In ThIs Issue

APRIL 2018 • VoLume 31, Issue 4NortheasterN Iowa

Evangelical Lutheran Church in AmericaStar

>> Continued on page 2

Celebrating Renewal: Philip Melanchthon — education

eLCA colleges share a calling in faith and learning by Marcia hahn

1 ELCA colleges share a calling in faith and learning

3 He shared a love of the church

4 Bishop Younan to visit

8 Congregations share sermons online

9 Congregations

10 Prayer Calendar

The rivalry between the Luther Col-lege Norse and the Wartburg Col-lege Knights goes back for decades, but when it comes to mission, the two ELCA colleges join sides in their common calling in faith and learning. Wartburg and Luther share a commitment to carry out the Lutheran tradition of academics started 500 years ago by university professors and reformers Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon.

Luther College Decorah, Iowa

In the reforming spirit of Martin Luther, Luther College affirms the lib-erating power of faith and learning.

Martin Luther engaged others by asking power-ful questions. The Decorah college that bears his name em-braces that heritage by engaging students and faculty in a community of faith and learning with an openness to new ideas.

“That’s our heritage,” says Luther College President Paula Carlson. “It’s really important that we are both engaged in studying classical liberal arts and open to learning in

new fields as they emerge.”

Luther recently launched new majors in two emerging fields of study: neu-roscience, which is a study of the biology of the mind, and data science, which uses techniques and theories to extract meaning from data. Carlson says that the academic rigor and excel-lence of these programs and other majors at Luther embody a model of education that focuses on voca-tion, rather than just career.

From the first semester to gradua-tion, Luther faculty and staff guide students beyond immediate inter-ests to prepare them for service and engagement in the larger world. Luther’s unique Paideia program is part of that preparation, giving students and faculty an opportunity to read, think, discuss and write in community about questions and choices that matter. First-year students participate in a common

Luther College students take time for a selfie in front of the bell located on the Luther campus.

Paula Carlson

2 NortheasterN Iowa syNod | www.neiasynod.org

ELCA colleges share a calling in faith and learning << Continued from page 1

two-semester sequence, and juniors and seniors choose from a series of one-semester courses.

Carlson explains that the program is based on the classical Greek term Paideia, which means education.

“Our Paideia is very focused on engaged discussion and interaction with each other,” Carlson says. “The faculty give presentations through-out the year so there is a large group experience in addition to small group discussion about mean-ing and why things matter. In the Paideia program and in their other classes at Luther, students are chal-lenged to think about how they can contribute to the world.”

Accompanying students is the vi-brant faith practice found across the Luther College campus. Luther has its own ELCA student-based congregation with a variety of wor-ship opportunities, including chapel three days a week. In addition, the college maintains relationships with area churches from different tradi-tions. A number of faith groups from various backgrounds meet on campus, with pastors from Luther College Ministries assisting.

“The college pastors are very in-volved in the life of the campus,” Carlson says. “Many of the groups meeting on campus are not Lu-theran, but they participate in the college ministry program, which has an openness toward those with a separate identity. Whatever the background, we support their prac-tice of faith.”

Students have opportunities to learn first-hand about their po-tential role in the larger world by participating in Luther’s Center for

Global Learning program. More than two-thirds of Luther students enroll in off-campus learning, rank-ing Luther among the top baccalau-reate colleges in the nation for the percentage of students who study abroad prior to graduation. During a typical J-term, some 350 to 400 students travel to one of more than 20 international and domestic faculty-led courses. In addition, se-mester and year-long programs are offered in England, Germany, Italy and Malta.

“Study abroad is a large part of the learning experience,” Carlson says.

A global presence is felt on campus, as well, where approximately eight percent of the Luther student body is made up of international students from more than 70 countries. These students are welcomed as part of the Luther and Decorah communi-ty, with opportunities to connect in

service, recreational activities and friendly small town life.

“Luther is an exciting, vibrant place in a wonderful community,” Carlson says. “Unlike many colleges, almost all of the faculty members and staff live close to campus, so there is a family feel about it. The students can go downtown and share life and cross paths with faculty members and staff. It’s an interwoven com-munity.”

Wartburg College Waverly, Iowa

Wartburg College is dedicated to chal-lenging and nurturing students for lives of leadership and service as a spirited expression of their faith and learning.

Each student at Wartburg College has a calling and a role to play in

>> Continued on page 6

Wartburg College students fill sandbags in Shell Rock when flooding affected that community in 2016.

3APRIL 2018

The Rev. Dr. Ralph Quere believed in me when I could not believe in myself.

He had that way about the students that he treasured. He could always see more in us than we could see in ourselves.

And so he took us to the racquetball court.

Dr. Quere and his beloved wife, Jan, invited Ruth and me to play racquetball one day. Neither Ruth nor I knew how to play. But racquetball was not Dr. Quere’s goal. Establishing a relationship was.

Ruth and I never mastered the game. However, we were received into a time where we learned about people, theology and a love of the church.

All on the racquetball court.

A January term of study under his tutelage taught me the importance of focusing the church on evangelical outreach and youth ministry. It is no accident that the structure of this synod establishes these as the two top priorities.

Dr. Quere asked me to preach for his funeral. That day I wore the Scottish stole he gave me. In the sermon, I

sought to communicate the love of Jesus Christ for him, his beloved Jan and others in his family who have already died, his living family, his students and his friends.

