at 402-339-4691 for alternative drop off times. For more information on the Orphan Grain Train, please visit www.ogt.org Collect Food, Hygiene Items to Send to Haiti The Lutheran Church-Missouri-Synod (LCMS) is seeking donations of food, water, and hygiene items within the next two weeks for shipment to Haiti in cooperation with Lutheran partners. The request for donations is in response to last Tuesday's devastating earthquake. Two 40-foot shipping containers will be loaded with donated supplies and shipped to the capital of Haiti, Port-au-Prince, as soon as arrangements can be finalized. Requested items include bottled water, canned food with pop tops, peanut butter, dry rice and beans, bedding, shovels and tools, buckets, antibacterial ointment, bandages, washcloths, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, first-aid ointment, and clean, used clothing in good condition. The items can be sent to: Gloria Dei Lutheran Church 7601 SW 39th St. Davie, FL 33328 954-475-0683 St. Paul Lutheran Church 801 West Palmetto Park Rd. Boca Raton, FL 33486 561-395-0433 "I am deeply humbled by the generosity and mercy of the LCMS people and congregations,'' said Rev. Glenn F. Merritt, LCMS World Relief and Human Care director of disaster response. "They have opened their hearts and their wallets to help those suffering in Haiti, and for that, I am thankful. The needs are great and continuing. We are now asking our fellow Lutherans to help us collect food, hygiene, and medical items that we pray will ease some of the hardships and sorrows caused by the devastation.'' The donation drive is a joint effort of LCMS World Relief and Human Care (LCMS WR-HC), the LCMS Florida-Georgia District, MISSION: HAITI, and Orphan Grain Train (OGT). Through grants, LCMS WR-HC will assist with shipping charges. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Haiti (ELCH) as well as OGT and MISSION: HAITI partners in Haiti will receive the containers of donations in Port-au-Prince and oversee their distribution. Financial donations are also urgently required for the long-term Lutheran response in Haiti. To make a gift, visit http://givenowlcms.org, call toll-free 888-930-4438, or mail checks marked "Haiti Earthquake Relief" to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861. Lutheran World Relief Lutheran World Relief and its partners on the ground are rushing to provide water, water purification supplies, food, and shelter items to victims of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12. "At this point, water is a critical need on the ground. People have been without access to water for days in warm temperatures. Delivering clean water will help save lives in Haiti," says LWR president John Nunes. LWR has pledged $1 million to overall relief work in Haiti, and anticipates increasing that commitment as partners work to assess needs on the ground. LWR will send an initial $150,000 to the Lutheran World Federation immediately to deliver water containers and purification materials, as well as temporary shelter items. LWR is also coordinating with 400 people on the ground through partnerships with Catholic Relief Services, local partners in Haiti, and other international faith-based organizations. "Getting aid into Haiti has been challenging. We've been asking LWR supporters to please send cash so that we can quickly get aid in," adds Trevor Knoblich, LWR's Program Coordinator for Emergency Response. A shipment of Lutheran World Relief health kits and layettes left LWR's warehouse in New Windsor, Md., January 19 to be distributed to Haitian earthquake survivors. LWR partner Church World Service will distribute the shipment of 650 health kits and 1500 layettes, the first of multiple planned shipments to Haiti. LWR has committed material resources valued at nearly $500,000 and plans to send more health kits and layettes, along with quilts and school kits, in the near future. Health kits with soap, washcloth, towel, toothbrush and toothpaste, nail clippers, and a comb, help people living in desperate situations to maintain basic hygiene. Layettes, containing a baby blanket, diapers, and baby clothing, help parents care for their infants. Lutheran congregations and groups in the U.S. assemble the kits and donate them to LWR for use in overseas emergencies. "In the aftermath of a disaster, when people are living in very close quarters and without adequate sanitation, the spread of disease is a very real concern," said Trevor Knoblich, LWR's program coordinator for emergency response. "Something as simple as a bar of soap can make such a big difference." LWR issued an appeal to its U.S. supporters to increase their donations of quilts, health kits and school kits in order to meet the needs in Haiti. "Right now our stocks are running low, and we are critically low on health kits," said Knoblich. "We know from experience that Lutherans are compassionate people, and we are asking that they donate whatever quilts and kits they can to help us meet the incredible needs in Haiti." LWR is accepting donations to the "Haiti Earthquake Fund" on its website, www.lwr.org/Haiti, by phone at 