Bishop’s Note 25 March 2025
 
Please remember to share the notes with your congregation and if you know of someone who would like to be placed on the mailing list, just send me a note.
 

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet Ø and will remain new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • until they are removed from the Notes.

 
Upcoming Events:
The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

• March 23 – Twelve Apostles, Saegertown
• March 26 @ Synod Office
• March 27 – Lutheran Home at Kane Board Meeting, Kane
• March 30 – St. John, Emlenton
• April 2 @ Synod Office
• April 4 - Pirates Opening Day
• April 4-6 – Duquesne 100th Anniversary of Pharmacy School Celebration\
• April 9 @ Synod Office
• April 12 – Synod Council Zoom
• April 13 – Palm/Passion Sunday – Saron, Youngsville /Berea, Pittsfield
• April 15 – Chrism Liturgy, Good Hope, Oil City
• April 17 – Maundy Thursday
• April 18 – Good Friday
• April 19 – Easter Vigil
• April 20 – Easter Day
• April 23 @ Synod Office
• April 24 –Lutheran Home at Kane Board Meeting, Kane
• April 27 – St. John, Oniontown
• April 30 @ Synod Office
• May 4 – First English, Punxsutawney
• May 4-6 – ULS Board Meeting, Philadelphia
• May 7 @ Synod Office
• May 10 – Bishop’s Day of Learning, Zion, Indiana
• May 12 – Pennsylvania Bishops LAMPa Pre Meeting, Harrisburg, PA
• May 13 – Lutheran Day at the Capitol, Harrisburg
• May 14 – LAMPa Policy Council Meeting, Harrisburg
• May 17 – Synod Council @ Synod Office
• May 21 @ Synod Office
• May 22 – Lutheran Home at Kane Board Meeting, Kane
• May 24 – Vocation’s Committee Meeting, Synod Office
• May 29 @ Synod Office
• May 29 – Ascension Day Liturgy, Grace, Franklin
• June 4 @ Synod Office
• June 8 – Luther Memorial Academy 40th Graduation
• June 11 – Synod Assembly Plenary Zoom Meeting
• June 13-14 Synod Assembly Plenary In Person Meeting
• June 18 @ Synod Office
• June 22 – New Life, Marion Center / Hope, Homer City
• June 24-27 – Region 8 Bishop’s Retreat
• June 29 – Mt Zion, Trade City

 
Sunday Supply Dates:
NOTE: Please email to myself and Ellen at the office your Sunday bulletin by Thursday prior to my supplying at your congregation.  May 18; June 1
 
Churchwide Events:
 
Other ELCA Information:
Please see Sumud for more information on our support to Israel/Palestine. Please see the attached information sheet on synod Sumud ambassadors.
 
Region 8:
 
ULS/Kindling Faith:
Please check out the full list of Kindling Faith’s offering on Facebook.
1.     Click on this link: https://bit.ly/KindlingFaithFacebook
2.     Click on “Events”
3.     Register for Everything!
 
LAMPa:

• We are excited to announce a new continuing education and networking event for congregational youthworkers, both staff and volunteers, designed to help renew, educate and connect youth leaders with their peers, while providing them resources and training in youth and family ministry theory, theology, and practice. The event titled ‘Network In the East,’ represents a collaboration between the ELCA Youth Ministry Network and the Kindling Faith Initiative at United Lutheran Seminary (ULS) at Gettysburg, which is designed to offer lifelong learning for ministry leaders.

 
Network In the East will be held on the Gettysburg Campus of ULS, on August 7-9, 2025, and will include courses on adaptive leadership, curriculum design for the congregational setting, helping young people respond to trauma, and developing active learning for faith formation. We are pleased to welcome Deacon Jessica Noonan from LEAD Ministries: https://leadconnects.org/, who will offer our keynote presentation on adaptive leadership and listening. A full schedule of courses and presenters is available by visiting: https://www.lss-elca.org/youthworkers/, and scrolling down the page to ‘Network In the East.’
 
In addition to our learning modules, we have created lots of opportunities for networking and fellowship with peers, including an opening night picnic-style meal and a Friday meal out in Gettysburg, plus evening receptions to allow for connection and conversation about your own ministry context. Thanks to a generous grant, we are offering the event, coursework, all meals and fellowship at $139.00/person. Lodging is separate and rooms have been blocked for this event at the Best Western in Gettysburg. Lodging fees are paid directly to the hotel. Participants can opt to arrive and stay one night or two, and split room costs with fellow team members from their congregations, or from a nearby congregation. Information on how to register for the event, and details on booking your lodging can also be found on the website: https://www.lss-elca.org/youthworkers/. The deadline for event registration, and hotel reservations is July 7, 2025.
 
Questions regarding the event content or registration questions can be directed to Charlie Roberts, at [email protected], Director of Faith Formation and Youth Ministry for Lower Susquehanna Synod, who is acting as the host synod for this event.
 

• Fill out LAMPa’s Ministry Survey – It’s ESSENTIAL to our advocacy work and bringing stories from the ground!

Help us continue that work of connecting by filling out this Ministry Survey – it will help us map where our hunger, housing, health, immigrant and refugee, and other social service ministries are rooted, so that we can better connect communities on the ground with the lawmakers. The stories of what you are witnessing in your ministries and your communities are vital to the church's advocacy!
In addition to filling out the survey, please share what you are seeing or anticipating in terms of current and future need, numbers, who is being served, who is stepping up, any changes in demographics in narrative form. Please put the topic (ex: HUNGER) in the subject line and email to [email protected].
We will share these stories in our state advocacy and share with our DC colleagues for use in federal advocacy. If you do not want certain things to be shared, or if you prefer a conversation first, please indicate in your email. As things are changing day-by-day, we encourage updates as you are able!!

• REGISTER NOW for Lutheran Day in the Capitol – May 13  When the world feels unstable, and the task of justice seems impossible, our faith calls us to turn to the words of the prophets and the promise of Christ that reminds us God is always doing a new thing. This Lutheran Day, we're coming together from across the Commonwealth to remind ourselves of God's faithful action in the world and calling on our lawmakers to join in the work of reconciliation, restoration, and justice on behalf of our neighbors in need and the world God loves. Find out more and register.

 

• Did You Know? Advocacy in the ELCA happens at the state, federal, and global levels! Stay up-to-date on advocacy opportunities in Pennsylvania by signing up for Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa)’s E-News and Action Alerts. Also, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

 
Want to know what ELCA Advocacy is working on at the federal level? Sign up for ELCA Advocacy Action Alerts, read the Advocacy Blog, follow on Facebook and Instagram.
 
The ELCA is represented at the UN with the Lutheran Office of World Community (LOWC). See the great work they are doing by following on Facebook and Instagram.
 
Camp Lutherlyn:

• Packets of Summer Camp information were mailed to each congregation the last week of February. If you have not received it or if you need additional postcards, please contact Lutherlyn at 724-865-2161 or [email protected].

 

• Registration for SUMMER CAMP 2025 is open. Visit www.lutherlyn.com/summercamp for details.

 

• 2025 CONFIRMATION CAMP AT LUTHERLYN

AMAZING GRACE: No Fine Print
June 15-20, 2025
For campers entering 6th-11th grade
 
CONFIRMATION CAMP DESCRIPTION:
"ConfirCamp" at Lutherlyn is an invitation to join a group of ELCA Lutheran leaders in creating a safe place to explore our faith, build trusting relationships, and experience the joy of Christian community. Campers will spend approx. 3 hours each day in experiential confirmation class taught by Pastors and the rest of the day doing Classic Camp activities. The curriculum can enrich and supplement Confirmation Curriculum that is being taught at your home congregation throughout the year or can be a stand-alone experience.
 
Details can be found here: https://www.lutherlyn.com/programs/summercamp/confirmation-camp.html
 
Go Tell It IN The Mountains:
Greetings from the Go Tell It IN the Mountains Initiative,
 
Central to the Go Tell It IN the Mountains Initiative is our desire to create curriculum, training opportunities and continuing education events that meets people’s expressed needs.
 
To that end, the Initiative has engaged two partners to create surveys for us to complete. Each survey has a different focus, so we ask everyone to complete both. Yes, the timing is unfortunate, but the information gathered is essential to our moving forward with faithfulness.
 
The first was created by Sacred Playgrounds and focusses on Spiritual Formation. There is a full list of resources (video, bulletin inserts, memes, etc.) to help you promote this survey. These resources are all on our www.gotellitinthemountains.org website under the “Resources” tab. The direct link for this survey is here: Go Tell it IN the Mountains Survey Please make this survey available to all people who receive services from your congregation such as daycares, food banks, and mission centers.
 
The second was created using our Survey Monkey tool and it focuses on worship and preaching. This tool breaks off into different questions for each group or clergy, lay preacher, congregation leader or attendee. This real time data and tool is under the Initiatives management and may be accessed anytime by emailing me at [email protected]. The direct link for this survey is here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZFC6TRZ This survey will be very helpful in our work to create resources for preachers throughout our region. Please encourage your church councils and people who attend worship to complete this survey.
 
Thank you for your help in making the Go Tell It IN the Mountains Initiative a success.
 
God’s Peace,
John Kratz
Go Tell It IN the Mountains Initiative
 
Other Continuing Education Opportunities:
 
Walking Together as Synod:
 
Lutheran Home at Kane:
 
PORTICO:
 
Congregational Vacancies:  Are congregations not working on Ministry Site Profiles

1. Berea, Pittsfield
2. Bethany, Sheffield
3. Bethlehem, Ohl
4. First English, Punxsutawney
5. Gethsemane, Port Allegany
6. Jerusalem, New Bethlehem
7. Mt. Zion, Punxsutawney
8. Mt. Zion, Tionesta
9. Mt. Zion, Trade City
10. Saron, Youngsville
11. St. John's, Emlenton
12. St. John's, Emporium
13. St. John's, Erie
14. St. Mark’s, Waterford
15. St. Mark's, Eddyville
16. St. Paul's, Galeton
17. Trinity, Reynoldsville
18. Trinity, Smethport

 
Congregations in Transition: Are congregations working on Ministry Site Profiles (MSP)
 
The following congregations have an active Ministry Site Profile (MSP):

1. Christ, Sharon
2. Grace, Brookville
3. Grove Chape, Indiana
4. Harmony Grove, Creekside
5. Holy Trinity, Hermitage
6. Hope, Homer City
7. New Life, Marion Center
8. St Paul Drakes Mills, Cambridge Springs
9. Tabor, Kane
10. Twelve Apostle’s, Saegertown
11. Zion, Mayport

 
Clarion-Venango-Warren Conference:
 
Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference:
 
Crawford-Mercer Conference:
 
Erie Conference:
 
Indiana - Jefferson Conference:
 
Commentary:
Our Synod Assembly is scheduled for June 11, 13-14. June 11 will be an online gathering. June 13-14 will be in person at Thiel College.

 
Please take note of the many attachments to this Notes.
 
Called to Serve,
 
 
Bp. Lozano
 
 
Rev. Michael L. Lozano, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
22598 Titusville Road
PO Box 43
Pleasantville, PA 16341
 

Please remember to share the notes with your congregation and if you know of someone who would like to be placed on the mailing list, just send me a note.
 

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet Ø and will remain new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • until they are removed from the Notes.

 
Upcoming Events:
The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

• January 26 – Bethlehem, Ohl / Zion, Shannondale
• January 27 – ULS Zoom Board Meeting
• January 29 @ Synod Office
• February 4-6 – Region 8 ULS Bishop’s Visit
• February 8 – Vocation’s Committee
• February 9 – Mt. Zion, Trade City
• February 12 @ Synod Office
• February 15 – Synod Council
• February 19 @ Synod Office
• February 24 – March 1 – Conference of Bishops, Chicago
• March 5 – Ash Wednesday
• March 5 @ Synod Office
• March 5 – St. Paul, Coudersport
• March 6 – Luther Memorial Academy, Etiquette Luncheon, Erie
• March 12 @ Synod Office
• March 15 – Synod Council
• March 17 – Region 8 Churchwide Assembly Voting Members Zoom
• March 19 @ Synod Office
• March 23 – Twelve Apostles, Saegertown
• March 26 @ Synod Office
• March 27 – Lutheran Home at Kane Board Meeting, Kane
• April 2 @ Synod Office
• April 9 @ Synod Office
• April 12 – Synod Council
• April 13 – Palm/Passion Sunday – Saron, Youngsville /Berea, Pittsfield
• April 15 – Chrism Liturgy
• April 16 @ Synod Office
• April 17 – Maundy Thursday
• April 18 – Good Friday
• April 19 – Easter Vigil
• April 20 – Easter Day
• April 23 @ Synod Office

 
Sunday Supply Dates:
NOTE: Please email to myself and Ellen at the office your Sunday bulletin by Thursday prior to my supplying at your congregation. February 16, 23; March 16, 30; April 6, 20; May 18; June 1
 
Churchwide Events:
 
Other ELCA Information:
 
Ecumenical Events:
 
Region 8:

• Preaching Grants Available to Local Worshiping Communities. The Vital Worship, Vital Preaching grants program of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship provides awards of up to $25,000 for one-year projects to strengthen preaching and worship in the United States and Canada. These funds are available to local congregations in addition to our synod grant from the Compelling Preaching Initiative.  Innovative projects that connect public worship with faith formation are an excellent way for pastors and teacher-scholars to grow their work within congregations, parishes, schools, retreat centers, and other worshiping communities. These grants are to promote preaching-related work in the local context. Pass along this opportunity and encourage folks to apply—the next proposal deadline is April 25. The link for the Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grant application is: Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grants | Calvin Institute of Christian Worship

 
Other Continuing Education Opportunities:
 
Camp Lutherlyn:

• Registration for SUMMER CAMP 2025 starts on February 1. Visit www.lutherlyn.com/summercamp for the schedule and details. Remember, first-time campers get $100 off the camp fee with coupon code FIRST (visit Lutherlyn.com/first for details and exclusions).

