Partners in the Spirit

Online Partners is an occasional publication of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod.

2008 ISSUES

• July
• February

Issues from Prior Years

Highlights from the July 2008 issue:

• Synod Elects New Bishop  A primary agenda item at the 21st annual assembly of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod May 29-31, 2008 was the election of a new bishop. On the fifth and final ballot on Saturday, May 31, 2008, the Rev. Dr. Samuel R. Zeiser was elected to be the third bishop of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod since the ELCA was formed in 1988. Read about the new bishop by clicking here.  PDF version
• John Smith Reflects on the Bishop Election  The buzz at a Lutheran synod election for bishop always picks up after the second ballot, on which the scores of contenders are whittled to seven. But at May’s Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod assembly at Split Rock Lodge in the Poconos, the buzz came before the second ballot. Read reflections from John Smith, columnist with the Reading Eagle, on what happened when the clear first ballot leader removed his name from consideration – and much more about the whole process. PDF version
• Project Knits Parishes Together in Prayer  Lutheran voting members and visitors from Northeastern Pennsylvania wore tangible reminders that the prayers of their fellow Lutherans were with them during this year’s assembly at Split Rock Conference Center. A project that originated with Pastor Eileen Le Van, Nativity Lutheran Church, Reading, provided more than 1,600 handmade prayer shawls from 45 congregations to the participants in the 21st annual synod assembly. Click here to read more about the prayer shawl project and its impact on the knitters and recipients. PDF version
• Helmut Kaffine Honored  From the early days of the World Hunger Appeal, the Rev. Helmut H. Kaffine has been involved with the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod's World Hunger Appeal Committee. In appreciation for his many years of service to the synod on the World Hunger Appeal Committee, the committee decided to honor Pastor Kaffine with a gift to the World Hunger Appeal in his name by inviting contributions from congregations and members. Read about the response across the synod and at the assembly to the request.   PDF version
• Rejoicing Spirits Ministry  With lots of singing, clapping, peace-passing and joy, the Rejoicing Spirits Ministry was launched on February 10, 2008, at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit in Emmaus. Rejoicing Spirits is a worship and fellowship ministry for persons with developmental disabilities, their families and their caregivers. It provides an opportunity for persons who have often been left out of worship in their own churches to worship in joyful and noisy freedom. Click here to read the story.   PDF version
• Helping Young Adults Discern Their Vocation  Vocation is a term that might get tossed around often enough in Lutheran circles or in campus ministries, but to the average college student on the average college campus, discerning a vocation is right up there with worrying about retirement. It just isn't on their radar. Even for those who do think about a calling in addition to just a career, figuring out what God has called you to — how to combine your gifts, passions and desire to serve in a neatly defined job — isn't easy. Enter Project Connect. Read about the immersion experiences and mini-grants program here.  PDF version

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Highlights from the February 2008 issue:

• Faith in Action  Wearing T-shirts that proudly proclaimed, "DON'T GO TO CHURCH (BE the church)," 57 people gathered during the normal 9 a.m. worship time on November 4, 2007, at St. John Lutheran Church, Farmersville, to receive their assignments, then left the building. Read about their day of faith in action!  PDF version
• Historic Church Celebrates 250 Years  Long before the advent of global positioning systems, the tall white steeple of Zion's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Old Zionsville served as a landmark for travelers journeying to and from Philadelphia on the old stage coach route now known as King's Highway. This year the congregation celebrates 250 years of ministry with many activities. Read about the church and their upcoming events.   PDF version
• Celebrating Life — Old and New  On November 18, St. Peter Lutheran Church, Easton, celebrated its final service as a congregation. Nearly 200 people filled the sanctuary. In September, the congregation voted 23 to 4 to join with St. John Lutheran Church in downtown Easton and sell their 131-year-old church building. Dwindling membership led to the decision. Learn more about the new life for the congregation.  PDF version
• Letter Sent to Bishop Strobel from Pastor Coutinho, Bridge of Peace Church  When St. Peter Lutheran Church in Easton made the decision to close, they looked for a good place to which to donate their belongings. They chose the new mission congregation, Bridge of Peace, in Camden. Click here to read a letter to Bishop Strobel from the pastor of Bridge of Peace.   PDF version
• Bridge of Peace Receives Gifts  In a letter to Pastor Ginny Goodwin, Pastor Giselle C. Coutinho thanks the members of St. Peter Lutheran Church, Easton, for the furnishings and other items given to Bridge of Peace Church. Click here to read her letter.   PDF version
• Good Friday Reflections  Charles M. Beaver, a member of Bern Lutheran Church, Leesport, shares his reflections on the meaning of Good Friday worship. Read his thoughts...  PDF version
• Diaconal Ministry: A Life of Service  Kelly Howard and Linda Zawaski were recently consecrated as diaconal ministers. Read about this relatively new rostered ministry.   PDF version

