Mark your calendars for this very special joint event with the Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati set for February 19. Addiction is an issue in all walks of life and in every church. Let's do our part to end the pain and suffering--together!

This event is open to all SOS Rostered Ministers, parish nurses, Social Concerns Committees and anyone else from your congregation who wishes to be a part of the addiction crisis healing. Please note: the information to be shared is specific to parish life and the church's role in the addiction crisis. CEUs are to be determined.

Download SAVE THE DATE flyer here.

Revisiting congregational safety in light of synagogue shooting incident

As the safety of the members of your congregation are probably coming to mind as you process and grieve the murders of the 11 members of Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburg, here are some resources from Church Mutual you may find helpful.

Registration open for 2019 Professional Leaders Retreat at Sawmill Creek Resort!

The retreat format leaves plenty of downtime for rest, as well as fellowship. Past attendees have found this event to be an excellent opportunity to meet new friends and reconnect with old classmates and colleagues, in addition to learning and worship opportunities. Deadline for registration is November 30!

Got Congregational Gift Policy?

If not, you're probably holding on to funds that cannot be used but are desperately needed for work on your building or to sustain/start ministries. 

Christopher Burnett, our synod's Regional Gift Planner, has a simple document to help your congregation establish a gift policy that will ensure your generous members' gifts are used for the Kingdom and not locked in an account never to be used.

Contact Chris at 513.509.8332.

ELCA presiding bishop responds to Pittsburgh synagogue shooting

We join our Jewish neighbors and enter into mourning for all that has been lost. In our grief, God is our comfort. "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit" (Psalm 34:18).

'Mission support: The lifeblood of the ELCA'

Living Lutheran's resource study guide provides simple exercises congregations can work through in small groups to identify the factors keeping us from fully participating in God's work in the world.

The transformative power of giving thanks

Findings, resources and books on the power of gratitude to transform our lives and our congregations