 

• The 2025 schedule of retreat and events at Lutherlyn can be found at www.lutherlyn.com/2025.  There is something for everyone and we hope you will join us at Lutherlyn sometime this year.

 

• Lutherlyn is hiring the 2025 Summer Staff. If you know a potential applicant, please direct them to www.lutherlyn.com/summeremployment for details and the application. Working at camp is more than just a summer job; it is a great opportunity to grow in faith, make a difference in the lives of children, develop leadership skills, and make life-long friends.

 
ULS:
Upcoming Events Through March 2025
Ø  January 27 at 7 pm EST For Rostered Leaders who need advice on income tax returns and retirement planning online with Jim A. Dunlop of Advent Partners. Register here.
 
Ø  February 2 & 3 at 6 – 8:30 pm EST, Boundary Training for Rostered leaders, online (both nights are part of the same training). Click here to register.
 
Ø  February 3 & 6 LGBTQ Pastoral Care online with Rev. Dr. Beth Toler, MDiv, ThD., LMFT. Click here to learn more and register.
 
Ø  February 7, 10 am – 3 pm EST online or in person at Grace Lutheran Church, Broomall PA. “Respecting our Body Knowledge as a Healing and Liberative Practice” with Rev. Dr. Bridget Piggue of Emory University. Register here.
 
Ø  February 11, 10:30 am – 12 pm EST, “Preaching Across the Divide” with Rev. Dr. Angela Zimmann. This 90-minute online seminar provides practical insights and strategies for faithfully preaching in a community with widely divergent political leanings. Click here to register.
 
Ø  February 18, 10 am – 3 pm EST LGBTQIA+ Training for Rostered leaders. Click here to register.
 
Ø  February 19, 10 am – 3 pm EST Toward Racial Justice Training for Rostered leaders. Click here to register.
 
Ø  February 20, 10 am – 3 pm EST Boundary Training for Rostered leaders. Click here to register.
 
Ø  February 23 & 24 at 6 – 8:30 pm EST, Toward Racial Justice Training for Rostered leaders, online (both nights are part of the same training). Click to register.
 
Ø  February 25 at 1:30 pm EST, Online or in person on the Gettysburg campus. Aging Grace-Fully Author Series presents a Conversation with Margaret Renkl, author of Late Migrations. Click here to register.
 
Ø  February 27, 10 am – 3 pm, online or in person on the Gettysburg campus. Lenten Survival Kit for Rostered Leaders with Karen and Travis Webster from Healthy Seminarians, Healthy Church. Click here to register.
 
Ø  February 27 – March 1, in person on the Gettysburg Campus. “Reclaiming the Narrative” Women’s Retreat: “In Like A Lion; Unlocking the Strength of the Divine Feminine” This event is LGBTQIA+ affirming and BIPOC inclusive. Register here.
 
Ø  March 3 & 6, When God Disappears: The Spiritual Struggle of Depression online with Rev. Dr. Beth Toler, MDiv, ThD., LMFT. Click here to learn more and register.
 
Ø  March 7 & 8, Hope in a Divided World: Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s This Worldly Christianity as an Antidote to Christian Nationalism, in person on the Gettysburg campus in partnership with LAMPa. Click here for more information.
 
Ø  March 13, 20, 27. April 3 & 10, 7 – 8:30 pm EST online. “Liberating our Dignities, Saving Our Souls as we walk the path of the Cross and Beyond the Grave” with Dr. Beverly Wallace, founder/director of the ELCA Womanist Initiative and sponsored by the Delaware-Maryland ADLA and Lower Susquehanna Justice Ministries task forces. Register here.
 
Ø  March 21, 9 am EST, Prophetic Witness in the Face of War and Occupation with clergy from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. All proceeds from this event will go to support the ministries of our Lutheran congregations in the Middle East. Registration available soon.
 
Ø  March 26, 7 pm EST via livestream or on the Philadelphia campus: Dr. Emilie Townes of Boston University presents “Premeditated Indifference: Facing (In)Justice with the Power of Hope” This is part of the Lazereth Lecture Series. Attendance is free. Learn more here.
 
Ø  March 27 at 1:30 pm EST, Online or in person on the Gettysburg campus. Aging Grace-Fully Author Series presents a Conversation with Rebecca Chopp, author of Still Me. Click here to register.
 
A Sneak Peek at Summer
Looking ahead to Spring and Summer, here’s some save-the-date items that I hope you’ll pencil in:

• April 30th, Spring Convocation: “Everyday Stewardship: Consecrating the Ordinary” on the Gettysburg Campus with Rev. Dr. Mark Allan Powell, author of Giving to God and the Rev. Louise Johnson, Executive for Vision for the ELCA
• June 16 & 17 Pride Month Events, featuring The Bruesehoff Family, authors of Raising Kids Beyond the Binary and A kid’s Book about Being Inclusive and Jeff Chu, author of Does Jesus Really Love Me?: A Gay Christian’s Pilgrimage in Search of God in America.
• June 29 – July 3: Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate. A week of respite for rostered leaders with the Rev. Jim Hazelwood, author of Everyday Spirituality: Discover a Life of Hope, Peace and Meaning.
• July 13-18: Theological Education with Adults. A week of learning and fellowship for lay people featuring lectures from the Rev. Dr. Allison deForest on the Gospel of John.
• August 10 – 15: Summer Ministry Institute: “Sighs Too Deep for Words; Worship in Times of Lament” This week of learning is available to anyone involved in the worship life of congregations, with church musician Richard Bruxvoort Colligan and Dr. Deanna Thompson, Director of the Lutheran Center for Faith, Values, and Community at St. Olaf College.

Walking Together as Synod:
 
Lutheran Home at Kane:
 
PORTICO:
 
LAMPa
Save the NEW Date for Lutheran Day! Join advocates from across Pennsylvania on Tuesday, May 13, for Lutheran Day in the Capitol! We are grateful for the flexibility of our hosts at Trinity Lutheran Church in Camp Hill that allowed us to reschedule for a day when the General Assembly is in session. More information and registration coming soon!

• WE NEED YOUR STORIES! In this survey, you'll find questions to let LAMPa know about the important work of your hunger ministry, which will shape and strengthen our collective advocacy to end hunger in PA and beyond. Please send stories/reports of the need you are witnessing by February 14, so that they can inform our in-person state budget advocacy in Harrisburg and on-going Federal advocacy. Stories can also be shared at [email protected].

 

• Join the National Immigration Project on Wednesday, January 29 at 5pm ET for a free webinar for community defenders, advocates, and impacted community members to go over the basics of what you can do to protect yourself and your community in the face of potential immigration enforcement.We'll go over what immigration policies have changed in the first week of the Trump administration; a primer on your Fourth Amendment rights; and ways for families to prepare in case of an arrest by immigration officials. Our 1.5-hour program is meant to address your most burning questions and to remind you of the protections you already have. As policies change, we will continue to provide community defenders with the information and trainings they need to fight back and to keep their people ready to face whatever comes. We will have simultaneous interpretation in Spanish and Haitian Creole during this webinar and we will consider requests for interpretation in other languages as we receive them. Register here.

 
Congregational Vacancies:  Are congregations not working on Ministry Site Profiles

1. Berea, Pittsfield
2. Bethany, Sheffield
3. Bethlehem, Ohl
4. First English, Punxsutawney
5. Gethsemane, Port Allegany
6. Jerusalem, New Bethlehem
7. Mt. Zion, Punxsutawney
8. Mt. Zion, Tionesta
9. Mt. Zion, Trade City
10. Saron, Youngsville
11. St. John's, Emlenton
12. St. John's, Emporium
13. St. John's, Erie
14. St. Mark’s, Waterford
15. St. Mark's, Eddyville
16. St. Paul's, Galeton
17. Trinity, Reynoldsville
18. Trinity, Smethport

 
Congregations in Transition: Are congregations working on Ministry Site Profiles (MSP)
 
The following congregations have an active Ministry Site Profile (MSP):

1. Christ, Sharon
2. Grace, Brookville
3. Grove Chape, Indiana
4. Harmony Grove, Creekside
5. Holy Trinity, Hermitage
6. Hope, Homer City
7. New Life, Marion Center
8. St Paul Drakes Mills, Cambridge Springs
9. Tabor, Kane
10. Twelve Apostle’s, Saegertown
11. Zion, Mayport

Michael LozanoMar 30, 2023, 3:08 PM (13 days ago)
to Michael

 
Please remember to share the notes with your congregation and if you know of someone who would like to be placed on the mailing list, just send me a note.
 

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet Ø and will remain new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • until they are removed from the Notes. Upcoming Events changes or additions will be italicized and then shifted to Ø until removed.

 
Upcoming Events:

• The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.
• 4 April – Chrism Liturgy, Thiel College
• 5 April @ Synod Office
• 7-10 April Synod Office Closed
• 8 April Grace/St. John Franklin Easter Vigil
• 12 April Camp Lutherlyn Rostered Ministers Day of Rest and Renewal
• 13 April @ Synod Office
• 16 April Gethsemane, Port Allegany / Trinity, Smethport
• 16 April Installation of Rev. Jeff Piccirilli Faith, Venus/Holy Trinity, Shippenville
• 17-21 April Army Reserves, Ft. Snelling, MN
• 23 April St. John, Warren / Bethany, Sheffield
• 25 April Preaching Perspectives, Gettysburg
• 26 April ULS Spring Convocation, Gettysburg
• 27 April Lutheran Day at the Capitol, Harrisburg
• 28 April Rev. Dave Mumford Funeral, Luther Memorial
• 30 April Abiding Hope, Erie
• 3 May @ Synod Office
• 6-7 May @ Army Reserves
• 8-9 May ULS Board Meeting, Philadelphia
• 10 May @ Synod Office
• 12 May WELCA Retreat
• 16-17 May Ft. Bragg, NC
• 18 May @ Synod Office
• 18 May Erie Conference Ascension Day Liturgy
• 20 May Synod Council
• 21 May Grace, Brookville and Trinity, Reynoldsville
• 24 May @ Synod Office
• 25 May Lutheran Home at Kane Board Meeting
• 28 May St. Paul, Knox and Salem, Lamartine
• 31 May @ Synod Office
• 3-4 June @ Army Reserves
• 6 June @ Synod Office
• 7 June  Synod Assembly Set Up Thiel College
• Synod Assembly – June 8-10 Thursday-Saturday
• 11 June Twelve Apostles, Saegertown
• 14 June @ Synod Office
• 21 June @ Synod Office
• 24 June Pr. Jay Mitchell Installation Luther Memorial, Erie
• 25 June St. Paul, Warren
• 28 June @ Synod Office

 

• Sunday Supply Dates:

 
Churchwide Events:
Ø  Barbara Keller is leading a one hour zoom seminar on “How to Work with Sex Offenders in Your Congregation.” for rostered ministers in our synod on Thursday April 27th at Noon. Participants who have additional questions can remain on zoom to ask questions.  Register by emailing  [email protected].  

 
Ecumenical Events:
 
Region 8:

• Bp Riegel of the West Virginia – Western Maryland Synod writes:

The annual Wentz Prize competition call for papers.
The cash prize is $2500 in each of four categories:
•     First degree seminarian
•     M.A./PH. D graduate student
•     Post-Graduate: Pastor, Layperson, and/or Faculty member
•     Amateur Historian
Papers are to be in the field of history dealing with some aspect of Lutheranism in America.
Paper should be 25-35 pages in length, double spaced using Turabian Manual or Chicago Manual of Style. Submission deadline is 30 September 2023.
Flyer: https://www.lutheranhistoricalsociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Abdel-Ross-Wentz-Prize-Flyer-2023.pdf
Webpage: https://www.lutheranhistoricalsociety.com/abdel-ross-wentz-prize/
The competition is sponsored by the Lutheran Historical Society of the Mid-Atlantic.
 
