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Northern Illinois Synod of the ELCA

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June 20, 2006

Walking Together is a weekly e-mail newsletter of the Northern Illinois Synod best viewed in html. If you cannot read this e-mail or see the graphics, go to www.nisynod.org/pubs/wt .

*New items each week are listed at the beginning of each section and are marked with
an asterisk.

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NI Synod News & Events

* More photos and highlights of the Synod Assembly will be added to the website as soon as possible.

 

* Thanks to all who brought boxes of food & supplies for the in-kind offering. The semi was unloaded in Ocean Springs on Monday afternoon. Click the photo on the right for a larger view of the unloading.  Click here to watch the Channel 4 News coverage of the food-drive (1-minute video works best with Internet Explorer 6.0 or above). Click here to read the Quad City Times' article. If your local paper did an article on the drive, please send it to Karin Graddy at the Synod office.

 

* If your congregation would like to host the Holy Land Communion Ware, please contact Leona Peterson-Spear at lmps@revealed.net . Congregations hosting the communion ware will be responsible for the postage, if mailing is required. Find out more about the communion ware at www.elca.org/middleeast/peacenotwalls.html .

 

* Charlotte Erickson's (missionary to India) June newsletter is online here.

 

* Dates and locations for the Evangelical Lutheran Worship Introduction Workshops have been announced (Oct 28-Feb 11). Pastors, organists/musicians, choir directors, worship committee folks, etc. are all encouraged to attend. Each congregation may send as many people as it would like. For the $20 registration fee, each participant will receive a copy of the ELW and a meal. See dates and locations HERE >>
 

* Trinity Regional Health System made its third donation to the Selian's Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre in Arusha, Tanzania on March 23. This donation consisted of six pallets of medical supplies, surgical instruments, orthopedic implants, as well as six critical care beds, two stretchers, six medication carts, two physical therapy treatment tables and four filing cabinets.

 

Check out the new and improved Synod Calendar at www.nisynod.org/calendar . It is updated frequently.

 

The Diakonia program will celebrate its 2nd graduation on July 15 at 2 pm at Alpine Lutheran, Rockford and would like to invite anyone interested to attend. Bishop Gary M. Wollersheim will preach. Last year, 21 people from the Northern Illinois Synod graduated from the two-year program (16 from NI sites and 5 from a Chicago site). Diakonia is a lay education program with an emphasis on spiritual formation. For further information on the program, please contact Douglas Liston at (815) 385-2700 (work) or (815) 331-3000 (home) or dliston@premmag.com. Diakonia is looking for interested students for the fall for its Cary, Rockford, and Moline locations.

 

An updated Supply Pastor list can be found at www.nisynod.org/resources/supplypastors.htm

 

Read the quarterly stewardship thank you letter from Pr. Jeffrey Clements, Assistant to the Bishop at www.nisynod.org/ministries/stewardship . You are encouraged to pass on the thanks and use the text in your congregational newsletters.

 

Representatives from the Northern Illinois Synod will travel to India in July to celebrate the 300 years of Lutheran ministry among people there. Art Milton, Ruth Fairchild-Lathan, Esther Prabhakar, and Bishop Gary Wollersheim (l-r in photo on right) who will represent the Northern Illinois Synod, were commissioned and blessed for this trip at the Synod Council meeting on Saturday, May 20. Click thumbnail to see a larger version of the photo.

 

The Global Mission Task force is sponsoring a Martin Msseemmaa TZ Secondary School Scholarship Fund through the NIS. These resources can be found on the www.nisynod.org/resources page or at these links: Martin Msseemmaa Scholarship Brochure and bulletin insert

 

The NIS is currently inviting congregations to be part of a new TIME (Together in Mission Engagement) program that will be started with a pastor's retreat this summer, and a kick-off in August. Find out more about the program at www.nisynod.org/resources/time and watch for more information about the specific dates.
 

Each year, the Northern Illinois Synod Social Ministry Committee is given varying levels of funding by the Synod for fulfilling the Committee’s mission: "To inspire and empower the people of the Northern Illinois Synod to Make Christ Know by expressing God’s love through compassion, justice, and service." A grant process has been established that is the Committee’s way to make a best effort at getting this funding into the hands of congregations or groups where the funds can be converted into meaningful Christian expressions of compassion, justice, and service. The grant application form and further details on the grants can be found on the Northern Illinois Synod web site at www.nisynod.org/resources .

