Issue No. 7 | August 2021

STORIES FROM THE ROAD.

In this issue... MADAGASCAR REFORMATION MINISTRY RELIEF FUND HYMNODY: A GIFT ACROSS FOR ALL TIME DENOMINATIONS p. 3 p. 5 p. 9

Published by Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod MISSION: INSIDE THIS ISSUE TO SERVE, CONNECT, AND EQUIP ELCA 02 The Global Church CONGREGATIONS IN SOUTHWESTERN 04 iServe PENNSYLVANIA TO TELL THE STORY OF JESUS 05 Reformation Hymnody

07 The Power of Data “O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done 08 marvelous things.” Meeting Our Neighbors Grants –Psalm 98:1 09 Ministry Across Denominations

11 Health & Wellness Ministry

12 Eating Again at the Table Cover Photo: Luther in the circle of his family, by Gustav Adolph 13 Staff Book Picks that Inspire Spangenberg, edited 14 Colleague Connections CONTACT: 1014 PERRY HWY, SUITE 200 15 Calendar of Causes PITTSBURGH, PA 15237 412-367-8222 SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD WWW.SWPASYNOD.ORG Rev. Kurt F. Kusserow synod council bishop Jennifer Armstrong-Schaefer Rev. James V. Arter III BISHOP & ASSISTANTS Barbara Nugent Rev. Kerri L. Clark [email protected] vice-president Rev. Beth Clementson [email protected] Dr. Wendy Farone [email protected] Rev. William Schaefer Myra L. Fozard secretary Beryl Gundy RESOURCE MINISTRY Rev. Brenda Henry Gary N. Teti [email protected] Rev. Susan A. G. Irons treasurer Rev. Allyn Itterly ACCOUNTING Janice Jeletic [email protected] Dennis T. Lane Rev. Peter D. Asplin Fiona Lubold ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT assistant to the bishop Rev. J.J. Lynn [email protected] Rev. Sarah Rossing Rev. Melissa L. Stoller [email protected] Linda Schaeffer director for evangelical mission Holly Schmitt & assistant to the bishop COMMUNICATIONS Amy J. Schultz [email protected] Deacon Elizabeth Caywood Kelly Spanninger resource ministry director

1 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 2014 Synod Visit to Tulear Synod, Madagascar

THE GLOBAL CHURCH

Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Bishop [email protected] | 412-367-8222

f your bookshelf is like mine, among your books are little treasures that remind you of places you have been and people you have met. One treasure on my bookshelf is a 41-year-old Icandle. I have never lit it because I do not want to melt away the image molded into its side: “CONFESSIO AUGUSTANA 1530 – 1980.” It comes from Augsburg, Germany, from the celebration of the 450th anniversary of the Augsburg Confession which I attended with my family on our way home from furlough that year.

But when I ponder the treasures of the Global Filius est Deus, (the Son is God) and Spiritus Church in our shared exercise of the faith, it Sanctus non est Pater, (the Spirit is not the becomes clear that we don’t have to Father). This compact logic of the travel far to receive their blessing. Holy Trinity presented as a graphic comes from North Africa, where Sit with me on Sunday St. Augustine was bishop morning. Just as the liturgy many, many years ago. begins we hear, “In the name of the Father and of We stand to welcome the the Son and of the Holy Gospel in song, but we Spirit,” which reminds us of leave the hymnal in the the stained glass window pew because we know this that pictures a triangle with acclamation by heart: “Halle, a circle at each point and one halle, halle – lu – jah!” (ELW more circle in the center of the #171) Our fingers tap the pew triangle. Each circle has a Latin in front of us to the beat and our word in it, and there are more Latin feet move around a little. This is words written along the straight edges from the Caribbean, much closer to us of the image. We read little sentences like, both in geography and in time.

Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 2 The sermon is another favorite, Children of the Heavenly Father. It’s from Sweden, and is less than 100 years old. MADAGASCAR But as soon as we finish that relatively new, Nordic song, we begin to recite the creed, RELIEF FUND written nearly 1,700 years ago in Greece. It’s the Nicene Creed, which takes its Our companion synod is suffering from a name from the place where it was written, protracted drought. Are you able to help the ancient city of Nicaea, which is now provide relief and support? called Nikaia, and is effectively a suburb of Athens. Southwestern Pennsylvania enjoys an abundance of water. Besides the three This Sunday happens to be a donation day rivers that flow through our principle city, for the food bank, so the chancel is filled we rely on the Youghiogheny, Kiskiminetas, with grocery bags and packaged diapers. Beaver, Connoquenessing and Loyalhanna The committee chair has been asked to Rivers and many smaller creeks to sustain bless the items collected and pray for our life. Can you imagine if a strong storm those who will receive them. She turns suddenly changed the course of your local to the collection of prayers in the front of run so that it no longer supplied the water the hymnal and prays, “Make us worthy, you depend on? Lord, to serve our fellow human beings throughout the world who live and die in This happened in southern Madagascar. poverty and hunger. Give them through The Lutheran seminary in Bezaha was once our hands this day their daily bread, and surrounded by rice fields, fed by a canal that by our understanding love, give peace connected to the Taheza River. But when and joy. Amen.” The prayer is from India, a cyclone changed the course of the river, from the lifelong work of Mother Teresa. the rice fields dried up. Continued drought and famine have left the seminary faculty While it is true that each local congregation and students in dire straits. is fully the Church in its life and ministry, not one of our congregations could even Our Synod Council has authorized an begin to accomplish its purpose without appeal to raise funds to provide relief and using the bounty of treasures that come support for Madagascar, especially for the from the Global Church. Many of these seminary, but also for any other pressing treasures are so familiar that we have needs the Tulear Synod has. We have sent forgotten that they come as gifts from an initial $5,000 from synod funds and others around the world. are matching gifts from our members and congregations raised this summer up to A particular treasure that the Evangelical another $5,000. Lutheran Church in America has been able to give is the freedom of global travel Along with this fund raising effort, we hope that U.S. citizens enjoy. We have used to do some “friend raising” as well – to that gift to visit our companion synod in strengthen our synod’s relationship with Madagascar several times. Right now, our fellow Lutherans in Madagascar. When our synod is providing a financial gift for you send in your gift of support, let us know the relief and support of our companion if you or your congregation would also synod and for the seminary in Bezaha. like to be part of the “friend raising” effort. Together we can make a difference! We are part of a Global Church in which each local community blesses all the DONATE AT: others with the treasures it has to give. S SWPASYNOD.ORG/MADAGASCAR

3 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 iSERVE STAY AT HOME MISSION WORK CAMP (IN A BOX) Pastor Christina Hough Director of Spiritual Care and Community Liaison, Glade Run Lutheran Services [email protected] | 724-452-4453, ext. 1150

ince 2008, the Stay at Home Mission Work Camp (SHMWC) has gathered youth and adults from across the synod the end of June to partner with local congregations, Sagencies, and ministries to help their neighbors in need. SHMWC has helped over a hundred low income and elderly families and a dozen or more community services and ministries. SHMWC’s mission, from the very first summer, is to provide an opportunity for youth and adults to serve their neighbors.

Like so many other camps, events, and youth iServe takes the original mission one step programming, Covid-19 meant no SHMWC further by equipping and empowering for the summer of 2020 and an uncertain congregations to serve right in their own future. As the pandemic surged in the fall neighborhoods, and tailoring support and winter, leadership wondered if a camp in based on their needs to make serving the 2021 was even possible; there were still so community easy. Our team has used their many unknowns and uncertainties. years of experience running local mission trips. Can’t join live? Not a problem! Need A year of pause gave everyone an opportunity help finding a service project for your group? to rethink, retool, and reevaluate our We can help! Need tools, supplies, and ministries. Committed to the mission of resources? We can help with that too! Each SHMWC as well as to the people and kit contains devotions, tips, resources, and communities, we knew the work of SHWMC treats. needed to continue. Determined not to miss another summer, the leadership began to It is not too late to get a box and serve your reimagine a SHMWC that would be safe as neighbors. This new model means there are we continue to live through the pandemic opportunities all year long and we are here by offering virtual, hybrid, and asynchronous to help! To learn more about the box and a components. Congregations had the have free consultation, or to learn how your opportunity to participate in a live three-day congregation or small group can be a part of day camp, join virtually, or participate as their iServe: Stay at Home Mission Work Camp (in schedule allowed. a box), please email Pastor Chris Hough. S

Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 4 REFORMATION HYMNODY A GIFT FOR ALL TIME Sister Cynthia Pock, n/OLF, AAGO Cantor at First English Lutheran Church, Downtown [email protected] | 412-471-8125

hen (1483–1546) posted his 95 theses on the church door in 1517, he had no intention of forming an entirely new denomination. The WReformation changed the function and style of church music significantly. It was Luther, himself a lover of music, an accomplished singer, and skilled composer who enthusiastically encouraged such modifications.