Other Continuing Education Opportunities:
Camp Lutherlyn:

• Lutherlyn and the Lutheran University Center are pleased to host a FREE day of rest and renewal for the Rostered Leaders of the NWPA and SWPA Synods at Lutherlyn on Wednesday, April 12. All Rostered Leaders are invited, regardless of current call status. Registration is required by April 5 for food preparation. Please visit https://www.lutherlyn.com/forms/retreateventreg/rostered-leaders-day.html for the scheduled, details, and registration. We hope you will find this to be a day of rest and renewal after Holy Week and Easter Sunday. Please see the attached for more on the day.
• Intro to Blacksmithing Class April 29: Learn the art of Blacksmithing in the Woodland Forge at Lutherlyn. All materials are supplied, and classes are taught by master blacksmith, Flavius Brinsfield. Register www.lutherlyn.com/forge (Registration Deadline April 14).
• Spring Work Day April 29: Calling all volunteers to help get camp ready for CampBlast and Summer Camp. No skills required. 9am-4pm; lunch provided. Please RSVP at www.lutherlyn.com/workday.
• Registration for Summer Camp is OPEN!!:  Please visit www.lutherlyn.com/summer for more information on the Sumer Camp Schedule and Pricing.
• Summer Employment Applications are Open: Working at Lutherlyn is so much more than a job! If you know of a responsible young adult looking for summer employment, please visit www.lutherlyn.com/summeremployment for more information.

 
United Lutheran Seminary:
Here’s the upcoming events schedule:

• United and Ignited, April 15, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Join us for a day of resource sharing, fellowship, and learning about how we can be church to the beloved LGBTQIA2S+ community. Valentine Hall on the Gettysburg campus. Sponsored by Kindling Faith and the Lower Susquehanna Synod.
• Preaching Perspectives, April 25, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm on the Gettysburg Campus. Pastor Rob Blezard explores stewardship preaching opportunities during Ordinary Time. Livestream option available.
• Spring Convocation, April 26, 8 am – 4 pm. “Children of Abraham, Stewards of Creation” with Rabbi Yonatan Neril, Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing, and Huda Alkoff discussing the eco-theology of their respective faiths. Livestream option available.
• Calm in the Chaos: A Retreat for Women in Ministry, May 10 – 13 on the Gettysburg Campus. Dr. Crystal Hall offers a much-needed break and some time for discussion and discernment with caring colleagues.

 
SUMMER PROGRAMMING IS HERE!

• Sacred Places Transitions, June 22 – 24 on the Philadelphia Campus. Bishops, please recommend five people from various congregations in your synod who are discerning new uses for church buildings in ministry contexts of all types. Co-sponsored by Kindling Faith and Partners for Sacred Places.
• Summer Ministry Institute: Creating Sanctuary – Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence, July 16 – 23 on the Gettysburg Campus. Rostered leaders are taught how to recognize signs of domestic abuse and neglect and how to respond and refer in a way that conveys healing and hope. Co-sponsored by Kindling Faith and the Lutheran Settlement House.
• Theological Education with Adults: The Challenges of Ministry in Such a Time as This, July 23-28 on the Gettysburg Campus. Rev. Dr. Emlyn Ott from Healthy Congregations walks us through the challenges of being the church in a post-Covid world.
• Theological Education with Youth, July 23-28. The TEY one-week summer Academy is for high school students to live in an intentional Christian community on the Gettysburg campus of United Lutheran Seminary. Dr. Teresa Smallwood challenges participants to live out Jesus’ call to justice.
• Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate: Rest and Relaxation for Weary Deacons & Pastors, July 30 – August 4th on the Gettysburg Campus. Pastor Joe Vought offers a Bible study in the morning and then the rest of the day is yours to enjoy with a daily happy hour for all (with non-wine beverages as well)!

 
Walking Together as Synod:

• Authorized Lay Worship Leader Training May 6 at Grace, Clarion.

 

• Authorized Lay Worship Leader – Changes to requirements are coming. Please watch for more details in the weeks ahead.

 

• Conference Meeting Season (April-May) Approaching

According to our synod constitution Conferences are to meet during the months of April and May to nominate representatives to our Synod Council. In 2023 there are three lay and two rostered leaders to be elected to synod council. (See below). Additionally, our synod constitution notes conferences gather for a. common planning and development of strategies for the church on the territory; b. advice on location, relocation, realignment or closing of congregations; c. interpretation to congregational leadership of the mission efforts of this church, synod and region; d. memorializing the synod to take action on an issue broader than an internal conference matter; e. liaison between the synod and the congregations of the conference; and f. such other functions as the synod may assign them. The voting members of a Conference gathering shall include one lay person from each congregation within the Conference, one person from each agency or institution operating within the Conference, and all rostered leaders within the Conference. And will be convened by the representatives from the Conference who serve on Synod Council. Please do not make the bishop use S12.01.M21. (A Conference meeting may be called by the synod bishop.) though the bishop or synod staff person would like to be present at each Conference meeting.
 
Synod Council Three Year Term 2023-2026
Clarion/Forest/Venango/Warren Conference: Lay Leader
Cameron/Elk/McKean/Potter Conference: Rostered Leader
Crawford/Mercer Conference: Lay Leader
Erie Conference: Rostered Leader
Indiana/Jefferson Conference: Lay Leader
 
Congregations in Transition:

1. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee considering candidate.
2. Messiah Erie MSP in review
3. Tabor, Kane Call Committee MSP in review
4. St. Paul, Warren MSP in review
5. St. John, Warren Call Committee forming
6. St. John, Johnsonburg, Pr. Stephen Fair retirement effective 9 April
7. Lamb of God, Erie Pr. Kim Hirsch retirement effective 1 May
8. Good Hope, Oil City Pr. Sandra Jones retirement effective 1 August
9. Twelve Apostles, Saegertown Pr. Mark Fischer retirement effective 1 September

 
Ministry Site Profile (MSP) Activity Log:
The following congregations’ MSPs are listed based on date of activation:

1. Zion, Mayport as of 10/20/2021
2. Holy Trinity, Hermitage as of 11/2/2021
3. Christ, Sharon as of 1/19/2022
4. Salem, Lamartine as of 4/27/2022
5. Grove Chapel, Indiana as of 7/19/2022
6. Harmony Grove, Creekside as of 9/7/2022
7. St. Paul, Knox as of 12/15/2022
8. St. Paul, Erie as of 12/19/2022

 
Clarion-Venango-Warren Conference: Rev. Jeff Ewing and Dennis Yarian
 
Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference: Rev. Stephen Fair and Rob Sundberg
 
Crawford-Mercer Conference: Rev. Ben Travis and Anne Baver
 
Erie Conference: Rev. Kristen Papson and Jacque Holmberg
 
Indiana - Jefferson Conference: Rev. Tedd Cougar and Beth Grafton
 
Commentary:
While in the Holy Land in January I and 16 other ELCA bishops and staff walked a portion of the traditional route of Jesus’ entrance into the city of Jerusalem on what we call Palm Sunday. The route starts on the Mount of Olives and looks out over the Kidron Valley towards the Old or Walled city of Jerusalem.
 
From where we started our walk we found ourselves surrounded by graves* and looking across the valley we could see the hillside covered also covered in graves. Hani, our guide, paused and said, “Do you recall the words of Luke?”
 
As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying,
“Blessed is the king
    who comes in the name of the Lord!
Peace in heaven,
    and glory in the highest heaven!”
Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, order your disciples to stop.” 
He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would cry out.”
 
Hani asked us, surrounded by so many graves, “What stones do you think would cry out?”
 
There was a collective “Ah ha!” moment as we heard anew the beginning of the passion narrative.
 
As we enter into the most holy of weeks I pray you all find yourselves experiencing the Good News anew.
 
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano
*Hani noted that the portion of the Mount of Olives we were at historically is a gravesite because it is downwind of Jerusalem. Below are some pictures from the Holy Land. Hani setting the stage for our walk, and views across the valley to Jerusalem.
 
   

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet and will remain new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • until they are removed from the Notes. Upcoming Events changes or additions will be italicized and then shifted to Ø until removed.

 
Upcoming Events:

• The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

 

• 9-10 December Region 8 Steering Committee
• 14 December @ Synod Office
• 18 December St. John/Bethany, Warren
• 21 December @ Synod Office
• 26 December – 2 January Synod Office Closed.
• 26-31 December Family Vacation
• 4 January @ Synod Office
• 7-8 January @ Army Reserves
• 11 January 2023 @ Synod Office
• 15 January 2023 First English and Mt. Zion, Punxsutawney
• 16 January 2023 30th Anniversary of Ordination
• 17 – 30 January 2023 ELCA Bishop’s Holy Land Visit
• 1 February @ Synod Office
• 2-11 February Region 7-8 Holy Land Visit
• 12 February St. Paul, Erie
• 15 February @ Synod Office
• 18 February 1st ALWL Luther Class
• 19 February Trinity, Smethport / Gethsemane, Port Allegany
• 22 February Ash Wednesday
• 28 February – 4 March Conference of Bishops, Chicago
• 4-5 March @ Army Reserves
• 8 March @ Synod Office
• 15 March @ Synod Office
• 19 March Lamb of God, Erie
• 22 March @ Synod Office
• 26 March St. Matthew, Mt. Jewett
• 29 March @ Synod Office
• 29 March @ First, Warren
• 31 March – 2 April @ Army Reserves
• 4 April – Chrism Mass
• 5 April @ Synod Office
• 7-10 April – Synod Office Closed
• 12 April @ Synod Office
• 16 April – Gethsemane, Port Allegany / Trinity, Smethport
• 19 April @ Synod Office
• 23 April – St. John, Warren
• 24-28 April – Army Reserves, Ft. Snelling, MN
• 30 April – Abiding Hope, Erie

 
Ø  Sunday Supply Dates: February 22 Ash Wednesday, February 26;  March 12, April 9*, 21 May, 25 June. *Mercer/Crawford/Erie.
 
Churchwide Events:

• Presiding Bishop Easton’s Christmas Message – Click on picture/link.

 

• A new offering from the ELCA – More information is attached to the Notes.

Q. Who is Journi for? 
A. Journi is for anyone who feels called to lead in the ELCA. The site was built with the intention of being attractive to an audience under 35, with an interface that was also friendly for those who may be less tech-savvy. With abundant content in various forms, Journi is built for all kinds of learners who are ready to take their next, most faithful step. www.journi.faith/

• Greetings to the ELCA Companion Synod Leadership to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania. The link below is the latest newsletter from ELCA Regional Representatives, Daudi and Kellen Msseemmaa, ELCA mission personnel in Tanzania. In this edition that there is another new diocese within the ELCT. The ELCA has bilateral relationships with 21 of the Dioceses. We give thanks and celebrate with the continued growth of the church in Tanzania. This edition of the newsletter also has stories from the All-Africa Youth Congress held in Ghana. Here's a link to the November newsletter: bit.ly/3EVxPvs

 

• The ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program is ready for new volunteers! Applications are now open, and you can invite young adults on this journey abroad for the 2023-2024 program year. If you know young adults aged 21 to 29, this is the time to reach out. Encourage them to apply for YAGM by the deadline of Feb.1, 2023. (Priority deadline is Jan. 15, 2023.) YAGM volunteers will begin in August 2023.

 
Through YAGM, young adults will learn what it means to serve in a spirit of accompaniment as they walk alongside global church companions. They’ll become immersed in a new community and form deep relationships. And they’ll confront issues of wealth and poverty, racial privilege, gender privilege, economic disparity and globalization, all through the lens of faith. Learn more at ELCA.org/YAGM.
 
Young adults will find relevant opportunities for professional experience, including:

• Health and human rights: Health care, HIV and AIDS, homelessness, immigration and refugees.
• Education: Fine arts, youth education, childhood education, working with people living with disabilities.
• Environmental justice: Agriculture and farming, development, environment.
• Professional support: Office work, communication, technology, finance.
• Congregational ministry: Children’s ministry, Christian education, youth ministry, congregational ministry, camp ministry.

