This morning I had a phone conversation that reminded me of the constant need for communication when leading change. The call was from a congregation treasurer who had been asked, in their budgeting cycle, if they should continue to give towards Briarwood Lutheran Ministries. The question came from a person who claimed that Briarwood had closed and therefore they didn’t need to send those funds anymore.
I was so grateful for the treasurer reaching out because it gave me another opportunity to communicate the clear message that Briarwood has not closed. Just as our congregations are not the buildings they inhabit but the mission that is accomplished through their ministry Briarwood continues to exist. In fact, because it is no longer struggling financially, as it did all its existence, it is now able to be a blessing to our NT-NL Synod, ELCA communities and NTNL Youth and ministries.
One way Briarwood is doing this is by providing funds to contract with Rejoice Lutheran Church of Frisco, Texas to have the Rev. Adam Stockton serve as synod youth connector. In this role Adam is connecting with congregations and helping coordinate events such as…
–Nov 11th: an all-day confirmation retreat for 6th-8th graders in the synod with 45 in attendance.
–Monthly Synodical Youth leaders lunch to discuss events and share best practices. This group continues to grow.
–Nov 21st: Met with the HOT conference to share resources and connect with pastors in order to offer partnership in youth ministry within their own contexts.
In addition Adam is, along with Janelle Miller (Calvary-Richland Hills) our synod ELCA Youth Gathering champion, coordinating registration and scholarships from Briarwood. Through the generous commitment of over $100,000 for scholarships and travel expenses we have already registered over 200 participants for the gathering. Well ahead of most ELCA synods at this time.
Briarwood also is offering camp scholarships for NT-NL members attending ELCA camps. Once again, fulfilling the mission it is constitutionally charged with.
Places have meaning and memory. But that meaning and memory is really tied up in the people we connected with or the sense of God’s presence we gained there. Through the Legacy Endowment Briarwood is going to provide meaning and memory for many for years to come. For that we give thanks.
So yes, if you congregation desires to give funds towards Briarwood’s mission please continue to do so. They can be sent to the synod office, please clearly designated Briarwood Lutheran Ministries. #NTNL #InMissionTogether