Pray. Fast. Act.
“For Such A Time As This”
DECEMBER 21: As we near the end of the year, we recognize the final month of our shared #PrayFastAct campaign with The Episcopal Church. Over the course of the last two years, we have been grateful for our shared ecumenical partnership, focusing on the ways systemic change can make a meaningful difference for those of us struggling with poverty.
Focusing on a different theme each month (from hunger, health, community, shelter, and much more), the #PrayFastAct campaign stemmed from the recognition that effective approaches to poverty address the needs of the whole human person. Taking a small amount of time out of our busy schedules each month to pray, fast, and act may seem like a small step; but in routine action, it can serve as a transformative tool to ensure our neighbors do not fall through the cracks when times are hard. Through the end of this month, we hope you have a chance to review the current alerts found at ELCA Action Center and ELCA.org/prayfastact that address many of those needs today.
We act out of the conviction that the status quo has not been effective enough for many of us in need, and that conviction continues. Look forward to an upcoming video later this month to see a full review of our campaign and what steps are ahead for 2019.
From cradle to grave
In the December issue of Living Lutheran, Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton reflects on Christmas, a time when “God reversed the cradle-to-grave progression.” We are on a joyful journey, where we are loved, we are alive, and we are free to greet this holy season. Read her column in English: From cradle to grave, or lee su columna en español: De la cuna a la sepultura.
“The hope to see my dream come true”
A new class of future leaders has just completed their first semester of studies at ELCA colleges, universities and seminaries, including 26 women from our global companion churches pursuing four-year degrees with the International Women Leaders initiative. Dora, an International Women Leaders scholarship recipient from Cameroon studying at Concordia College, shares, “If I were to use one word to describe this program, it’s hope. The hope to gain better education than I would have ever had at home, the hope to be a pillar in my church and my society, and the hope to participate in life-changing experiences. The hope to bring a contribution to the development of my church and my country. The hope that one day, like those who help me, I will help young girls who can’t afford education. The hope to see my dream come true.”
Featured Resources for December
The holidays can be a tough time for many, especially those grieving.
What Faith Communities Can Do to Prevent Suicide
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals.
Our mission is inclusive and interfaith. Our goal is zero suicides for all peoples, no matter their beliefs.
Save the Date
Briarwood
January 17, 9am-3pm (including lunch)
Facilitator: Joretta Marshall, Executive Vice President and Dean, and also Professor of Pastoral Theology and Care, at Brite Divinity School
$25/person
For planning purposes, registration will only be open through January 3. REGISTER HERE.
If you need a place to stay before / after this event, please contact christi@briarwoodretreat.org.
* The ELCA highly recommends Boundaries Training every 3 years, at a minimum, for all Rostered Leaders.
Recent Blog Posts
Bishop Gronberg:
Visit to UpBring and Pastoral Call to former bishop Wahlberg and family
(https://www.ntnl.org/visit-to-upbring-and-pastoral-call-to-former-bishop-wahlberg-and-family/ – published Dec. 10)
(https://www.ntnl.org/first-sunday-of-advent-at-trinity-sherman/ – published Dec. 11)
Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe/Posada Season is upon us!
(https://www.ntnl.org/festival-of-the-virgin-of-guadalupe-posada-season-is-upon-us/ – published Dec. 12)
(https://www.ntnl.org/region-4-bishops-assemble/ – published Dec. 15)
(https://www.ntnl.org/saint-lucy/ – published Dec. 16)
Pastor Totzke:
(https://www.ntnl.org/thankoffering-service-at-calvary/ – published Dec. 16)
Where in the world is?
Bishop Gronberg:
- No visits planned this week
Pastor Totzke:
- No visits planned this week
Pastora Bañales:
- No visits planned this week
Upcoming Events
- Dec. 27-28: NT-NL 2018 Christmas Break Young Adult Retreat, Briarwood
- Jan. 4-6: Women, Word, and Wine Retreat 2019, Briarwood
- Jan. 13: ConFESt: Confirmands’ Afternoon with the Bishop, Dallas, TX
- Jan. 17: Boundaries Training, Briarwood
- Jan. 26: Seminario sobre la homosexualidad y sus diferentes facetas, Farmers Branch, TX
- Jan. 26-27: Men’s Lumberjack Retreat, Briarwood
- Jan. 28-30: Tri-Theological Conference, Galveston, TX
- Jan. 31 – Feb. 3: IGNITE: North Texas 2019 (ALDE), Grapevine, TX
- Feb. 8-9: Synod Council meeting, Briarwood
- Feb. 9: MEF Board meeting, Briarwood
- Feb. 16-17: Junior High Gathering & Group Dynamix, Carrollton, TX
- Feb. 23: Senior Fest 2019 (ALOA), Plano, TX
Access our full online Calendar here. Updates made regularly.
Do you have news or announcements to share? Please submit to the Synod office (office@ntnl.org) for consideration for upcoming NT-NL News.