800-LWR-LWR-2, and by mail at P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21298-9832. Members of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans can get their gifts to LWR matched. Thrivent is giving $1 for every $2 donated. For more information or to have your gift matched, visit www.lwr.org/Haiti. LWR has also launched a new "text-to-give" service, allowing supporters to quickly and easily text contributions to be billed to their monthly cell phone account. To give, text the keyword "LWR" to 40579 to donate $10. Remember to reply YES to the confirmation. Standard messaging and data rates may apply. Haiti Church President Gives Report (From www.lcms.org) President Marky Kessa of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti (ELCH) contacted Rev. S.T. Williams, Jr., of the Haiti Lutheran Mission Coordinating Committee and senior pastor at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Los Angeles, Calif., with the following report: * Port au Prince and Jacmel are in ruins. * Over 100,000 are estimated dead. * Three-quarters of the people are sleeping on the streets. * There is no power or water. * He has no idea how many ELCH members are dead. * All Lutheran pastors are alive as far as he knows. * He is going to each church and holding prayer and funeral services. * The church is focusing on the injured, to keep them alive. * Rev. Doris Jean Louis in Port-au-Prince is okay. However, the church and school are possibly destroyed. * Rev. Thomas Bernard in Port-au-Prince is okay. The church and school were damaged. * Lay Minister Lophane Laurent in Port-au-Prince is alive and helping others in Port-au-Prince. * The Isidor and Touloute family in Les Cayes is okay. * Rev. Jean Claude Marin in Central Platue is okay. * Rev. Eliona Bernard in Cap Haitian said the area was shaken, but there is limited damage. * Rev. Daniel Paul in Fort Liberty is okay and reports no problems. * President Revenel Benoit in Gonaives is okay. He said a mission team in Port-au-Prince is waiting for flight to the U.S./Canada. * He welcomes any mission teams as soon as possible with: cash, medical supplies, water, food, and clothing. At this time, medical supplies can get into the country for free. He is available to meet people at the airport. * The needs are overwhelming. He asked for prayer and immediate assistance. "As brothers and sisters in Christ we pray for wisdom and the grace and mercy of God to prevail as we respond in faith and Christian love," wrote Rev. Williams. "Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy." To make a gift that shares Christ's mercy and helps suffering Haitians, visit www.lcms.org, call toll free 888-930-4438, or mail donations marked "Haiti Earthquake Relief" to LCMS World Relief and Human Care, P.O. Box 66861, St. Louis, MO 63166-6861. Back to top NEBRASKA'S HOSPICE ASSOCIATION SEEKING AWARD NOMINATIONS The state's hospice association, the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership, is seeking nominations for its annual awards program. The awards will be presented at the Association's annual banquet. Held in conjunction with the Association's Annual "Living a Good Life...at the End of Life" Conference, the banquet is scheduled for March 31, 2010, at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln. The Shining Star Award recognizes an individual, group, or organization that has done outstanding work in the leadership of end-of-life care in their community or statewide. Nominees should have illustrated outstanding leadership in the promotion of end-of-life services; raised awareness of or educated others on end-of-life issues; developed a new program; or developed or completed outstanding work in an end-of-life coalition. The Spirit of Hospice Award recognizes individuals that have shown true commitment and outstanding dedication to the hospice philosophy of care. Nominees should have promoted quality hospice care over the last year. They should display openness to the needs of all they have cared for, reverencing the dignity of all areas of diversity. Outstanding Hospice Volunteer recognition will be given to exemplary hospice volunteers. Outstanding volunteers identified by their hospice programs will be invited to stand and be recognized as their names and hospice programs are announced at the banquet. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 12, 2010. Go to www.nehospice.org to view award details and nomination forms. The Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership is a collaborative effort of more than 50 organizations with an interest in good care for terminally and chronically ill Nebraskans. Established as a 501(c)3 community betterment non-profit in 1983, the Association includes Nebraska hospices, community end-of-life coalitions, and other health and elder-care organizations. Back to top LUTHERAN CHOIR OF LINCOLN BEGINS SPRING SEASON The Lincoln Lutheran Choir invites interested musicians to join them as they begin their spring concert season. Rehearsals begin January 31 with a retreat at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, Lincoln, from 2 to 6 p.m. Interested