We will gather for our mostly-annual Public Witness Team planning retreat Saturday, March 9, with fellowship beginning at 8:30 A.M., worship at 9:00, and continuing to 4:00 P.M., at Shepherd of Life Lutheran Church, 715 E. Lamar Blvd., Arlington.

The goals of our retreat are:

·      Build community and receive inspiration and strength from the Word and Sacrament

·      Share our concerns and passions

·      Review accomplishments from the past year and since our last retreat

·      Develop specific goals and strategies for the year ahead (working in interest groups)

Pastor Robert Smith, the new head of the Briarwood Leadership Center, will join us by remote in the morning for some discussion about how our social justice efforts will intersect with his work.

We will break for a jolly potluck lunch, so please bring some food to share as you are able. Drinks will be provided.

I look forward to our time together. Everyone’s input is important at this point in the life of our Public Witness work. Thank you in advance for your participation.

Peace in Christ,

The Rev. Franz J. Schemmel, Chair