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Issues from Prior Years

2007 ISSUES

• November
• September
• July
• May
• January

2006 ISSUES

• November
• September
• June
• April
• January

2005 ISSUES

• November
• October
• September
• July
• May
• March
• January

2004 ISSUES

• December
• November
• October
• September
• August
• June
• April
• March
• February

2003 ISSUES

• December
• November
• October

Highlights from the November 2007 issue:

• A Baby Shower for John the Baptist  The Praise Team at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Easton, plans thematic worship services several times a year focusing on a particular theme in the lessons appointed for those Sundays. Read about their baby shower for John the Baptist!  PDF version
• Literacy Project Helps Young Readers  Four years ago, the members of the Disciples of Christ Committee of St. Paul, Summit Hill, decided that they would like to do something for the children of the community. Out of that dream was born the Literacy Project. Read about that ministry...   PDF version
• Quilters Make a Difference  On October 27, 11 women and a few men gathered in the church basement of Arndts Lutheran Church in Forks Township, pinning and sewing quilts. Their goal? Fifty quilts by 8:00 p.m. for the Safe Harbor homeless shelter in Easton, a homeless shelter in New Orleans, and wherever else Lutheran World Relief deems them necessary. Find out if they finished the project...  PDF version
• The Face of Stroke  For Krista Harakal and her family, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital has been a place of healing on many levels. At age 14, Krista suffered a stroke. Click here to read about Krista's experience.   PDF version
• A Lutheran Disaster Volunteer Blitz Challenge  Camp Victor in Mississippi has challenged volunteers from across the nation to be part of a November and December Blitz  to(re)build on the Gulf coast. At Lutheran sites alone, there are 5,500 pending work orders for people in need. Read more...   PDF version
• Good Shepherd Celebrates a Century of Service  For 100 years, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network has served the men, women, and children of eastern Pennsylvania. From its humble beginnings as a home for children with disabilities and senior citizens to its current status as a national rehabilitation leader, the organization’s focus has always been on helping patients, clients, and residents live fuller lives. Read about the celebration events...  PDF version

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Highlights from the September 2007 issue:

• Lutheran Disaster Response: Putting Lives Back Together  Paula and her son, Ashton, moved to the Lehigh Valley after their home was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. But life has not been easy. Read about Paula and how LDR has helped... PDF version
• Doing Urban Ministry in an Old Immigrant Town  In downtown Reading, Pastor Katie Lyon clearly practices “parish as place” – neighborhood ministry that has long been a hallmark of the Lutheran practice of urban ministry in so many old neighborhoods in the northeastern United States. Read about that ministry...   PDF version
• Christians Rocked the Mountain with Shawn Smith Musician and worship leader Shawn Smith not only lit the campfire but also lit a fire in everyone who heard his message at Zion United Lutheran Church’s Christians Rock the Mountain Youth Retreat. Check out the story!  PDF version
• Slovenia: A Magical Place  For three weeks in July, 8 teens and two adults visited with new friends in our companion synod in Slovenia. Click here to read Barbara Taylor's reflections on the experience. PDF version
• A Justice- and Mission-Friendly VBS  Mission and justice was the focus of this summer's vacation Bible school for all ages at Huff’s Union Church (ELCA and UCC). Using the curriculum from Augsburg Fortress, “Great Bible Reef,” Huff’s worked with the themes of conserving water, using fair trade products, and supporting the creation of fish farms. Read more...   PDF version
• Pastor Roberts Awarded the Henry Melchior Muhlenberg Medal  In a surprise ceremony during the LIFT (Lutherans in Faith Together) event at Muhlenberg College on June 9, the Rev. Edith Roberts, pastor of St. Peter Lutheran Church, Bethlehem, was awarded the Henry Melchior Muhlenberg Medal for exemplary congregational ministry. Read about the award...  PDF version

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Highlights from the July 2007 issue:

• Finding Strength amid Brokenness  John Smith, former religion editor for the Reading Eagle, reviews the keynote address by Bart Campolo at the LIFT event. Read John's article at here... PDF version
• A Letter from Katie Luther Katharina – Katie – von Bora Luther, Martin Luther's wife, strolled the campus at Muhlenberg College during the LIFT event. In her letter to the people of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, Katie tells about what it meant to her to interact with folks at LIFT. Read her letter...   PDF version
• Lutherans in Faith Together: A Celebration! "A great day!" "The best event ever!" "Let's do it again!" That's how people described the LIFT (Lutherans in Faith Together) event on June 9 at Muhlenberg College.  Check out all the happenings!  PDF version
• My Crossroads Experience Aaron Matthias-Long, a graduating tenth grader, gathered with 15 other youth for a week of journeying and growing for the TEY (Theological Education with Youth Crossroads event at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg in June. Click here to read his reflections. PDF version
• A Ministry Built on HOPE Shortly after midnight on Monday, March 19, A Mighty Fortress played over the airwaves at 94.5 Megahertz and HOPE Radio began broadcasting. The station, located at Saint John, Nanticoke, came about through the efforts of a group of people in the Wyoming Valley. Learn more about the station...   PDF version
• Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod Women Give Gift to Companion Synod At their May meeting, the Executive Board for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod Women of the ELCA decided to use the interest earned from investment funds as a benevolence gift. The recipient of that gift will be the South Central Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania. Read about their gift.  PDF version