 

The Northern Illinois Synod, in partnership with the ELCA Foundation and Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, announces a new round of one-hour Charitable Giving Seminars throughout the Synod to learn about NIS ministries and how to make a legacy gift to your local congregation and the ministries of the Synod. All are invited to learn of new and creative ways to make a lifetime gift. Contact John Califf for more information at 309-794-4004 or jnscaliff@qconline.com Upcoming seminars: June 25 Trinity, Mt. Morris 10:30 AM lunch follows; August 27 St. Paul, Dixon noon lunch seminar follows; September 12 St. Mark, Chillicothe 10:00 AM following 9:00 AM worship service, Lunch after seminar and brief business meeting; September 17 First, Freeport Noon lunch seminar follows; September 24 St. Mark, Rockford Noon lunch seminar follows; October 1 Faith, Moline Noon lunch seminar follows; October 8 Zion, Kewanee noon lunch seminar follows; October 22 Shepherd of the Valley, Rockford noon lunch then seminar; November 19 First, Rock Island Noon lunch seminar follows.

 

Is your congregation doing something interesting with education programs? Have you tried something new that is working well? Have you been doing something for years that continues to be a success? If so, share your stories and ideas with your Synod Christian Education Networkers. Contact Brenda Sisson or Mary Anne Daniels with your stories. The more we share our successes, the more we can learn from each other - to help Make Christ Known throughout the NIS!

 

Lay Scholarships for Global Mission Event: Four $240 scholarships for NIS members over 18 available through NIS Global Mission Subcommittee. Church staff and family not included. One per family. First four applications considered. Apply by email or USPS by June 22: Art Milton, Chair, NIS Global Mission SubCommittee, 2926 27th Street artmilton@msn.com, Rock Island, IL 61201.

 

Northern Illinois Synod Bishop Gary Wollersheim and Polly are hosting a cruise to visit the highlights of Paul's second and third missionary journey to Greece, Turkey and Italy from November 2 to November 11, 2006. This journey of a lifetime aboard the cruise ship MV Astoria includes a lecture series of Paul's Life and Teachings. Early registration is encouraged. For information contact the Synod Office at 815-964-9934 or John Califf at 309-736-7315 or jnscaliff@qconline.com


UPCOMING AREA CONCERTS & MUSICAL EVENTS:

* Mingkhwan Zehner (First, DeKalb) will give a voice recital in First, DeKalb, at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, June 28 as a fund-raiser to support the upcoming mission to Tanzania by her musical mentors, Randy and Carol Stubbs
 

The band Captive Free West Lakes will perform a family night concert at Our Savior's, Rockford (3300 Rural Street, entrance one block north on Corbridge) on Saturday, July 15 at 6:30 pm. The concert is free to the public and groups are welcome! A free-will offering will be taken. Captive Free is a National Team sponsored by Youth Encounter. This group of young adults ministers throughout the western Great Lakes region of the United States for one year with a faith-encouraging program of music, testimonies, drama and puppetry to inspire people of all ages! Find out more about the band at www.youthencounter.org More info about the concert: karin@oursaviorslutheranchurch.org or 815-399-0531.

 

First, Geneseo invites you to a Weekend with John Ylvisaker, Friday, August 18, Saturday, August 19, & Sunday, August 20. Contact First Lutheran at (309) 944-3196 or e-mail at firstlut@mchsi.com to find out more about the ensemble opportunity, workshop, hymn jam, and worship.
 

Join Shepherd of the Valley, Rockford for another summer of FREE concerts! Free-will offering after each performance enhances music and education programs at our church. Concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. and conclude with refreshments. Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church is located on the southwest corner of Mulford Road and Harrison Avenue in Rockford. 2715 S. Mulford Rd. • Rockford, Illinois 61109 • (815) 399-5503 • www.shep61.org

  • Wed., June 28 - Mike McIntyre - Nationally renowned accordianist, Mike has performed for our nation’s top polka festivals. Mike can be heard with his polka band at several area clubs, as well as with the Mike Williamson Music Productions.

  • Wed., July 12 - The Connection - This men’s group has been singing together for more than 20 years. They will perform everything from classical to popular musical selections.

  • Wed., July 26 - Patte Armato Lund - Unique vocal stylings and light audience repartee make this a “not to be missed” evening. Mike McIntyre on keyboards backs this versatile songstress who also performs with Mike Williamson Music Productions and with her group “Cocktail Party.”

