06/18/2014

Trinity's Midweek Blast for June 18, 2014

Great Lakes Theological Academy

The time in which we live requires a different kind of leader. With new and emerging trends in congregational behavior, the collapse of the Constantinian synthesis, and a hurricane of change, church leaders have to be adaptive rather than technical. They have to ask the right questions in order to focus on God's mission.

Why is change so hard for people and congregations? Within the context of congregational life, how do we practice change in a way that normalizes it for pastors and congregational leaders? How do we create change with excellence?

Learn how to manage change in a way that gives life to your congregation during Trinity Lutheran Seminary's 2014 Great Lakes Theological Academy, "Change that Gives Life - for the Sake of the World," in Traverse City, Michigan. Enjoy a week of presentations featuring Trinity President Rick Barger and former Alban Institute consultant Sarai Rice.

The event will be held from Monday through Friday, July 28-August 1, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 1050 Peninsula Drive, Traverse City. Presentations begin at 6 p.m. Monday and continue from 8:30 a.m. to noon, Tuesday through Friday. Afternoons and evenings are free to enjoy the surroundings of the Grand Traverse Bay.

Barger began his term as president on September 1, 2013, after serving three ELCA congregations that experienced significant missional growth, vitality, and outreach during his tenure. Rice continues to work with her Alban Institute colleagues in the Congregational Consulting network, helping congregations manage change in positive and healthy ways.

Cost for the program is $195 (register before July 1 for $180), and $90 for accompanying spouse or full-time student.

Register online at www.TLSohio.edu or contact ssmith@TLSohio.edu. Housing information is also available on the Trinity website.