 

• Rostered Leaders Gathering - July 17-20, in Phoenix, AZ

Gathering highlights:
·        90 workshops offered over four workshop blocks
·        Inspiring and educational speakers and Bible study leaders
·        An interaction center with over 30 exhibits
·        A celebration banquet for all attendees
·        Space to reconnect with colleagues from across the ELCA
 
Featured guests and speakers include:
·        Jeff Chu, co-author of Wholehearted Faith
·        The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA
·        The Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis, chair biblical preaching at Luther Seminary
·        Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the first female elected bishop of the AME Church
·        Deacon Dr. Mindy Makant, dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Lenoir-Rhyne University
·        Carmelo Santos, director for Theological Diversity and Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement for the ELCA
·        Bishop Kevin Strickland, bishop of the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA
 
Early registration (December 1- March 31) is $245. Booking travel and hotel is your responsibility. Once you register, you will be provided with links to the three gathering hotels, with room rates of $153 per night plus tax. A limited number of scholarships are available. Visit ELCA.org/rmg for more information.
 
Ecumenical Events:
 
Region 8 Events:
 
Other Continuing Education Opportunities:

• From Rev. Martin Zimmann:

Dear Colleagues in Ministry,
 
A Blessed Advent to you! I hope you will find inspiration in this quote from St. Oscar Romero. “No one can celebrate a genuine Christmas without being truly poor. The self-sufficient, the proud, those who, because they have everything, look down on others, those who have no need even of God – for them there will be no Christmas. Only the poor, the hungry, those who need someone to come on their behalf, will have that someone. That someone is God, Emmanuel, God-with-us. Without poverty of spirit there can be no abundance of God.”
 
Here’s information regarding upcoming Kindling Faith continuing education events that you can share in your networks. Thanks for helping us spread the word.
o   Visit Gettysburg with your church group! Our facility is a great place for a day outing or a two-day stay. We can offer Bible studies, conversations with the Admissions office, tours of the campus, library archives, and our award-winning museum (https://www.seminaryridgemuseum.org/). In addition, people can take advantage of the many attractions in the greater Gettysburg community (https://destinationgettysburg.com/). See attached flyer to schedule your visit soon.
 
o   Preaching Perspectives from the Middle East, January 9, 2023, 9 am – 1 pm EST via zoom. Log on to meet with Pastors Imad Haddad, Ashraf Tannous, and Fursan Zumot as they discuss the RCL readings for Lent, Holy Week, and Easter from a Palestinian Christian Perspective. These pastors are pursuing their DMin degrees at ULS as part of our ongoing relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land. We are blessed to have them in our student body!
 
o   Combating Online Harassment, January 24, 2023, at 7 pm EST via Zoom. The church has an essential role to play in offering alternatives to a toxic online environment. Presented by Lauren Krapf, Esq. of the Anti-Defamation League (www.adl.org ).
 
Save the Dates:
o   ULS Book Club with President Erwin, February 27th, March 27th, April 24th at 7 pm EST via zoom. Dr. Erwin discusses Flowers of the Killer Moon and his perspective on Osage culture in this novel based on true events. The film version directed by Martin Scorcese will be released in May of 2023.
 
o   Nolde/Lazareth Lecture, March 20, 2023 at 7 pm on the Philadelphia campus and Livestream. Dr. Pamela Cooper-White, Dean of Union Theological Seminary discusses her new book The Psychology of Christian Nationalism.
 
o   Our American Muslim Neighbors: Christian Reflections on Islam, March 2, 9, 23, 30  (on zoom) and April 1st on the Philadelphia campus with a field trip to a local mosque with Dr. David Grafton of Hartford International University.
 
o   Spring Convocation, April 26, 2023 on the Gettysburg campus. This year’s theme, “Children of Abraham: Stewards of Creation.”
 
Registration for these events will be available soon. As always, I welcome your wisdom and insight as to how we can better serve the needs of ministry communities all over the ELCA. Feel free to reach out to me for conversation.
 
Walking Together as Synod:

• From our Companion’s in Germany the Evangelical Church in Central Germany (Evangelische Kirche in Mitteldeutschland (EKM):

Dear Bishop Lozano,
Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,
 
As we are approaching the Advent season I would like to send you some information about the EKM’s Singing Advent Calendar.
 
This Singing Advent Calender has become a tradition in our regional church and we feel blessed to share contributions from our international partner churches.
 
The ELCA-NWPA has also contributed, for which we are deeply grateful!
 
This contribution can be seen on December, 14th.
 
The video can be viewed at www.ekmd.de/advent (attention, the link will only work from December, 1st onwards). In addition, the contributions will be posted on the EKM Facebook page and on Instagram ("ekmbilder").
 
Wishing you a joyful and blessed Advent season, with greetings from Central Germany,
 
Judith
 
Dr Judith Königsdörfer
Ecumenical Officer Evangelical Church in Central Germany
Lothar Kreyssig Ecumenical Centre

• A few notes to Congregations (Treasurers) / Supply Pastors / Authorized Lay Worship Leaders:
• The Supply Pastor Compensation Guidelines are posted on the Synod Website. Please ensure you are following the Guidelines when calculating reimbursement for Supply Pastors – the number of worship services led on a weekend and the miles travel to and from the pastor’s home are part of the compensation.
• If a Supply Pastor is paid by a congregation over $600 for the year – then the congregation needs to issue a 1099 to the supply pastor for both the congregations and the supply pastor’s tax records. Congregations may have to issue multiple 1099s due to having multiple supply pastors.
• Congregations and Authorized Lay Worship Leaders will follow the same pattern for reimbursement and tax accountability.
• The Bishop is not compensated when the Bishop is at a congregation. Congregation Mission Support to our synod pays the Bishop’s salary, the synod car and gas. Congregations may desire to offer an honorarium to the Bishop, but the Bishop will redirect the congregation to give the gift to a local charity. It honestly makes the bishop happy to see and hear about the work of congregations in their communities.

 

• Pr. Doug Soley sent me a note to let our synod know of his and Cindy’s recent move to assisted living near their son and daughter in Michigan. They both recently had COVID so prayers are welcome. Their new address is Hampton Manor, 3099 Sterns Rd, Lambertville, MI 48144-9675.

 

• PA Health Equity Survey Open Until Dec. 31

Pennsylvania's regional health equity action teams have developed surveys that are open until Dec. 31 to identify and prioritize the most severe health issues experienced in your communities, such as; chronic disease, environmental hazards, community violence, substance use disorder, and mental health. The survey includes questions related to the barriers people face when trying to access health resources. The results of these surveys will help the Commonwealth work toward better health for all people statewide. We invite you to take the survey at the link below and to share with all in your community. Learn more about this effort here. Share the survey link widely. Northwest region: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BF9VZBN

• Tracey DePasquale, Director of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa) is seeking input for shaping areas of advocacy within our state as her office works with our state legislature offices to raise of areas of concerns from across our state. LAMPa is a welcome voice by many of our representatives no matter the party they represent as LAMPa is viewed as advocating for all. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and let your voice be heard. Here is the link to the survey for LAMPa.

 
·        Tracey DePasquale, Director of LAMPa reports:
+ The 2022-23 Pennsylvania budget included significant gains for education, housing and creation care, and modest increase for anti-hunger programs.
 
+ A $1.8 billion increase in education funding made strides toward decreasing the funding gap in what has been one of the least equitable school funding systems in the country. The spending plan contained a $525 million increase through the Fair Funding Formula, with another $225 million targeted to the 100 neediest school districts.
 
+ Among LAMPa’s priorities, the spending plan allocated $375 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding for affordable housing construction, rehabilitation, and repairs. The Whole Home Repairs program will help Pennsylvanians, especially seniors and persons with disabilities, stay in their homes, while also increasing energy efficiency – reducing utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
 
+ LAMPa had also supported increases in funding for creation care, with a special focus on clean water in light of widespread waterway impairment across the Commonwealth. The budget allocated $884.75 million for clean water, land conservation, parks, energy efficiency and forest investments. This includes $696 million for the new State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Program—formerly known as the Growing Greener program—as well as new funding for clean water infrastructure in the Clean Streams Fund. The budget also increased critical environmental agency budgets by $63.75 million. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Department of Agriculture (PDA), and river basin commissions were invested in after decades of cuts, directly resulting in more staffing and programming.
 
+ Years of advocacy finally resulted in passage of a law to regulate use of fertilizers by lawn and landscaping businesses in an effort to cleanup our waterways.
 
+ The budget also included an extra $10 million for disaster response for events not deemed a federally declared disaster.
 
+ While the hunger budget flat-funded the State Food Purchase Program after recent COVID-related increases, the State Agriculture Surplus System saw a $2 million increase. The budget also contained a $1 million grant to encourage colleges to address hunger. In the fall, Gov. Wolf directed funds accrued during the pandemic toward free breakfast for all school students this school year, helping to counter hardship caused by inflation and the ending of various federal pandemic-era supports for families.
 
+ In the waning days of the 2022 session, the General Assembly passed, and the governor signed legislation lifting the cap the state’s housing trust fund by $20 million.
 
In addition to some mixed progress in Harrisburg, I celebrate the signs of new growth among us and look forward to nurturing it together.
+ The policy council, which had been struggling with multiple vacancies, is now almost complete…
 
+ We held inaugural statewide meetings with hunger and creation care leaders from every synod and look forward to regular virtual and in-person gatherings of those networks, plus teams focused on LGBTQIA issues and housing/homelessness (and possibly AMMPARO) in the new year.
 
+ Although the environmental sustainability project that was launched at the 2021 Sequanota Summit did not materialize the way we envisioned, there is a promise and progress of continued support, especially in light of the action taken at this year’s Churchwide Assembly moving us toward the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
 
+ The Homeless Remembrance Blanket Project is gaining interest and an eagerness to participate, which I hope we might turn into lasting engagement and witness in addition to creating the imperative to see that everyone has a safe place to call home.
 
+ Seeds we have planted with our accompaniment of our partners in LDR appear to be growing and bearing fruit.
 
+ Once again, LAMPa volunteers contacted every county elections office in the state to learn what support was needed for running the elections. We shared that information with every synod, and to the extend possible, with advocates we knew in those areas.
 
+ In-person gatherings have yielded surprise and joy that in fact, the church is engaged in this work.
 
+ Starting with a presentation at our September retreat, we have begun exploring a relationship with the organization Braver Angels as a way of helping us not only foster civil discourse in our work, congregations and communities, but also to help stop demonization.
 
+ My service with the task force developing the new ELCA Social Statement on government and civic engagement has been deeply meaningful, and I look forward to the upcoming release of rich materials for study and feedback on the further development of the teaching resource.
 
+ I look forward to celebrating LAMPa’s 45th anniversary in 2024, and am excited that plans are underway with encouragement.

• Vocations Committee Representation – The Synod Vocation’s Committee is seeking two (2) lay female representatives to serve on the Committee for a six year term. The Vocation’s Committee primary task is to receive candidates for rostered ministry and after entrance to support them in their discernment and formation towards ordained ministry and finally determining if the candidates will be approved for ordination. To maintain a representative balance from across our synod the Committee is seeking representatives from the Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference and Indiana-Jefferson Conference. Please send nominations to Bp. Lozano and Pr. Karen Thompson.

 

• Congregational Meeting Season

A reminder for congregations to review their congregational constitutions to ensure they will meet the requirements to meet (quorum).
 
Congregations should elect (see constitutions) Voting Members to the Synod Assembly – June 9-10, 2023 and forward the names to our synod office.

• Form A / Form C will be sent out soon after the new year starts. Congregations will submit their responses on-line in 2023. If your congregation does not have access to the internet please determine an alternative (member of congregation, relative of member of  congregation, local library, local business, etc.) If you need assistance in filling out the forms please contact the synod office for guidance. The synod office will not be filling out and submitting congregational forms. 

 

• Conference Meeting Season (April-May) Approaching

According to our synod constitution Conferences are to meet during the months of April and May to nominate representatives to our Synod Council. In 2023 there are three lay and two rostered leaders to be elected to synod council. (See below). Additionally, our synod constitution notes conferences gather for a. common planning and development of strategies for the church on the territory; b. advice on location, relocation, realignment or closing of congregations; c. interpretation to congregational leadership of the mission efforts of this church, synod and region; d. memorializing the synod to take action on an issue broader than an internal conference matter; e. liaison between the synod and the congregations of the conference; and f. such other functions as the synod may assign them. The voting members of a Conference gathering shall include one lay person from each congregation within the Conference, one person from each agency or institution operating within the Conference, and all rostered leaders within the Conference. And will be convened by the representatives from the Conference who serve on Synod Council. Please do not make the bishop use S12.01.M21. (A Conference meeting may be called by the synod bishop.) though the bishop or synod staff person would like to be present at each Conference meeting.
 
Synod Council Three Year Term 2023-2026
Clarion/Forest/Venango/Warren Conference: Lay Leader
Cameron/Elk/McKean/Potter Conference: Rostered Leader
Crawford/Mercer Conference: Lay Leader
Erie Conference: Rostered Leader
Indiana/Jefferson Conference: Lay Leader
 
Ø  Synod Assembly Planning Team
I will be convening a Planning Team for the 2023-2025 synod assemblies in January (by Zoom). I am looking for lay nominees to serve on the Planning Team. I have a representative from the Indiana/Jefferson Conference. If you know of someone in the other conferences who might serve please send me an email with their contact information. The Planning Team will be looking at a number of topics including themes, pre and post assembly events, dates and locations, etc.

