• 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 registrar@lutherlyn.com 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 draftsocialmessage@elca.org.

 

• 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 registrar@lutherlyn.com 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
 
bplozano@outlook.com
(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
 
bplozano@outlook.com
(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
 
bplozano@outlook.com
(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
 
bplozano@outlook.com
(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 bplozano@outlook.com.

 
·        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 allieleitzel1@gmail.com. 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
 
bplozano@outlook.com
(o) 814.589.7660
(c) 724.931.4848

​Update Highlights: Calendar updates, Community of Practice Invitation, Congregations in Transition, Commentary and few other items along the way…
 
NOTE: I continue to add individuals to the email list as you share the Notes. Please continue sharing the Notes and sending me individuals to add to the email list as well.
 
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
• 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

 
·        Sunday Supply Dates: October 23*; December 11, 25*. *Mercer/Crawford only. February 19, 26 2023; March 12, 19 2023.
 

• 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).

 

• Attached to this week’s notes is a document on SELECT Courses. This catalog of courses can be used for congregational and individual education.

 

• 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 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 bplozano@outlook.com.

 
·        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.
 
·        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. 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

 

• The Synod Supply Pastor Policy took effect 1 September 2022.

 

• 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 allieleitzel1@gmail.com. There is a cost for mileage and time involved which can be negotiated with her.

 

• 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.

 
Over the next several weeks I will be moving between the Eastern and Central time zones for my Army Reserve Annual training time, participate in the installation of Rev. Craig Miller as the fourth bishop of Upper Susquehanna Synod, the fall ULS Board Meeting and the fall Conference of Bishops Meeting. Recently Christopher and I were discussing our digital presence online, he googled my name, and found some old references to me. He found one in particular, a video, of me in uniform (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLjmaIPbbgw), which we talked about. I’ll be wearing several uniforms over the weeks I am away from my family and our synod, but I mindful the uniform I always wear is through baptism I am clothed in Christ. Dear Synod as I enter my fourth year as bishop I give thanks to wear the uniform which represents us all and whichever other uniform I wear I am mindful that I am …
 
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
 
bplozano@outlook.com
(o) 814.589.7660
(c) 724.931.4848
 

​Update Highlights: Calendar, ALWL, CWA, Synod Happenings, Commentary
 
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.

·        18-19 August Joint Base Lewis McCord Building Dedication
·        20 August One Year Anniversary Stem Cell Transplant
·        21 August Luther Memorial
·        24 August @ Synod Office
·        27 August Bp. Collin’s Retirement Pizza Party, Camp Mt. Luther
·        28 August St. John, Girard
·        31 August @ Synod Office
·        7 September @ Synod Office
·        10-24 September Annual Training, Darien, IL
·        17 September Upper Susquehanna Synod Bishop Installation, Zion, Sunbury
·        26-27 September ULS Board Meeting Gettysburg, PA
·        28 September – 1 October Conference of Bishop’s Meeting, Chicago, IL
·        5 October @ Synod Office
·        9 October Grace, Brookville/ Trinity, Reynoldsville
·        12 October @ Synod Office
·        14-15 October Synod Council Retreat
·        15 October ALWL Training @ Grace, Franklin
·        19 October @ Synod Office
·        23-26 October Rostered Leaders/ALWL Retreat
·        30 October  St. John, Oniontown
·        2 November @ Synod Office
·        9 November @ Synod Office
·        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

 
·        Sunday Supply Dates: October 23*; December 11, 25*. *Mercer/Crawford only. January 15, 29 2023; February 19, 26 2023; March 12, 19, 26 2023.
 
·        ALWLs: Please mark your calendars for Saturday October 15th. ALWLs will gather at St. John's Episcopal/Grace Lutheran Church in Franklin. The day will begin at 10:00am and include a tour of the church’s Tiffany windows, Fr. Shawn Clerkin will offer a meditation /discussion, lunch and an open discussion among ALWLs on needs, wants, concerns and future gatherings. The day will conclude by 2:30pm.
 
