SA.22.06 - Professional Development, Diversity Workshop:
At the beginning of February, Aubrey Thonvold, Executive Director of Reconciling Works, joined us in three locations across the synod to facilitate our professional development days. She reminded us:
The journey of welcome, inclusion, celebration, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people is lifelong. Each of us comes to this journey from unique places.
We spent the day in theological reflection, graceful engagement, and hospitable curiosity as we sought to deepen and expand our awareness of how we can best see, name, and care for LGBTQIA+ people and their families in our ministry. In our time together, we learned why this conversation is important, terms and definitions, explored ways to provide thoughtful pastoral care and accompaniment, and rooted ourselves in the welcome reflected in the gospel.
Stewardship Webinar:
Does the word “stewardship” cause you to break out in heavy sweating? Are you wondering how to approach the subject of generosity, but don’t know where to start? There are four identified “mindset shifts” that need to be made when it comes to the topic of stewardship in these strange days, and along with these shifts come some behaviors that can encourage and empower generosity in individuals and communities of faith alike! Come to this “Mindset Shift” webinar hosted by The Reverend Tim Brown, Director of Congregational Stewardship for the ELCA on May 4, 6:30-7:30pm to hear more about not only the mindset shifts, but also about some practical ways that you can begin to implement them in the local context. Bring your questions, curiosities, concerns, and an open mind! The webinar is free, but registration is required.