• Revitalizing Synod Committees, Teams, Working Groups

Early in the new year I will be asking for individuals to serve on our synod’s committees but also several other forms of working together in order to address the mission and ministry of our synod. Please watch for more information in future bishop’s notes.

• Second Class of ALWL training and Continuing Education for current ALWLs. Introduction to the Lutheran Confessions 2023: This course will delve into the writings of Martin Luther and the early reformers. Audio, video and written materials will be used to introduce Lutheran history and theological concepts. Conversation, lecture and the adult learning model will facilitate individual and group synthesis of the materials. Weekly questions and small projects will assist individuals in discovering the application of Lutheran theology for application for the authorized lay worship leader instructional program.

Course Dates: February 18, 25, March 11, 18, 25 and April 8.
More information will be posted after the first of the year.

• Greetings from Lutherlyn! Please share these announcements with your congregation and copy into your bulletin and/or newsletter. For more information or if there is something that Lutherlyn can do for you, please contact [email protected] or call 724-865-2161. We hope to see you at camp soon!
• Quilting/Crafting Retreat January 10-15, 2023: Come and join us for a fun-filled week (Tuesday – Sunday, arrive whenever you choose) of quilting / crafting / reading / relaxing / creating. It's a great time of fun and fellowship that's very popular with quilters, scrapbookers, and other crafters. (Registration Deadline January 2) for more information please visit www.lutherlyn.com/crafting
• Winter Retreat January 20-22, 2023: for 4th-12th graders (campers will be divided by age groups and stay in cabin with cabin leaders from the summer staff). GAGA ball in the snow, Bible study, the bouldering room, songs, worship, friends, indoor and outdoor games, lots of your summer camp favorites, and fun in the wonderful winter weather! (Registration Deadline January 11) for more information please visit www.lutherlyn.com/winter

 
Congregations in Transition:

1. Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregations have a model of shared pastoral ministry.
2. Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
3. Zion, Mayport
4. Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee considering Candidate
5. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee developing MSP
6. Tabor, Kane Call Committee developing MSP

 
Ministry Site Profile (MSP) Activity Log:
The following congregations’ MSPs are listed based on date of activation:

1. Zion, Mayport as of 10/20/2021
2. Holy Trinity, Hermitage as of 11/2/2021
3. Christ, Sharon as of 1/19/2022
4. Salem, Lamartine as of 4/27/2022
5. Luther Memorial, Erie as of 5/20/2022
6. Grove Chapel, Indiana as of 7/19/2022
7. Harmony Grove, Creekside as of 9/7/2022

 
Clarion-Forest-Venango-Warren Conference:
 
Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference:
 
Crawford-Mercer Conference:
 
Erie Conference:

• Erie Conference Epiphany Service with Holy Communion and Burning of the Greens: Friday, January 6, 2023, 7:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 5414 East Lake Road, Erie, PA, 16511. We will start indoors with a celebration of Holy Communion, then process to the lawn behind the church for the burning of our Christmas trees and greenery. The Burning of the Greens was introduced at Faith Lutheran by Pastor David Laakso, and has been a favorite tradition for some time. Dress warm. You can also watch the bonfire from the comfort of the social hall. Afterwards, we’ll have hot chocolate and cookies. Everyone can take home a “Blessing of the Home” kit with chalk and a simple home blessing liturgy for the Epiphany season. All are welcome.

 
Indiana-Jefferson Conference:

• The congregation of Harmony Grove is seeking a supply pastor to provide Sunday coverage for a baptism, new members and installation of new Council members. In addition a pastor to cover Christmas Eve or Day. And would like to establish a pattern of coverage at least four times a year. Harmony Grove is linked with Grove Chapel so coverage on Sunday would also include Grove Chapel. Please contact Myrna Orr at 724-397-2615.

 
Commentary:
Please distribute the attached note on my health to your congregations and other communities who have and are praying for me.
 
Again this week’s Notes are filled with many new things like Journi and links to information from our Companion Synods and PA Department of Health and ULS continuing education events.
 
It feels like Advent is picking up the pace and quickening towards the Christ-mass. Schedules are tightening and deadlines looming. The end of the year approaches. I am reminded of the words of my liturgy profession as he advised us in leading worship, “Be at peace.” Be at peace dear synod. And pray for peace in our time.
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano
 

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet and will remain new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • until they are removed from the Notes. Upcoming Events changes or additions will be italicized and then shifted to Ø until removed.

 
Upcoming Events:

• The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

 

• 3-4 December  @ Army Reserves
• 7 December @ Synod Office
• 9-10 December Region 8 Steering Committee
• 14 December @ Synod Office
• 18 December St. John/Bethany, Warren
• 21 December @ Synod Office
• 26 December – 2 January Synod Office Closed.
• 26-31 December Family Vacation
• 4 January @ Synod Office
• 7-8 January @ Army Reserves
• 11 January 2023 @ Synod Office
• 15 January 2023 First English and Mt. Zion, Punxsutawney
• 16 January 2023 30th Anniversary of Ordination
• 17 – 30 January 2023 ELCA Bishop’s Holy Land Visit
• 1 February @ Synod Office
• 2-11 February Region 7-8 Holy Land Visit
• 12 February St. Paul, Erie
• 15 February @ Synod Office
• 18 February 1st ALWL Luther Class
• 19 February Trinity, Smethport / Gethsemane, Port Allegany
• 22 February Ash Wednesday
• 28 February – 4 March Conference of Bishops, Chicago
• 4-5 March @ Army Reserves
• 8 March @ Synod Office
• 15 March @ Synod Office
• 19 March Lamb of God, Erie
• 22 March @ Synod Office
• 26 March St. Matthew, Mt. Jewett
• 29 March @ Synod Office
• 29 March @ First, Warren
• 31 March – 2 April @ Army Reserves
• 4 April – Chrism Mass
• 5 April @ Synod Office
• 7-10 April – Synod Office Closed
• 12 April @ Synod Office
• 16 April – Gethsemane, Port Allegany
• 19 April @ Synod Office
• 23 April – St. John, Warren
• 24-28 April – Army Reserves, Ft. Snelling, MN
• 30 April – Abiding Hope, Erie

 
Ø  Sunday Supply Dates: February 22 Ash Wednesday, February 26;  March 12, April 9*, 21 May, 25 June. *Mercer/Crawford/Erie.
 
Churchwide Events:

• PLEASE SEE THE ATTACHED GREETINGS FRIM DYLAN our YAGM.
• The ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program is ready for new volunteers! Applications are now open, and you can invite young adults on this journey abroad for the 2023-2024 program year. If you know young adults aged 21 to 29, this is the time to reach out. Encourage them to apply for YAGM by the deadline of Feb.1, 2023. (Priority deadline is Jan. 15, 2023.) YAGM volunteers will begin in August 2023.

 
Through YAGM, young adults will learn what it means to serve in a spirit of accompaniment as they walk alongside global church companions. They’ll become immersed in a new community and form deep relationships. And they’ll confront issues of wealth and poverty, racial privilege, gender privilege, economic disparity and globalization, all through the lens of faith. Learn more at ELCA.org/YAGM.
 
Young adults will find relevant opportunities for professional experience, including:

• Health and human rights: Health care, HIV and AIDS, homelessness, immigration and refugees.
• Education: Fine arts, youth education, childhood education, working with people living with disabilities.
• Environmental justice: Agriculture and farming, development, environment.
• Professional support: Office work, communication, technology, finance.
• Congregational ministry: Children’s ministry, Christian education, youth ministry, congregational ministry, camp ministry.

 

• The ELCA Church Council (in March 2022) authorized the development of a social message on climate care. The Draft of a Social Message on Climate is now posted for public comment. (www.elca.org/climatecare) The comment period runs through December 2. The drafters and review team will study the public feedback to prepare a Proposed social message that will be reviewed by the Theological and Ethical Concerns Committee next Spring. Church Council consideration is anticipated in late March. Comments can be made at [email protected].

 

• Rostered Leaders Gathering - July 17-20, in Phoenix, AZ

Gathering highlights:
·        90 workshops offered over four workshop blocks
·        Inspiring and educational speakers and Bible study leaders
·        An interaction center with over 30 exhibits
·        A celebration banquet for all attendees
·        Space to reconnect with colleagues from across the ELCA
 
Featured guests and speakers include:
·        Jeff Chu, co-author of Wholehearted Faith
·        The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA
·        The Rev. Dr. Karoline Lewis, chair biblical preaching at Luther Seminary
·        Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, the first female elected bishop of the AME Church
·        Deacon Dr. Mindy Makant, dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Lenoir-Rhyne University
·        Carmelo Santos, director for Theological Diversity and Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement for the ELCA
·        Bishop Kevin Strickland, bishop of the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA
 
Early registration (December 1- March 31) is $245. Booking travel and hotel is your responsibility. Once you register, you will be provided with links to the three gathering hotels, with room rates of $153 per night plus tax. A limited number of scholarships are available.
 
Visit ELCA.org/rmg for more information.
 
Ecumenical Events:
 
Region 8 Events:
 
Other Continuing Education Opportunities:
 
Walking Together as Synod:

• From our Companion’s in Germany the Evangelical Church in Central Germany (Evangelische Kirche in Mitteldeutschland (EKM):

Dear Bishop Lozano,
Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,
 
As we are approaching the Advent season I would like to send you some information about the EKM’s Singing Advent Calendar.
 
This Singing Advent Calender has become a tradition in our regional church and we feel blessed to share contributions from our international partner churches.
 
The ELCA-NWPA has also contributed, for which we are deeply grateful!
 
This contribution can be seen on December, 14th.
 
The video can be viewed at www.ekmd.de/advent (attention, the link will only work from December, 1st onwards). In addition, the contributions will be posted on the EKM Facebook page and on Instagram ("ekmbilder").
 
Wishing you a joyful and blessed Advent season, with greetings from Central Germany,
 
Judith
 
Dr Judith Königsdörfer
Ecumenical Officer Evangelical Church in Central Germany
Lothar Kreyssig Ecumenical Centre

• Please see Pr. Jacobson’s Reflections on 2B or Not 2B attached to the Notes.

 

• A few notes to Congregations (Treasurers) / Supply Pastors / Authorized Lay Worship Leaders:
• The Supply Pastor Compensation Guidelines are posted on the Synod Website. Please ensure you are following the Guidelines when calculating reimbursement for Supply Pastors – the number of worship services led on a weekend and the miles travel to and from the pastor’s home are part of the compensation.
• If a Supply Pastor is paid by a congregation over $600 for the year – then the congregation needs to issue a 1099 to the supply pastor for both the congregations and the supply pastor’s tax records. Congregations may have to issue multiple 1099s due to having multiple supply pastors.
• Congregations and Authorized Lay Worship Leaders will follow the same pattern for reimbursement and tax accountability.
• The Bishop is not compensated when the Bishop is at a congregation. Congregation Mission Support to our synod pays the Bishop’s salary, the synod car and gas. Congregations may desire to offer an honorarium to the Bishop, but the Bishop will redirect the congregation to give the gift to a local charity. It honestly makes the bishop happy to see and hear about the work of congregations in their communities.

 

• Pr. Doug Soley sent me a note to let our synod know of his and Cindy’s recent move to assisted living near their son and daughter in Michigan. They both recently had COVID so prayers are welcome. Their new address is Hampton Manor, 3099 Sterns Rd, Lambertville, MI 48144-9675.

 

• Tracey DePasquale, Director of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania (LAMPa) is seeking input for shaping areas of advocacy within our state as her office works with our state legislature offices to raise of areas of concerns from across our state. LAMPa is a welcome voice by many of our representatives no matter the party they represent as LAMPa is viewed as advocating for all. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and let your voice be heard. Here is the link to the survey for LAMPa.

 
Ø  Tracey DePasquale, Director of LAMPa reports:
+ The 2022-23 Pennsylvania budget included significant gains for education, housing and creation care, and modest increase for anti-hunger programs.
 
+ A $1.8 billion increase in education funding made strides toward decreasing the funding gap in what has been one of the least equitable school funding systems in the country. The spending plan contained a $525 million increase through the Fair Funding Formula, with another $225 million targeted to the 100 neediest school districts.
 