singers may contact Sandie Anderson at 402-489-3948 or email the choir board at lincolnlutheranchoir at gmail.com. This spring season's concert will be a special Mother's Day presentation on May 9. In collaboration with a professional orchestra, the choir will present J.S. Bach's Magnificat and Vivaldi's Gloria. Back to top OPPORTUNITIES TO VISIT GERMANY THIS YEAR ACT NOW - This is the last time these tours will be publicized in this newsletter, so contact the tour of your choice and make plans now to tour the "Land of Luther"! May 22 - June 1 Pastor Michael & Suzy Awe, in cooperation with Nawas International Travel, would like to invite you to join them May 22 - June 1, 2010, on an exciting 11 day Alpine Tour! Participants will enjoy the picturesque vistas of Switzerland, Austria, and Southern Germany. The absolute highlight of the trip will be the experience of the famous Oberammergau Passion Play. The group will be leaving from Omaha and flying in to Frankfurt, Germany. The $4099 per person cost will include most meals, first-class accommodations, roundtrip airfare from Omaha, and other amenities. If you are interested in joining them for this memorable experience, please contact Pastor Michael Awe at 402-368-9929 or 402-368-5690, or e-mail him at The1Rev at cableone.net for more information. There are only 6 spots left, so call today!. June 15-25 Join Rev. Randy Knuth on an unforgettable panoramic journey through the Land of Germany and experience the joys of traveling together in Christian fellowship. Join the group as they travel on an 11-day fully escorted deluxe tour of Germany and attend the "once-in-a-lifetime" experience of the 41st Passion Play in Oberammergau. Included in the tour will be significant places in the life of Martin Luther and the reformation, and some of the romantic towns and castles of Bavaria and Munich. For more information in regard to this Luther Tour, June 15-25, 2010, please contact Pastor Randy Knuth, pastor of Hope Lutheran Church, South Sioux City, at revrandyk at yahoo.com or 402-494-1847 or 712-540-8243. September 14-24 Pastor Bill and Martha Moorhead invite anyone to join them for a trip to Germany that incorporates Luther/Reformation sites, the Passion Play, and Oktoberfest, as well as some other off-the-beaten-path sites. The trip will be Sept 14-24, 2010. Contact Rev. Moorhead at pastormoorhead at pacifichillslutheran.org with questions or for details. Back to top AT EASE LUNCHEON IN OMAHA Please join Lutheran Family Services (LFS) and Chuck Hagel at an awareness luncheon at the Qwest Center Omaha, 455 N. 10th St., on Monday, January 25, at 11:45 a.m. Please arrive 20 minutes early for parking ($6) and seating. Come learn more about and support the LFS At Ease program, which provides trauma treatment and therapeutic support for active military, veterans, and their loved ones. Tickets are $50, with table and sponsorship packages available. Visit www.LFSneb.org or call 402-591-5063 to register or for event information. For At Ease program information, please contact Debra Jones, At Ease Program Manager, at 402-292-9105 or AtEase at LFSneb.org. Back to top CONNECT WITH THE FIALA MISSIONARY FAMILY IN EURASIA (from the Fiala family newsletter - December 2009) The following request was made by David and Radka Fiala, Nebraska missionaries serving LCMS World Mission in Slovakia. This would be a great opportunity if you or your congregation supports the Fiala family, or if you are looking for a missionary to support. Can we Skype with YOU? In recent newsletters, you've been able to read about the various uses of Skype to connect with people in the U.S. or elsewhere in the world. David and I would like to invite you to consider setting up a video Skype call during events, Bible study hours, or Sunday school at your church so we could see you and share news with you "in person" even though we're not physically present at your church. This would be a way for you to hear what we're currently working on so you can feel more connected to ministries happening far away. It would be a huge blessing for our family to pray with you and keep in touch across the miles. If you're interested in this idea, we're ready to try it out! Please email us at David.Fiala at lcms.org, so we can make this happen !!! Thank you! Back to top SEND PHONE MESSAGES INSTANTLY TO EVERY CONGREGATION MEMBER Studies have shown that people need to hear a message seven or more times before it sinks in. That may make you ask, "Should I count on a bulletin blurb alone to remind my members of tomorrow's event?" Probably not. Concordia Publishing House's resource, MemberCaller, could be the answer to your prayers. MemberCaller is a new technology that allows you to call every member in your congregation instantly. So, next time bad weather hits and choir practice is canceled, or you want to send a prayer request out to a large group, don't rely on e-mail or try to call every member in your group, instead use MemberCaller to send every member a pre-recorded message. MemberCaller is compatible with other CPH resources like Shepherd's Staff and MemberConnect and is great for congregations