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Highlights from the May 2007 issue:

• Cost? Priceless! How much can you get for $10 these days? In the case of LIFT (Lutherans in Faith Together), that price covers a whole day of activities, concerts, workshops, speakers, world hunger run/walk, conversations with famous people, and lunch — to name a few things. Read more about this exciting event on June 9 for people of all ages... PDF version
• Good Shepherd Launches Home Modification Program The Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Network recently launched a new service – Designs for Life – focused on allowing individuals to stay in their homes instead of entering a nursing home or assisted living facility. Read more about this innovative service...  PDF version
• Camp Evergreen: A Safe Haven for Bereaved Children Camp Evergreen, a Diakon Children’s Bereavement Program, provides a safe haven in which children can explore and discuss the emotions experienced after a loved one dies. This year’s free camp is scheduled for June 22 through June 24 and is open to all youth eight to 14 who are coping with the loss of a loved one. Learn more about this important program.  PDF version
• Help Children through Camp Noah Camp Noah is a therapeutic, fun-filled, faith-based, week-long day camp for children who are recovering from natural disaster. Created originally by Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota in response to the flooding in the Upper Midwest in 1997, Camp Noah has served children affected by tornadoes, tropical storms, floods, and hurricanes. This year, in response to the emotional and physical destruction that still exists since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita ravaged the Gulf Coast in 2005, two levels of Camp Noah will be offered. Click here to check out the ways you can help. PDF version
• Lutheran Reformer on Euro Coin On January 1, 2007, Slovenia became the thirteenth member state of the European Union to adopt the Euro as its national currency. The new Slovenian 1-euro coin shows the bust of Primus Truber (Primož Trubar), 1508-1586, Lutheran reformer and author of the first printed book in Slovenian in 1550, Catechism. Learn more about Truber and an upcoming trip to our companion synod in Slovenia.  PDF version
• The Ministry of Blake Marles “Lutheran institutions are the church in the world," says Blake Marles, an attorney from Macungie. "I attempt to use my talents and gifts within Lutheran institutions not only for self-exploration but also to have an impact, to make a difference in people’s lives." Read more about Blake's ministry through social service.  PDF version

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Highlights from the January 2007 issue:

• Life after a Stroke When David Miller, 39, went trick-or-treating with his daughter on October 28, 2005, he had no idea it would be his last day of life as he knew it. That night, David suffered a stroke. Read about his efforts to return to "a normal life." PDF version
• A Red-Letter Day: LIFT Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod will experience a first-time-ever event for all members of congregations in the synod. The LIFT (Lutherans in Faith Together) event at Muhlenberg College will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2007. Read more about this exciting event! PDF version
• Social Ministry Awards Recognize Love in Action Honorees who have made outstanding efforts in social ministry on behalf of the church received awards at the third annual Celebrate Social Ministry event, held last October. Learn about the recipients of the Love in Action awards, given to individuals, groups, or congregations who have been involved in a significant social ministry activity. PDF version
• LYF Assembly Gathers in Poconos More than 100 youth and adult advisors met at Trout Lake Retreats in Stroudsburg for the annual Lutheran Youth Fellowship Assembly November 17-19. Read about the activities, workshops, and election results — and be sure to check out the photo gallery. PDF version
• Ten-Year-Old Helps Preserve Congregational History Heritage. It's a word that often connotes "old, dusty, and boring." Certainly it is not a word to capture the imagination of a ten-year-old boy. And yet that's exactly what has happened at St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, Pa. Read more by clicking here. PDF version
• Retired Pastors Gather Regularly for Breakfast and Fellowship One of the highlight events for the large group of retired pastors and their spouses (or widows of former pastors) living in the Reading/West Berks Mission District area of our synod is the monthly gathering for breakfast and fellowship. Read about the group (and their invitation to join them!). PDF version

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Highlights from the November 2006 issue:

• LIFT: An Event for All   Big plans are underway for a first-time-ever event for all members of congregations in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod! The LIFT (Lutherans in Faith Together) event at Muhlenberg College will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2007. Read highlights of this exciting event here... PDF version
• Response to Katrina Continues: Truck Transports Supplies to Biloxi  Members of Ziegels Union Church in Breinigsville teamed up with synod congregations, community members, and businesses to provide supplies for Katrina flood victims through Bethel Lutheran Church in Biloxi, MS. The truck that went to Biloxi in mid-October was filled to the top with supplies for victims of Hurricane Katrina. Read about the gifts of people and products...  PDF version
• Check Out Project Connect  Project Connect is a program of the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries (Gettysburg, Philadelphia, and Southern) to involve young adults in discerning a call to public ministry in the church. The program makes connections between young adults and a network of partners ÷ seminaries, colleges, camps, campus ministries, church leaders, social ministry organizations, and volunteer organizations. Learn more about this groundbreaking effort. PDF version
• Crossroads: Transforming Events with Youth (TEY)  Young people of Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod are changed because of the Spiritâs stirring in the two summer retreat events of Theological Education with Youth (TEY). Read about the Crossroads Event that took place in June at Gettysburg in the words of the youth themselves by clicking here.  PDF version
• Summer Theological Academy: Transforming Events with Youth (TEY)  The seventh Summer Theological Academy gathered 19 rising high school seniors, called ãscholars,” from nine synods at the campus of Susquehanna University from July 22 to August 5. Six of the youth were from five congregations of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod. See what these youth experienced at the event by clicking here. PDF version
• Smoke Church Celebrates 250 Years  Throughout 2006, St. Paulâs Evangelical Lutheran ("Smoke") Church of Hamburg has been celebrating 250 years of ministry at the churchâs location in Windsor Township, northern Berks County. They are also celebrating and growing with a new form of pastoral ministry: a shared ministry arrangement with New Jerusalem Zion United Church of Christ of Greenwich Township, about nine miles away to bring new life to special services, youth ministry, and fellowship activities. Read about the congregation... PDF version

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Highlights from the September 2006 issue:

• Reflections on Camp Noah  Elizabeth Elterich, AiM at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Bethlehem, had an experience in July that ãforever touched my heart.” She was one of a group from Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod and elsewhere who served as counselors at Camp Noah, a weeklong, faith-based day camp offered for elementary-age children who have experienced disaster. Read her reflections on her experience here... PDF version
• Meet LYO Vice-President Walter M.L. Hampton II  Walt Hampton, a member of Christ Mertz Lutheran Church, Dryville, was elected vice president of the churchwide Lutheran Youth Organization during their convention this summer. Learn more about Walt ...  PDF version
• Youth Gathering 2006  Bruce Saylor, AiM at St. John Lutheran Church, Easton, and active in synod youth ministry, tells about his experience and the experience of the youth from St. John at Cruzando, the ELCA Youth Gathering, this summer. Read Bruceâs thoughts as a ãseasoned” youth gathering participant and the reactions of the youth from St. John. PDF version
• My San Antonio Experience  Dianna Morgan, a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Dallas, Pa., writes about her experience at the 2006 ELCA Youth Gathering. Get a glimpse of a youthâs perspective on the Gathering by clicking here.  PDF version
• Teen from Mexico Visits Sayre Congregation before Youth Gathering  One of the special experiences, both for international youth and for congregations here in the US, was the opportunity to host a youth from another country before the ELCA Youth Gathering in San Antonio. One of the congregations that hosted a youth was St. John Lutheran Church, Sayre. In this story, Cinda Brucker, AiM at St. John, tells about their guest from Mexico. PDF version
• September 11, Five Years Later  This September 11 marks the fifth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C., and the crash of a plane controlled by hijackers near Shanksville, Pa. In a letter to congregations across the US, ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson reflects on those events. Included in the article are resources to use as you remember that day. Read the letter and resource list here. PDF version
• Remembering Katrina  A year ago in late August, Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast and forever changed the lives of the people who lived there – and people from the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod who responded to the disaster. Pastor Barry Mitchell, who has made several trips to the area with members from his and other synod congregations, looks back at those experiences. Read more...  PDF version

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Highlights from the June 2006 issue:

• A Miracle of Faith: How One Man Beat the Odds  The April issue of Partners in the Spirit included a story about John Scolastico, who made history as the first Good Shepherd Raker Center resident to walk out on his own and go home. The story in this issue tells of Johnâs struggle with the ordeal. He credits his survival through this difficult time to the continued faith and encouragement of those around him. Read this remarkable manâs story here... PDF version
• Rotation Workshop Model – Is It for Your Sunday School?  Does your Sunday church school program need a boost? Are your teachers ready for a whole new way of helping children learn? Then check out this article about the Rotation Workshop Model. You can also find this information on the Worship and Spirituality Ministry Team resource page. Check out the Partners article...  PDF version
• Good Friday for Children  Pastor Roxanne Kringle wanted to help pre-school children understand the days leading up to Jesusâ resurrection. So she designed a Good Friday service for children that included the essential elements of the Maundy Thursday/Good Friday liturgies. Learn more about this service. PDF version
• Get Ready for a LIFT!  Those who attended the 2006 synod assembly heard about a day-long festival planned for June 2007. Entitled LIFT (Lutherans in Faith Together), the event will bring together people of all ages from across the synod to celebrate their Lutheran heritage and their faith. Read the preliminary ideas for this family festival here.  PDF version
• Update, Disaster Preparation and Recovery  Lutheran Disaster Response Network – Northeastern Pennsylvania (LDRN-NEPA) continues to be involved in hurricane recovery in both the Gulf Coast and the Delaware River regions. They also developed a plan of action for disaster recovery and presented it to the Synod Council in March. Learn more about this...  PDF version
• Women Clergy Gather  For the third year, women clergy in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod gathered for a day of reflection and fellowship. In this article, Pastor Sue Ruggles tells about the experience. Read her musings... PDF version