For over 800 years, Latin Gregorian chant Large congregations in urban settings used was the prevailing style of church music. Latin liturgy (Formula Missae et Communionis), Most Germans knew no Latin; congregational Gregorian chant, and polyphonic music; participation therefore was impossible. simpler music in German (Deudsche Messe) Observing the clergy conducting liturgy was served for smaller, rural parishes. the norm. When the Reformation occurred, changes in the role and style of sacred music The Choral (in English, “chorale”) or Kirchenleid evolved. Sixteenth-century Germans would (church song) is the most significant musical attempt to understand the true meaning of contribution of the Lutheran Reformation. the Gospel in their own tongue. Chorale melodies included updated folksongs and newly composed tunes. Church music of the time reflected Luther’s Luther created new texts which people could position on the subject. He viewed music as learn and retain easily, as many were illiterate a gift from God and a vehicle to proclaim the and printed books were scarce. Chorales Gospel. He desired music to be a teaching were intended for unison singing, without tool and a way for individuals to keep the harmony or accompaniment, unlike four- Word in their hearts and minds. part hymnody in current hymnals. Musicians frequently adapted secular tunes for sacred Luther’s view gave direction to the use of purposes in the 16th century. Luther often re- music in . In the matter of worked common tunes of the day for chorale liturgy, he was not a revolutionary reformer. use, but there is no evidence that he used He retained the best of traditional forms that “drinking songs,” contrary to popular myth. did not contradict his view of the Gospel. He believed worship in the vernacular was Martin Luther wrote 38 , as well as essential; people should understand the paraphrases of the Mass and of psalms. texts in liturgy and be able to sing them. He composed chorales for Sundays of

5 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 the liturgical year, the catechism, the Many hymns by influential Reformation creed, captism, and Holy Communion. He have stood the test of time. collaborated with (1496-1570, Protestants found comfort in such hymns and many hymns were published in Walter’s during times of persecution following the volume Geystliche gesangk Buchleyn (1524). Reformation. Texts proclaim Gospel truths, express devotion and trust in God’s care. Luther’s best-known hymn text, A Mighty Reformation-era hymnwriters include Paul Fortress is Our God, is a paraphrase of Speratus, Paul Eber, (colleagues Psalm 46. The tune is ascribed to him, but of Luther), as well as significant women poets possibly existed from an earlier era. Savior including Elizabeth Cruciger, Elizabeth of of the Nations, Come (‘Nun komm’ der Heiden Brunswick, and Ursula von Munsterberg. Heiland) is reworked from the Gregorian hymn Veni redemptor gentium. To God the Holy Spirit As an example, Speratus wrote Salvation Let Us Pray (Nun bitten wir den heiligen Geist) Unto Us Has Come from a prison cell, as he is based upon the chant Veni Sancte Spiritus. had upheld Lutheran teachings to the scorn We All Believe in One True God (Wir glauben of some. His personal theology is revealed in all an einen Gott) uses a Latin credo tune from stanzas such as: 1300. Luther wrote the 15-stanza text and original melody for From Heaven Above to “Faith clings to Jesus’ cross alone and rests in Earth I Come (Vom Himmel hoch, da komm ich him unceasing; her) the well-loved Christmas hymn, in which And by its fruits true faith is known, with love the voice of an angel depicts Jesus’ birth. and hope increasing. For faith alone can justify; works serve our Lutheran Reformation hymns were stunningly neighbor and supply the proof that faith is popular; hymnwriters and composers living.” created new church songs at a rapid pace. The printing press aided the distribution of hymnody. Johann Walter) was the first Paul Eber, professor of Hebrew at Wittenberg Lutheran kantor, and was an advisor and penned When in the Hour of Utmost Need, colleague of Martin Luther. He desired that with verses applicable in challenging a holy and proper use of music in worship circumstances: prevail in German churches. A poet as well as composer, Walter produced a lengthy, “Our comfort then is this alone: that we may rhymed poem of 324 lines which describe meet before your throne his view of music’s importance in liturgy. And cry to you, O faithful God, for rescue from our sorry lot. For you have made a promise true to pardon “That such unmerited free grace (which God those who flee to you, from love for all our race Through him whose name alone is great, our Had promised in His word) might be kept Savior and our advocate.” fresh in human memory And move the heart to high delight in praising God both day and night – Lutheran hymnody, borne out of Reformation This is the weightiest reason why God music upheaval is a gift to the Church throughout did at once supply… the centuries. Many of these hymns appear in I have just named the reason why God gave current hymnals and deserve to be learned, us music from on high. revisited, and sung. Our rich treasure of These reasons teach us we must use the gift hymns enhances our worship of Almighty from heaven as God would choose: God and enriches our devotion. May we By it let God be glorified; then let it be our continue to sing unto God songs old and help and guide. new—Soli Deo Gloria! S

Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 6 THE POWER OF DATA Pastor Peter D. Asplin Assistant to the Bishop [email protected] | 412-367-8222

he United Nations has designated October 20 as World Parochial Reports Day! So let’s talk about how wonderful and fun parochial reports are! (OK, since I know someone is Tgoing to search this online, I have to admit that the United Nations has not signified the importance of our ELCA annual parochial reports—Forms A & C—by giving it a special day. However, October 20 is indeed designated as World Statistics Day... look it up!)

Now it makes sense for a huge organization a series of questions intended to help like the UN to be interested in statistics. congregation leaders, pastors, congregation One of the UN’s key goals is to encourage councils, mutual ministry teams, and economic and community development vitality planning teams to look at where the around the world, and statistics help congregation is today and compare that to all of us figure out how things are where it was last year and in prior years. going. In the (admittedly opaque) language of the UN: “in establishing [World Statistics The goal of questions 12a and 12b is to help Day], the General Assembly invited all congregations consider what congregational Member States, the United Nations ... and vitality looks like to them. In fact, our partners all producers and users of official statistics at the ELCA churchwide organization [That’s us, SWPA Synod!], to do their part to developed a discussion guide (use this QR highlight the value of statistics in meeting the code) congregation leaders challenges of our time.” can use to think through where we are today—and One way for us as Church together to analyze then you can look back at what’s happening today in our congregations your prior year submissions and in our world is to keep track of things and see where you evaluated like worship attendance over time, baptisms yourselves then! and confirmations over time, and giving to congregations and to mission support over That’s the gift of statistics—and reports. It’s time. not simply to gather data, but to empower you and me, the synod and ELCA, and the But parochial reports don’t only report on United Nations in looking, at today and statistics. Our parochial reports also provide planning for tomorrow. S

7 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 MEETING OUR NEIGHBORS GRANTS Pastor Melissa L. Stoller Director for Evangelical Mission & Assistant to the Bishop [email protected] | 412-367-8222

ith vaccinations becoming widely available for adults and older youth, the hope of returning to in-person gatherings is gradually becoming a reality. With these Wgatherings, many churches realize that new approaches and ideas are needed to welcome people back and welcome new people into worship as the church has changed.

One way the ELCA churchwide organization “I think the purpose of these grants fits engaged this was with the Open Doors perfectly with the MEF resolution calling ministry grants for congregations. for ‘witness ministry grants,’” said Rolph Announced in April of 2021, Open Doors Otterness, member of the MEF board. “The grant applications were accepted through board is being responsible to make these mid-May. The request was straightforward: grants available during this unusual time we if you have a concrete, actionable idea for have lived through,” added Rev. Jeff Shock, meeting new people as we transition into member of the MEF board. “And it fits well a time of re-gathering in physical spaces, with our synod’s mission, to serve, connect, your congregation is invited to apply. In and equip congregations.“ the end, 135 congregations from across the ELCA were awarded grants, all chosen The ELCA understands itself in three by random selection, and the idea-sharing expressions—the congregation, the synod, continues with the ELCA granting platform: and the churchwide organization—and elca.padlet.org/ELCA/OpenDoors. this grant process shows how each is interconnected and related. As the Holy Spirit This innovative idea caught the imagination calls us into new ways of understanding of the Mission Endowment Fund Board (MEF) church post-pandemic, we are invited to of our synod and at their May meeting they think creatively and expansively about our also decided to try something new. Meeting communities and all who can be gathered in our Neighbors Grants is a one time, granting to hear the good news of Jesus Christ. The opportunity open to any congregation of the Meeting our Neighbors Grant applications SWPA synod who seeks to open their doors will be accepted through August 19, 2021, and meet their neighbors in new ways. and are available on the synod website at (Priority will be given to those who have not swpasynod.org/grants. S already received an ELCA Open Doors grant.)

Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 8 MINISTRY ACROSS DENOMINATIONS Jennifer Peters McCurry Ecumenical Affairs Chair & Associate Pastor at First English Lutheran Church, Downtown [email protected] | 412-471-8125

ne of the strengths of the ELCA is the way that we attend to our ecumenical relationships. On a national level, we have been intentional about being in dialogue with Christians Ofrom a variety of denominations, which has led to ecumenical agreements framing natural places for collaboration in ministry. We have agreements with several full-communion partners, including the Presbyterian Church USA (1997), the Reformed Church in America (1997), the United Church of Christ (1997), the Episcopal Church (1999), the Moravian Church (1999), and the United Methodist Church (2009).

Here in southwestern Pennsylvania, we have Presbyterian, and Methodist contexts. been slowly living into these agreements, These cross-denominational collaborations finding ways of celebrating our unity in reveal the presence and work of the Holy Christ on both local and synodical levels. Spirit among us, blessing through word, This is expressed through shared ministry sacrament, and mutual consolation in ways projects, ecumenical worship services, and that give witness to Christ’s transformation in an orderly exchange of ministers. the world.

The last of these—the orderly exchange Leaders from our synod and the Western of ministers—leads to the unique blessing Pennsylvania Conference of the United of a clergy person from one denomination Methodist Church are currently working out serving in congregations of another details of how we can more intentionally denomination. We have a collection of collaborate in ways that bless our pastors and congregations currently living congregations with talented and faithful into our ecumenical partnerships in exactly leadership from well-trained clergy – and these ways. that bless our pastors and deacons with expanded opportunities to serve Christ’s There are Lutheran congregations led by church. Episcopal priests. There is a Presbyterian pastor who simultaneously serves both As a part of these explorations, our synod’s a Lutheran congregation and a nearby ecumenical affairs committee would like Presbyterian congregation. There are to know: has your congregation developed Lutheran pastors who serve in Episcopal, a ministry relationship with a neighboring

9 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 Methodist congregation? Or are you a pastor or deacon who has developed relationships with nearby Methodist colleagues? If so, please fill out a brief survey using this QR code.

Read some of our synod pastors’ reflections below about their powerful experiences serving in ecumenical ministry.

THE REV. SARA IRWIN—TEC Pastor, St. John’s Lutheran Church, THE REV. CHERYL KHYLLEP,—PC(USA) Carnegie Former Pastor of St. John Mark Lutheran Church, Homestead When I approach the task of preaching— and theological reflection in general—I Serving a Lutheran church has taught often think about Emily Dickinson’s me the richness that can be found in instruction: “tell all the truth but tell it slant” theological difference. Not only are you so that truth can “dazzle gradually.” I think given a window into another faithful way my congregation has benefited from the of following Jesus Christ, but you are ecumenical nature of our partnership in challenged to think through your church the way my own spiritual background has and your own beliefs in a way that can be enabled me to appreciate and articulate outwardly practiced and articulated to the beauty of Lutheran theology “at a your church community. slant.”