I also gave thanks, grieved and celebrated the resurrec-tion of Jesus Christ.

Ruth freely gave me the unconditional love and grace of God. Dr. Quere led me to see why I desperately needed it and helped me to dwell in it.

Thank you, Dr. Quere for how you formed my faith, my pastoral identity, my ministry as bishop and my life.

I will always be grateful.

— Steven L. Ullestad Bishop, Northeastern Iowa Synod

BIshoP

he shared a love of the church“We were received into a

time where we learned

about people, theology

and a love of the church.”

oBITuARYThe Rev. Dr. Ralph Quere died March 22 at the age of 82.

He was ordained on Aug. 24, 1969. He served as pastor at St. Paul, La Motte, and St. John, St. Donatus, Iowa. After receiving his doctorate, he taught at Wartburg Theologi-cal Seminary, Dubuque, until his retirement on Jan. 1, 2003. He continued emeritus teaching and writing after his retirement.

The visitation and funeral service took place at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Dubuque, on March 25.

Dr. Quere is survived by three children. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to Paul Quere, 6809 Kona Ct., Fort Collins, CO 80528.

Register early for synod AssemblyThe early-bird registration fee for the 2018 North-eastern Iowa Synod Assembly is available until Tuesday, May 8. After that date, an additional $25 fee will be added per person.

Registration materials were included in the March 2018 issue of the Star newsletter and can be down-loaded on the synod website at www.neiasynod.org/synod-assembly-2018.

4 NortheasterN Iowa syNod | www.neiasynod.org

noRTheAsTeRn IoWA sYnoD Bishop Steven L. Ullestad – ullestads@neiasynod.org Assistants to the Bishop Rev. Mark A. Anderson – andersonm@neiasynod.org Rev. Stephen Brackett – bracketts@neiasynod.org Linda J. Hudgins – hudginsl@neiasynod.org ELCA Director for Evangelical Mission Rev. Dr. Joelle Colville-Hanson – colville-hansonj@neiasynod.org Star Editor Marcia Hahn – hahnm@neiasynod.org

The Star is published 11 times a year by the Northeastern Iowa Synod, 201 20th Street SW, PO Box 804, Waverly, IA 50677-0804; www.neiasynod.org, phone 319-352-1414, FAX 319-352-1416.

Send news for the May 2018 issue to Marcia Hahn by April 13. We welcome story ideas related to the 2018 theme, “Celebrating Renewal: Philip Melanchthon — Education.”

Articles in this newsletter may be duplicated for use in synod congregations and organizations, with credit to the Star newsletter.

Please notify the synod office with name and address changes. To receive an electronic version of the Star, rather than paper, send your request to hahnm@neiasynod.org. www.neiasynod.org

International students to visitThe Northeastern Iowa Synod will host three international students from companion synods this sum-er. The students will travel with synod youth to the ELCA Youth Gathering in Houston in June.

Marian Torodis will be coming from the Evangelical Lutheran Church, Republic of Namibia (ELCRN). Bishop Ernst GAMXAMUB from the ELCRN was a guest of this synod in 2016. Marian will travel to the Youth Gathering with youth from St. Paul, Hampton. Lidwine Ndeshipewa Mukulu, from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia, will attend the Youth Gathering with youth from Grace Lutheran, Tripoli.

Áron Czapek comes from the Northern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary. He will trav-el with youth from Trinity Lutheran, Mason City.

There will be opportunities to meet and even host these young people in our synod, both before and the week after the Youth Gathering. Stay tuned for more information, but in the meantime, please keep these young people in your prayers as they make preparations for their journey to the Northeastern Iowa Synod.

Bishop Younan to visit synodBishop Dr. Munib A. Younan, Bishop Emeritus of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land will visit the Northeastern Iowa Synod in April.

Younan served the church in Jordan and the Holy Land for 12 years follow-ing his ordination in 1976. In 1990, he was appointed president of the ELCJHL Synod, a position he held until January 1998 when he was elected and conse-crated as a bishop. Younan was president of the LWF from 2010 to 2017. He retired from the ELCJHL in January 2018.

The public will have several opportunities to hear Younan speak and preach:

Wartburg Theological Seminary, Dubuque Wednesday, April 4 9:30 a.m. — Bishop Younan will preach at Chapel 2:30-4 p.m. — Public Lecture “The Role of Religion in Peace-building in the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict” in Weiblen Commons.

Wartburg College, Waverly Thursday, April 5 4 p.m. — Public Lecture “Loving God & Neighbor: Living Out the Biblical Call in the Holy Land” in McCaskey Lyceum, Saemann Student Center

Friday, April 6 10:15 a.m. — Speak at Weekday Chapel 5:30 p.m. — Dinner at Castle Room 7 p.m. — Presentation at Wartburg Chapel

All of the presentations are free and open to the public.

Tickets for the April 6 dinner can be purchased at https://alumni.wartburg.edu/Younan.

Questions about his visit to Wartburg Theological Seminary may be direct to the Rev. Dr. Winston Persaud. Questions about his visit to Wartburg College may be di-rected to the Rev. Dr. Ramona Bouzard.

Munib A. Younan

5APRIL 2018

April 14, 2018

What does it mean to be a bold, daring follower of Jesus? Men are invited to find out at the Lutheran Men in Mission’s Bold Gathering set for Saturday, April 14, at Elkhorn, Neb., and through a livestream broadcast on-line beginning at 11 a.m.