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Highlights from the April 2006 issue:

• A Prayer Answered  Last summer, Arthur and Gail Dawson White of Wyomissing were hoping and praying that Arthur would receive a gift. Before Thanksgiving 2005, Dawn Baxter of Brecknock Township gave him one – a kidney. Read about this remarkable gift and the people involved here... PDF version
• Miracle Man  On a warm sunny day last August, John Scolastico woke up, put on a bright blue shirt, said his goodbyes, and walked through the lobby of the Conrad W. Raker Center to go home. After living at Good Shepherd for nearly 21 months, John made history as the first Raker Center resident to walk out on his own and go home. ãThis is a miracle in my book,” said one 21-year resident. Read more about this miracle...  PDF version
• Addictions Drama Wins Rave Reviews  On December 4, 2005, Family Life Services, in partnership with the Kutztown University Theatre Department, New Life Lutheran Church in New Tripoli and Union Evangelical Lutheran Church in Schnecksville, unveiled a ãdramatically” different offering from their standard programming fare: an unscripted, interactive performance on addiction. Learn more... PDF version
• A Companion Synod in a Little-Known Country  Many Lutherans in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod know that we have close relationships with Lutherans in other countries through what is known as the ãcompanion synod” program of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Three of these ãcompanions” are in familiar places (Argentina/Uruguay, Saxony, and Tanzania); one may not be nearly as familiar. Learn more about our companion synod in Slovenia. PDF version
• A Taste of Bear Creek Camp  This yearâs assembly features ãA Taste of Bear Creek Camp,” an evening of food and camp festivities on Friday evening, May 19. Explore all Bear Creek Camp has to offer on a wagon ride or walking tour of the camp. See some of the hottest spots at camp, like the ropes course, the lake, and the retreat center, or take you on a short hike along a meandering trout stream. Read about the eveningâs activities. PDF version
• Giving Back: Annual Farm Family Celebration  On Saturday, March 11, the sixth annual Farm Family Celebration was held at the Hamburg Field House. The event was another rousing success. Over 800 guests came from five counties to show their appreciation to farm families who devote themselves to this challenging life. Read more . . . PDF version
• Coming Soon to a Church Near You — Evangelical Lutheran Worship  Read more about the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Americaâs new worship resource, Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW). Preview kits are on their way to your congregation! PDF version

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Highlights from the January 2006 issue:

• Measuring Life's Values: Mississippi Disaster Relief  Pastor Barry Mitchell reflects on his journey with 17 other volunteers from his congregation, Emmanuel, Emanuelsville, and from Hope, Cherryville, to Ocean Springs, Mississippi. His experience there demonstrated the ãliving presence of Jesus.” Read his reflections here... PDF version
• Counting Blessings in Tanzania: A Letter to Partners  Seventeen-year-old Ashley Piescienski was one of the travelers to our companion synod in Tanzania in September. Read her reflections on the trip in her letter to Partners in the Spirit here.  PDF version
• Do Justice: Micah 6:8 Group Formed  Last May, Judy Gifford called several folks together to meet and discuss concerns that seemed to be cast to the wayside by our politicians and even by our church leaders. What evolved over the next several months of conversation was the start of an advocacy group. Judy tells about the group in an interview with Karen Matthias-Long. More... PDF version
• Women and Friendship: Reflections on a Retreat for Women For a program ostensibly about ãWomen and Friendship,” it was surprising that nary a word was said about friendship until mid-way through the weekend retreat put on by Diakonâs Family Life Services. Self-esteem was the initial focus of the leader for the retreat, held in February 2005 at Mariawald Renewal Center. Read more about the retreat and the upcoming one February 24-26. PDF version
• Bosco the Evangelical Dog  Bosco, a 95-pound chocolate Labrador retriever, is Charlie Henryâs special evangelism tool. Read more about Bosco and Charlie and their visits in the neighborhood of St. John, Farmersville. PDF version
• Katrina Walkathon  Kate Murtaugh, a junior at Whitehall-Coplay High School and a member of St. John, Fullerton, single-handedly organized a walkathon for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Read more . . . PDF version
• Pajama Sunday and Other Activities: Ziegels Responds to Hurricane Katrina  Stories continue to come from across the synod about relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina. At Ziegels Union Church, Breinigsville, a number of creative activities helped the congregational members address the disaster. Learn more about these activities. PDF version