·        Attached to this email is an application for NWPA ALWLs. If you are interested in serving as an ALWL please fill out the form and return to bplozano@outlook.com. If you know of someone who would serve well as an Authorized Lay Worship Leader please pass the form along to them.
 
·        ALWL Training: The next iteration of ALWL training begins in September with Rev. Jake Jacobson leading in the study of the Old and New Testaments. This is a  joint training between Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, Alleghany Synod and Upper Susquehanna Synod.
Introduction to Scripture Old Testament/New Testament Rev. Jake Jacobson
Course Design: The course will include assigned readings, prerecorded lectures, an introductory Zoom meeting and four 2 hour Zoom/In Person gatherings.
Text: Holy Talk: An Introduction to Scripture for the Occasionally Biblically Embarrassed, Jake Jacobson (Lulu.com or Amazon)
Cost: $50.00/person payable to NWPA Synod plus textbook
Calendar:
September 10 (10:00-Noon): Introduction of Course (Zoom)
September 24 (10:00-Noon): Pentateuch Zoom
October 8 (10:00-Noon): Prophets/Writings Zoom/In Person @ Allegheny Synod
October 22 (10:00-Noon): Gospels Zoom/In Person @ Upper Susquehanna Synod
November 5 (10:00-Noon): Paul/NT Writings Zoom/In Person @ NWPA Synod Office

• Attached to this email is highlights from the CWA. Please review and share.

 

• Congratulations to Ms. Olivia L. Martin-Call on her election as a young adult representative from our synod to the ELCA Church Council. Olivia is a member of Holy Trinity, Greenville and until recently Vice-President of the Congregation Council.

 
·        Fall Convocation. The dates for Convocation are 24-26 October. The location will be the Sheraton Bayfront on the lake. The concept for this year’s Convocation is to gather for time to relax and share and learn. Rostered and ALWL Leaders will be able to check in to the hotel on Sunday afternoon for a relaxing evening in Erie, followed by a program starting Monday afternoon through Wednesday morning. The topic will be “The Post Quarantine Church” based off the book by the same title. We will use our time together to learn from one another, develop ideas, and plans we might implement in our congregations and communities. There will be time built into the schedule for relaxing / exploring Lake Erie and Erie, PA, worship and conversation. And maybe another surprise or two.
 
·        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 are working to develop a model for shared pastoral ministry.
2. Faith, Venus and Holy Trinity, Shippenville. Call Committee working with Candidate
3. Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
4. Immanuel, Erie
5. Zion, Mayport
6. Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee working with Candidate
7. St. Paul, Erie Call Committee developing MSP

 

• Supply Pastor Policy: Our Synod Council approved the attached Supply Pastor Policy. Individuals who are currently serving as supply pastors in our synod need to let Ellen and I know by 1 September your willingness to serve beyond 1 September. Why was this policy proposed by me and enacted by our synod council? I have received reports of congregations using Sunday supply pastors who are not recognized as such by our synod and reports of pastors and individuals who think they are recognized as pastors in our denomination or our ecumenical partner denominations serving in our congregations. This policy helps to set boundaries for both congregations and Sunday supply pastors/deacons.

 

• Rev. Mark Fischer, Twelve Apostles reports, “We donated $800 of proceeds from the Community Yard Sale Day to the Crawford County Career Technical Center. The remaining $1300 is earmarked for our church food bank which serves at least a dozen people each month.” AND “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.

 

• Please hold in prayer our pastors and deacon here in our synod along with all who step up as lay leaders to take on roles of increasing responsibility. Pray for them and their family’s health. While CWA did what could be done to prevent the spread of COVID, Presiding Bishop Eaton and several other bishops contracted the virus while in Columbus. One of our own voting members was among several who also contracted the virus. All are recovering. School will start soon for many in our synod along with Fall programing in our congregations. Please hold each other in prayer as we shift towards fuller fall schedules and the turning of the leaves.

 
 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano

• I continue to expand the email list for the Bishop’s Notes. Please continue to share this information with folks in your congregations and conferences. If you are receiving duplicate emails from me please let me know.