that are big or small. Visit www.ctsmemberconnect.net for more information or call 800-325-2399 to discover more. Back to top NATIONAL LUTHERAN SCHOOLS WEEK WORSHIP AND ACTIVITY MANUAL NOW AVAILABLE (from http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16391) Lutheran schools and their sponsoring congregations may order a variety of resources from LCMS District and Congregational Services -- School Ministry and Concordia Publishing House to promote "National Lutheran Schools Week," set for March 7-13. This year's theme, "Securing Each Child's Future -- for a Life of Service," is based on 1 Cor. 12:5: "and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord." "National Lutheran Schools Week is a chance for Lutheran schools to celebrate their special heritage and an opportunity to promote themselves to their communities," Bill Cochran, director of LCMS School Ministry, told Reporter. The ministry is offering a 71-page Worship and Resource Manual, available in downloadable PDF format, that includes an original song for this year's National Lutheran Schools Week ("To All of God's Children," by Dr. Jeffrey Burkart), worship resources, chapel services, devotionals, and suggested activities for all educational levels. Cost of the manual is $20 and it may be ordered online, with a credit card, or with a mail-in form, along with a check, from the DCS Store at www.lcms.org/?1774. Other Schools Week items -- including teacher appreciation items, stickers, bookmarks, and posters -- may be ordered from Concordia Publishing House's website at www.cph.org (click on the "Christian Education" link) or by calling 800-325-3040. For more information, call Kathy Fangmann in the LCMS School Ministry office at 800-248-1930, ext. 1285. Back to top GERMAN CHURCH OFFERS CAMP FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS (from Reporter Online, http://www.lcms.org/pages/rpage.asp?NavID=16290) The Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church, an LCMS partner church known by its German acronym, SELK, is offering a weeklong camp to Lutheran teens and young adults this summer in Wittenberg, Germany. "LutherCamp," set for July 30-Aug. 8 in a campground on the Elbe River, is offering young people ages 16 to 29 "from all over the world the opportunity to get to know the historical roots of the Lutheran faith, and to grow in their personal faith," according to a flier for the annual event. "We would like to bring young folks from different countries together to discuss how to live as a Lutheran in the 21st century, and how to spread the Good News of the Gospel." LutherCamp 2010 includes: * a video presentation, "Luther for Today," which explores how the teachings of Martin Luther are relevant for today's young people. * opportunities to take part in outreach projects in Wittenberg: serving a vacation Bible school, painting and doing other chores at a school, and helping "people in need" with shopping, cleaning, and other tasks. * tours to local Luther sites, including museums; Luther's home; the City Church, where Luther preached; the Castle Church, where he posted his 95 theses; and the house of Luther's co-worker, Philipp Melanchthon. * canoeing, swimming, and biking. * a night tour of Wittenberg. * Bible studies and worship. Cost for the week is 189 euros (about $285 at today's exchange rate), which includes accommodations in tents, meals, and entrance and excursion fees. A daily fee of 25 euros (about $38) also is available for those who wish to attend for a few days. Deadline for registrations is May 1. After that date, full registration will be 220 euros, and the one-day rate, 30 euros. The camp is limited to 30 English-speaking participants, so early registration is advised. For more information or to register, send an e-mail to Rev. Hinrich Muller at cottbus at selk.de or call him in Germany at 011-49-355-24542. Or, visit the website www.freizeitfieber.de (click on the LutherCamp logo, then "Flyer.pdf" for English information). Back to top DO YOU KNOW A FUTURE CHURCH WORKER? What would make someone decide to enter church work? We always hear stories from children who want to be a doctor, nurse, teacher, or firefighter when they grow up. But at what point, and in what way, do children begin considering a career in church work? According to a recent study by the What a Way committee of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod (LCMS), current church workers play a critical role identifying, informing, and encouraging the next generation to consider a career in church work. Ministry workers said church workers, when grouped together, were the leading reason for their career choice, at 64 percent. Pastors were the single most influential group followed by family, the study found. The ministry workers surveyed said the following influenced them the most: * 29 percent pastors * 28 percent family * 22 percent Christian teacher * 8 percent friends * 6 percent other church worker * 4 percent youth leader * 3 percent lay leader So what makes a good church worker? The apostle Paul referred to himself as a servant, as did Peter and the author of James. What