Mission Support Memo: September 2023

Storytelling Engagement

Ecumenical Joy!

A story from our Delaware-Maryland Synod

It is such a joy that our ELCA is committed to supporting, enriching and coordinating the ecumenical and interreligious life of this church across its various expressions, and enhancing the public commitments of this church in Lutheran, ecumenical and interreligious circles.

Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this (Esther 4:14).

In September, Bishop Bill Gohl of the Delaware-Maryland Synod had the privilege of being one of the co-consecrators for Bishop Carrie Schofield-Broadbent, bishop coadjutor (a diocesan “bishop-in-waiting” -- she will succeed Bishop Eugene Taylor Sutton as the head bishop of the diocese upon his retirement) of the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland. It was a grand celebration. The music was ethereal, the processions, and the consecration rite was solemn and reverberated throughout the Washington National Cathedral. Around 200 people participated in the opening procession, including the 56 people who distributed communion, 40 banner carriers and the 33 bishops in attendance. The Delaware-Maryland Synod is honored to have 12 “Lutherpalian” partnerships, including our outstanding shared campus ministries. With Episcopal clergy who serve Lutheran churches and Lutheran clergy who serve Episcopal churches, we share distinctive heritages, different traditions and rich theological journeys -- yet, by the grace of God, there continues to be credible witness to the good news of God's love in Jesus Christ, together.

Thanks to our rich generosity, these connections are made possible through Mission Support and other giving that allows us to build partnerships across our ecumenical and interfaith partners. We are better together!

Engage with Us

We are pleased to share that the new Congregation and Synod Support Team now includes Congregational Stewardship, Mission Support and Storytelling Engagement. We know that closer collaboration between Congregational Stewardship and Mission Support will make us more effective partners with congregations and synods. It is our intent to work together in investing in shared mission, equipping for generosity, engaging in storytelling and planning for faith in action as we accompany congregations, synods and leaders across the ELCA.

If you are interested in partnering more closely with us, please reach out to any member of our team so we can make sure you’re connected to the right person.

Grateful

We are grateful for the many congregations and synods that worked on “God's work. Our Hands” Sunday service projects in September. It is always amazing how our congregations reach out into their communities and beyond to provide support and generously give to support our greater church! It is inspiring and amazing! We are so grateful.

In deep gratitude,

Victoria Flood - Senior Director for Congregation and Synod Support, Nick Kiger - Director for Mission Support, Karen Kretschmann - Coordinator for Storytelling Engagement