THE REV. ERIN JONES—ELCA THE REV. TORREY JOHNSON—ELCA Pastor, Hot Metal Bridge Faith Community, Priest-in-Charge, Holy Cross Episcopal South Side Church, Homewood I so appreciate the challenge and gift of As a Lutheran pastor called as the priest- not assuming anything! If I’m preaching in-charge at an Episcopal church, I have or teaching, I know that those listening been blessed to be able to truly live out come from vastly different backgrounds, my call as a true servant. I have been able and so I can’t just fall back into “Lutheran- to diversify the ministry opportunities to ese.” I have to mine other traditions and serve the community in which the Church vocabulary to get an idea across. I also of the Holy Cross resides. Through love having colleague relationships collaborative events with our Lutheran, across denominations! Baptist, Catholic, AME, and Jewish brothers and sisters, we have been afforded financial support from these THE REV. ALINA KANASKI—PC(USA) various ecumenical partners to bring Pastor, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, after-school and summer enrichment Bower Hill programs for Homewood youth. We have sponsored Hannukah/Christmas In the Lutheran context specifically, I love toy giveaways, a gun-buy-back event, the liturgy. I love the sense of history, and family oriented movies on the lawn, and the communion of the saints that comes we have offered our church as a site for with using words that have been used for social and criminal justice events with all years and years. I deeply appreciate the of our ecumenical partners. way that it can minister to me even when I am leading worship. S

Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 10 HEALTH & WELLNESS MINISTRY Patty Davidson Health & Wellness Ministry Coordinator [email protected] 412-367-8222

On the heels of the Health & Wellness Ministry’s 10th anniversary celebration two years ago, volunteers in congregations throughout the synod stepped up and adapted their strategies in order to meet the rapidly changing health and wellness needs YouTube averaged more than 225 views of their congregations and communities. each. Last year, the Health & Wellness Ministry recognized 540 ministers and volunteers Many congregations felt compelled to throughout the synod for their time and accomplish more in the local community. As dedication. That number easily could have an example, Trinity, Butler, made a concerted dwindled with the uncertainties of the effort to support their local health care pandemic. Instead it grew to more than 600 workers throughout the pandemic. Trinity people fueled by faith and the desire to rise sponsored hospital department meals; above their fears to help others through their organized a candlelight vigil to encircle the fears. local hospital in light; assembled multiple care packages; and most recently sent Some ministry activities were able to continue appreciation cards to health care workers of as before the pandemic, and took on a more local care facilities. significant role. People were hungrier than ever for articles researched and presented by Jesus teaches in Matthew 19 that nothing parish nurses and members of health teams. is impossible with God. The 600+ ministry Volunteers extended calls and greeting cards volunteers working in our synod are proof to the entire congregation, who became at- of that. With God’s guidance, we can tackle home members en masse in the early weeks whatever comes next. For more information of the pandemic. on the Health & Wellness Ministry, please visit swpasynod.org/ministries/health. Other activities were modified to safely continue. Care packages and meals were delivered via a ding-dong-dash approach; A FOND FAREWELL window visits were conducted in lieu of My time with the Health & Wellness Ministry is indoor visits; and knitters and quilters found coming to a close, as I am led to complete my themselves sewing masks in addition to first novel. If ever I need inspiration as I embark making prayer shawls and blankets. Blue on this new journey, I need only think of your Christmas services were relocated to online amazing work! Thank you for your partnership formats, reaching an entirely new audience through the years. May God continue to bless of people seeking comfort and peace during you and your ministry! the pandemic. The seven congregations -Patty Davidson offering this opportunity on Facebook or

11 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 EATING AGAIN AT THE TABLE Pastor Peggy Suhr-Barkley Dean of Conference One & Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church, Ellwood City [email protected] | 724-752-3050

or all of us, the pandemic has meant many different things. We have all said and agreed that even when our church buildings were closed, mission and ministry still happened, Fthe church never closed! All of us worked outside the box and learned to think, do, and be church, differently. For many of us, a meal that we partook of weekly, a meal central to our worship service and lives as Christians, the Sacrament of Holy Communion, the Eucharist, the Table of our Lord, the Lord’s Supper, was suspended as worship took to the airways either with Facebook, Zoom, YouTube, livestreaming or some other means.