  • Wed., Aug. 2 - 2nd City Chorus - Rooted in the Barbershop style, this men’s chorus also has a reputation for performing a variety of musical styles.

  • Wed., Aug.16 - Forest City Guitar Ensemble - This quartet of classical guitarists will entertain us with a variety of music.


LUTHERAN OUTDOOR MINISTRIES CENTER:

Save the dates for the following upcoming events! More details will be listed on our website as the dates get closer. Visit www.lomc.org  to see the latest photos and news from Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center.

  • SALT Camp - Service and Leadership Training for youth groups, Summer 2006

  • June 23-25 Scrapbooking retreat - Flyer

  • Hand Bell Summer Camp, July 9-14

  • July 21-23 Staff alumni event

  • August 25-27 Scrapbooking retreat - Flyer

  • September 1-3 Photography retreat - Flyer

  • September 24-26 Fall Adult Retreat

  • October 15 AutumnFest Celebration

  • October 28 Fall Adventure Day

  • November 17-19 Fall Confirmation Retreat

  • December 1-2 Advent Retreat

  • January 21-23, 2007 Youth Leaders’ Retreat

Summer Camp began June 11. Space is still available in most of the camps. The schedule is listed at www.lomc.org . Please call the office if you’d like a summer brochure. 815-732-2220.

 

Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center in Oregon (LOMC) announces a new innovative partnership with the Ogle County Hospice Association Foundation. MORE>>

 

LOMC staff members are willing to come to your congregation to speak to children or congregation about camp. They will lead children's sermons, temple talks, and Sunday Church School hours. Contact the camp at LOMC@essex1.com for more information.


DISASTER RESPONSE:

If your congregation is planning a work trip to the Gulf in the upcoming months and you have extra spots or the capability of taking on one or two more folks, please send the details of your trip and who folks might contact if they're interested in making the trip with you to Lisa Hassenstab, Director of Church and Volunteer Relations, Co-coordinator, Lutheran Disaster Response-Illinois, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, 1001 E. Touhy Ave. #50, Des Plaines, IL 60018, (847) 390-1447, (312) 636-7006 (cell) or Lisa.Hassenstab@lssi.org .

 

The Northern Illinois Synod Lutheran Disaster Response Task Force continues to share ways individuals and congregations can help those who have been struck by disaster. Find out more at the NIS LDR website.

 

You can read about help that's still needed in the Southeastern Synod on their website at http://www.elca-ses.org/Katrina_recovery.htm

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Keep in Your Prayers

  • * Pr. Carol Gates (Salem, Sandwich) on the death of her mother June 14.

  • * Rostered leaders celebrating birthdays this week including: Rev. Twila Schock 6/21, Rev. G. Kenneth Andeen 6/23, Rev. Michael Nelson 6/27, Rev. Stacie Fidlar 6/27, and Rev. Thomas Rogers, Jr. 6/28, (if we missed your birthday, please send it to Karin@nisynod.org)

  • * Theresa Dyer, Kristen Falth, and the 38 other NIS candidates for rostered ministry. Find the complete list of NIS Candidates at www.nisynod.org/candidates.htm .

  • * for our partner in social ministry, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, and for the volunteers, staff, and participants of their Prisoner and Family Ministry Storybook Project. We ask for your blessings upon all those who are incarcerated and strive to stay connected to their children, children of incarcerated parents who strive to maintain a sense of normalcy in their lives and a relationship with their parent, and the volunteers who help these parents and children stay connected by the gift of reading

  • Pr. Judi Huseth and the congregation of St. Paul, Sterling as she was installed June 11.

  • Pr. Troy Hedrick (retired) beginning treatments for cancer.

  • Pr. Marvin Johnson (Pastor Emeritus of Zion, Rockford) in failing health.

  • Pr. Kurt Nordby, director of the Illowa Lutheran Coalition recovering from a mild heart attack.

  • Pr. Paul Walker (Messiah, Rockford) recovering from heart surgery.

  • Marilyn Gasbarra, AiM (retired) in poor health

  • Doralis Tipton, mother-in-law of Pr. Mark Boster (Shepherd of the Prairie, Huntley), recovering from bypass surgery.