would make someone want to be a church worker when "servant" is the primary job description? The answer comes from the Bible. On the night he was betrayed, Jesus took upon himself the role of a servant and washed the feet of His disciples. "When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, 'Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.' '' (John 13:12-16 ESV) L. Dean Hempelmann, director of What a Way, said that servant-minded church workers must have a love for God and his Word. They must also have "the ability to work with people, a passion for studying and applying God's Word, excellent communication skills, a love for sharing the Gospel with others, and patience,'' he said. "But at the center of it all, a church worker believes in Christ, follows His example, and joyfully serves God's people." * Sometimes this service is straightforward as with Anjee Stiles, a teacher at Gethsemane Lutheran School in Northglenn, Colo., who instructs her kindergarten children about Jesus the Good Shepherd as part of the academic curriculum. * Sometimes it is as simple as when Deaconess Carol Goldfish, from Trinity Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, visits a shut-in and shares the news of a God whose love is unending. * Other times it is as obvious as when Alaina Kleinbeck, director of Christian education from Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Charles, Mo., takes the time to visit youth in her school, reminding students that Jesus' love is not bound by walls or institutions. * Very often, it is as clear as when Pastor David Gunderson of St. John Lutheran Church in Yankton, S.D., prays with a couple before they are married. "Church work positions are rewarding on so many levels," said Hempelmann. "Our prayer is that men and women, no matter their stage in life, keep open hearts and minds in order to hear and respond to the call to church work." There are many professional church worker positions open throughout the world. For information about church work positions within The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, please visit www.WhataWay.org or www.LCMS.org. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 106906 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Wed Jan 20 16:29:25 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 22:29:25 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] Important Update on Haiti Relief Message-ID: Greetings in the name of our gracious heavenly Father! The following two pieces of information came in after the Email Update was sent this morning. Because of the time sensitive nature of the information, I wanted to share it with you right away. Thank you for helping spread this information on relief efforts with your congregation members and others. Lutherans in Medical Missions/LCMS World Relief and Human Care Teams to go to Haiti Another LCMS World Relief and Human Care team is forming to go into Haiti in the next week or two--one as early as next Tuesday. Please register on the World Relief and Human Care site at www.lcms.org/mercyteams and also send an email to mercymedical at lcms.org (and copy limm at limm.org) and tell your availability for service, what your specialty is, and experience you may have had in previous overseas and triage situations such as this. You must have a valid passport ready, and typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B series are recommended. If you have the series, you may consider a booster, especially for typhoid. You will need to take malaria prophylaxis as well. The conditions may be spartan and difficult, so team members must be in good health. General practice docs, surgeons, and ER personnel are especially needed. Please also let LIMM know if you are planning to serve in Haiti as a result of this email notification. If you have any questions, please send a note to limm at limm.org. Bulletin Insert on Thrivent Matching Gift Opportunity Thrivent Financial for Lutherans members who want to make a financial contribution to support disaster response efforts in Haiti can have their donations to one of four Lutheran relief agencies multiplied by the fraternal benefit society. The attached bulletin insert helps share this information with the members of your congregation. The information is also listed below. Please help get this word out to your members. To participate, visit www.thrivent.com/helpinghaiti and make a contribution to one of the following: Lutheran World Relief ELCA Disaster Response LCMS World Relief/Human Care WELS Committee on Relief Thrivent Financial will add $1 to every $2 its members donate, up to a total Thrivent Financial contribution of $1 million. That means a potential of $3 million or more to support relief efforts: $2 million + from its members and $1 million added by Thrivent Financial. For questions or alternative ways to donate through this program, please call 800-236-3736. When promoted, say "directory" and enter ext. 83003. Thank you for your help in spreading this important information through your congregations. Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 10823 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: Haiti Bulletin Insert.pdf Type: application/pdf Size: 148423 bytes Desc: Haiti Bulletin Insert.pdf URL: From distupd at lists.ndlcms.org Thu Jan 28 15:24:50 2010 From: distupd at lists.ndlcms.org (District Updates) Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 21:24:50 -0000 Subject: [DistUpd] January 28 Message-ID: [cid:image001.gif at 01CAA02E.040C86B0] January 28, 2010 In this issue: Greetings in the name of Jesus. This week's Update is a day late because I was out of the office unexpectedly earlier this week. Thanks to all who shared information for this week's newsletter. * Prayer Requests * Find Information on LCMS Haiti Relief in One Place * Still Time to Register for Stewardship Workshop in Omaha * Lutheran Hour Lenten Devotions Available * Rev. John Nunes Challenges Audience at Concordia University * Confirmation Retreat at Camp Luther * New Lenten Series Offered by Concordia Seminary * Worship is Lifted Up at 2010 Lutheran Summer Music Academy PRAYER REQUESTS Olivia Anson - We join with Harlan and Crissy Anson in prayers of thanksgiving for the gift of a baby daughter born on January 21. We thank God for this precious new life and for the gift of eternal life given to her through Holy Baptism. Harlan serves Our Redeemer, Staplehurst, as teacher/principal. Back to top FIND INFORMATION ON LCMS HAITI RELIEF IN ONE PLACE The LCMS has created a link from the LCMS home page where visitors can go to find all the latest news about the response to the Haiti earthquake. Visitors to www.lcms.org just need to click on the "Haiti Update" banner near the top of the home page. This will take them to a collection of links to World Relief/Human Care, World Mission, Reporter, secular news coverage, photos, video, etc. Those who wish to bookmark this page can visit directly at www.lcms.org/help. Some of the news articles available from this site include: * Next steps begin with relief shipments to Haitian cities * Additional missionaries deploy to Dominican Republic to assist with ongoing work in Haiti * Images seen by the LCMS assessment team in Haiti * IRS extends tax break deadline for Haiti donations * Messages from the Directors of LCMS World Mission, World Relief/Human Care, and others who have been to Haiti * Much, much more! Back to top STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP IN OMAHA Congregational leaders are invited to attend the Turning Donors Into Disciples: FAITH-RAISING, NOT FUND-RAISING workshop hosted by Beautiful Savior (7706 South 96th Street), La Vista, on Saturday, February 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This workshop will: * Change the "stewardship of giving" culture in your church * Send you home with the "Stewardship of Giving Toolbox" * Teach you how "Consecrated Stewards" can help increase giving * Teach about "Heart In Focus" - a personal, faith-focused money management plan Facilitators include nationally known leaders such as: Dr. Waldo Werning, author of "Turning Donors into Disciples;" Mr. Lloyd Probasco on effective leadership; Rev. Walt Waddell of Neibauer Press; and Rev. Eugene Gierke about Consecrated Stewards. Start planning today and get your congregation leaders registered. The cost is $25 per person or $100 for groups of five. Note the new registration contact! Please register with Joyce Gierke at cjgierke at cox.net or 402-697-8215. Back to top LUTHERAN HOUR LENTEN DEVOTIONS AVAILABLE Download and customize Lutheran Hour Ministries' Lenten Devotions now at www.lentendevotions.net. Two versions of the devotions are available to help your church or school minister to both the believers and the seekers in your community. Both sets of devotions help readers focus on the magnitude of Christ's resurrection and its impact on mankind. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary - A Lenten Journey renders in a style familiar to long-time readers the salient events in Christ's life inaugurated by His transfiguration and accomplished by His atoning work on Calvary. Walking With Jesus follows the Lord in a contemporary voice as He ministers to those around Him, befriending and encouraging those who would follow Him, all the time displaying compassion for a sinful and renegade world. Both versions capture how the gift of God's pure love-a love that is simply beyond our comprehension-found its full expression in the life, death, and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod Pastor and Chaplain Vern Gundermann takes the reader alongside Jesus as He completes His earthly mission in His Father's service. Everywhere Jesus went-whether along a dusty back road or a paved city street-what stood front and center for Him was the cross. And it was against those rough timbers that He-the Christ, God's "anointed one"-would ultimately find Himself nailed. Walking With Jesus During the Lenten season, the Church acknowledges Christ's passion and celebrates His victory over the forces of darkness. The consequences of misapprehending the significance of Christ's atoning work on the cross and what His resurrection from the dead means for each of us cannot be overstated. In