So how was it for YOU, when YOU returned to the table? “It was emotional. I missed being a part of For me, as a parish pastor for 36 years, the family of God. It was almost like taking presiding over the table, especially during communion for the first time, like my first this time of pandemic has been very holy communion, all over again. I felt God’s powerful and very emotional. I remember presence in my hands.” (Barb Guenther, when we re-opened our church building in Trinity Lutheran Church, Ellwood City.) September of 2020, I would get choked up just thinking about the logistics of distributing “Communion was certainly missed. It was the elements. distributed differently and was temporary, at best. The words of the communion liturgy Even though some of us did not grow up with were a welcome part.” (John Frantz, St. John’s weekly eucharist, most of us have grown to Lutheran Church, Perrysville.) appreciate and welcome the Lord’s Supper, weekly, We at Trinity, Ellwood City, are still “Communion was very special and had a communing differently than when we did greater importance to me, since it had been so pre-pandemic, yet what a joy it is for me, to long since I had it.” (Jane Bittcher, Bethlehem once again proclaim these words … “Come Lutheran Church, Glenshaw.) to the banquet, for all things are now ready!” I trust that YOU, too, find much joy in that “Finally, a feeling of normalcy. Here we had invitation as YOU come to the table of our the familiar, in the un-familiar” (Kurt Herbst, Lord to receive His body and His blood! S First English Lutheran Church, Downtown.)

Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 12 STAFF BOOK PICKS THAT INSPIRE Deacon Beth Caywood Director of Synod Resource Ministry [email protected] | 412-367-8222

e find inspiration all around us; our eyes and ears open our lives to endless possibilities of inspiration. If recognized, it bubbles up inside of us and changes Wour lives in unique and creative ways. If left to continue to grow, we might also see innovative refashioning of how we approach all of life. From small stirrings to massive undertakings, inspiration is often the spark that ignites us.

Author and director of the Creativity Institute, Scott Barry Kaufman, writes, “In a culture obsessed with measuring talent and ability, we often overlook the important role of inspiration. Inspiration awakens us to new possibilities by allowing us to transcend our ordinary experiences and limitations. Inspiration propels a person from apathy to possibility, and transforms the way we perceive our own capabilities.”

The synod staff, as a whole, enjoys reading and has shared books that have impacted our lives in an inspiring or meaningful way. In recognition of National Read a Book Day on September 6, enjoy these diverse selections!

BISHOP KURT KUSSEROW DEACON BETH CAYWOOD The Christian Imagination: Man’s Search for Meaning by Theology and the Origins of Viktor E. Frankl Race by Willie James Jennings This is a title I have reread Jennings employs both a number of times, finding personal stories and world- new significance in each class research in his invitation encounter. How he navigated to the reader to imagine how an unbelievable experience Christian theology may better and described man’s freedom engage the world than in the way imagined to rise above his suffering, and also find by 15th-century Europeans when they first meaning regardless of his circumstances, is began to encounter other peoples. profound.

PASTOR PETER ASPLIN PASTOR MELISSA STOLLER Commentary on Acts by Everything Happens For a A Richard Pervo Reason: and other lies I’ve loved As a pastor engaged by Kate Bowler primarily in administration, This book, while small has it’s sometimes a struggle offered many things to for me to delve deep into contemplate about not only scripture. I also miss the discipline the cultural platitudes that of technical exegetical work we all are quickly shared in the face of grief engaged in during seminary. As a result, and loss, but also the author’s brave and I’m currently reading the Hermeneia vulnerable story of her own theological series. I’m really enjoying, and being fed wrestling as she faced death and loss. by, my work with Pervo.

13 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 SANDY DELORENZE LAUREN WOLCOTT The Language of God by The Path Between Us: Dr. Francis S. Collins An Enneagram Journey to Head of the Human Healthy Relationships Genome Project and by Suzanne Stabile Director of the National I find the enneagram Institutes of Health, Dr. helpful to understand my Collins clearly presents his own way of existing in this case that science and faith world. This book focuses are completely compatible. I am inspired on relationships with the people we love by the story of faith developed and who have very different motives, wounds, strengthened through study of creation. behaviors, and communication.S

Leadership: Colleague Congratulations to Bishop-elect Paula Schmitt, Intentional Interim Pastor Connections of Trinity Lutheran Church, Latrobe, These listings are complete to the best of the knowledge of the who has been elected Bishop of the synod staff. If you feel there has been an omission, please contact Allegheny Synod. Sandy DeLorenze at [email protected] or 412- 367-8222. Retirement: Ordination Anniversaries: Pastor Elaine Hower August - October Pastor Scott Olbert Pastor Patricia Bonds 5 Years: Pastor Beth Clementson Pastor Marsella (Susie) Esseck 10 Years: Pastor Jonathan Jerry Lynn Pastor Robert Zimmerman 35 Years: Pastor Karen Battle Pastor Timothy Dawes 40 Years: Pastor Ruth Bosch Becker In Memoriam: Pastor Dona Van Eck Joyce Gleason, May 27, 2021 55 Years: Pastor Frank Zeman Pastor Philip Pfatteicher, June 22, 2021 New Calls: Pastor Ronald Garrett, Pastor Sarah Lee-Faulkner Pastor of Holy Trinity June 26, 2021 Lutheran Church, Irwin, June 20, 2021 Pastor Dr. Roger Fischer, Pastor Ryan Fitch Assistant Director of July 1, 2021 Camp Lutherlyn. Ryan’s ordination took place , Mother of Carol Ruckert, place on July 17, 2021 at Camp Mount Luther in Nell Hatton July 8, 2021 Mifflinburg. Pastor Kimberly Greway (UMC) Contracted Pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church, North Versailles, Prayer Requests: July 1, 2021 Bishop Michael Lozano, Pastor Pastor John Smaligo Pastor of Hebron Lutheran Norman Nething, Pastor Frank Church, Blairsville, May 23, 2021 Podolinski, Pastor Kimberly Rapczak, Pastor Jennifer Soltis Pastor of Nativity Lutheran Pastor Don Worth Church, Allison Park, June 14, 2021 The most up-to-date list at: Pastor Beth Wierman (PCUSA) Interim Pastor at swpasynod.org/prayer Zion’s First, Ambridge, February 28, 2021

Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 14 SYNOD STAFF PRESENCE | MAY-JUL 2021 Whether in the joy of celebrating milestones, the uncertainty of pastoral transitions, or the trauma of congregational crisis, the synod supports members during the biggest changes and needs. Bishop Kusserow and assistants, Pastors Asplin and Stoller, have been present with the following congregations during in-person and online visits to ministers, lay leaders, and councils: Bethesda, Lower Burrell Good Shepherd, St. Andrew, Shadyside Bethlehem, Glenshaw McKees Rocks St. John Mark, Homestead Camp Lutherlyn Grace, Manorville St. John, Carnegie Christ, Duquesne Grace, South Park St. John, Mars Christ, Millvale Holy Trinity, Brighton Twp. St. John’s of Highland, Emmanuel, Ford City Holy Trinity, Irwin North Hills Evangelical, Worthington Hope, Beaver St. John’s, North Versailles Faith, Natrona Heights Lutheran SeniorLife St. Peter’s, Uniontown First English, Butler North Zion, Baldwin Boro Stewart Avenue, Carrick First, Greensburg Our Redeemer, McMurray Trinity, Latrobe Forks Zion, Leechburg Perry Highway, Wexford Six Conference Caucuses Good Shepherd, Prince of Peace, Bower Hill Pleasant Hills

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15 Issue No. 7 | August 2021 CalendarSPOTLIGHT ON SOCIAL MINISTRYof Causes PARTNERS September

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Wayfarer | Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA 16 1014 PERRY HWY, SUITE 200, PITTSBURGH, PA 15237 WWW.SWPASYNOD.ORG | 412-367-8222

MORE STORIES & CONNECTIONS: facebook.com/swpasynod Issue No. 7 STORIES FROM THE ROAD

Devotional : BACK TO SCHOOL Deacon Michelle Kunkle Contracted to St. Luke’s, Youngwood & Good Shepherd, Mt. Pleasant

i kiddos! It’s back-to-school time! I know some of you are excited to go back with friends and teachers you missed. I also know some kids don’t like to go back to school. But it’s Ha new year and new things are waiting for you! Did you know Jesus was a teacher? He loved to tell stories so we can learn about God and heaven and how we can live a good life. We get to hear Jesus’ stories in our church family. Everything Jesus teaches us helps us wherever we are.

There’s a really cool Bible story that shows us how to face anything in life by putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). It tells us that we are clothed in God’s truth and the power to make right choices. God gives us peace and the good news of Jesus to share with others. We have the “shield” of faith to believe and trust in Jesus and the “helmet” of salvation to know how Jesus saves us.

After you read this Bible story, see if you can dress up in all the pieces of armor that it talks about. Maybe you can use a back pack, a hat, a belt, or a jacket. You can be so creative! You could also draw and color a picture of the story you hear. But always remember that no matter what, you carry Jesus with you always! S