The Bold Gathering is a day for men to come together to learn, to net-work and to be equipped to boldly live out their faith. Six talented men from different parts of the country and retreat leaders from Bethany Lutheran, Elkhorn, will bring their passion and teaching to the LMM nation in 20-minute talks. Topics Include “Reaching Younger Men,” “Tips and Strategies to Effectively Take Men Deeper,” “Why Change with Your Men’s Ministry is Hard” and more.

The event offers three registration options for viewing the event:

1. Individual ($5) — Register your-self and watch from your home

2. Group ($100) — Get a group and watch together

3. Omaha ($10) — Come to the Omaha area and watch it in per-son.

Anyone interested in hosting a group viewing site should contact Pastor Mark Anderson, assistant to the Bishop, at 319-352-1414 or an-dersonm@neiasynod.org.

To learn more or to register, visit www.boldgathering.com.

May 11, 2018 Postville, Iowa

The public is invited to join an observance on Friday, May 11, of the 10th anniversary of the Post-ville Immigration Raid.

The day will begin with a 10 a.m. interfaith prayer at St. Bridget Catholic Church in Postville. At 11:30 a.m., participants will walk to Meyer Park for a noon rally to discuss immigration. Mass in Spanish will be offered at 7 p.m. at St. Bridget.

On May 12, 2008, 389 people were

arrested in an immigration raid at Agriprocessors kosher meat produc-tion plant. The “Summons of 2008” ended in numerous imprisonments and mass deportation. Organizers of

the “Summons of 2018” event hope it will end in a change of heart and a change in our immigration laws.

Those expected to attend the event include people directly affected by the raid, church representatives, lawyers and others concerned about immigration reform.

For more information contact the event organizers, the Rev. Nils Her-nandez at 563-539-4442 or Sr. Mary McCauley, BVM at 563-583-8989.

Postville Immigration Raid 10th Anniversary

Join a livestream of the Lutheran Men in Mission Bold Gathering

new stewardship ResourcesFour new resources on stewardship and generosity are available on the Northeastern Iowa Synod website.

The three documents and a Pow-erPoint presentation were part of a workshop given by Pastor Gary Hedding of Bethlehem Lutheran, Cedar Falls, to the Jubilee Conference in February.

• ThePracticeofStewardship—ASpiritualDisciplineinResponsetoGod’sGrace(pdf)

• TakingtheLeadinGrowingFaithfulFinancialStewards((pdf)

• Wedon’thavetoSurvivetobeChris-tiansbutwedohavetobeGeneroustobeChristians (pdf)

• DevelopingaCultureofGenerosityinaCongregation (PowerPoint)

The resources can be downloaded at www.neiasynod.org/ministries/stew-ardship.

6 NortheasterN Iowa syNod | www.neiasynod.org

the larger community, and Presi-dent Darrel Colson says the faculty and staff are committed to helping students find that calling.

“Our task and hope is that students approach their career and post college life in view of ‘What is my calling?’ ” Colson says. “It doesn’t matter if a student becomes an ac-countant, coach, physical therapist — what’s important is that the stu-dent approaches that life and work with the understanding that it is a calling of service and leadership.”

That pursuit of calling and vocation is grounded in classroom learning, in meaningful conversations with faculty, and in frequent opportuni-ties on campus to grow in faith. “The campus is pervaded by the message that this is a college of the church,” Colson says.

Chapel bells ring several times a day marking the end of class or the call to a chapel service. Prayer and worship are interwoven into college events and celebrations. Icons of faithful people are honored as ex-amples for the students, such as the annual St. Elizabeth week focused on service.

“The whole academic year is an op-portunity to confront students with an inescapable opportunity to re-flect on faith,” Colson says.

Wartburg students are required to take two courses in religion. One offers deep exposure to the Bible in literature and the second is a reflec-tion course on faith. Students also have opportunities to join faculty in study abroad trips, including Germany to better understand what Martin Luther means to Wartburg College and why the college was named after the castle where he

translated the Bible.

“We want stu-dents to un-derstand that Martin Luther was a profes-sor who was motivated by the very same desire that our professors feel — to ask questions, to explore and pursue the truth, and to challenge practices they think are inconsistent with scripture and faith,” Colson says. “That pursuit of faith and quest for knowledge is framed within this institution.”

The Wartburg faculty and staff carry out the mission of faith and learning every day. The faculty’s commitment to mission was evident to accreditation officials during a recent visit to campus. Colson says the officials remarked that every-one they spoke to during their visit talked about mission.

“I’m certain our faculty feel called to be here and feel called to serve these students,” Colson says.

Faith has a large presence on the Wartburg campus, but Colson says that Wartburg offers an open en-vironment where those without a faith commitment can feel comfort-able and nourished. He points to a self-study last year of the Wartburg Spiritual Life and Campus Ministry program. Discussions with faculty, staff, students and focus groups found that students who didn’t feel religious or anticipate making a faith commitment believed it was important for Wartburg to be con-nected to the church.

“They were unchurched, but they

appreciated that this is a college of the church, and they appreciated the character of the school and the atmosphere and treatment they received from faculty and staff,” Colson says. “It’s extremely power-ful to be grounded in the church and to benefit from the intellectual and educational resources of the Lutheran tradition of higher educa-tion.”

