Tuesday Aug 18 was a zoom style day for the office of the bishop. It began with time with a few pastors checking in and working through a few issues. Communication and clear expectations continues to be essential in this time.
Then an evaluative conversation related to the NT-NL Synod, ELCA Secondary School of Theological Education (SSTE) | Escuela Secundaria de Educación Teológica (ESET) www.ntnl.org/ministries/sste-eset/ with leaders from the ministry, ELCA Churchwide, Wartburg Seminary and LSTC. All partners in getting this ministry going and we are excited the first cohort is almost complete through the 12 modules. Housed at Briarwood Leadership Center the SSTE/ESET was featured in the ELCA Churchwide Synod Assembly video.
I had to drop off that call to connect with Texas Impact and ecumenical/interfaith local Fort Worth leaders on a call with the staff of U.S. Rep. Kay Granger (R-Fort Worth) about environmental issues. Concerns in particular about how climate change is stretching disaster responses and caring for climate refugees. I was grateful for the receptivity of her staff to hearing our concerns as faith based leaders whose organizations are intimately engaged in this work.
This afternoon was highlighted by time with ELCA Churchwide Staff person Mikka McCracken, Executive for Innovation and Director, ELCA Leadership Lab. She has been tasked with working for innovation within our church. https://elca.org/News-and-Events/8015. I enjoyed the chance to hear more about what she is doing and simply chat with someone who speaks the language of leadership and change studies. Grateful for that time to engage.
Was able to get a workout in with the kids at the karate dojo. We have gone back to regular workouts with a modified schedule, small classes, temperature checks, and masks. Grateful for the work North Texas Karate Academy, LLC leadership has done to keep this a part of our life in a safe way.
Day ending with our monthly Lutheran Men In Mission board meeting online. Gathering with this group of leaders is exciting as we continue to work to change and connect with men in our congregations and beyond. Particularly with young adults and those in communities underrepresented in our church. NT-NL in the past has had a strong LMM group. I pray that is something we can continue to work to develop for the future.
In the midst of the challenges of pandemic we know that pastors across our denomination and others are finding leadership challenging. www.baptistnews.com/…/too-many-pastors-are-falling-on-their… Please join me in prayer for our leaders and know that despite our challenges the church is moving forward and making a difference in God’s world. #NTNL #InMissionTogether