  • Dolores Swanson, mother of Polly Wollersheim

  • Pr. Carl and Ruth Ecklof (retired) as they both recover from surgery

  • Pr. Phil and Anne Gronbach (retired), as Anne battles cancer

  • Those not named here who are hospitalized or otherwise need our prayers.

Send prayer requests to karin@nisynod.org.

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ELCA News & Events

"Understanding the Roman Catholic Church"
After centuries of mistrust, indifference and even hostility, Roman Catholics and Lutherans have spent the last 40 years in serious dialogue, locally, nationally and internationally. Yet many Lutherans and other Christians have a limited knowledge of the Roman Catholic Church. It is the largest Christian church body; each year over a million infants and 70,000 adults are baptized in U.S. Roman Catholic churches. Mosaic aims to help Protestant Christians and others develop a better understanding of the Roman Catholic Church, its history and basic beliefs by listening to Roman Catholics tell their own story. The 35-minute program covers Roman Catholic beliefs, church history and Catholic renewal. You can watch it on the Web or order a copy in DVD or VHS format, with study guide enclosed.

 

The Gulf Coast Through an Advocate's Eyes"
In "Rebuild to Renewal," Andrew Genszler, director for domestic policy in the ELCA Washington Office, travels along the Gulf Coast, interviewing displaced people, congregational leaders and people from our partner agencies and institutions, asking what they've learned since last year's disaster, what they've done to help the rebuilding process, and what Lutherans outside the Gulf Coast and policy makers in Washington can do to help - beyond donating money. His blog, titled, "Rebuild to Renewal: The Gulf Coast Through an Advocate's Eyes." reports his discoveries, the stories of survivors, and the stories of Lutherans doing good work on the ground in this time of transition from immediate relief to long-term rebuilding and recovery, including the work of Lutheran Disaster Response.

 

* On July 30 the Gospel text tells the miracle of feeding a multitude with fives loaves of bread and two fish. Find a related devotion, "A Loaves and Fishes Lunch Bag Miracle" (and children's message) on p.3 of the Hunger Guide for Congregations (Pentecost). There's another hunger-related option for July 30, too. The Pericope Partners devotion for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost is also available as a reproducible bulletin insert — find it posted at www.elca.org/youth Including this Hamiltons for Hunger devotion in the Sunday bulletin on July 30 would be a great way to thank the Lutheran Youth Organization and all the Youth Gathering participants for their Hamiltons for Hunger campaign. The campaign could raise $1 million dollars for the ELCA World Hunger Appeal. Learn more at www.elca.org/gathering/offering/  Find the complete Hunger Guide for Congregations (Pentecost) and other ELCA World Hunger resources posted at www.elca.org/hunger/resources

 

Rebuild to Renewal: The Gulf Coast Through an Advocate's Eyes New blog starting on ELCA Advocacy site: Andrew Genszler, director for domestic policy of the ELCA Washington Office, will be traveling along the Gulf Coast on a fact-finding mission June 14 to 22. He'll be interviewing displaced people, ELCA congregation leaders and people from our partner agencies and institutions, asking what they've learned since the disaster, what they've done to help the rebuilding process, and what Lutherans outside the Gulf Coast and policy makers in Washington can do to help - beyond donating money. Be sure to read his blog, titled, "Rebuild to Renewal: The Gulf Coast Through an Advocate's Eyes." Visit www.elca.org/advocacy between June 14 and 22 to read about Andrew Genszler's discoveries, the stories of survivors, and the stories of Lutherans doing good work on the ground.

 

GRACE MATTERS - GRACE MATTERS the radio ministry of the ELCA
July 2006 Programs
July 2
Christian Improvisation
July 9 The Main Thing
July 16 The Sweetness of Grace
July 23 Unanswered Prayer
July 30 God, We Need to Talk (Encore presentation)

August 2006 Programs - (Encore Month)
August 6 A Life vs. a Lifestyle
August 13 My Forever Mom
August 20 The Rhythm of the Word
August 27 Saints Who Go Out in Style

 

The Deaconess Community of the ELCA is offering grants up to $500,000 in 2007 to congregations or social ministry organizations who wish to partner with the Sisters to start new, cutting edge social ministry programs. Such programs must be gospel-centered, prophetic, cooperative partnership, inclusive, and focused on stewardship. The deadline for the application process is Jan. 15, 2007. For more information, contact the Deaconess Community of the ELCA, 8765 West Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631-4171; (800) 638-3522, x1705; or email Deaconess.Community@elca.org . The Deaconess Community of the ELCA is a community of skilled women committed to a life of service to church and society. They are willing to take risks to serve God and God's people. Learn more about the Community at www.elca.org/Deaconess .
 