Walking With Jesus, Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod educator Chuck Strohacker puts the reader on an inside track showing what that victory means in the life of a believer. >From The Mount of Transfiguration to Mount Calvary and Walking With Jesus have been created in a PDF format making them easily customizable when adding church information for distribution throughout your community. Find printable files of these devotions for your congregation, as well as outreach ideas and more at www.lentendevotions.net. Back to top REV. JOHN NUNES CHALLENGES AUDIENCE AT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY Concordia University, Nebraska welcomed Rev. John Nunes, president of Lutheran World Relief and prominent Lutheran leader, thinker, and speaker, as the first presenter in its spring speaker series. Nunes gave Concordia's Martin Luther King Day presentation. Rev. Nunes focused his message on the idea of being subversive while maintaining a servant's heart to all people of the world. According to Nunes, "We've been lulled into complacency in the West. We don't understand what service means. So much injustice needs challenging, and so much suffering needs comforting. I encourage you to have a subversive spirit of service." Nunes also tackled the difficult issue of racial identity, saying there is no scientific proof that race is a classification system for human beings. He encouraged the Concordia community to remember this as it goes out into the world to serve as Christ's body. When asked what he really wanted Concordia's reaction to be, Nunes stated, "I want some people to be disturbed, some to question their apathy and others to be encouraged and motivated to go into the world. I want the entire community as a whole, through this message, to take time to engage in critical and self-critical reflection on the big questions of how we relate to one another as members of the body of Christ." In reference to the current situation in Haiti, Nunes discussed the challenges facing relief groups, including Lutheran World Relief. He was looking forward to returning to his team at LWR and preparing for those challenges in Haiti. Senior Zach Baedke enjoyed the message. "I really enjoyed his [Nunes'] ability to connect with the audience. He was so engaging. I learned a lot." Rev. Nunes agreed to speak at Concordia because he believes the university has "a core value to engage the world and make a difference. It is refreshing to be in a place that shares a common Lutheran identity- that cares about the poorest of the poor and allows for a forum to address difficult and challenging questions like race, justice and social action. I commend Concordia on tackling a tough set of questions." Concordia will continue its speaker series with Rev. Mitri Rahab giving the Maehr talk on March 8, and 1989 Concordia alumnus Philip Droege, director of White House records, speaking on April 13. The public is welcome to attend. Back to top CONFIRMATION RETREAT AT CAMP LUTHER Camp Luther will host a Confirmation Retreat for small congregations on Friday and Saturday, February 26 and 27. The program involves three group-teaching sessions by Rev. Keith Christiansen. Following each group session, time will be set aside for individual pastors to meet with their confirmation class. Other activities, games, and campfires will be led by camp staff members. Email Camp Luther for a registration form at campluther at campluther.org. Overnight accommodations, Friday night snack, and two meals on Saturday are included with the $42.00 per person registration fee. Back to top NEW LENTEN SERIES OFFERED BY CONCORDIA SEMINARY Dr. Dale A. Meyer, president of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, recently released a Lenten series for use in the parish. Below are his comments: "Do you need a Lenten series? I'm teaching a class on preaching in our postmodern times, these times when an authoritative word from God is rejected out of hand by many people. 'You have your opinion; I have mine. Don't impose your views on me.' So how do we get into their heads and hearts? 'Why should I listen to sermons if there's nothing in them for me?' So for a class project we're working on a Lenten series that tries to get listeners to sit up and think, 'He's talking about my life! I need to hear this.' If you want, we'll make available to you the results of our efforts." Here is what's included in the series, free of charge: 1. Announcements for each upcoming Wednesday sermon to put in a bulletin or on a website. The Seminary's goal for the announcements is to catch the interest of people. In broadcasting it's called the "tease." 