 

• REGARDING EMAILS: You will notice I blind carbon copy (Bcc) everyone on this email list. The reason is simple, so your email is not stolen and used by individuals to solicit money or information from others as my email has on multiple occasions. It is a sad fact that there are individuals who impersonate people setting up “dummy” email addresses and then using known lists of emails to ask for money or gift cards, or even send fake bills expecting you to either outright pay the bill using a credit card or to contact the “person” or “company” and give out your personal information. DO NOT respond to these emails. If you receive an email from myself or anyone on synod staff asking you to give us money or gift cards, or to contact you regarding a “confidential” request or anything else that seems suspicious, contact me or our staff immediately via phone. There are websites you can use to report the suspicious email. Do not open the email or any attachments, do not respond to the email and delete it immediately.

 

• MORE New News From ULS: Please see the attached information and remember the expanded opportunity for continuing education at https://bit.ly/3tyrEbW.

 

• St. Paul’s Senior Living Community in Greenville, PA is searching for a chaplain. If you have an interest or know of someone who might have an interest in chaplaincy please reach out to me or Chaplain Julia Fraser.

 

• Summer Book Study: If you did not pick up a copy at Assembly, please watch your mail for the book. If you do not receive it by the end of June please let me know. If you are interested in joining the book study I have a few extra copies. Again, please let me know. We will start the study in July.

 

• 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.

 

• 6 July at Synod Office
• 7 July Lutheran Home at Kane Board Meeting
• 9-10 July Chicago, IL Army Reserves
• 11-14 July working remotely Indianapolis , IN
• 16 July Synod Council
• 17 July Gethsemane, Port Allegany
• 20-24 July Chicago, IL Army Reserve Command Conference
• 23 July Vocations Committee
• 27 July at Synod Office
• 3 August at Synod Office
• 5-6 August Chicago, IL Army Reserves
• 7-12 August Churchwide Assembly, Columbus, OH
• 14 August ELP Beach Worship, Presque Isle
• 17 August at Synod Office
• 19 August  University Hospital, Cleveland One Year Anniversary Stem Cell Transplant Check Up
• 21 August Luther Memorial
• 24 August at Synod Office
• 27 August Bp. Collin’s Retirement Pizza Party, Camp Mt. Luther
• 28 August St. John, Girard
• 31 August at Synod Office
• 7 September at Synod Office
• 10-24 September Annual Training, Darien , IL
• 16-17 September Region 8 Candidacy and Steering Committee Meeting, Sunbury, PA
• 17 September Upper Susquehanna Synod Bishop Installation, Zion, Sunbury
• 26-27 September ULS Zoom Board Meeting
• 27 September – 1 October Conference of Bishop’s Meeting, Chicago, IL
• 1-2 October Chicago, IL Army Reserves

 

• Sunday Supply Dates: October 9, 23*; November 13, 27; December 11. *Mercer/Crawford only. I’ve begun work on my 2023 calendar of open supply Sundays. Look for a tentative list of dates in the next few weeks.

 

• Follow the ELCA Churchwide Assembly at www.elca.org/churchwideassembly

 

• 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.  

 

• Fall Convocation. The dates for Convocation are tentatively set for 24-26 October. Location is TBD.

 

• If you know of a young adult (18-30) who is interested in serving on Synod Council let me know.

 

• The Rev. Gary Harbaugh, Holy Trinity, Erie has announced his retirement. His last Sunday will be July 24, 2022. Let us give thanks to God for Pr. Harbaugh’s many years of faithful service to our synod and the Church.

• The following congregations have active ministry site profiles:
• Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregation councils are working to develop a model for shared pastoral ministry.
• Faith, Venus and Holy Trinity, Shippenville. Call Committee working with Candidate
• Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
• Immanuel, Erie
• Zion, Mayport
• Luther Memorial, Erie. Call Committee working with Candidate

 

• A prayer for the nation for this Independence Day weekend: Holy Trinity, one God, you show us the splendor of diversity and the beauty of unity in your own divine life. Make us, who came from many nations with many languages, a united people who delight in our many different gifts. Defend our liberties, and give those whom we have entrusted with authority the spirit of wisdom, that there might be justice and peace in our land. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, our sovereign and our Savior. Amen (ELW, 77)