+ Among LAMPa’s priorities, the spending plan allocated $375 million in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding for affordable housing construction, rehabilitation, and repairs. The Whole Home Repairs program will help Pennsylvanians, especially seniors and persons with disabilities, stay in their homes, while also increasing energy efficiency – reducing utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
 
+ LAMPa had also supported increases in funding for creation care, with a special focus on clean water in light of widespread waterway impairment across the Commonwealth. The budget allocated $884.75 million for clean water, land conservation, parks, energy efficiency and forest investments. This includes $696 million for the new State Parks and Outdoor Recreation Program—formerly known as the Growing Greener program—as well as new funding for clean water infrastructure in the Clean Streams Fund. The budget also increased critical environmental agency budgets by $63.75 million. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Department of Agriculture (PDA), and river basin commissions were invested in after decades of cuts, directly resulting in more staffing and programming.
 
+ Years of advocacy finally resulted in passage of a law to regulate use of fertilizers by lawn and landscaping businesses in an effort to cleanup our waterways.
 
+ The budget also included an extra $10 million for disaster response for events not deemed a federally declared disaster.
 
+ While the hunger budget flat-funded the State Food Purchase Program after recent COVID-related increases, the State Agriculture Surplus System saw a $2 million increase. The budget also contained a $1 million grant to encourage colleges to address hunger. In the fall, Gov. Wolf directed funds accrued during the pandemic toward free breakfast for all school students this school year, helping to counter hardship caused by inflation and the ending of various federal pandemic-era supports for families.
 
+ In the waning days of the 2022 session, the General Assembly passed, and the governor signed legislation lifting the cap the state’s housing trust fund by $20 million.
 
In addition to some mixed progress in Harrisburg, I celebrate the signs of new growth among us and look forward to nurturing it together.
+ The policy council, which had been struggling with multiple vacancies, is now almost complete…
 
+ We held inaugural statewide meetings with hunger and creation care leaders from every synod and look forward to regular virtual and in-person gatherings of those networks, plus teams focused on LGBTQIA issues and housing/homelessness (and possibly AMMPARO) in the new year.
 
+ Although the environmental sustainability project that was launched at the 2021 Sequanota Summit did not materialize the way we envisioned, there is a promise and progress of continued support, especially in light of the action taken at this year’s Churchwide Assembly moving us toward the goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
 
+ The Homeless Remembrance Blanket Project is gaining interest and an eagerness to participate, which I hope we might turn into lasting engagement and witness in addition to creating the imperative to see that everyone has a safe place to call home.
 
+ Seeds we have planted with our accompaniment of our partners in LDR appear to be growing and bearing fruit.
 
+ Once again, LAMPa volunteers contacted every county elections office in the state to learn what support was needed for running the elections. We shared that information with every synod, and to the extend possible, with advocates we knew in those areas.
 
+ In-person gatherings have yielded surprise and joy that in fact, the church is engaged in this work.
 
+ Starting with a presentation at our September retreat, we have begun exploring a relationship with the organization Braver Angels as a way of helping us not only foster civil discourse in our work, congregations and communities, but also to help stop demonization.
 
+ My service with the task force developing the new ELCA Social Statement on government and civic engagement has been deeply meaningful, and I look forward to the upcoming release of rich materials for study and feedback on the further development of the teaching resource.
 
+ I look forward to celebrating LAMPa’s 45th anniversary in 2024, and am excited that plans are underway with encouragement.

• Vocations Committee Representation – The Synod Vocation’s Committee is seeking two (2) lay female representatives to serve on the Committee for a six year term. The Vocation’s Committee primary task is to receive candidates for rostered ministry and after entrance to support them in their discernment and formation towards ordained ministry and finally determining if the candidates will be approved for ordination. To maintain a representative balance from across our synod the Committee is seeking representatives from the Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference and Indiana-Jefferson Conference. Please send nominations to Bp. Lozano and Pr. Karen Thompson.

 

• Congregational Meeting Season

A reminder for congregations to review their congregational constitutions to ensure they will meet the requirements to meet (quorum).
 
Congregations should elect (see constitutions) Voting Members to the Synod Assembly – June 9-10, 2023 and forward the names to our synod office.

• Form A / Form C will be sent out soon after the new year starts. Congregations will submit their responses on-line in 2023. If your congregation does not have access to the internet please determine an alternative (member of congregation, relative of member of  congregation, local library, local business, etc.) If you need assistance in filling out the forms please contact the synod office for guidance. The synod office will not be filling out and submitting congregational forms. 

 

• Conference Meeting Season (April-May) Approaching

According to our synod constitution Conferences are to meet during the months of April and May to nominate representatives to our Synod Council. In 2023 there are three lay and two rostered leaders to be elected to synod council. (See below). Additionally, our synod constitution notes conferences gather for a. common planning and development of strategies for the church on the territory; b. advice on location, relocation, realignment or closing of congregations; c. interpretation to congregational leadership of the mission efforts of this church, synod and region; d. memorializing the synod to take action on an issue broader than an internal conference matter; e. liaison between the synod and the congregations of the conference; and f. such other functions as the synod may assign them. The voting members of a Conference gathering shall include one lay person from each congregation within the Conference, one person from each agency or institution operating within the Conference, and all rostered leaders within the Conference. And will be convened by the representatives from the Conference who serve on Synod Council. Please do not make the bishop use S12.01.M21. (A Conference meeting may be called by the synod bishop.) though the bishop or synod staff person would like to be present at each Conference meeting.
 
Synod Council Three Year Term 2023-2026
Clarion/Forest/Venango/Warren Conference: Lay Leader
Cameron/Elk/McKean/Potter Conference: Rostered Leader
Crawford/Mercer Conference: Lay Leader
Erie Conference: Rostered Leader
Indiana/Jefferson Conference: Lay Leader
 
Ø  Synod Assembly Planning Team
I will be convening a Planning Team for the 2023-2025 synod assemblies in January (by Zoom). I am looking for lay nominees to serve on the Planning Team. I have a representative from the Indiana/Jefferson Conference. If you know of someone in the other conferences who might serve please send me an email with their contact information. The Planning Team will be looking at a number of topics including themes, pre and post assembly events, dates and locations, etc.

• Revitalizing Synod Committees, Teams, Working Groups

Early in the new year I will be asking for individuals to serve on our synod’s committees but also several other forms of working together in order to address the mission and ministry of our synod. Please watch for more information in future bishop’s notes.
 

• Second Class of ALWL training and Continuing Education for current ALWLs. Introduction to the Lutheran Confessions 2023: This course will delve into the writings of Martin Luther and the early reformers. Audio, video and written materials will be used to introduce Lutheran history and theological concepts. Conversation, lecture and the adult learning model will facilitate individual and group synthesis of the materials. Weekly questions and small projects will assist individuals in discovering the application of Lutheran theology for application for the authorized lay worship leader instructional program.

Course Dates: February 18, 25, March 11, 18, 25 and April 8.
More information will be posted after the first of the year.

• Greetings from Lutherlyn! Please share these announcements with your congregation and copy into your bulletin and/or newsletter. For more information or if there is something that Lutherlyn can do for you, please contact [email protected] or call 724-865-2161. We hope to see you at camp soon!
• Quilting/Crafting Retreat January 10-15, 2023: Come and join us for a fun-filled week (Tuesday – Sunday, arrive whenever you choose) of quilting / crafting / reading / relaxing / creating. It's a great time of fun and fellowship that's very popular with quilters, scrapbookers, and other crafters. (Registration Deadline January 2) for more information please visit www.lutherlyn.com/crafting
• Winter Retreat January 20-22, 2023: for 4th-12th graders (campers will be divided by age groups and stay in cabin with cabin leaders from the summer staff). GAGA ball in the snow, Bible study, the bouldering room, songs, worship, friends, indoor and outdoor games, lots of your summer camp favorites, and fun in the wonderful winter weather! (Registration Deadline January 11) for more information please visit www.lutherlyn.com/winter

 
Congregations in Transition:

1. Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregations are considering a model of shared pastoral ministry.
2. Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
3. Zion, Mayport
4. Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee considering Candidate
5. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee developing MSP
6. Tabor, Kane Call Committee developing MSP

 
Ministry Site Profile (MSP) Activity Log:
The following congregations’ MSPs are listed based on date of activation:

1. Zion, Mayport as of 10/20/2021
2. Holy Trinity, Hermitage as of 11/2/2021
3. Christ, Sharon as of 1/19/2022
4. Salem, Lamartine as of 4/27/2022
5. Luther Memorial, Erie as of 5/20/2022
6. Grove Chapel, Indiana as of 7/19/2022
7. Harmony Grove, Creekside as of 9/7/2022

 
Clarion-Forest-Venango-Warren Conference:
 
Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference:
 
Crawford-Mercer Conference:
 
Erie Conference:

• Erie Conference Epiphany Service with Holy Communion and Burning of the Greens: Friday, January 6, 2023, 7:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 5414 East Lake Road, Erie, PA, 16511. We will start indoors with a celebration of Holy Communion, then process to the lawn behind the church for the burning of our Christmas trees and greenery. The Burning of the Greens was introduced at Faith Lutheran by Pastor David Laakso, and has been a favorite tradition for some time. Dress warm. You can also watch the bonfire from the comfort of the social hall. Afterwards, we’ll have hot chocolate and cookies. Everyone can take home a “Blessing of the Home” kit with chalk and a simple home blessing liturgy for the Epiphany season. All are welcome.

 
Indiana-Jefferson Conference:

• The congregation of Harmony Grove is seeking a supply pastor to provide Sunday coverage for a baptism, new members and installation of new Council members. In addition a pastor to cover Christmas Eve or Day. And would like to establish a pattern of coverage at least four times a year. Harmony Grove is linked with Grove Chapel so coverage on Sunday would also include Grove Chapel. Please contact Myrna Orr at 724-397-2615.

 
Commentary:
There’s a lot in this week’s Notes to digest and consider. It’s that time of the year I guess with reports on the year past being shared and plans being made for the year to come. Please read and respond as you are called.
 
Six of our seven ELCA Bishops met in Harrisburg, PA this past week to offer input and support for the work of LAMPa. Bishop Christopher DeForest of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod was unable to be with us as he was recovering from open heart surgery. Please hold him and the accompaniment work our church does in your prayers.
 
Communication and silo-ing was a topic of conversation among the bishops. I shared my weekly bishop’s notes concept with them as one way of increasing communication among our synod and de-silo-ing our work.
 
Please continue to share the Notes with others. Please ask others if they want to be put on the Note’s email distro list. Please continue to share with me the various mission and ministry projects you have in your congregations and conferences.
 
Finally, my oncologist considers me “boring.” I’m in full remission from multiple myeloma. And “boring” is good. Though he did share this little factoid with me as I groused about the number the scales showed when I stepped on them at the cancer center. “Between Thanksgiving and New Years the average American puts on 10-11 pounds.” I respond, “Great, I’m halfway there.”
 
May this season of the year not weigh you down in body, mind or spirit. And should it, please, please, please know there are individuals who will support you and are available to help you.
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano
 
 
 
Rev. Michael L. Lozano, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
22598 Titusville Road
PO Box 43
Pleasantville, PA 16341
 
[email protected]
(o) 814.589.7660
(c) 724.931.4848

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet and will remine new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • until they are removed from the Notes. Upcoming Events changes or additions will be italicized and then shifted to Ø until removed.

 
Upcoming Events:

• The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

 

• 23 October Trinity, Meadville
• 23-26 October Rostered Leaders/ALWL Convocation
• 30 October  St. John, Oniontown
• 2 November @ Synod Office
• 3-6 November Camp Swift, TX for Army Reserves
• 9 November @ Synod Office
• 13 November Trinity, Smethport
• 14-16 November FCTE (First Call Theological Event) Capitol Retreat Center
• 19 November Vocations Committee Meeting
• 19 November Faith, Erie
• 20 November Faith, Erie
• 23 November @ Synod Office
• 27 November St. Paul, Warren
• 29 November @ Synod Office
• 30 November LAMPa, Harrisburg
• 3-4 December  @ Army Reserves
• 7 December @ Synod Office
• 9-10 December Region 8 Steering Committee
• 14 December @ Synod Office
• 18 December St. John/Bethany, Warren
• 26 December – 2 January Synod Office Closed.
• 26-31 December Family Vacation
• 4-8 January 2023 Conference of Bishops Academy, Minneapolis, MN
• 11 January 2023 @ Synod Office
• 15 January 2023 First English and Mt. Zion, Punxsutawney
• 16 January 2023 30th Anniversary of Ordination
• 17 – 30 January 2023 ELCA Bishop’s Holy Land Visit
• 1 February @ Synod Office

 
·        Sunday Supply Dates: 2023 February 19, 26;  March 12, April 9*, 23. *Mercer/Crawford/Erie.
 
Churchwide Events:

• I will be visiting the Holy Land next January with 17 other ELCA Bishops. This trip was to occur in 2020 but COVID. While in the Holy Land, there will be an ordination. Sally Anzar, daughter of Bp. Sani Ibrahim Anzar, will be ordained as the first woman pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land. Prayers for Sally and the Anzars are welcomed. I am planning on bringing a gift from our synod to her ordination. Ideas are welcome.