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Highlights from the November 2005 issue:

• Diakon Volunteers Aid Victims of Hurricane Katrina  A disaster-response team made up of volunteers from Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries recently returned from Biloxi, Mississippi, where they spent 10 days performing a variety of tasks including roof repairs, cutting trees, general clean up, unloading trucks, and assisting in a church food pantry. Read their story here.  PDF version
• Operation Friendly Neighbor: One Congregationâs Story  This story comes from an email sent to the congregation of Grace Lutheran Church, Conroe, Texas, from its pastor, Michael Rinehart, on September 29 following Hurricane Rita. It tells about this congregation that suddenly found itself a shelter following the hurricane. Read about the congregationâs efforts and the help they received from members and the community. PDF version
• Water with No Gas: Visit to Saxony Companion Synod  Eleven youth from across the synod journeyed through our companion synod in Saxony, Germany, in June. One of the youth, Nettie-Rose Reynolds, writes about the trip in this story. More... PDF version
• As Church Rolls Shrink, Lay Ministersâ Role Grows  When the congregation of Jerusalem Lutheran Red Church found itself unable to support an ordained pastor, they thought they might have to close their doors. But then Bob Billig, a synodically authorized lay minister (SALM), came to serve the church. Learn more about Bob and SALMs. PDF version
• Mississippi Journal: Responding to Hurricane Katrina  Christian Harding accompanied his dad, Pastor John Harding, and a group from the Pocono area to help with disaster response in Biloxi, Mississippi. Read his journal about the trip here... PDF version
• Teacher Honored for 55 Years of Service  St. John, Sayre, honors a Sunday church school teacher for her 55 years of service by planting a tree in her honor. More . . . PDF version

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Highlights from the October 2005 issue:

• Mission to Biloxi  When Sandy Roth heard about the devastation from Hurricane Katrina, including the damage at Bethel Lutheran Church in  Biloxi, he decided to do something concrete. So he and a friend drove a motor home filled with supplies to leave in the town. Read more here.  PDF version
• Jerusalem's Journey with Christ to the Poor of Jamaica  Thirteen adults and youth from Jerusalem, Schuylkill Haven, made a pilgrimage to Jamaica to touch and be touched by the poor in that country. Read about this life-changing journey. PDF version
• Ketchup for Your Pizza?  Eleven youth from across the synod and their tour leaders, Deborah and Peter Graf, journeyed through our companion synod in Saxony, Germany, in June. The youth exchange was a time to experience how God’s Kingdom extends beyond our national borders and to get a glimpse of the feast to come. More... PDF version
• Going Deeper, Going Further—TEY Summer Retreats  Twelve youth disciples of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod went deeper and farther in faith in the two summer retreat events of Theological Education with Youth (TEY) this summer, the Crossroads Event and the Summer Theological Academy.   Learn more . . . PDF version
• Building a Computer Room (Part 2)  You have the computer room set up now to use with your Sunday school. What do you do next? How do you integrate the computer room into your normal Sunday school curriculum? What programs are out there and which ones are worth the money? Find out more... PDF version
• Celebrate Social Ministry—And Outstanding Social Ministry Efforts!  The second annual Celebrate Social Ministry event will be held October 23 at the Holiday Inn in Fogelsville. Read about the dinner and those being honored. PDF version

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Highlights from the September 2005 issue:

• Age Old Bible Stories . . . told in exciting and different ways  Three years ago, St. James Lutheran Church in Coopersburg started using the Rotation Model of learning and the Augsburg Fortress Firelight curriculum in Sunday church school. Read AiM Doris Binner's reflections on the experience. PDF version
• Building a Computer Room (Part 1)  So you’re thinking about setting up a computer room to use with your Sunday school? Well, be sure to read this article for suggestions and cautions. And look for Part 2 in October. PDF version
• Science, Education and Faith: A Debatable Trinity Will these three distinct disciplines ever work together as one? Can — do — they impact each other in Christian education? Or should we work to keep the three disciplines separate from each other? Read AiM Marlane Druckenmiller's thoughts on the subject. PDF version
• Operation Book Bag 2005  Many families do not have the “luxury” of purchasing the items necessary for their children to succeed in school. The congregations of the West Berks Mission District are again working together to provide needed school supplies to children in the Reading School District and other children in need. Read about this important ministry. PDF version
• World Hunger Auction  The congregation of Allegheny Lutheran Church, Knauers, held a goods-and-services auction to raise money for the World Hunger Appeal. In just three hours, with donations of nearly 100 items to auction, the generous folks of Allegheny raised a whopping $10, 301.00!  Learn more . . . PDF version
• Hospitality: Growing Together; Discovering Each Other's Needs  Sermon preached by Pastor President Alan Eldrid, bishop of our companion synod in Argentina, at the 2005 synod assembly. PDF version