ELCA colleges share a calling in faith and learning << Continued from page 2

Darrel Colson

network of eLCA Colleges and universitiesTwenty-seven colleges and universi-ties comprise the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities, including Wartburg College and Luther Col-lege.

The network recently completed a document titled RootedandOpen:TheCommonCallingoftheNetworkofELCACollegesandUniversities, which identifies shared educational priorities and the Lutheran theologi-cal values that support them:

CALLeD AnD eMPoWeReD Students receive excellent educa-tion, rooted in the liberal arts, that engenders freedom of inquiry and prepares them for meaningful work.

To seRVe The neIGhBoR Students discern their gifts and hone their skills so that they are able to contribute capably, confidently and courageously to the needs of a world that desperately needs them.

so ThAT ALL MAY FLouRIsh Students are welcomed, challenged and equipped so that they might serve a common good.

The document is available at www.luther.edu/president/documents.

7APRIL 2018

Twelve Practices for Leaders from WTsWartburg Theological Seminary, Dubuque, educates graduates for lead-ership roles in the church and society as pastors, diaconal ministers, chaplains, youth workers, missionaries, teachers, and other vocations. The seminary out-lines 12 pastoral-diaconal practices to form valued leaders for God’s mission:

Practice of Being Rooted in the Gospel — Articulates the Gospel in a way that is heard as Gospel. Is publicly Lutheran and Gospel-centered.

Practice of Missio Dei in Word and Sacrament — Is grounded in Word and Sacrament as the means by which God creates and forms community (koino-nia) for God’s mission (diakonia) in the world. Exercises faithful worship prepa-ration and evangelical preaching.

Practice of Biblical and Theological Wisdom — Interprets reality theologi-cally and biblically as a habit. Has a core set of theological concepts that are interpreted with flexibility in different contexts.

Practice of Ecclesial Partnership — Dis-plays a healthy sense of connectedness with the whole church. Fosters partner-ship with the ELCA and ecumenical openness.

Practice of Complex Analysis — Dem-onstrates capacity to carefully examine complex social, economic, scientific, and religious issues without oversimplifica-tion. Sees relationships from a systems perspective, remaining non-anxious in the face of ambiguity.

Practice of Curiosity — Is fundamen-tally curious, employing creativity in the use of language. Is open to grow beyond current perspectives and will-ing to pursue learning with intellectual depth.

Practice of Pastoral Concern — Loves

God’s people with a “pastor’s heart,” demonstrating a generous spirit in relat-ing to others. Maintains a clear sense of pastoral identity and desire for excel-lence in pastoral ministry.

Practice of Personal Faith and Integrity — Lives as person of faith, grounded in a life of prayer and study. Is self-aware in seeing the larger picture, proclaiming hope, and setting healthy boundaries.

Practice of Collegiality — Leads in a way that is responsive to the situation and promotes team building. Creates collegial groups within and beyond the church for promoting many forms of ministry.

Practice of Evangelical Listening and Speaking the Faith to Others — Listens in a way that leads people to deeper faith questions. Engages in thoughtful witness to the Christian message, es-pecially to youth and those outside the faith.

Practice of Immersion in the Context — Shows awareness of the context through listening to, dialogue with and involvement in the local community. Has ability to interpret texts and con-texts with insight.

Practice of Engagement with Cross-Cultural and Global Dimensions: Is sensitive to multicultural issues and religious pluralism in the context of globalization. Understands the inclusive character of the Christian Gospel.

www.wartburgseminary.edu/12-pasto-ral-diaconal-practices

Lutheran Academy in the RockiesJune 12-22, 2018 Allenspark, Col.

Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Learning for Life program invites families to enjoy 10 days of learn-ing, recreation and renewal at the Luther Academy of the Rockies set June 12-22 at Allenspark, Col.

This annual event is an oppor-tunity to engage with WTS fac-ulty, explore the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, enjoy a sab-batical-like experience and con-nect with others in fellowship. Informational sessions are of-fered for adults and youth in the mornings. Afternoons are free for hiking, sightseeing, horseback riding, or other activities. A vari-ety of optional events are offered in the evenings.

Leaders and speakers are the Rev. Dr. Don Collett, associate profes-sor of Old Testament and direc-tor of the MDiv program at Trinity School for Ministry in Ambridge, Pa.; Dr. Winston D. Persaud, pro-fessor of Systematic Theology at WTS; and May Persaud, instructor of Biblical Languages at WTS.

Lodge and cabin housing is avail-able. To learn more or to regis-ter, visit www.wartburgseminary.edu/lar.

8 NortheasterN Iowa syNod | www.neiasynod.org

Smartphones, tablets and online apps make it easier than ever for con-gregations to share God’s Word with a broader audience.

Fredsville Lutheran, Cedar Falls, posts audio recordings of sermons on its church website, along with an in-troduction and link on its Facebook page. Decorah Lutheran, Decorah, uses the video sharing platform Vimeo to share sermons and special music online. Our Savior’s, Lansing; Redeemer, Waverly; and Peace, Ryan; are among a growing number of con-gregations sharing live broadcasts of their sermons using “Facebook Live.”

Peace Lutheran had up to 200 views on a single video in the first three weeks of broadcasting. A member who was in Florida commented, “It is really a great service for shut-ins and folks like us that are away from our ‘home church’ traveling.”