 
Ecumenical Events:
 
Region 8 Events:

• The Rev. Dr. Craig Satterlee will be presenting the theme, "My Burden is Light: Making Room for Jesus in Preaching," at the WV-WMD Synod's Fall Clergy Continuing Education Event to be held 16-18 Nov. 2022 at Cacapon Resort State Park (Berkeley Springs, WV). Registration information and other details are posted on the WV-WMD Synod's Education for Clergy & Laity webpage (http://wv-wmd.org/education/index.html#Fall2022). Event registration is free (for content), but attendees are on their own for room & board. This event is for clergy, seminarians, and SAMs. It is open to all judicatories.

 
Other Continuing Education Opportunities:

• Upcoming Kindling Faith continuing education events at ULS:
• We are planning a reboot of the Symposium of Evangelical Lutherans in Appalachia (SELA) on the Gettysburg campus from October 26th – 28th 2023. This event is a time of formation and renewal for rostered leaders or synodically-authorized lay leaders. I would like to hear from folks who would be likely to participate at a special informational session on November 13th at 7 pm. The zoom link for those who are interested in or currently serving in a Appalachian ministry contexts: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88294752114?pwd=Y25nWDlicHFCam5JcGxWMnU1bG55UT09
• Soul Care is a new multi-event program in collaboration with the Lower Susquehanna Synod. You can register here.
• Transgender and Lutheran with Dr. Stephanie Dykes. Sunday, October 23, 7 pm. Join Stephanie on zoom for a delightful introduction to her experience as a transgendered Lutheran living in the Seattle area.
• Luther Colloquy with featured speakers President Guy Erwin, Dr. Volker Leppin, Dr. Monica Melancthon, and Dr. Amy Nelson Burnett speaking on the topic of “Lutheranism and the Status Quo.” Wednesday October 26th on the Gettysburg campus. Livestream is available.
• An Evening with Pastor Franklin Morales will be held via zoom on Sunday, November 20th at 7 pm EST. is an opportunity to meet an ELCA Latino pastor who has an amazing story to share about his many journeys that led him to rostered service in the ELCA’s Metro DC synod. It is a beautiful story of love and courage. I hope you can join us.

 
Walking Together as Synod:

• Just a quick a note to say thank you to our congregations across the Synod, as we are currently ahead/exceeding our budget for Mission Support. Pr. Jacobson once again affirmed we are noticed in Chicago and Chicago wonders what it is that we do to continue to be such faithful, joyful givers. As always, Pr. Jake, just tells them… “That’s who we are!” Thank you for being you and being such faithful, generous servants! – Ron King, Synod Treasurer

 

• Second Class of ALWL training and Continuing Education for current ALWLs. Introduction to the Lutheran Confessions 2023: This course will delve into the writings of Martin Luther and the early reformers. Audio, video and written materials will be used to introduce Lutheran history and theological concepts. Conversation, lecture and the adult learning model will facilitate individual and group synthesis of the materials. Weekly questions and small projects will assist individuals in discovering the application of Lutheran theology for application for the authorized lay worship leader instructional program.

Course Dates: February 18, 25, March 11, 18, 25 and April 8.
More information will be posted after the first of the year.

• Check out Lutherlyn’s Capital Campaign video at www.lutherlyn.com/future. Lutherlyn has set a goal of two million dollars to be raised with a challenge goal of two and half million dollars. Lutherlyn will be reaching out to our congregations to determine your support as communities of believers in the work and mission of Lutherlyn. Wouldn’t it be interesting if our synod outgave SWPA synod?

 
Congregations in Transition:

1. Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregation councils working on a model of shared pastoral ministry.
2. Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
3. Zion, Mayport
4. Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee considering Candidate
5. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee developing MSP
6. Tabor, Kane Call Committee developing MSP

 
Clarion-Forest-Venango-Warren Conference:
 
Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference:
 
Crawford-Mercer Conference:
 
Erie Conference:
 
Indiana-Jefferson Conference:
 
Commentary:
Today I found myself at Thiel College for a conversation with the Campus Pastor, Rev. Brian Riddle. The air was crisp, the leaves on the trees and ground golden yellow, tan and red. It was good, we both agreed, to see the students back on campus. Students popped in or waved as they passed Pr. Riddle’s office while we chatted. And President Susan Traverso stopped in as well. It was good to see her and to hear about the challenges and accomplishments of the students, faculty and staff at the college. Of note, Thiel was one of four colleges in western Pennsylvania whose enrollment grew during the last two years of COVID. Why did enrollment grow? President Traverso said it was because the college focused on being community. Why are we as a synod recognized by the ELCA churchwide staff for our giving toward mission support? Because we focus on our communities – local, synod, national and global. I am proud of our synod and our ELCA college and all the other agencies and institutions within and across our boundaries which build, sustain and promote communities of care towards one another’s needs and concerns and beyond.
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano
 
Rev. Michael L. Lozano, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
22598 Titusville Road
PO Box 43
Pleasantville, PA 16341
 
[email protected]
(o) 814.589.7660
(c) 724.931.4848

 

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet and will remine new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • until they are removed from the Notes. Upcoming Events changes or additions will be italicized and then shifted to Ø until removed.

 
Upcoming Events:

• The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

• 15 October Synod Council, Grace, Franklin
• 15 October ALWL Training @ Grace, Franklin
• 16 October Hope, Homer City 200th Anniversary Celebration
• 19 October @ Synod Office
• 23 October Trinity, Meadville
• 23-26 October Rostered Leaders/ALWL Retreat
• 30 October  St. John, Oniontown
• 2 November @ Synod Office
• 3-6 November Camp Swift, TX for Army Reserves
• 9 November @ Synod Office
• 13 November Trinity, Smethport
• 14-16 November FCTE (First Call Theological Event) Capitol Retreat Center
• 19 November Vocations Committee Meeting
• 19 November Faith, Erie
• 20 November Faith, Erie
• 23 November @ Synod Office
• 27 November St. Paul, Warren
• 29 November @ Synod Office
• 30 November LAMPa, Harrisburg
• 3-4 December  @ Army Reserves
• 7 December @ Synod Office
• 9-10 December Region  8 Steering Committee
• 14 December @ Synod Office
• 18 December St. John/Bethany, Warren
• 26 December – 2 January Synod Office Closed.
• 26-31 December Family Vacation
• 4-8 January 2023 Conference of Bishops Academy, Minneapolis, MN
• 11 January 2023 @ Synod Office
• 15 January 2023 First English and Mt. Zion, Punxsutawney
• 16 January 2023 30th Anniversary of Ordination
• 17 – 30 January 2023 ELCA Bishop’s Holy Land Visit
• 1 February @ Synod Office

 
·        Sunday Supply Dates: 2023 February 19, 26;  March 12, 19, April 9*, 16, 23. *Mercer/Crawford/Erie.
 
Churchwide Events:

• I will be visiting the Holy Land next January with 17 other ELCA Bishops. This trip was to occur in 2020 but COVID. While in the Holy Land, there will be an ordination. Sally Anzar, daughter of Bp. Sani Ibrahim Anzar, will be ordained as the first woman pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land. Prayers for Sally and the Anzars are welcomed. I am planning on bringing a gift from our synod to her ordination. Ideas are welcome.

 

• Subscribe to Seeds Monthly by clicking on the underlined link.

 
Ecumenical Events:
 
Region 8 Events:

• The Rev. Dr. Craig Satterlee will be presenting the theme, "My Burden is Light: Making Room for Jesus in Preaching," at the WV-WMD Synod's Fall Clergy Continuing Education Event to be held 16-18 Nov. 2022 at Cacapon Resort State Park (Berkeley Springs, WV).

 
Registration information and other details are posted on the WV-WMD Synod's Education for Clergy & Laity webpage (http://wv-wmd.org/education/index.html#Fall2022).
 
Deadline for room reservation is 15 October 2022; after that, the block of rooms will be released from, meaning there may very well still be rooms available, but there is no guarantee. Event registration is free (for content), but attendees are on their own for room & board.
 
This event is for clergy, seminarians, and SAMs. It is open to all judicatories.
 
Other Continuing Education Opportunities:

• Upcoming Kindling Faith continuing education events at ULS:
• We are planning a reboot of the Symposium of Evangelical Lutherans in Appalachia (SELA) on the Gettysburg campus from October 26th – 28th 2023. This event is a time of formation and renewal for rostered leaders or synodically-authorized lay leaders. I would like to hear from folks who would be likely to participate at a special informational session on November 13th at 7 pm. The zoom link for those who are interested in or currently serving in a Appalachian ministry contexts: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88294752114?pwd=Y25nWDlicHFCam5JcGxWMnU1bG55UT09
• Soul Care is a new multi-event program in collaboration with the Lower Susquehanna Synod. You can register here.
• Implicit Bias Training with Stacey Waters of the Pennsylvania Human Rights Commission is being offered free of charge via zoom. The first opportunity is on October 17th at 2 pm. The second opportunity at 7 pm. Again, both events are available via zoom.
• Transgender and Lutheran with Dr. Stephanie Dykes. Sunday, October 23, 7 pm. Join Stephanie on zoom for a delightful introduction to her experience as a transgendered Lutheran living in the Seattle area.
• Luther Colloquy with featured speakers President Guy Erwin, Dr. Volker Leppin, Dr. Monica Melancthon, and Dr. Amy Nelson Burnett speaking on the topic of “Lutheranism and the Status Quo.” Wednesday October 26th on the Gettysburg campus. Livestream is available.
• An Evening with Pastor Franklin Morales will be held via zoom on Sunday, November 20th at 7 pm EST. is an opportunity to meet an ELCA Latino pastor who has an amazing story to share about his many journeys that led him to rostered service in the ELCA’s Metro DC synod. It is a beautiful story of love and courage. I hope you can join us.

 
Walking Together as Synod:

• The first roundtable discussion for the NWPA Synod Book club was held by Rev. Tedd Cogar. It was not well attended as only he and I were on the zoom call. Pr. Cogar is willing to reset and hold another discussion on another date. If you are interested in the book and discussion please reach out to him directly so he can find a time which will work on everyone’s calendar. The book, two remaining copies at synod office, is Becoming a White Antiracist: A Practical Guide for Educators, Leaders, and Activists by Stephen D. Brookfield and Mary E. Hess.

 
Congregations in Transition:

1. Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregation councils working on a model of shared pastoral ministry.
2. Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
3. Zion, Mayport
4. Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee considering Candidate
5. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee developing MSP
6. Tabor, Kane Call Committee developing MSP

 
Clarion-Forest-Venango-Warren Conference:
 
Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference:
 
Crawford-Mercer Conference:
 
Erie Conference:
v  Pr. Karen Parsh, Interim Pastor at Abiding Hope writes, “On Saturday, October 15 from 1:00 to 3:00 Abiding Hope in partnership with St. Paul's Lutheran Church and New Hope Presbyterian Church will be hosting a PUMPKINFEST at Abiding Hope, in support of Youth Ministry Outreach and the Kearsarge Food Bank. There will be plenty of Pumpkins provided by Baytree Farms in Emlenton, and Bethesda will be sponsoring a food truck for snacks. There will be performances by the Sonlight Puppeteers and games and crafts for children. All are welcome to join us.
 
Indiana-Jefferson Conference:
 
Commentary:
I’ve heard this a lot lately within various Lutheran circles… “Where’s Jesus?” It’s either a gentle or blunt reminder to everyone of where is Jesus in this conversation, this action, this event. Or have “we” pushed Jesus out of the conversation, action or event. Perhaps it’s a question we should carry with us at all times and ask regularly of ourselves and others. The question just might change our answer to whatever we are considering. “Where’s Jesus?”
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano
 
 
 
Rev. Michael L. Lozano, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
22598 Titusville Road
PO Box 43
Pleasantville, PA 16341
 
[email protected]
(o) 814.589.7660
(c) 724.931.4848

Update Highlights:

• New Notes or Changes to Notes will have this bullet and will remine new notes for two weeks, then will shift to the • and until they are removed from the Notes. Upcoming Events additions/changes are italicized.