This year's Global Mission Event will be held July 27 - 30, 2006 at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts. At the Global Mission Event, congregations, families, youth, and seniors - along with international guests and missionaries discover a global community of God’s grace. Find out more...

 

Mosaic offerings in 2006 - find out more at www.elca.org/mosaic

  • Introducing Jesus of Nazareth, 30-minutes, DVD March 1, 2006

  • Understanding the Roman Catholic Church, 30-minutes, DVD June 1, 2006

  • Benevolence: Where your money goes... 30-minutes, DVD September 1, 2006

  • Holy Communion, 30-minutes, DVD December 1, 2006

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Continuing Education Opportunities

Augsburg Fortress Summer Music Clinic: July 31 - August 1 Redeemer Lutheran Church; 139 E First ST; Hinsdale IL 60521. Free event to area musicians, and worship leaders. Featured clinicians: Anton Armstrong and John Ferguson from St. Olaf College, Marlene Anderson- handbells. Sessions on children's choirs, handbells, choral sessions, vocal technique, question and answer panel with Anton and John on the state of worship and music in the church today. Hymn Festival featuring hymns from Evangelical Lutheran Worship. Attend all of the two days or part of it, no pre-registration necessary. Contact: 1-800-426-0115 X377 Jane Knappe. Schedule, directions at www.augsburgfortress.org/events .

 

As part of the Association of Theological Schools (ACTS) Doctor of Ministry in Preaching Program, the Rev. Dr. Richard A. Jensen, former dean of the program, will present the Don M. Wardlaw Lectures July 5 and 6 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. in the Augustana Chapel at LSTC. The lectures are free and open to the public. Augustana Chapel at LSTC is at 1100 East 55th Street, Chicago. His Wednesday, July 5 lecture will be on “Seeing Salvation: The Church’s Struggle with Words and Images.” On Thursday, July 6, Jensen will speak on “Visualizing Salvation: The Nitty-Gritty of the Task” For more information about the lectures and the ACTS D. Min. in Preaching Program, visit www.actsdminpreaching.org .

 

Lutheran ENGAGED Encounter - “A wedding is a day… A marriage is a lifetime…” Planning to marry & have a few questions? Have you thought about your life together AFTER the honeymoon? Experience a Weekend together with other couples beginning a life-long commitment to each other! Begins: Friday night @ 8 PM Ends: Sunday afternoon @ 12:30 PM  “Or is it just the beginning!?”  October 20-22, 2006 New Location! Bishop Lane Retreat Center Rockford, Illinois. A $35.00 Registration fee reserves your rooms. Total cost of the weekend is $275.00 meals and lodging included. Presented by 3 married couples Contact Curt & Chris Bjorklund–(815) 675-2765 Curtnchris4ee@msn.com or go to http://groups.msn.com/LutheranEngagedEncounterofNorthernIllinois

 

Trinity Seminary's Center for Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning offers a Multiple Staff Workshop for rostered and non-rostered church leaders (full and part-time) September 11-13, 2006  at the Weber Center, Adrian, MI. For more information contact: Center for Cont. Ed. & Life Long Learning; Trinity Lutheran Seminary, 2199 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43209-2334. hkuhlmann@columbus.rr.com

 

Stephen Ministries announces the first Breakthrough Leadership Conference, which will take place October 8-13, 2006, in St. Louis, Missouri. This comprehensive training event for leaders of all types--pastors and business executives, educators and entrepreneurs, administrators and managers--will offer the best leadership concepts and practices, enriched with sound psychology and firmly rooted in biblical principles. MORE>>

 

The Bethel Series has been a tool that has served so many congregations in the Northern Illinois Synod of the ELCA. Revitalizing our spiritual life happens when people get into the Bible and history has proven that the Bethel Series is a wonderful program to lead people into the Word. There they actually meet the true Christ of the Scriptures. Your church may own an enrollment in the Bethel Series--and it’s for a lifetime! Some congregations have laid the program aside for awhile, but this may be the right year to renew the program. Some congregations have yet to experience what can happen when their laity achieves biblical literacy. To learn more about the Bethel Series, visit their website at www.bethelseries.com --or call them at 800-462-2335. The summer training program is scheduled for July 16—25, 2006. Food and housing will be offered at the Edgewater Hotel, and the Emmaus Room is generously provided by Bethel Lutheran Church for the teaching of the classes.  Renew…Revitalize…Enter into a life of discipleship