Rolin Banderob, husband of Peace Lutheran Pastor Lynn Banderob, looked into broadcasting sermons through “Facebook Live” after the council president asked about shar-ing sermons with those who could not attend. Banderob says the feature was simple to set up. He shares some tips for congregations that may want to use it to broadcast sermons.

“Most important is to stabilize the smartphone or tablet to avoid shaky videos,” Banderob says. He recom-mends using a standard 1/4-inch 20 tripod mount with either a clamp or tripod. Other key items are good Wi-Fi or cell network connectivity and locating the device so the audio can be easily heard.

“We use a smartphone and mount it horizontally to make good use of all the screen area and to give the

Congregations share sermons online

Facebook Live videos can be saved on the Facebook timeline for watching later and sharing. Left, a phone is mounted on a front pew at Peace, Ryan, to record the Sun-day sermon. (PhotosbyRolinBanderob)

pastor room to move around,” he says.

Anyone who is Face-book friends with a church’s Facebook page administrator can be given “Live Contribu-tor” status in the page’s “Settings/Page Roles.” Before the first live broadcast, Banderob recommends testing the setup for audio quality and the best place to locate the phone or tablet, and to become familiar with Facebook’s controls.

On a personal Facebook page, start a new post, tap the red “Live Video” icon, then next to “To:” tap the down arrow, then “See More” to select “Only Me” so the test is not broadcasted. Make sure the phone or tablet is horizontal before hitting the “Start Live Video” button. Wipe the camera lens clean each time to get the best picture.

Experts recommend typing in a de-scription before going live. “We have standardized on ‘Date - Gospel Verses - Pastors Name’ so it’s easier to find in web searches, which can find Face-book Live videos even if someone does not have a Facebook account,” Banderob says.

Since music and other material are copyrighted, Peace only broadcasts the sermon. Whoever is running the recording device will need to keep an eye on it throughout the entire feed in case the connection is lost and needs restarting.

Pastor Banderob says she is excited

that the broadcasts have become an outreach tool beyond the church walls. An additional benefit is that she can review her sermon presenta-tions.

Pastor Joelle Coville-Hanson, ELCA Director for Evangelical Mission, sug-gests adding descriptions with faith questions related to the sermon’s theme. “A description that asks, ‘How do I know God loves me?’ may lead someone’s search of that question directly to the video,” she says.

Google search data shows that thou-sands of people search faith ques-tions like “Why does God allow suf-fering?” “Why doesn’t God answer my prayer?” and “How can I know God?”

“If you title your sermon by what faith question your sermon addresses, you can reach far beyond your own com-munity,” Colville-Hanson says. “Think of what a difference you can make if people come across your answer, in-stead of a less Gospel-focused one.”

9APRIL 2018

APRIL eVenTs5 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m.5 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, First, Decorah, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.10 Meeting, Assembly Planning Committee, 4-6 p.m. 14 Meeting, LYON, Synod Office, 10-11 a.m. 15-17 Event, FCTE Continuing Education, American Martyrs, Cedar Falls 19-20 Event, Youth Workers Retreat, Camp Ewalu, Strawberry Point

MAY eVenTs3 Meeting, Interim Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m.3 Meeting, Youth Ministry Network, Lutheran Student Center, Cedar Falls, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.4 Meeting, Candidacy Committee, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 11 Event, Postville Immigration Raid 10th Anniversary, St. Bridget’s Catholic Church, Postville, 10 a.m. -12:30 p.m.12 Meeting, LYON, Synod Office, 10-11 a.m.28 Office Closed, Memorial Day

June eVenTs7 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m. 8-10 Event, Synod Assembly, Wartburg College, Waverly 10-13 Event, WIYLDE (Wholly Iowa Leadership Discipling Event), Wartburg College, Waverly 11-12 Office Closed16 Event, NE Iowa Synodical Women’s Organization Convention, Wartburg College, Waverly27-July 1 Event, ELCA Youth Gathering, Houston, TX

JuLY eVenTs 1 Event, ELCA Youth Gathering, Houston, TX4 Office Closed, Independence Day5 Meeting, Interim Ministry Colleague Group, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

ConGReGATIonseVenTs

InTeRVIeWInG Sumner, St. John Waterloo, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd

seLF-sTuDY Castalia, Zion Charles City, Messiah Chester, United Denver, St. Peter, Rev. Charis Combs-Lay, interim Dows, First Dysart, Zion Independence, Immanuel (staff) Janesville, Messiah & Denver, St. John (Maxfield) (Unity of the Cross Parish of Bremer County) Mason City, St. Paul, Rev. Burton Everist, interim Nashua, St. John, Rev. Diane Odermann, interim New Hampton, Trinity (staff) Osage, Our Savior (staff), Rev. Cheryl Szabo, interim associate Radcliffe, Our Savior’s and Zion Tripoli, St. John (Crane Creek) Waukon, St. John, Rev. Bill Odermann, interim

RosTeR ChAnGes Rev. Dr. Kathryn Kleinhans, dean, Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Columbus, Ohio Rev. Jennifer Bohls, disability Rev. James Radatz, retired Rev. Nancy Larson, retired Rev. Arnold Flater, retired Rev. Jane Keel, retired Rev. Marion Pruitt-Jefferson, retired Rev. Sidney Bohls, family leave Rev. Alan Wicks, retired

LIVe WeLL ChALLenGeELCA-Primary members and spouses are reminded to take Portico’s 2018 Live Well Challenge to strengthen your physical and financial well-being, and to earn up to $400 in wellness dollars.