 
Upcoming Events:

• The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

• 9 October Grace, Brookville/ Trinity, Reynoldsville
• 11 October Erie Pericope Study Group
• 12 October @ Synod Office
• 13 October – Installation Anniversary as Third Bishop of NWPA Synod
• 15 October Synod Council, Grace, Franklin
• 15 October ALWL Training @ Grace, Franklin
• 16 October Hope, Homer City
• 19 October @ Synod Office
• 23 October Trinity, Meadville
• 23-26 October Rostered Leaders/ALWL Retreat
• 30 October  St. John, Oniontown
• 2 November @ Synod Office
• 3-6 November Camp Swift, TX for Army Reserves
• 9 November @ Synod Office
• 13 November Trinity, Smethport
• 14-16 November FCTE (First Call Theological Event) Capitol Retreat Center
• 19 November Vocations Committee Meeting
• 19 November Faith, Erie
• 20 November Faith, Erie
• 23 November @ Synod Office
• 27 November St. Paul, Warren
• 29 November @ Synod Office
• 30 November LAMPa, Harrisburg
• 3-4 December  @ Army Reserves
• 7 December @ Synod Office
• 9-10 December Region  8 Steering Committee
• 14 December @ Synod Office
• 18 December St. John/Bethany, Warren
• 26 December – 2 January Synod Office Closed.
• 26-31 December Family Vacation

 
v  Sunday Supply Dates: December 11. 2023 February 19, 26;  March 12, 19, April 9*, 16, 23. *Mercer/Crawford/Erie.
 
Churchwide Events:

• Subscribe to Seeds Monthly by clicking on the underlined link.

 
Ecumenical Events:
 
Walking Together as Synod:

• The first roundtable discussion for the NWPA Synod Book club was held by Rev. Tedd Cogar. It was not well attended as only he and I were on the zoom call. Pr. Cogar is willing to reset and hold another discussion on another date. If you are interested in the book and discussion please reach out to him directly so he can find a time which will work on everyone’s calendar. The book, two remaining copies at synod office, is Becoming a White Antiracist: A Practical Guide for Educators, Leaders, and Activists by Stephen D. Brookfield and Mary E. Hess..

• Check out ULS’s Continuing Education opportunities at…

 
 
 
Congregations in Transition:

1. Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregation councils working on a model of shared pastoral ministry.
2. Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
3. Zion, Mayport
4. Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee awaiting Candidate
5. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee developing MSP
6. Tabor, Kane Call Committee developing MSP

 
Clarion-Forest-Venango-Warren Conference:
 
Cameron-Elks-McKean-Potter Conference:
 
Crawford-Mercer Conference:
 
Erie Conference:

1. Pr. Karen Parsh, Interim Pastor at Abiding Hope writes, “On Saturday, October 15 from 1:00 to 3:00 Abiding Hope in partnership with St. Paul's Lutheran Church and New Hope Presbyterian Church will be hosting a PUMPKINFEST at Abiding Hope, in support of Youth Ministry Outreach and the Kearsarge Food Bank. There will be plenty of Pumpkins provided by Baytree Farms in Emlenton, and Bethesda will be sponsoring a food truck for snacks. There will be performances by the Sonlight Puppeteers and games and crafts for children. All are welcome to join us.

 
Indiana-Jefferson Conference:
 
Commentary:
It’s a quite week to enjoy the changing weather and leaves. Take time to breathe and be well.
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano
 
 
 
Rev. Michael L. Lozano, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
22598 Titusville Road
PO Box 43
Pleasantville, PA 16341
 
[email protected]
(o) 814.589.7660
(c) 724.931.4848
 

 
Update Highlights: Calendar, Supply, Convocation, Youth Gathering and ULS.
 

• A reminder I am traveling between Central and Eastern time zones until 1 October.

 

• The following is a list of upcoming events I will be attending in person. If I am in your area and you would like to go to lunch, coffee, have a chat, etc. let me know.

• 10-24 September Annual Training, Darien, IL
• 17 September Upper Susquehanna Synod Bishop Installation, Zion, Sunbury
• 18 September Minneapolis, MN
• 25 September, Gettysburg, PA
• 26-27 September ULS Board Meeting Gettysburg, PA
• 28 September – 1 October Conference of Bishop’s Meeting, Chicago, IL
• 2 October Emanuel, Bradford
• 5 October @ Synod Office
• 9 October Grace, Brookville/ Trinity, Reynoldsville
• 11 October Erie Pericope Study Group
• 12 October @ Synod Office
• 15 October Synod Council, Grace, Franklin
• 15 October ALWL Training @ Grace, Franklin
• 16 October Hope, Homer City
• 19 October @ Synod Office
• 23-26 October Rostered Leaders/ALWL Retreat
• 30 October  St. John, Oniontown
• 2 November @ Synod Office
• 9 November @ Synod Office
• 13 November Trinity, Smethport
• 14-16 November FCTE (First Call Theological Event) Capitol Retreat Center
• 19 November Vocations Committee Meeting
• 20 November Faith, Erie
• 23 November @ Synod Office
• 27 November St. Paul, Warren
• 29 November @ Synod Office
• 30 November LAMPa, Harrisburg
• 3-4 December  @ Army Reserves
• 7 December @ Synod Office
• 9-10 December Region  8 Steering Committee
• 14 December @ Synod Office
• 18 December St. John/Bethany, Warren
• 26 December – 2 January Synod Office Closed.
• 26-31 December Family Vacation

 
·        Sunday Supply Dates: December 11, 25*. *Mercer/Crawford only. 2023 February 19, 26;  March 12, 19, April 9, 16, 23.
 
·        The Synod Supply Pastor Policy took effect 1 September 2022.
 

• Rev. Tedd Cougar writes: All are invited to join in a roundtable discussion on our NWPA Synod book club reading of Becoming a White Antiracist: A Practical Guide for Educators, Leaders, and Activists by Stephen D. Brookfield and Mary E. Hess, Thursday, September 22, 2:00 pm (https://iupvideo.zoom.us/j/7056259230).

 

• Our ecumenical partners in the UMC have extended an invitation to our Rostered Leaders in SWPA and NWPA Synods to join them in becoming part of Communities of Practice. The letter of invitation is attached. I would encourage our pastors/deacon to join a COOP and our congregations to support our rostered leaders in joining with our UMC colleagues. The deadline is September 23, 2022.

 

• The Pennsylvania Council of Churches is beginning a dialogue on Christian Nationalism, a topic of rising interest in a critical election year where individual candidates describe themselves as members of this movement. The Council of Churches will present a forum titled “Christianity in America: Sacred or Supremacist?” The program will be held on ONLINE and IN PERSON  October 6, 2022. Please see the attached document for more information.

 

• The 2022 ELCA Youth Leadership Summit is taking place November 3 – 6, 2022 in Ashland, Nebraska. Each synod may nominate 2 youth and 1 adult to attend. The letter with details on the event is attached to this email. If you are interested or know of someone who might be interested please email me at [email protected].

 
·        On Oct. 24 the theme for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering, the Multicultural Youth Leadership Event and the tAble will be announced! The National Youth Gathering will be held in New Orleans from July 13-16. Mark your calendars now.
 
·        The ELCA Youth Gathering Team writes, “We’ve decided to make a few changes to the Synod Day program… In past cycles, …select two ministry leaders to serve as Gathering Synod Coordinator and Synod Day Director. For 2024 we are combining these roles and ask that you select one person for the role of Gathering Synod Champion. … To provide further support to congregations as they prepare for the Gathering, MYLE and the tAble, we will provide resources and training to each synod’s champion for 18 months prior to the Gathering. GSCs are expected to develop relationships with congregational adult leaders by answering questions, curating Gathering resources and creating community among participating congregations in the year leading up to the Gathering. This individual will also be responsible for the planning and execution of worship and your Synod Experience. Champions are required to attend one training in New Orleans, Jan. 16-18, 2024. Travel and other training-related expenses will be covered by the Gathering. We will provide online onboarding and training as well as other meetings (dates TBD) to help GSCs in this work. A detailed job description can be found here. Be mindful that this is a different position from the previous cycles. The successful candidate will be organized, detail-oriented and capable of communicating effectively for the sake of building community with other adult leaders in the synod. We ask that you nominate a Gathering Synod Champion no later than Nov. 1, 2022.”
 
·        It is not too late for Rostered Leaders in our Synod to begin planning to attend the 2023 Rostered Leaders Gathering July 17-20 in Phoenix, AZ. More information can be found at: https://elca.org/rmg. I attended the first Gathering and found the event informative and a wise use of continuing education funds I would encourage our congregational leaders to support your pastors and deacons to attend this event.
 
·        Fall Convocation. HOTEL RESERVATION DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 23. PLEASE MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW. AFTER THE CUT OFF DATE HOTEL RATES INCREASE. The dates for Convocation are 24-26 October. The NWPA Convocation registration is open. We will gather at the Sheraton Bayfront, Erie for this year’s event. When registration opens you will need to register with our synod (website) and with the hotel if you are staying at the Sheraton. The cost of the hotel is $149+tax per night. Our synod will reimburse room cost of $50 per night for Monday and Tuesday per room. You will need to submit a request for reimbursement in order to receive the funds. Single and double rooms are available. You will also be responsible for meals.
 
We will be using The Post Quarantine Church by Thom S. Rainer as a focus for the educational time together. Purchasing the book is not necessary for the event but it might be helpful.
 
Attendees are invited to check in on Sunday afternoon and relax Sunday evening into Monday morning. Onsite registration will open on Monday and the Convocation will begin after lunch. Monday night we will gather at Brewerie at Union Station for a hymn sing (beer will be involved for those who wish to partake.) Tuesday will continue our convocation learning time along with opportunities to explore the Erie area. We will end by noon on Wednesday. There will be time to worship and pray together along with other updates from around our synod and churchwide.
 
·        Our 2023 NWPA Assembly will be (8) 9-10 (11) June 2023 at Thiel College. I will form a Synod Assembly Planning Team in the next few weeks. I will ask each Conference to nominate one lay person to be on this Planning Team. This core group along with the synod staff will begin the initial planning process for the next three Assemblies 2023,2024, 2025. As the core team progresses other individuals within our synod will be asked to join specific teams or committees centering around our upcoming 2023 Assembly and beyond.
 
·        The following congregations are in transition:

1. Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregation councils working on a model of shared pastoral ministry.
2. Faith, Venus and Holy Trinity, Shippenville. Congregational Meeting set
3. Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
4. Zion, Mayport
5. Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee awaiting Candidate
6. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee developing MSP
7. Tabor, Kane Call Committee developing MSP

 

• Rev. Allison Leitzel reached out to me to offer her expertise in helping churches organize their financial records/systems. She is willing to help develop new chart of accounts, set up new/easier software programs, and trained staff/volunteers to use the system, assisted in setting up an internal auditing process and using the ELCA guidelines. If your congregation can use Pr. Leitzel’s gifts please reach out to her at [email protected]. There is a cost for mileage and time involved which can be negotiated with her.

 

• Twix candy filling is, believe it or not, twix candy. So if twixes are filled with twixes, what filled the first twix?

 

• Rev. Ralph Mineo offers: "BUTTERFLIES AND PENGUINS - The Ralph and Jo Show" is a musical story-telling event about the joys and struggles of the journey of Pastor Ralph & Jo Mineo, from Ralph's time in seminary and ordination as a Roman Catholic priest, to their marriage, and pastoral ministry in the Lutheran Church. The centerpiece of the program is several songs that Pastor Ralph has written over the years for Jo, including "Butterflies and Penguins" (Jo's signature song) and others such as "Always Remember the Love." Also included will be some of the songs Pastor Ralph has written for prayer and worship, including the first prayer-song he wrote. Congregations may contact Pastor Ralph at 419-581-1837 to schedule the program (which is about 75 minutes long).

 

• Rev. Mark Fischer, Twelve Apostles reports, “On September 25th we will hold our Harvest Home Dinner. Donations will go to Lutheran Disaster Response for Kentucky Flood victims.” IF your congregation is working to lift up the ministries in your community and beyond please let me know so I can share your work within this email AND invite those who might be interested in supporting your local efforts to show up in support.

 

• Chris Curran writes, “Grace Franklin welcomes Rev. Shawn Clerkin as their interim pastor. This is another step in collaborative joint ministry between Grace Lutheran and St. John’s Episcopal churches in Franklin who have shared a building since 2009 and now share a pastor and priest. We are better together.” I had lunch with Fr. Clerkin and Chris Curran this week. Fr. Clerkin brings many gifts, skills and talents to Grace Lutheran and to our synod. He is planning on being with us at Convocation.

 
This weekend I will be attending the Installation of Bp. Craig Miller, Upper Susquehanna Synod and then traveling to Ft. Snelling (had to look it up, just outside of Minneapolis, MN) to visit with a chaplain and his unit. Both events remind me of how connected we are. The Church takes on many expressions and forms – be it cathedral or open field – we gather to proclaim and to receive the gospel. We are interconnected – one might even say like a body – to each other. And as I travel know I carry you with me (and no, not like a virus or bacteria).
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano
 
Rev. Michael L. Lozano, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
22598 Titusville Road
PO Box 43
Pleasantville, PA 16341
 
[email protected]
(o) 814.589.7660
(c) 724.931.4848