 

CENTER FOR THEOLOGY AND LAND Residency Courses for Continuing Education, Lifelong Learning, Lay Ministry Certification, & TEEM. Certificate Residency IV, Date: June 26 – July 1, 2006, Location: Shalom Hill Farm, Windom, Minnesota. Join us for a week of study and retreat. Courses will be offered in Rural Ministry and Systematic Theology. The Residency courses may be taken for Certificate Credit, Continuing Education Units/Credits, TEEM Certification Credit, or No Credit. For more information or to register visit www.ruralministry.com or contact the Center for Theology and Land office at (563) 589-0273 or ruralmin@wartburgseminary.edu. 

  • The Lord’s Harvest:  Outreach and Stewardship in a Rural Context, Instructor:  Dr. Mark Yackel-Juleen

  • Fundamentals of Christian Theology and God’s Mission in the 21st Century, Instructor: Dr. Winston Persaud

 

First, Geneseo invites you to a John Ylvisaker Weekend. Saturday, August 19th, Workshop - 1 P.M. to 4 P.M. Meal and refreshments after workshop, Sunday, August 20, John will lead worship at 8 A.M. and 9:30 A.M.

 

Here I Stand:  Leading Change Through Self-Differentiation is a three-day Lombard Mennonite Peace Center event at which pastors will be trained to integrate this approach into their ongoing ministries. LMPC will offer this event on August 22-24, 2006. This event will be held at St. Peters United Church of Christ in Elmhurst, Illinois.  Learn more about this event and download a registration brochure on our website: http://www.lmpeacecenter.org/HIS.html.

 

Mediation Skills Training Institute is designed to equip church leaders with the skills necessary to deal effectively with interpersonal, congregational, and other forms of group conflict.  It also includes a component on congregational intervention and consultation, placed within the context of family systems theory.  Lombard Mennonite Peace Center will offer this event on August 7-11, 2006. This event will be held at St. Peters United Church of Christ in Elmhurst, Illinois.  Learn more about this event and download a registration brochure on our website: http://www.lmpeacecenter.org/MSTI.html.

 

The Clergy Clinic introduces participants to key concepts of family systems theory, provides opportunity to explore one’s own family of origin dynamics, and includes time for presenting case studies from one’s ministry setting for coaching and consultation.  The clinic also includes input from Lombard Mennonite Peace Center staff and video input by Murray Bowen, the father of family systems theory, and Edwin Friedman, who led the way in helping clergy understand the congregation as an emotional system.  LMPC will offer this event in November, 2006, February, 2007 and April/May, 2007. This event will be held at First Church of Lombard, UCC in Lombard, Illinois.  Learn more about this event and download a registration brochure on our website: http://www.lmpeacecenter.org/ClergyClinics.html.

 

Youth Ministry Certification schools will be held September 11-29, 2006, on the Wartburg Seminary campus in Dubuque, Iowa. Wartburg Seminary's Center for Youth Ministries in an expanded partnership with the Youth and Family Institute will conduct the schools. A third certification school will take place at Rainbow Trail Camp in Colorado. The dates are October 31-November 17, 2006. More information can be found at www.wartburgseminary.edu . Select Centers>Center for Youth Ministries for schedule and details. The phone number is 563/589-0220.

 

www.FaithandWisdom.org , in cooperation with the ELCA Division for Ministry, is your source for information on lifelong learning opportunities. Faith and Wisdom compiles events and programs throughout the world offered by some of the most distinguished organizations in North America and worldwide. These organizations have proven themselves trustworthy sources of lifelong learning for clergy, other church professionals, and for all who wish to pursue education as Christians.

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News from Other Organizations

Disciple Seminars Announces: Help new and experienced leaders polish skills, gain confidence in teaching and network with others. WHAT: DISCIPLE I, Jesus in the Gospels, Christian Believer, Beyond Disciple I: Disciple 2, 3 AND 4. WHERE: Living Waters Lutheran Church. WHEN: August 25-26, 2006.
COST: One-Day $100.00 (Each Offerings). SPECIAL: 10% Discount for all DISCIPLE resources purchased at training event. For More Information or to Register: Call 1-800-251-8591 Visit The Website www.disciple.cokesbury.com
 

Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries - upcoming summer events: Area Singles Picnic - June 24, Lutheran Golf Scramble - July 14, and Magic Waters Night - July 10. Find out more at this flyer.

 

2006 Lutheran Ministries Golf Scramble, Friday, July 14, PrairieView Golf Course, Byron, 7:30 a.m. Registration, 8:00 a.m. Shotgun Start, Registration brochures will be mailed in May. Questions? 815/962-4279.

 

Katie's Cup, Rockford, upcoming events (Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries - 815-962-4279):

Monday, June 26 The American Family – Today and Tomorrow A Luncheon Discussion Series. Download a flyer HERE>>. The face of the American family is changing. How do people of faith and goodwill respond to these changes - in our congregations, communities, and culture?

June 26    Dr. Linda Noer, Chair, Department of Social Work, Carthage College. Influence of the media on the family and current research trends concerning the future of the family.

Luncheon reservations should be made with the Lutheran Ministries office by the preceding Thursday. Katie’s Cup Conversations are held from 11:45 am - 1 pm at Stockholm Inn, 2420 Charles Street, Rockford. Luncheon and program - $10. For luncheon reservations or more info about Katie’s Cup, call Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries, 815/962-4279. Katie’s Cup Conversations are part of an on-going series designed to encourage stimulating discussion on a variety of topics of interest to members of the community. These Conversations will ultimately move to Katie’s Cup Coffeebar currently under construction in the Lantow Pharmacy Building on Seventh Street in Rockford. For more information, visit www.Katiescup.com  

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Bulletin Board

* Adult Choir Director and/or Chime Choir Director needed, beginning September 1, Trinity, Mt. Morris. To apply please call the church at 815-734-6354 or visit the web-site at www.lutheranonline.com/telcmm.

 

* Part-time worship leader needed to direct new contemporary-style worship band. Strong keyboard skills required, plus an ability to lead and work with volunteer musicians. Submit letter of interest and resume to Pastor Mark Hagen at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 675 N. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61107.

 

For sale: a very nice full Hammond organ. For more information, please contact Dianne Miller at 815-385-6575 or sarge@fastermac.net .

 

Karen Ream, presenter at the 2006 Congregational Resourcing Event, is available to present her program at no charge to Sunday adult forum/education programs in the Synod. It is an educational program on spiritual companioning/direction entitled "Unraveling the Knots in Your Life through Spiritual Companioning." Contact Karen Ream, 3609 Corbridge Ln, Rockford, IL 61107, 815-397-8410, dafodiljoy@juno.com

 

Christ the Lord Lutheran (Elgin), a midsize congregation northwest of Chicago, seeks musician(s) to fulfill the following functions, which may be combined depending on candidate’s qualifications.

Salary is negotiable. Send resume to: Beth Lawniczak, Christ the Lord Lutheran Church, 12N462 Tina Trail, Elgin, IL 60123 or ctlbeth@core.com  (847-741-8141). For more information see our website: www.christthelordlutheran.com .

  • Director of Music - Responsibilities include planning, selecting, and coordinating all music for both our traditional and non-traditional Sunday morning worship services. The Director of Music also plans, recruits, and arranges for all special accompanists and musical events at the church. The Director of Music will work closely with other staff, the pastor of the congregation, and the Worship/Music/Arts Committee for various planning and coordinating tasks. BA in organ, choral music or church music preferred.

  • Adult Vocal Choir Director - Responsibilities include leading regular weekly rehearsals and directing the choir at Sunday morning worship services. The Adult Vocal Choir Director will work closely with other music staff to coordinate and select appropriate music throughout the year to enrich the spirituality of our parishioners. BA in choral music, church music, or music education preferred.

  • Organist - Responsibilities include playing during our traditional Sunday morning worship service and working closely with the other music staff to coordinate a rich, spiritual, fulfilling experience for our parishioners. 1984 I/8 Casavant tracker with divided manual. BA in organ or church music preferred.

  • Pianist - Responsibilities include playing various instruments and help plan our non-traditional Sunday morning worship service. The pianist will work closely with other music staff to coordinate the musical aspect of this service. Candidate should have experience in a variety of music from traditional to contemporary, and possess excellent keyboard skills. Yamaha grand piano.

  • Handbell Choir Director - Responsibilities include leading weekly rehearsals and directing the handbell choir during Sunday morning worship services. The Handbell Choir Director will work closely with other music staff to coordinate and select appropriate music throughout the year to enrich our services. Past experience directing handbell choirs preferred. Three plus octaves Schulmerich handbells.

  • Children’s Music Director - Responsibilities include organizing a children’s choir and leading them at regular rehearsals and during Sunday morning worship services. The children’s music director will work closely with other music staff to help seek out and plan children’s music appropriate to both worship and music education. BA in music education or church music preferred.

 

First Lutheran, Princeton, has two flags-- 1 American--1 Christian -- that they are no longer using and would be glad to give them to any other church or group that could use them at no charge. Contact Mary Dorsch at rmdorsch@theramp.net .

 

First Lutheran, DeKalb, is seeking to fill two positions: part-time organist for traditional worship & part-time coordinator (with piano or guitar skills) for contemporary worship.  To apply, contact First Lutheran Church, 324 N. Third Street, DeKalb, IL at (815) 758-0643.

 

The Northern Lakeshore cluster of the Greater Milwaukee Synod is looking for any other youth groups traveling to the first week (July 3-10) of the National Youth Gathering in San Antonio. They are trying to fill a third bus and can take approximately 40 more folks. Consider joining them as they visit the Oaks Indian Center in Oaks, OK (home to a native American ELCA congregation) and a visit to Texas Lutheran University who is hosting a 4th of July party and dorm accommodations. If you are interested in pooling resources, please contact Pastor Paul Mittermaier stjelca@execpc.com  or call 262-677-3176.
 

Find job opportunities with Lutheran Social Services of Illinois at LSSI's job opportunities web page.
 

Redeemer, Bettendorf, IA is seeking a full-time Coordinator of Youth & Family Ministry to work with elementary, middle, & high school youth.  For a full job description and application, please browse to www.redeemerbett.org.  Interested persons may contact Richard Pokora at 563 355-8909.

 

Church Organist Position Available: First Lutheran Church, Moline, Illinois, is seeking a church organist for one service Sunday mornings and special worship services through the year. Experience as a church organist and familiarity with the liturgical services of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is preferred. Salary is negotiable. First Lutheran has a two manual, Zimmer tracker pipe organ, installed in 1982. Send resumes to First Lutheran Church, 1230 - 5th Avenue, Moline, IL, 61265, attention Pastor Frederick Schmidt.
 

Dean Bienvenido Ramos, son of NI Synod Pastors Dell and Francis Reilly Olson, is a professional restoration artist for sacred art and church interiors Read about him and see some of his work at www.nisynod.org/resources/artrestoration.htm

 

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 ...are published on the first Tuesday of each month. 

 

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Click here to go to the Financial Snapshot - find out more about the Synod's current financial situation.

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Looking for information from a previous Walking Together? Visit www.nisynod.org/pubs/wt for all the back issues.

 

Walking Together is a weekly e-mail newsletter that brings you all the news you need to know to stay up to date on happenings in the Northern Illinois Synod. It is sent to rostered leaders, congregations, and others by request.

To be added to the listserv, change your e-mail address or otherwise manage your subscription, please click the link on the right or e-mail Karin@NISynod.org Your submissions, comments, and suggestions are welcomed. Contact Karin Graddy, Communication Director for the Northern Illinois Synod at Karin@nisynod.org.

 

If you are changing your e-mail address please send your name, old e-mail address, and new e-mail address to NISNews@comcast.net .

 

You can also change your e-mail address, subscribe, unsubscribe, or control other personal options by going to http://lists.faithgroups.net/mailman/listinfo/walkingtogether . If you have any questions about this service, or ever have any trouble with Walking Together, please don’t hesitate to contact me at Karin@nisynod.org .

 

Karin Graddy, Associate in Ministry
Communication Director for the
Northern Illinois Synod of the ELCA
NISNews@comcast.net

Karin@NISynod.org  
www.nisynod.org
1508 Pickwick Lane
DeKalb IL  60115
815.748.7080

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Northern Illinois Synod, 103 West State Street, Rockford, IL 61101
Phone: 815-964-9934
Fax: 815-964-2295 welcome@nisynod.org

Questions or comments about this website may be directed to Karin Graddy, Northern Illinois Synod Communication Director