Northwestern Ohio Synod

October 2006

Sunday, Oct. 29
All of us received many gifts from God. We usually think of gifts as house, food, employment, money and many “things.” In addition God has given us the Holy Spirit, prayer, Holy Scriptures, His love and His only begotten Son that we might be saved. We are to use and share all of these gifts. Managing what we have been given by God and responding most appropriately to God’s goodness is called stewardship.

November 2006
Provided by Pastor Linda Rahe, Trinity, Findlay

Sunday, Nov. 5
Did you hear the one about the four missionaries who are studying not one but three foreign languages? While most people the ages of these two couples are either playing golf (Ron & Karen McCallum) or caring for their toddler children (Dirk and Sarah Stadtlander), these couples are committing to being long-term ELCA missionaries to Senegal, a land that is half Muslim and half Christian. If your congregation can become a Missionary Sponsor to aid these couples or others who are going “into all the world,” contact Rev. David Lerseth at 800.638-3522, ext. 2641 or e-mail David.Lerseth@elca.org

Sunday, Nov. 12
Did you know that there is a way to commit a year of service while being immersed in exploring your own spirituality? It’s the Lutheran Volunteer Corps! The LVC provide services to hospices, schools, legal aid programs and shelters. Those are only a few of the many opportunities for service. Want to know more? LVC volunteers will come to your congregation to speak of their experiences to your adult forum, Bible study, youth group, etc. Check out www.lutheranvolunteercorps.org or contact Lauren Cummings at 202.387-3222 or e-mail Lauren@lutheranvolunteercorps.org

Sunday, Nov. 19
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Has your congregation received thanks for all you do to support synod-wide ministries? If not, consider it done! Individually and jointly, the Northwestern Ohio Synod of the ELCA has made an impact for those living in post-Hurricane Katrina cleanup areas. The recovery process is still ongoing. For your congregation to take part in this ministry there are two avenues. You can reach the synod at kathy.lemmerbrock@nwos-elca.org or call 419.423-3664/toll-free 86-NWOS-ELCA. For information about the ministry of Lutheran Disaster Response for Katrina and beyond, contact LDR through Michael Nevergall at Michael.nevergall@elca.org or 800.638-3522.

Sunday, Nov. 26
Christmas is coming! We are all preparing for he upcoming season of Advent with the extra worship services and decorating our churches. And let’s be honest: We are also preparing for Christmas by shopping. One way to support vital ministries and honor or gift you special ones at the same time is to shop from the Good Gifts: the Gift Giving Catalog of the ELCA. Don’t have one? Call 800.638-3522 for your free copy or visit www.elca.org/goodgifts online. Gifts also can be purchased any time of the year for anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, confirmations, weddings, etc. Happy shopping!