 
Called to Serve,
 
Bp. Lozano

• These notes can either be considered late from last week or early for this week. Last week was of course our synod assembly and this week I will be attending the Upper Susquehanna synod assembly. There will be no bishop’s notes next week as I will be on vacation with Patti and Christopher.
• The current email list has reached over 100 individuals in our synod. Please share the information and send me the names and email address of individuals who want to be placed on the list.
• Our Synod Assembly was held on Friday, June 10 at Thiel College. Highlights of the assembly were Worship, the reelection of Pr. Mark Fischer as Synod Secretary and Mr. Ron King as Synod Treasurer. The passing of the 2023 budget, constitutional updates, and three memorials to the churchwide assembly were passed – gun violence; churchwide restructuring and governance; and reduction in greenhouse gas. Additionally, we received greetings from Thiel College president Susan Traverso and Rev. Christopher Otten our churchwide representative, a presentation by Rev. Brenda Martin on Camp Lutherlyn’s “family” connection to the Ukraine (an article will be in the August Living Lutheran) and Rev. Jake Jacobson and Rev. Doug Dyson rolling out a process to develop leaders in congregations and deepening faith.
• New News From ULS: With deep gratitude to Deacon Chelle Huth for her many years of dreaming faith into education and action, ULS announces an expanded opportunity for continuing education... https://bit.ly/3tyrEbW.  Also, the registration deadline for Theological Education with Adults has now been extended to June 20th. This year’s program is entitled “Worship after Corona: Singing, Speaking and Spaces of Community” with Dr. Kyle Schiefelbein-Guerrero, Gail Ramshaw, and seminary musician, Cathy Elkiss. Both zoom and in-person options are available. See the attached PDF for more information.
• Summer Book Study: If you did not pick up a copy at Assembly, please watch your mail for the book. If you do not receive it by the end of June please let me know. If you are interested in joining the book study I have a few extra copies. Again, please let me know. We will start the study in July.
• 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 June at Synod Office
• 17-18 June Upper Susquehanna Synod Assembly
• 19-26 June Family Vacation
• 29 June at Synod Office
• 6 July at Synod Office
• 7 July Lutheran Home at Kane Board Meeting
• 9-10 July Chicago, IL Army Reserves
• 11-14 July working remotely Indianapolis , IN
• 16 July Synod Council
• 17 July Gethsemane , Port Allegany
• 20 July at Synod Office
• 21-24 July Chicago, IL Army Reserve Command Conference
• 23 July Vocations Committee
• 27 July at Synod Office
• 28-31 July Chicago, IL Army Reserves
• 3 August at Synod Office
• 6-7 August Chicago, IL Army Reserves
• 8-12 August Churchwide Assembly, Columbus, OH
• 17 August at Synod Office
• 19 August  University Hospital, Cleveland One Year Anniversary Stem Cell Transplant Check Up
• 21 August Luther Memorial
• 24 August at Synod Office
• 28 August St. John, Girard
• 31 August at Synod Office

 

• Sunday Supply Dates: August 14; October 9, 23*; November 13, 27; December 11. *Mercer/Crawford only.
• Fall Convocation. The dates for Convocation are tentatively set for 24-26 October. Location is TBD.
• If you know of a young adult (18-30) who is interested in serving on Synod Council let me know.
• The following congregations have active ministry site profiles:
• Christ, Sharon and Holy Trinity, Hermitage. The congregation councils are working to develop a model for shared pastoral ministry.
• Faith, Venus and Holy Trinity, Shippenville. The congregation councils are finalizing a model for shared pastoral ministry.
• Grove Chapel, Indiana and Harmony Grove, Creekside. Two-point parish.
• Immanuel, Erie
• Zion, Mayport
• Luther Memorial, Erie

 

• The most memorable line from my synod assembly sermon? “Roller coasters are like cooked brussel sprouts. Every so often I have to remind myself why I don’t like them.” I fear future congregational visits.

 
 
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
 
bplozano@outlook.com
(o) 814.589.7660