This year’s challenge includes scheduling an appointment with a health care provider for a biometric screening to assess your physical health. Part two of the challenge is creating or updating a retirement plan. Both parts need to be submitted by the end of November to earn the $400.

To get started, visit https:/myportico.porticobenefits.org.

Register for WIYLDeRegistration for the Wholly Iowa Youth Leadership Disci-pling Event (WIYLDE) is due Tuesday, May 15. The event will take place June 10-13 at Wartburg College with the theme “WIYLDE Ride.” High school students from the Northeastern Iowa Synod are invited to attend.

Learn more and download registration materials at www.neiasynod.org/wiylde.

PRAYeR CALenDAR

aPrIL 2018sUN MoN tUe weD thU FrI sat

H. George Anderson Fund for Leaders

Rev. Steven M. Jacobsen, Decorah

1

Bethany Life Communities,

Story City

2

Rev. Allen L. Bidne, Waverly

3First, Cresco

4

Strawberry Point Lutheran Home,

Strawberry Point

5

Janice D. Schumacher, Waterloo

6

Martha G. Deines, Cedar Falls

7

Rev. Amy Strydom, Cambridge, Minn.

8Immanuel, Cresco

9

Good Samritan Center, Waukon

10

Rev. Daniel W. Gerrietts, Mason City

11

Rev. Jeffrey A. Blank, Waterloo

Elaine Ehlers, AnkenyRev. Marion

Pruitt-Jefferson, Decorah

12Big Canoe, Decorah

13

Rev. James Gardner, Waterloo

Marilyn L. Koch, Cedar Falls

14

Rev. Rhea J. Evanson, Rockwell

15

Rev. Stacey J. Nalean-Carlson,

Decorah

16

Middle East Peace Burr Oak, Decorah

17

Jane Hoppenworth, Charles City

Rev. Grant J. Woodley, Clarion

18

Rev. Margo O. Fohs, Deloit

19

Rev. Jerome G. Godson, VolgaCecil Maureen

Johnson, Stillwater, Minn.

20

Judy Wogsland, Johnston

21

Lois Nisen, Mount Pleasant

22

Rev. Jane S. Keel, Charles City

Rev. Diane M. Odermann,

Austin, Minn.

23

Bartels Lutheran Retirement

Community, Waverly

24

Rev. Ernest Elzey, La Porte City

Rev. Henrik Engebretson, Decorah

25

Rev. Scott R. Duffus, Tripoli

Darlene Wipperman, Cedar Falls

26

Rev. Allan J. Stoa, Albert Lea, Minn.

27Canoe Ridge, Decorah

28Deacon Vera F.

Poppen, Clarksville

29

Justine Lionberger, Decorah

30

Individuals and groups across the ELCA are invited to share comments about two draft ELCA policy state-ments.

A Declaration of Our Inter-Religious Commitment

This draft policy statement was de-veloped by an in-ter-reli-gious task force ap-pointed by Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton in 2016. The draft presents a common, theological ba-sis and practical framework for this church’s inter-religious relations, tak-

ing into consideration the church’s varied ministry contexts, challenges and opportunities.

The six-month comment period on the draft ends Saturday, June 30, 2018. If adopted, the policy statement would complement “A Declaration of Ecumenical Commitment: A Policy Statement of the ELCA,” adopted by the second churchwide assembly in 1991.

Download the draft at www.elca.org/Faith/Ecumenical-and-Inter-Religious-Relations/Inter-Religious-Relations/Draft-Policy-Statement.

Draft Social Statement on Women and Justice

This timely draft addresses issues of sexism, many which have recently dominated the headlines. Some of the issues the draft explores include:

share your comments on two social statements• how Lutherans understand

Scripture;• restricted access to health care and

economic resources;• objectifying portrayals of women

and girls in the media and popular culture; and

• gender-based violence. The comment period for this draft is open through Sept. 30, 2018.

Download the draft at www.elca.org/Faith/Faith-and-Society/Current-Social-Writing-Projects/Women-and-Justice/Draft.

Conventions—the next one occurring in Phoenix. We have awonderful time at all of our functions. So if you think youwould be interested please contact me, any board member oryour unit president, who should have received all thenecessary paperwork for you. You can also visit the Womenof the ELCA website. Please give this your prayerfulconsideration. Submitted by Cindy Pogge, V.P. NEIA SynodWELCA

Mission Area: JusticeSing to the Lord, and praise him! Proclaim every day thegood news that he has saved us.” (Psalm 96:2)

Billy Graham loved hymns. Here is a quote: “Not manypeople know that the greatest Christian hymns and songshave often come out of the deep wells of life: wells ofadversity, of suffering, of tragedy. It is inspiring to know thatwhen events have turned dark and somber these men andwomen have been able to tune their souls to a pitch unheardapart from the mind of Christ. The result has been a blessingto all of mankind.”

The hymn that captured Graham to respond to a call toconvert in 1937 was “Just as I Am, Without One Plea.” Hecould not resist the words, “O Lamb of God, I come.” In hisown crusades which followed, he used this hymn byCharlotte Elliott who was from Brighton, England.

In 1834 at the age of 45, Elliott had been an invalid formuch of her life and the words for this hymn were written toexpress her victory over spiritual doubt.