2. Two or three weeks before the Lenten date we'll send you by e-mail... a. A sermon outline b. Manuscript c. Short notes about the sermon d. A responsive prayer e. Suggestions for the service's Bible reading f. One or two hymn suggestions 1. This series does not include a whole order of service. The LSB has basic service orders or each church may create its own. The series is titled "Life Together"-based upon Dietrich Bonhoeffer's classic book, Life Together-that describes in challenging ways what it means to be the body of Christ in community. Bonhoeffer wrote the book about seminary life, and Concordia Seminary has been studying it as a campus community, but his insights apply to congregational life in both modern and postmodern times. Hopefully these offerings will speak to older people, "moderns," and to younger people, "postmoderns." Dr. Meyer adds, "As a 60-something, I've been stimulated by the discussions we're having in this class where the average age is 20-something." Here is an overview. Life Together 1. February 17 (Ash Wednesday): * Title: Life's Better in My Hands! * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit." Hand over your life to someone else? No way! * Text: 1 Peter 2:20-25 2. February 24: * Title: I'm Being True to Myself! * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." But of course, you do know what you are doing! * Text: 1 Peter 1:22-25 3. March 3: * Title: This Is It??? * Attention getter: Jesus said, "Today you will be with Me in paradise." Huh? Life is short; get the most out of it here-and-now! * Text: 1 Peter 1:3-5 4. March 10: * Title: How Do You Know Who I Am? * Attention getter: Jesus said to Mary, "Woman, here is your son," and to John, "Here is your mother." Do you bristle when people make claims on your life? * Text: 1 Peter 2:9-12 5. March 17: * Title: How Can I Believe in a God Who Would... * Attention getter: Jesus cried, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me." Is there vindication for believing in God? * Text: 1 Peter 4:12-25 6. March 24: * Title: I Need This...and This...and This... * Attention getter: Jesus said, "I thirst." What do you need? Why do you need it? * Text: 1 Peter 4:1-6 These are for Wednesdays. Also provided will be similar resources for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter. If your church is interested in these materials, please go to http://preaching.csl.edu and complete the form. Only those who sign up will receive the materials. Please contact the Seminary's Technology Services department at 314-505-7231 with any questions. Back to top WORSHIP IS LIFTED UP AT 2010 LUTHERAN SUMMER MUSIC ACADEMY Lutheran Music Program recently announced its worship theme for the 2010 Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) Academy to be held June 20 to July 18, 2010, at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. "Sing with All the Saints in Glory" will remember and celebrate the lives of the saints in all times and places. With the aid of texts and music, both ancient and new, the LSM community of 150 students and 50 faculty and staff will explore the calling of our baptism and what it means for us, too, to be called saints and children of God. The LSM worship team will be led by Michael D. Costello, an alum of the program and the first time one has served as the Academy's chaplain. "I knew I loved music before I attended LSM," says Michael, "but it was my years at LSM that really guided me to a career in the church and as a church musician." Michael is now an ordained Lutheran minister and cantor at Grace Lutheran Church in River Forest, Illinois. This past summer, one third of the 150-student community came from congregations who were enrolled in the Young Musicians Partnership (YMP). The YMP program is a unique opportunity for congregations to join with Lutheran Music Program in a core commitment to transform lives and connect people through faith and music. To enroll, congregations need only to establish a local scholarship toward attendance at LSM, which has proven in many current YMP-enrolled congregations to ignite the spark in their young people. This has led to more refined musical skills, more conscious connection between music and worship, and more motivation for youth to share their gifts within the church. Lutheran Music Program extends a 10% tuition discount to all YMP youth and a 33% match to the congregational scholarship, completing the circle of support for gifted musicians to grow both musically and spiritually. Through the YMP, students are-in a very real way-called to LSM through the support of their church, equipped and empowered in their musical gifts, and sent to serve in their church and community. If your congregation has a youth musician who would like to apply to LSM or if your church seeks more information about joining the YMP, contact Admissions Director Susan Olstad toll free at 888-635-6583 or via email at solstad at lutheransummermusic.org. Visit us online at www.lutheransummermusic.org. Back to top Blessings, Nichole Hetz Nebraska District LCMS Director of Communications 1-888-643-2961 nicholeh at ndlcms.org www.ndlcms.org * Please Note: The inclusion of items in the Update from outside sources is for informational purposes only. Inclusion of such items does not constitute District endorsement. -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: not available Type: text/html Size: 59214 bytes Desc: not available URL: -------------- next part -------------- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: image001.gif Type: image/gif Size: 8048 bytes Desc: image001.gif URL: