March 2019 • Volume 32, Issue 3

NORTHEASTERN IOWA MARCH 2019 • VOLUME 32, ISSUE 3

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Celebrating Renewal:Star Katherine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home A life of faith begins at home by Marcia Hahn Bible stories and scripture help people live a life grounded in faith

Parents nurture tion committed to doing good for who actively interpreted scripture to values to help others,” Lewis says. “Somehow we understand what God was doing in their children have to be able to articulate our her life. live a good life. identity, how we live, and our pur- When parents pose and vision with specific theo- “Mary sees a pattern about who connect those logical and Biblical claims.” God is and what God does, and she values to scrip- realizes she is a part of that,” Lewis ture, they’re Lewis adds that the more that says. “Mary teaches us that living a Karoline Lewis helping their people connect faithful living to life of faith is how we see our pres- children learn specific Bible stories, the more rel- ence here on earth and how we live how to live a life of faith. evant and authoritative the Bible out life as a continuation of faith becomes in their life and in their as part of a larger history of God’s “A lot of people know they should understanding of who God is. people. “ live a certain way, but what they really need is a direct correlation MARY’S LIFE CENTERED ON SCRIPTURE Lewis says that first century Pales- with actual Bible stories and scrip- tine home life is a witness to Mary’s ture to give a concreteness to their Lewis points to Mary, mother of influence on Jesus. Jesus, as an example of someone faith,” says the Rev. Dr. Karoline “It can be assumed that Jesus Lewis, associate professor and learned from Mary what it meant to Marbury E. Anderson Chair of Biblical Preaching at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. >> Continued on page 2 “This is what a life of faith does.”

Creating spaces to make spe- IN THIS ISSUE cific connections to the Bible is key for a meaningful faith 1 A life of faith begins at home life, according to Lewis. Oth- What is God up to? erwise, doing good acts just 3 because people are supposed Synod Assembly to can become rote and mind- 4 less. 5 Barnabas Uplift marks 10 years of service in Postville “If we don’t have a vocabulary that is distinctively theological 7 Congregations and faithful, we’re no different than a business or organiza- Prayer Calendar Virgin and Child (The Tallard Madonna) by Giorgione 8 A life of faith begins at home << Continued from page 1 have scripture at the center of his well has an encounter with Jesus life,” Lewis says. “He is a savior for and she tells others to come and MARY’S SONG OF PRAISE all people.” see. Mary Magdalene sees Jesus in Gabriel the angel came to the garden and she goes back to the Mary, and she wonders how In Luke, Jesus references people disciples and tells them that she has this is possible. Why would that others might not pay attention seen the Lord. to. He sees the widow whose only God see her? Mary moves from son has died. He spots Zacchaeus, a “It’s one thing to have an encounter incredulity to, “Here I am.” She tax collector, in the tree and invites with God, but you can’t keep it to realizes that God has favored him down. He has a conversation yourself,” Lewis says. “You have to her and regarded her. God has with the criminals on the cross. invite others to see it. These are de- looked on the lonely. Jesus’ monstrative characteristics of what ministry for the oppressed and John tells how Mary initiated Jesus’ discipleship looks like.” the marginal reflects Mary’s public ministry. She knows who Magnificat, her hymn of praise. Jesus is and she has witnessed for WHAT’S YOUR BIBLE STORY? 30 years what he can do and what Mary’s Song of Praise he is capable of doing. When the Lewis likes to ask people what their Luke 1:46-55 wedding ran out of wine, Mary tells favorite passage or story from the the steward to do whatever Jesus Bible is and why. And Mary said, tells him. Mary affirms who Jesus is “My soul magnifies the Lord, “I would argue that this is a person’s and encourages him. She is there at and my spirit rejoices in God my theology in a nutshell,” Lewis says. the beginning of Jesus’ ministry and Savior, “People should see in our actions at the end at the foot of the cross. for he has looked with favor on our theology. We reveal who God the lowliness of his servant. is by what we do. How we choose Surely, from now on all genera- to live our life is who we think God tions will call me blessed; “Mary can’t make sense of her is in the world and who we un- for the Mighty One has done derstand God to be and what God life without scripture; it is the great things for me, wants. That brings the kingdom of and holy is his name. first thing she goes to.” God present here on earth.” His mercy is for those who fear Lewis says that it’s important to him equip people to talk about why they from generation to generation. “Mary’s presence is demonstrative He has shown strength with his of the key characteristic of disciple- believe what they believe and how that affects their faith life. arm; ship — an abiding relationship in he has scattered the proud in the present,” Lewis says. “By nur- “People don’t talk enough about the thoughts of their hearts. turing a relationship with God and the authority of scripture,” Lewis He has brought down the with a community of believers, we says. “Mary can’t make sense of her powerful from their thrones, actually experience eternal life here life without scripture; it is the first and lifted up the lowly; and now; we experience salvation in thing she goes to. She’s a theologian he has filled the hungry with this moment.” making sense of her world through good things, Lewis says that whether it’s Mary the lens of what God is up to. and sent the rich away empty. or someone else from the Bible, He has helped his servant Israel, “That’s fundamentally what a faith in remembrance of his mercy, it’s important for people to con- of life should be — to get up every nect their lives to scripture and to according to the promise he day and say, ‘What is God up to made to our ancestors, tell others about it. John and Luke today and asking me to do?’ ” provide glimpses for what a life of to Abraham and to his descen- faith looks like. The woman at the dants forever.”

2 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD | www.neiasynod.org PRESIDING BISHOP What is God up to? by Elizabeth A. Eaton

What is to be except that God is faithful. When done? Our con- “It’s clear to me that we are living the Lord admonished, “Do not remember the former things, or congregations are in a time of transition, especially growing older sider the things of old,” this wasn’t and smaller. At for the Western church.” a command to forget God’s past least 40 percent saving work, but to believe that God of our congre- was still acting. This is true for us gations have an I think we are asking the wrong today. When we stop asking what average weekly questions. we can do to fix the church and worship atten- start asking what God is up to, we dance of 50 or less. ELCA member- The questions we are asking have open ourselves up to the life-giving ship decreases by 70,000 people a to do about us: “What can we do?” promise of God’s future. year, or roughly the loss of a synod They express loss and grief and per year. Clergy retirements out- fear — loss and grief for what Then we are also open to more number new candidates for minis- we were and fear about what we questions: How is the Spirit reshap- try. Financial pressures and building will become. Not only do these ing the church? How will Christ maintenance create stress. There is questions not lead to productive use us as Christ’s living body in the a dearth of people in their 20s and answers, they also don’t point to world? 30s in our pews. How do we change hope. It’s as if the church’s one foun- If we want to attract people to our this? How do we reverse the trends? dation rests on us and our efforts. congregations to rebuild a memory, These are anxious questions that I think we need to ask: “What is God God will not bless our efforts. But come from anxious people across up to?” if we — grabbed by the Spirit in this church. We aren’t the only ones baptism, changed by the word, asking them — just about every It’s clear to me that we are living in intimately and lovingly connected mainline denomination, including a time of transition, especially for to Jesus and each other in commu- the non-Latino population of the the Western church. I don’t know nion, and set free by grace to serve Roman Catholic Church, is in the how long this transition will last nor the neighbor — invite all people same boat. Even some megachurch- do I have a clear vision of what the into true life, then we shall become es are showing signs of plateau or church is becoming. part of the answer. decline. And this is not exclusive The good news is that you and I This takes attention and devotion. to the Christian community. I once Worship, prayer, Scripture study, attended a national conference of don’t have to have a clear vision because God does. “Do not remem- generosity and service — not in Muslims where one workshop was order to save the church, but in titled “Un-Mosqued to Mosqued: ber the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a response to the new life God has How to Get the Young Muslim Back given us in Christ. to the Masjid.” new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:18- And one more thing: in God’s in- Some now see the decline of the 19). These words of hope were spoken to the Jews who were stuck scrutable wisdom, God has chosen church in general, and the ELCA human hands and voices to tell and in particular, as inevitable. The re- in exile. They had lost their land, their temple and their king — the welcome. Let’s adopt the Metro- sponse can be to turn our churches politan Washington, D.C., Synod’s into bunkers with our congrega- pillars of their identity. Likewise, the church has lost social status and mission to get more people to know tions sheltering within the walls more about Jesus. or to try every new program that relevance in 21st-century American breathlessly promises to attract culture. This column originally appeared people to our congregations. For Israel and the church this in Living Lutheran’s February 2019 Neither is an effective or faithful issue. Reprinted with permission. long-term strategy. would be a hopeless situation,

MARCH 2019 3 Celebrating Renewal: Katherine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home Get ready for the Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly

June 14-16, 2019 (no meals, no housing). Early bird registration fees will Wartburg College, Waverly be available until Tuesday, May 14. An additional fee of $25 will be added after May 14. The 2019 Synod Assembly will gather at Wartburg Col- lege, Waverly, June 14 - 16, for business surrounded by • Information — A pre-assembly notebook will be word and sacrament. The assembly will participate in mailed or a digital copy emailed to registered voting small group study on Sunday morning. members on May 14. • Youth — Congregations are encouraged to elect a KEYNOTE — The keynote address will be presented by the youth voting member. Rev. Dr. Kirsi I. Stjerna, an ELCA pastor and professor of Lu- theran history and theology for Pacific Lutheran Theologi- • Voting Requirement — Voting members must be vot- cal Seminary, Berkeley, Calif. ing members of their congregation. • Resolutions — Business is presented in resolution CHURCHWIDE REPRESENTATIVE — The Rev. Brenda Smith, form. Resolutions may be submitted to the Resolutions program director for ELCA Faith and Book of Faith, will Committee by a voting member of a congregation in bring greetings and a report from the churchwide organi- the Northeastern Iowa Synod, a congregation, or a zation. conference. FORUMS, SEMINARS, MINISTRY EXHIBITS — Saturday’s forums • Visitors — Both adults and youth and seminars will focus on “Celebrating Renewal: Kather- are welcome and encouraged to ine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home,” the year-long attend. synod emphasis. Learn more at www.neiasynod.org/ ASSEMBLY FACTS — synod-assembly-2019. • Theme/Emphasis — Celebrating Renewal: Katherine — Linda J. Hudgins von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home. Assistant to the Bishop • Elections — Voting members will elect synod council and committee members. • Forms — General information and registration forms NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD are inserted in this issue of the Star. Bishop Steven L. Ullestad – [email protected] • Fees — Fee categories are non-commuter (meals, Assistants to the Bishop housing), commuter (meals, no housing), and visitor Rev. Mark A. Anderson – [email protected] Rev. Stephen Brackett – [email protected] Linda J. Hudgins – [email protected] ELCA Director for Evangelical Mission Rev. Dr. Joelle Colville-Hanson – [email protected] Star Editor Marcia Hahn – [email protected] SAVE THE DATE! The Star is published 11 times a year by the Northeastern Iowa Synod, Mark the date Sunday, Sept. 8, 201 20th Street SW, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA 50677-0804; www.neiasynod.org, phone 319-352-1414, FAX 319-352-1416. for “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday. Send news for the April 2019 issue to Marcia Hahn by March 11. We welcome story ideas related to the 2019 theme, “Celebrating Renewal: Katherine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home.” ELCA congregations will join together to use their various gifts in service activities Articles in this newsletter may be duplicated for use in synod congregations and organizations, for their communities. with credit to the Star newsletter.

Visit www.elca.org/dayofservice for updates and Please notify the synod office with name and address changes. To receive an electronic version resources to guide congregations in planning and of the Star, rather than paper, send your request promoting their activities. to [email protected]. www.neiasynod.org

4 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD | www.neiasynod.org Barnabas Uplift marks 10 years of service in Postville by Marcia Hahn

Katie Ciszewski loves caring for nursing home residents.

Ciszewski was helping with residents’ activities at the Good Samari- tan Society in West Union when she decided she wanted to be more involved in caring for the residents. She started saving money for certified nursing assistant (CNA) training, and a friend told her that she could get assistance through the Barnabas Uplift training program offered at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Postville.

“Barnabas Uplift was really a bless- ing for me,” says Ciszewski, who was 19 when she took the training in the spring of 2018. “My father Friends, family, instructors and staff members celebrate the December 2018 graduation of four had passed away a few years ago, students from the Barnabas Uplift certified nursing assistant training program at St. Paul Luther- an, Postville. The event marked the 10th anniversary of the program being offered at St. Paul. and funds were tight. I can’t say enough good things about Barnabas Uplift.” “This opportunity popped up and dents have graduated from the St. once I was in class, I really liked Paul program. Barnabas Uplift is a cooperative it,” says Cordero, who now works network that offers the 80-hour fulltime as a CNA for the Good At age 52, Loretta Lerch decided training course required to become Samaritan Society in Postville. “I to enroll in the practical nursing a certified nursing assistant. The love being a CNA because there is program at NICC in Calmar after program covers the cost of tuition always a new experience with every losing her job as a billing clerk and the state testing fee for quali- resident. My favorite part is helping in 2014. One requirement of the fied individuals whose income is the residents and knowing that nursing program is to work as a less than 200 percent of poverty maybe sometime when I am older CNA, and Lerch was referred to guidelines. The training is also open and in a home, someone will treat the Barnabas Uplift program at St. for those who have other sources of me how I am treating them.” Paul. income for tuition. St. Paul set up a dedicated class- “It’s an awesome program that really In December, Barnabas Uplift at St. room in the church’s educational helped me out,” says Lerch, who Paul celebrated its 10th anniversary wing in 2012 and hired Marsha lives in Wadena. “I needed the CNA and honored the most recent gradu- Ruby as the program coordinator. training to continue in the nursing ating class of five students. Among Northeast Iowa Community College program, and it was easy to go to the graduates was 18-year-old Idalia (NICC) provides an instructor and the church after my classes for the Cordero, who had originally intend- curriculum for the training, which training.” ed to study accounting after com- is offered twice a year. Barnabas Lerch worked part-time for four pleting high school. Those plans Uplift has helped fill the need for years at Good Samaritan in Post- changed when her sister invited qualified caregivers in area nursing her to join her in the CNA training homes and supports students train- program at St. Paul. ing to become nurses. Some 92 stu- >> Continued on page 6

MARCH 2019 5 Barnabas Uplift marks 10 years of service in Postville << Continued from page 5 ville as a CNA, and is now working hands and feet of Christ, helping there fulltime as a licensed practi- and serving the neighbor.” cal nurse. “By starting as a CNA I learned a lot of different aspects of St. Paul expanded its partnership how to be a nurse, too, and how to with NICC last fall to offer two support and take care of the resi- additional educational opportuni- dents.” ties — classes to earn a high school equivalency diploma and classes to learn English for speakers of other “It’s such a satisfying job taking care languages. Noel says that these classes go hand-to-hand with the of the residents and knowing you Barnabas Uplift program and the can be a bright spot in their day.” congregation’s ministry to reach out into the community.

“This teaching partnership is Idalia Cordero celebrates her Dec. 13, 2018, Barnabas Uplift started as a part- graduation from Barnabas Uplift with her nership between the Northeastern another opportunity to be present instructor, Jomarie Scholtes. Iowa Synod and the Roman Catho- in the community and to open our- lic Archdiocese of Dubuque. The selves to all God’s people,” Noel like family,” says Ciszewski, who program has been offered at several says. works fulltime as a CNA at Good different sites in Iowa through the For Ciszewski, Cordero and Lerch, Samaritan in West Union. “It’s such years. In Northeastern Iowa, Good Barnabas Uplift helped set them on a satisfying job taking care of the Shepherd Lutheran in Decorah also a career path centered on service residents and knowing you can be a serves as a Barnabas Uplift site. and caring for others. bright spot in their day. They warm my heart, and when I come home, it Currently, St. Paul offers the “You form really good relationships keeps me in a good mood.” program in partnership with the with the residents and they become Northeastern Iowa Synod, NICC, and the Good Samaritan Society in Postville, where the clinical portion of the classes occurs. The St. Paul Students to go ‘Walking WIYLDE’ congregation supports the program through $4,000 budgeted each June 16-19, 2019 The cost to year from its Ministry Fund, special Wartburg College, Waverly attend WIYLDE offerings and donations, memo- is $300 per rial gifts, endowment scholarships, Registration is open for high student. Schol- and an annual fund-raiser brunch. school youth from ELCA congrega- arships of $100 Grants have also been received tions to attend the Wholly Iowa are available from the Northeastern Iowa Synod, Youth Leadership Discipling Event through the the ELCA World Hunger Domestic June 16-19 at Wartburg College Northeastern Hunger Division, and the Upper in Waverly. This annual camp is Iowa Synod, Mississippi Gaming Corporation. designed to help high school youth along with a learn how to become future leaders $25 discount for students who “Through these partnerships, we of the church. recruit a friend who is new to at St. Paul are giving individuals WIYLDE. Registration is due by an opportunity to make themselves This year’s “Walking WIYLDE” Wednesday, May 1, 2019. Download productive citizens within their theme will focus on baptism and the flier and registration form at communities,” Pastor Lynn Noel the promises that students make www.neiasynod.org/wiylde. says. “It’s an opportunity to be the during their affirmation of baptism.

6 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD | www.neiasynod.org EVENTS CONGREGATIONS

MARCH EVENTS ORDAINING 2 Meeting, Synodical Women’s Organization Board, Laurel Meester, Transfiguration Lutheran, Bloomington, Synod Office, 8 a.m.-12 noon Minn., March 30 3-5 Event, Rural Ministry Conference, Dubuque 7 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, INSTALLING 9:30-11:30 a.m. Rev. Dawn Pederson, Denver, St. Peter, March 24 7 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, St. Peter, Rev. Laurel Meester, First, Dows, April 7 Greene, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 9 Meeting, (snow date) Synodical Women’s INTERVIEWING Organization Board Castalia, Zion, Rev. Jim Harbaugh, interim 14 Event, Day of Renewal, Nazareth, Cedar Falls, Dysart, Zion Janesville, Messiah and Denver, St. John (Maxfield) 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (Unity of the Cross Parish of Bremer County) 16 Meeting, Synod Council, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Tripoli, St. John (Crane Creek) 23 Meeting, LYON, Synod Office, 10-11 a.m. Waukon, St. John 23 Meeting, Resolutions Committee, 10 a.m. SELF-STUDY APRIL EVENTS Belmond, Trinity 4 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, Cedar Falls, Bethlehem, Rev. Audrey Lukasak, interim 9:30-11:30 a.m. Cedar Falls, St. John, Rev. Paul Svingen, interim Charles City, Messiah, Rev. Norman Bauer, interim Youth Ministry Network, Redeemer, 4 Meeting, Chester, United Waverly, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Decorah, Decorah 9 Meeting, Assembly Planning Committee, Dubuque, Holy Trinity (staff) Wartburg, Waverly, 4-6 p.m. Dubuque, St. Matthew 19 Office Closed, Good Friday Dubuque, St. Peter, Rev. Karla Wildberger, interim 25-26 Event, Youth Ministry Network Retreat, Ewalu, Hawkeye, Trinity Strawberry Point Independence, Immanuel (staff) 27 Meeting, LYON, Synod Office, 10-11 a.m. Mason City, St. Paul, Rev. Matthew Muters, contract 28-30 Event, First Call Theological Education Nashua, St. John, Rev. Charis Combs-Lay, interim Continuing Education Event, American New Hampton, Trinity (staff) Rockwell, St. Peter and Thornton, St. Paul, Rev. Joel Martyrs, Cedar Falls Dahlen, contract interim Sumner, St. Peter (Richfield) and Waucoma, St. John MAY EVENTS (Stapleton) 2 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. ROSTER CHANGES 3 Meeting, Candidacy Committee, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Our Savior’s, Radcliffe, voted to leave the ELCA. 27 Office Closed, Memorial Day Memorial Day Rev. Dr. Kathryn Kleinhans, transferred to Northeastern Ohio Synod JUNE EVENTS 6 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Register for Day of Renewal 6 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, Immanuel, March 14, 2019 Independence, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Rostered ministers are invited to attend the Day of Synod Assembly, Wartburg College, 14-16 Event, Renewal set for Thursday, March 14, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Waverly at Nazareth Lutheran, Cedar Falls. Deacon Elayne Werges 16-19 Event, WIYLDE (Wholly Iowa Leadership will present about faith practices in the home and the Discipling Event), Wartburg College, Waverly example set by Katherine von Bora Luther. 17-18 Office Closed 22 Event, NE IA Synodical Women’s Organization There is no charge to attend. Lunch will be provided. Convention, Wartburg College, Waverly To register by March 7, send an email to hamiltonl@ neiasynod.org or call the synod office at 319-352-1414. Learn more at www.neiasynod.org/event.

MARCH 2019 7 PRAYER CALENDAR MARCH 2019 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT H. George Anderson Fund for Leaders Julie Nordstrom, Cedar Falls Messiah, Charles City 1 2 Ruth E. Groth, Chassell, Mich. Northeastern Iowa Rev. Norman L. Bauer, Rev. David L. Lenth, Synodical Women’s Rev. Kent Mechler, Aase Haugen Senior Charles City Ossian Organization Mason City St. John, Charles City Services, Decorah United, Chester 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Rev. Roger L. Buhr, Decorah Rev. Dr. H. George Rev. Kristen Briner Anderson, Green Luther Manor, Rev. Virginia A. Olson, Rev. Robert F. Good Neighbor Wipperman, Valley, Ariz. Dubuque Eldorado Lehmann, Dubuque First, Clarion Home, Manchester Cedar Falls 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Middle East Peace Good Shepherd, Inc., Lutheran Retirement East Clermont, Rev. Ronald L. Roberts, Faith Lutheran Home, St. John, Clarksville Mason City Galilean, Clear Lake Home, Northwood Clermont Clermont Osage 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Rev. Dennis E. Bauer, Sarah Andersen, Cedar Falls Decorah West Clermont, Good Samaritan Rev. Gary K. Lee, Rev. Harold R. McMillin Rev. Dave A. Nerdig, Rev. H. Allen Vik, Clermont Center, Postville Nazareth, Coulter Decorah Jr., Garnavillo Jewell Decorah 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Rev. Karen R. Grandall, Spring Valley, Minn. 31

Plan to join the ELCA stewardship webcast Saturday, March 9, 2019 The webcast will also introduce the Generosity 365: A New Resource for Congregations. This resource offers a Rostered ministers, lay lead- year-long stewardship theme, educational materials for ers and seminary students all age groups, a financial response method, and four are invited to join a live online issues of Giving Magazine. webcast on stewardship Saturday, March 9, 10:30 Congregation members who are involved in finance, a.m. to 12 noon. generosity, resource and stewardship committees, mission support, and other related ministries are encour- The ELCA stewardship team aged to attend. is offering this free 90- minute “StewardCast” to To join this webcast, go to www.elca.org/stewardship give stewardship leaders fresh ideas and perspectives on the morning of March 9 and click on the widget on stewardship and generosity. Topics include: titled stewardCast2019. Each participant will be given an opportunity to submit questions through the chat • Stewardship for Small Congregations feature and to receive resources after the event. • Missional Hope for a New Generation • Engaging Disciples & Stewards with an App To view a presentation from a previous event, visit • Teaching Generosity in the Home https://youtu.be/XmKuMJyiPZg. For more information, • Resourceful Servants contact [email protected] or [email protected]. March 2019 Volume 32 Good News Number 3

As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world. From the President Discipleship Committee A-new Bold! What is a disciple? To be a disciple a person needs to Ez 11:19 “I will give them a new heart, and put a be a servant, witness and a worshipper. Jesus showed new spirit within them.” his 12 disciples what was needed to be his disciple. He This is the theme for our 2019 gathering, knelt in front of them and washed their feet. This did June 22 @ Wartburg College. It is a play on words, not seem right to Peter until Jesus said “If I do not from our new triennial theme All Anew. We are wash you, you have no share with me” John 13:8. hoping this theme will inspire everyone to think of Jesus came to earth not to be served, but to serve, and new and creative ways to be Women of the ELCA. to give his life as the rescue for sinners Mark 10:45. To help you along the journey, we will be hosting To be disciples of Jesus we need to be witnesses Mary Jo Mettler, former president of the NE for and to him. We are given a mission—to spread the Minnesota Women of the ELCA, who had an idea Gospel of Christ whenever and wherever we can. to provide solar power to Phoebe Hospital in There are times when this can be most difficult and Liberia. When you come to the gathering you will takes a lot of courage. But we can because we are His hear her story of faith and trust that not only disciples and filled with the Holy Spirit sent for a provided solar power to Phoebe hospital, but is purpose—to tell the Good News. now working on a second hospital in Curran. Now discipleship means we must worship. Jesus Also during our time together we will be should be our one and only person or thing we electing new board members, president and worship. This is the heart of Christ’s ministry. We secretary, along with nominating committee worship him in spirit and in truth. If we follow Jesus we members and even more important, Triennial must worship God through Jesus because he is our voting members! If you are looking for a new Mediator and worship Jesus himself because he is God. challenge and want to find out more about So to put it quit plainly: to be a disciple of Jesus Women of the ELCA, this is a great way! You can means to serve like him, witness for and to him and find the nomination forms on the website. We will worship only him, even though this may sometimes go also be learning more about how we can help against the social order of our day and its with the mission of Global Health Ministries and expectations. Submitted by Bonnie Dralle, Board the AMMPARO (Accompanying Migrant Minors Member with Protection, Advocacy Representation and Opportunities). And just for fun, we will be having Justice Committee our first “busy” session, while we roll bandages Each midwinter, when days are cold, windy and bleak, for Global Health Ministries. Get your registration the words of Martin Luther King, Jr. are brought before forms in so you do not miss out on all the fun and us as we remember and honor him with marches, fellowship! (look on the website, or check @ your speeches and assemblies. He reminds us that Jesus church—each unit should have already received a came to care for the poor, the oppressed and packet) forgotten. In his sermon to the congregation at See you in June! Be A-new BOLD, Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA in 1962 he said: “You died when you failed to stand up for something. You died when you failed to give yourself CALENDAR Mar. 2 SWO Board meeting at Synod Office 9– meeting wondering about the building, we are 12:30 (Mar. 9 snow date) reminded that the mission of the church is to be God’s Apr. 5 Cluster F Riverside Spring Gathering, St. hands and feet. WE ARE THE CHURCH TOGETHER. John, Hampton Apr. 13 LWR Ingathering, Clusters H, C, E, St. Peter, Submitted by Jennifer Larson Denver Apr. 13 Spring Salad Luncheon, Cluster G, Living Stewardship Committee Waters, Bethlehem, Manly, 8:30–12:30 Introducing Crafty Girl’s Faithful Finds Apr. 15 LWR Ingathering, 9–11, South Port Mall (old Sears area) “And serve each other according to the gift each Apr. 27 Little Flock Cluster B Spring Fling, Bethany, person has received, as good managers of God’s Elkader diverse gifts.” 1 Peter 4:10 April 27 Cluster D Upper Iowa River Cluster Spring Come, enjoy the day with us! Save the date—NEIA Gathering, Good Shepherd, Decorah May 4 LWR Ingathering, Cluster D, Olson’s Women of the ELCA 32nd Annual Gathering held at Explosives, Decorah Wartburg College, Waverly on June 22, 2019. May 18 SWO Board meeting at Wartburg College We are excited about trying something new to 9–12:30 entice the crafty spirit in you! A limited number of June 21 SWO Board meeting at Wartburg College, 7–9 p.m. display tables will be available for use during our June 22 32nd Annual NE IA Women of the ELCA Gathering to crafters within our synod who are Gathering, Wartburg College, Waverly interested in selling their craft work creations to our Nov. 9 LWR Ingathering, St. Peter LC, Denver attendees. to some great principle. You died when you Yes.... Our ladies love to shop—and we would like refused to stand up against segregation. You died to promote the gifts God gave us! We require that when you refused to stand up against some great some of the items on tables be FAITH based. There is evil of society. Somebody’s calling us this no fee for tables, but we are asking for a donation of a morning, saying, 'Go preach my gospel. You shall craft item from crafters for our door prize drawing at be witnesses unto me in Samaria, Judea, and unto lunchtime. Crafters are asked to have a person at their every part of the earth.’ Carry this gospel into the table for sales until 2 p.m. A half table space will also villages, to the hedges and the highways, and tell be offered for sharing with another crafter for those about Jesus. And if we will do this, we will make with smaller items. this old world a new world.” Crafty Girl’s Faithful Finds Application Form can be These words were spoken again to the found on our website—www.neiawomenoftheelca congregation of First Lutheran Church, Decorah, and will also be available at our spring cluster events. IA by Pastor Melissa Bills in her sermon moments The deadline for applications is May 15, 2019. before the congregation’s annual meeting. The Boxed lunches from The Den will be available for a building that has housed the church family for cost of $9.00. over one hundred years is no longer structurally Contact Nancy Miller (507) 273-4036 for details. sound. While much time was spent in the Submitted by Della Benson

NE IA Women of the ELCA Executive Board Good News Diane Wills, President Editor Jan Harbaugh 641-425-8628 [email protected] P. O. Box 18, Castalia, IA 52133 563-412-8906 [email protected] Jan Harbaugh, Vice President Articles are due the 1st of the month for the next month's newsletter (e.g. April 563-412-8906 [email protected] 1 for May issue). Please put WELCA in your subject line. (You can also send paper copies by “snail” mail.) Anna Jetson, Secretary 952-240-9569 [email protected] Contact Women of the ELCA at: Beverly Sheridan, Treasurer 773.380.2730 or 800.638.3522, ext. 2730 563-382-9025 [email protected] http://www.womenoftheelca.org/ 701 Serenity Drive 8765 W. Higgins Road Decorah, IA 52101 Chicago, IL 60631-4189 NEIA Women of the ELCA website: neiasynod.org/women-of-the-ELCA Living Faith

Dear Faith Shapers,

Here I am writing about summer camp and we are in the midst of a snowy winter! It’s never to early to plan for the summer. Now is the time when I start to look at my family’s summer plans. Bible camp is Why I Am Sending My Kids to Summer always first on my kids’ list. We also plan summer vacation, Bible Camp sports and visiting family, but I am often asked by other parents how can I send my kids to summer camp? I get many questions/concerns such as: your summer camp is their favorite. kids are so young, how can you be sure they will be safe, a week We send each of our kids to is so long, what if they hate it, my kid won’t know anyone, etc. camp on their own and then if we can make it fit, we attend I firmly believe all of the benefits outweigh the concerns. Here’s family camp together. Every the joys my family has at camp: child should get to experience Feeling God’s presence & hearing God’s call Bible camp. So much faith Stepping out of our comfort zones to try new things shaping and growing up Team work in activities happens at camp. Please don’t Bible learning let overscheduled summers, Encouraged to be who we are Sense of wonder sports, or cost get in the way of Learned how to pray experiencing Bible camp. Our Emotional growth camps and many churches Learned independence offer scholarships. If you don’t And a love of zip lines! have camping age kids, February is the time to sign up for camp. We have several Lu- consider giving a scholarship theran camps in our synod and they offer discounts for signing for a child to attend Bible camp. up early. Many churches also offer additional scholarships to Most pastors have attended or help get kids to camp. Here are the ELCA camps in our synod. been staff at Bible camp! Camp Camp EWALU www.ewalu.org really is faith shaping! Riverside Bible Camp www.riversidelbc.org

May you experience the joy of camping This information is prepared for you by the ministry. Northeastern Iowa Synod-Home Life Network for use by families and local congregations. Like our page on Facebook and our posted resources will appear in your Lisa Kammerer, newsfeed. Our page is Northeastern Iowa Synod Home Life Network ELCA Deacon 5 Things Your Child Gets From Summer Bible Camp

Develop Independence Experience God You are giving your child the oppor- You child will worship, tunity to live and thrive without you. pray, have bible study, Confidence & independence happen at make Christian friends, camp because parents are not there. sing songs all while being in God’s amazing crea- tion with God’s people! Relax & Get Unplugged You are giving your child a break from Become Better At Making Friends the pressures and stress of school, The bonding and friendships that happen at sports & daily life. They have the camp are different from those that occur at chance to unplug & connect face to school or on sports teams Living together and face with other kids & positive young experiencing camp together creates the ideal adult role models! setting to form life long friendships.

Experience Outdoor Childhood Fun & Adventure You are giving your child the gift of magical memories– dirt, adventure, faith experiences, story, joke filled days and nights spent with friends outdoors, under the stars, and around the campfire. These childhood memories will last FOREVER! This is a gift that will have more impact than any material item you’ve ever given.

The Real Story Ideas to give up or add for Lent  Saint Patrick is the patron saint of  Wearing jewelry or hats Ireland  Text/Snap three people a day to ask if you  We think he was born in 385 AD in Britain can pray for them  At age 16, he was captured and sold into  Go one day a week without any make up or slavery in Ireland hair products  During his captivity, he became a very  Tip 30% anytime you go out to eat devout Christian  Eliminate screen time 1 day per week  When he escaped six years later, he went  Give up snapchat– only call or email on to spend 12 years in a monastery  Pick 4 outfits to wear all of Lent  Throw away 40 things for 40 days  He then returned to Ireland as a mission-  When you buy a treat, buy a second one ary for someone else  Saint Patrick is credited with bringing  Turn off your phone when you are with Christianity to Ireland your family  We think he died on March 17, 461  Only check your social media 3x a day  Shopping– only buy essentials during Lent 2019

Northeastern Iowa Synod Celebrating Renewal: Assembly Katherine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home

Wartburg College—Waverly, Iowa June 14-16, 2019

Registration Materials

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FEE AVAILABLE UNTIL MAY 14

After this date, an additional fee of $25 per person will be added. This fee cannot be waived. No exceptions.

Every person attending must register.

Please copy the attached information for each voting member and visitor.

2019 NORTHEASTERN IOWA SYNOD ASSEMBLY Celebratin g Renewal: Katherine von Bora Luther — Faith in the Home

DATES Friday-Sunday, June 14-16, 2019. Registration begins on Friday at 4:30 p.m., opening worship at 7:00 p.m. The Synod Assembly will close with the noon meal on Sunday.

PLACE Wartburg College, Waverly, Iowa

BUSINESS Resolutions and elections. The Synod Assembly will elect synod council and committee members.

KEYNOTE The keynote address will be presented by the Rev. Dr. Kristi I. Stjerna, Professor of Lutheran History and Theology at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary.

CHURCHWIDE REPRESENTATIVE The Rev. Brenda Smith, Program Director, ELCA Faith and Book of Faith will bring greetings and a report from the churchwide organization.

COST EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FEES, UNTIL MAY 14: Voting member registration: $190 for those staying on campus, $140 for commuters Visitor registration: $160 for those staying on campus, $110 for commuters Visitor and ministry exhibit staff registration: $60 (no meals, no housing)

AFTER MAY 14: An additional fee of $25 per person is added

Please make checks payable to the Northeastern Iowa Synod and send with registration forms to: Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA 50677-0804.

WHO MAY REGISTER?

Voting members to the Synod Assembly will be the following:

1. All rostered individuals under call on the roster of the synod.

2. The formula for congregational representation for the Synod Assembly follows:

 The total lay delegation from any congregation be as nearly as possible 50% male and 50% female.  Two voting members elected by each congregation,  plus one youth voting member elected by each congregation (must be eligible to vote in their congregation),  plus an additional lay voting member for every 750 baptized members, i.e., 750=1 additional, 1500=2 additional, 2250=3, etc.

- continued

3. Members of the Synod Council.

4. All retired clergy on the roster of the synod shall elect 10 percent of their number to be voting members; all other retired clergy shall be advisory members with voice but not vote.

5. All rostered persons on leave from call for reasons of disability shall elect 10 percent of their number to be voting members to the Synod Assembly. There shall be a minimum of one (1) such person provided both voice and vote.

VISITORS

Any interested person may register as a visitor to the Synod Assembly; visitors do not have voice or vote. Rostered persons-not under call and retired clergy-not elected to represent retired clergy are permitted voice but not vote.

ON-CAMPUS HOUSING

Housing will be assigned on a first-registered, first-assigned basis in college residence halls. All rooms are air conditioned. Most rooms are double occupancy and have single beds, none are bunks. Sheets, blanket, pillow, towel and washcloth are provided. For your personal comfort, you may wish to bring an additional pillow or blanket. You will need to bring your own toiletries, such as soap and shampoo. Bathroom and shower facilities are shared, but designated as Men’s or Women’s.

MEALS

Registration fees include the following meals: (no meals on Friday, June 14) Saturday, June 15: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sunday, June 16: breakfast and lunch.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Questions concerning registration and campus facilities may be directed to the Northeastern Iowa Synod office, 319/352-1414.

On May 14, a pre-assembly notebook will be mailed/or a digital copy emailed to registered voting members.

2019 Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly Wartburg College – Waverly, Iowa June 14-16, 2019

Celebrating Renewal: Katherine von Bora Luther – Faith in the Home

Voting Member Registration Form Please type or print. Name Telephone No. Mailing Address City State Zip Congregation/Institution Address

Pre-Assembly Report: Please send me a printed copy ___ OR ___ Digital copy to: Email

Please check one (1) in each Category:

Category A: Category B: Category C: Minister of Word & Sacrament (under call) Male Early Bird Registration UNTIL May 14 Minister of Word & Service Commuter $140 (under call) (meals, no housing) Lay Adult Female Non-Commuter $190 Youth (meals, housing) Retired Minister of Word & Sacrament (elected) AFTER May 14 __ Minister of Word & Sacrament Add $25 Fee On-Leave from Call for Disability (elected) Synod Council Amount Enclosed $

Housing: Most rooms are double occupancy, all beds are single. If you do not indicate a roommate, one will be assigned. I would like to room with: Name ______Address ______Handicap Accessible needed Children Accompanying Age/s ______

Dietary: Special needs: ______

Please include payment with this registration. Make checks payable to Northeastern Iowa Synod, ELCA. Send to: Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly PO Box 804 Waverly, IA 50677-0804 REGISTRATION FEES will be refunded for cancellations received by May 14.

PHOTO CONSENT: Photos will be taken during the Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly. By registering for this event, you hereby give permission that photos containing your image/likeness may be used for publicity or general information purposes. The synod will not seek any further permission nor provide any notification before using such photos. 2019 Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly Wartburg College – Waverly, Iowa June 14-16, 2019

Celebrating Renewal: Katherine von Bora Luther – Faith in the Home

Visitor Registration Form

Please type or print. Name Telephone No. Mailing Address City State Zip Congregation/Institution Address

Please check one (1) in each Category:

Category A: Category B: Category C: Minister of Word & Sacrament Early Bird Registration UNTIL May 14 (under call) Male Commuter $110 (meals, housing) Minister of Word & Service Non-Commuter $160 (under call) Female (meals, housing) Lay Adult Visitor/Exhibit Staff $60 Youth (no meals, no housing)

Ministry Exhibit Staff AFTER May 14 Add $25 Fee

Amount Enclosed $

Dietary: Special needs: ______

Please include payment with this registration. Make checks payable to Northeastern Iowa Synod, ELCA. Send to: Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly PO Box 804 Waverly, IA 50677-0804

REGISTRATION FEES will be refunded for cancellations received May 14. PHOTO CONSENT: Photos will be taken during the Northeastern Iowa Synod Assembly. By registering for this event, you hereby give permission that photos containing your image/likeness may be used for publicity or general information purposes. The synod will not seek any further permission nor provide any notification before using such photos.