To quote Graham: “When I come to present mycredentials at the gate of heaven, it will mean nothing that Ihave traveled around the world preaching the gospel. Thenas when I was first converted, I will say:

Just as I am, without one plea,But that Thy blood was shed for me,

And that Thou bidd’st me come to Thee,O Lamb of God, I come! I come!”

Submitted by Millie Dieter

Mission Area: StewardshipThis year our in-kind offering at the June SWO conventionwill be rolled bandages for Global Health Ministries(www.ghm.org) and bars of soap for Lutheran World Relief(www.lwr.org). We are also planning a trip to Minneapolisto tour both Global Health Ministries as well as the LWRwarehouse in St. Paul on July 30 & 31, 2018, when we willdeliver these in-kind gifts. We are requesting bath-size bars 4

From the PresidentBlessed are the weary…….So many things to see, do and learnabout at this year’s synodical Gatheringon June 16. Our keynote speaker will bePastor Kevin Doely, who will entertainus with his ventriloquism. BishopUllestad will be with us to share and

listen, Bremwood students will delight us with theirworship and testimonies, Pastor Mark Anderson willeducate us on being prepared in emergencies at churchand home, Sister Jax will teach us about mandalas, andthere will be information about the foster care process,Native Americantraditions, gift planningand even more! Alongwith amazingfellowship and upliftingworship, we will haveshopping experiences,and refresh with morning treats and a tasty lunch. All inone day! Talk about being weary, but also refreshed andrenewed in the grace and love of our awesome Savior,Jesus Christ! You can find registration forms andinformation on our website,http://www.neiasynod.org/women-of-the-elca/, andmailings were also sent to every church. I invite you tojoin us and bring a friend! (there are scholarshipsavailable for first time attendees) Blessed to be weary,Diane Wills

Mission Area: DiscipleshipCome and join some amazing disciples of the Women ofthe ELCA and consider putting your name in nominationas a board member or as part of next year’s nominatingcommittee. As a board member for 3 years and outgoingvice president, let me tell you this is an awesomeopportunity to meet other women in our synod and alsofrom the church as a whole. It affords an opportunity foryou to share your time and talent with others. We havefound 1 nominee for vice president and 1 board memberand our treasurer is up for re-election. But we need 4 moreboard members this next year and would like a person onthe nominating committee from each cluster. A girl candream RIGHT?

There are six meetings a year, plus our convention inWaverly. And of course, the awesome Triennial

As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by

the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage

in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world.

April 2018Volume 31Number 4

Good News

THIS JUST IN!!The Wartburg bookstore will beopen, 10–1, during our Gathering on

June 16th!! See you there!

CALENDARApr. 1 May Good News deadlineApr. 7 Cluster I Shechem Spring Gathering, St. Peter’s, El

DoradoApr. 14 Spring Gathering, Clusters C, E, H, Fredsville LC,

rural Cedar Falls Riverside Cluster gathering at Our Savior,

Radcliff, 8:30–noon.Apr. 21 Living Waters Cluster Spring Salad Luncheon,

Trinity, Mason City, 10 a.m.Apr. 28 Upper Iowa Cluster Spring Gathering, Big Canoe

LC Little Flock Cluster Spring Gathering, St. Sebald,

Strawberry Point Living Waters Cluster LWR In-gathering,

Bethlehem LC, Manly, 8–11May 1 June Good News deadlineMay 5 LWR Truck Loading, First Lutheran, DecorahMay 19 SWO Board, 9–12:30, McCoy Room, Wartburg

CollegeJun. 15 SWO Board 7 p.m.–9 p.m., McCoy Room,

Wartburg CollegeJun. 16 31st Annual NE IA Synod Women of the ELCA

Gathering, Wartburg College, WaverlyNov. 3 LWR Truck Loading, Decorah Ingathering for C, E and H, Fredsville Lutheran,

rural Cedar Falls

to 5 ounces of any brand in its original wrapping. Hereare the details for rolled bandages: Simple rolledbandages can be made from used white cotton or cotton-blend bed sheets (we ask for white only because the dyein colored sheets is not suitable for wound care). Pre-wash material, cut or rip into strips 2 to 4 inches wide andideally about 6 feet long. If using more than one strip, sewstrips together end-to-end for a continuous roll. Bandagescan also be made from just one strip the length of a bedsheet. Assemble strips into rolls about 1 to 2 inches indiameter, roll tightly and evenly and pull or cut off loosethreads. Secure each bandage with masking tape to keepfrom unrolling. There are instructions to make a bandage-rolling machine at www.ghm.org/hands-on-projects (onetip, make sure your base is wider than the strips you willbe rolling.) Submitted by Anna Jetson

NEIA Women of the ELCA Executive Board

Diane Wills, President 641-425-8628 wills.dianes@gmail.com

Cindy Pogge, Vice President515-571-2827 jpogge1233@gmail.com

Anna Jetson, Secretary952-240-9569 amjetson@yahoo.com

Beverly Sheridan, Treasurer563-382-9025 sherida701@gmail.com701 Serenity DriveDecorah, IA 52101

Good NewsEditor Jan Harbaugh112 W. Wilbur St., Hawkeye, IA 52147563-412-8906 jan.harbaugh@gmail.comArticles are due the 1st of the month for the next month'snewsletter (e.g. April 1 for May issue). Please put WELCA in yoursubject line. (You can also send paper copies by “snail” mail.)

Contact Women of the ELCA at:773.380.2730 or 800.638.3522, ext. 2730http://www.womenoftheelca.org/8765 W. Higgins RoadChicago, IL 60631-4189NEIA Women of the ELCA website:neiasynod.org/women-of-the-ELCA

Around the SynodLutheran World Relief 2018 Spring In-GatheringFredsville Lutheran Church2756 150th Street, Cedar Falls, IA 50613319-989-2065

Saturday, April 14, 2018This year’s spring in-gathering for Cluster C (Jubilee), E(Tree of Life) and H (Three Rivers) will be held at FredsvilleLutheran Church in rural Cedar Falls from 8–11 am onSaturday, April 14, 2018. A semi truck will be parked in theparking area next to the street in front of the church. Therewill be help available to move the boxes. Do not bring anyitems before that morning. Reminder: LWR no longeraccepts clothing.Please follow LWR guidelines when packing your items:

� Only one type of article per box. Blankets & quiltsare considered separate items.

� No religious, patriotic or military symbols on anyarticles.

� Do not put your congregation name on any item.� Use strong boxes and fill them completely. Do not

exceed 40 lbs. per box.� Secure boxes with heavy packing tape, no masking

tape or string. Plastic and paper bags will not beaccepted.

� Print the contents of each box in large block letterson the outside of the box and include the name andaddress of your church.

Please use the summary sheet available on the NEISWELCA web site to record ALL the items and number ofboxes you will bring for the truck. We also ask for a $30.00check payable to Fredsville WELCA to cover the cost of theshipping. There will be a table set up near the truck to handleany questions and to take money and summary sheets (orthese can be brought into the church). There will be coffeeand morning treats, provided by Fredsville Lutheran in thefellowship hall starting at 8:00 am. All informationconcerning the In-gathering is also on our church website:www.fredsvillelutheran.org or contact Sharon Hemmen at319-269-8471 with any questions. Submitted by AudreyStefan

Living Faith

This information is prepared for you by the Northeastern Iowa Synod-Home Life Network for use by families and local congregations.

Like our page on Facebook and our posted resources will appear in your newsfeed. Our page is

Northeastern Iowa Synod Home Life Network ELCA

Dear Faith Shapers, As we are moving from the season of Lent to the season of Easter, I’m re-minded of the many gifts of God’s grace we experi-ence on a daily basis. We take the season of Lent to reflect and look to the cross, to the ultimate sacri-fice that Christ made for us. Now in the season of Easter, we celebrate the gift of the resurrection and the gift of life we are given in that resurrection. In this issue, I want to talk about ways that we can help our children and ourselves keep our eyes open to the many gifts and blessings that are around us every day. This includes being intentional about looking for the gifts as well as being grounded in pray-er. Deb Bachman Director of Children’s Ministry at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and

God Smiles Each week at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School, the school children gather together for wor-ship. It’s a wonderful thing to see children leading worship together. But one of the greatest things that happen at the beginning or end of the service is where the principal, Dr. Meyer, stands up and goes over the “God Smiles” for that previous week. God Smiles are things that everyone in the school and church are welcome to submit. These are times or events where people have seen God at work in the school, the church, through peers, or through trusted adults. It helps the kids to look to see where God is active in their lives and to be thankful for the gifts of friends, trusted adults and events in their lives. It’s amazing to hear the ways in which God has revealed himself to the students and staff each week. This is a great exercise to do with your own chil-dren—even each day during dinner or before bed. Reminding children to look for the ways in which God is at work in their lives helps turn their focus to the gifts given to us each day.

A Family Gratitude Journal (Taken from Living Faith at Home May 2013)

Before I started sharing here, I read this in the newsletter and have used it myself over

the years. It fits well with this month’s theme so I wanted to share it again with you. Thanks to Lisa Kammerer for sharing this idea back in 2013.

What is a family gratitude journal? A family gratitude journal is simply a daily journal that you use as a family to capture the unique things you are thankful for each day. Every day each person in your family should write down or draw a picture of something they are grateful for. There is nothing too big or too small to be written down. There are only two rules to a family gratitude journal. 1. All journals entries must be positive. 2. You can only list something you are grateful for once.

How do I start a family gratitude journal? All you need is a pen and a journal. Your journal can be as sim-ple as a spiral notebook or as elaborate as a family deco-rated journal. The most important things is to select something that you and your family can be excited to write in. Next pick a spot to keep the journal that is easily accessible for the whole family. Once a week gather the family to read the entries. Why? To acknowledge and give thanks to God for the many ways He blesses us each and every day. Living with holy joy!

Being Grounded in Prayer Being aware of the gifts we have been given for me is eas-ier when I’m grounded in prayer. Here are some times and ways you can pray together as a family: *Pray before each and every meal. There are many meal time prayers that you can use or you can pray your own each night. Give thanks for the gift of food and pray for those who do not have enough to eat each day. *Pray before bed time. Lift up any concerns that each person may have and pray for the important people in your life. *Pray the Lord’s Prayer together. *When you see or hear an ambulance, take time to pray for whomever is hurt and pray for all those who are sick and in need of God’s healing power.

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father in heaven, hallowed by your name,

your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our

sins as we forgive those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial and deliver us

from evil. For the king-dom, the power and the

glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.