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Highlights from the July 2005 issue:

• Holy Listening: Message from Bishop Payne  In her overview of the process for the ELCA Studies on Sexuality at the 2005 synod assembly, Bishop Margaret Payne talked about her experience as chair of the task force. Here are excerpts from that presentation. PDF version
• Youth Participate in Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly Cows handing out refrigerator magnets and youth gathering at Trinity Lutheran's drop-in center are just two of the ways youth participated in the 2005 assembly. Read more... PDF version
• Sea Container Filled with Supplies for Tanzania Around 8 a.m. on June 4, vans loaded with school supplies, medical supplies, clothing and linens started pulling up to the loading dock at Boscov’s Department Stores Inc. distribution center in Exeter Township. The final leg of the journey to Tanzania begins. Read more... PDF version
• Boscov's Provides Vital Support for Sea Container Project The success of the sea container project owes much to the generosity of the entire network of Boscov's personnel and providers. Read about the many contributions of Boscov's and others. PDF version
• It's a Circus Spectacular! Members of St. Peter, Bethlehem, shared gifts and fun during vacation Bible school in June. Featured were Davey and Goliath.  Learn more about their circus fun. PDF version
• God's Place, God's Space Redeemer Lutheran Church in Queens Village, New York, found ways to use their building for outreach, and this has led to a vibrant, thriving, ongoing ministry with the neighbors of this now predominantly Hindu and Muslim neighborhood. Read more... PDF version

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Highlights from the May 2005 issue:

• Come to the Fair!  Read about some of the exciting events that will take place during the International Festival on June 10 at the 2005 synod assembly. More...  PDF version
• Companion Churches—Looking Beyond Our Own Plates Deaconess Deborah Matern Graf tells about an opportunity to visit our companion synod in Saxony. Here she also invites congregations to become partners with Saxony congregations. PDF version
• Showing Our Appreciation: Annual Farm Family Celebration On March 19, the largest crowd in its history—over 900 people—attended the fifth annual Farm Family Celebration. Read more... PDF version
• WELCA Chapter Partners with Local School to Make School Kits for LWR The response to the request for school supplies for LWR at Hope, Tatamy, was overwhelming, and the WELCA group needed help in keeping up with the making of the cloth bags to hold the supplies. That's when their partnership with a local school began. Read more... PDF version
• Zion's Stone Church—One Body in Christ In what does the unity of the Church of Jesus Christ consist? For Zion's Stone Church in West Penn Township, Schuylkill County, it means becoming the first federated congregation in the synod.  Learn more about this partnership... PDF version
• A Nightmare Revisited Still trying to recover from the devastating floods following Hurricane Ivan's aftermath in September, residents of the town of Raubsville were hit even harder in April. Read more about flood relief efforts... PDF version

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Highlights from the March 2005 issue:

• One Word for Servant Event: AWESOME!  Walt Hampton and Todd Ebling share thoughts on their participation in a servant event in Argentina. More...  PDF version
• New Friends and an Unforgettable Experience Hillary Bender, a member of Jerusalem, Lower Saucon, was another participant in the servant event in Argentina. Here she reflects on that experience. PDF version
• Quilt-a-thon for Tsunami Victims Eighteen women from four congregations and a local quilt guild came together January 13 and 14 at St. John Lutheran Church, Farmersville, for a two-day quilt-a-thon for tsunami relief. Read more... PDF version
• Union Lutheran's First Communion Class for an Autistic Child When the pastors at Union Lutheran, Schnecksville, took in a new family whose 11-year-old autistic son had never received instruction for communion, they and the boy's family and personal aide came up with a way to communicate with him in his own language. Read more... PDF version
• Serving Diversity Reading grocer Thomas R. Schleifer, a member of Trinity Lutheran, Robesonia, was honored Jan. 20 by pastors and representatives of 22 area churches and political leaders, including Mayor Tom McMahon, for his contributions to the neighborhoods around the store at Buttonwood Street and Schuylkill Avenue.  Learn more about Tom... PDF version
• After 250 Years, Christ Hamilton Is Still Thriving Once part of a four-congregation, Lutheran/Reformed parish, the 2,000 member congregation in Hamilton Square is not only thriving, but also growing and expanding. Read more... PDF version

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Highlights from the January 2005 issue:

• His LYF in Mine  Amanda Tompkins, member of St. Paul, Tannersville, and LYF historian, reports on the 2004 LYF assembly held in December. More...  PDF version
• LYF Memories In December 1989, Myke Scholtes attended his first LYF assembly as a ninth grader. It was only the second LYF assembly in the synod. In December 2004, Myke attended the 17th LYF assembly. Here he reflects on LYF in his life. PDF version
• LYF Assembly Elects Officers and Board Read brief biographies of the newly elected and re-elected LYF officers who will serve from June 2005-June 2006. Here, too, is a list of the new board members elected to serve from the 2004 assembly to the 2005 assembly. More... PDF version
• Visitors from Our Companion Synod in Saxony In October and November, two different groups—one group of 20 youth and their youth advisors, and one intergenerational group—visited the synod from Saxony. Read more about the visit. PDF version
• Experiencing LYO in Our Partner Synod At their invitation, Emily Bender, a member of New Jerusalem, Hellertown, attended the LYO assembly in the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, our partner synod. Here she tells about her experience. PDF version

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  Highlights from the December 2004 issue:

• Youth Servant Event in Argentina From December 26, 2004, through January 2, 2005, ten youth and two adults from the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod will travel to Argentina to participate in a youth servant event. Read more about the event, including comments by two youth participants. More...  PDF version
• A Chance to Put My Faith to Use Hillary Bender, a member of Jerusalem, Lower Saucon, will travel to Argentina for the youth event at the end of December. Here she tells why she hoped to be selected for the trip and what she anticipates discovering through the event. PDF version
• Edith Thrash: Giving More by Giving Back Edith Thrash received the Wilson Touhsaent Love in Action award at the first annual Celebrate Social Ministry event in October. Read more about Edith and the event. PDF version
• Sharing Resources Facilitating the sharing of resources among congregations and communities is one of the goals of the synod Connection Building Ministry Team. Eventually there will be a resource sharing database on the synod's website. Meanwhile, the team is using E-News as a way of bringing together resources and people. Read how hymnals from Reading found a new home in Allentown. PDF version
• Michigan Disaster Response Team Makes A Difference When Hurricanes Charley, Ivan, Jeanne, and Francis moved across Florida and the southern states this fall, they left a path of destroyed property and lives. Read about the assistance offered by one team from Michigan. PDF version
• Bob Kramer Ordained and Installed In November, Bishop Strobel ordained and installed Bob Kramer as assistant pastor at Ziegels, Breinigsville. This article tells more about Bob and the service itself. More... PDF version

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Highlights from the November 2004 issue:

• Tasting the Spirit's Transforming Power (TEY) The Theological Education with Youth (TEY) program is a creative partnership of the Lutheran Theological Seminaries at Gettysburg and Philadelphia, along with congregations, youth ministries and synods of Region 7 and Region 8. More...  PDF version
• A Transforming Impact: Crossroads 2004 In its second year, the TEY Crossroads Event June 20 to June 26, 2004, featured vibrant community life and four immersion journeys. Learn more about this ministry from Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod participants. PDF version
• Impassioning Faith: 2004 Summer Theological Academy Five of the 20 participants in the 2004 TEY Summer Theological Academy came from the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod. Read more about their experience. PDF version
• The Holy Hand Truck Moving the baptismal font to the front of the church for baptisms was a problem in the 1850 sanctuary at Emmanuel, Emanuelsville. Then Bud Hower had an idea. More...  PDF version
• Lucinda Francisco Receives Scholarship Lucinda Francisco, a member of Trinity, Topton, was one of 16 first-year students at the eight ELCA seminaries who began the 2004-2005 academic year with full-tuition scholarships through the ELCA Fund for Leaders in Mission. Read more about the fund.   PDF version
• Split Rock Ecumenical Youth Group Day a Hit The band was SWIM, the weather was sunny, and over 375 youth and advisors had a great time at the 4th Annual Ecumenical Youth Group Day at Split Rock Resort on September 26, 2004! More... PDF version

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Highlights from the October 2004 issue:

• A Wonderful Learning Experience When Pastor John Hart and his son, Gideon, accompanied a group to Tecate, Mexico, to help build a house, they found a whole new insight into what it means to be blessed. More...   PDF version
• Third World Opportunities: Changing Lives  This faith-based organization supported by the Hunger and Housing Ministry Team of the Pacifica Synod, ELCA, arranges education and service trips into Mexico for youth groups and adults. Learn more about this ministry.   PDF version
• Amazing Grace in Worship Beginning worship services with a simple question to the congregation helped this congregation see God at work in their lives. More...   PDF version
• Prayer Shawl Ministry: A Powerful Outreach  Adapting and expanding a ministry idea from The Lutheran magazine helps every worshiper at Christ Lutheran Church, Lower Saucon, reach out personally to persons in need. More...   PDF version
• Tanzania Day at Mountain Top Slides, special worship, gathering school supplies, and a Tanzanian meal enable folks at St. Paul, Mountain Top, to learn about and reach out to our companion synod in Tanzania. More...   PDF version
• Weeping and Rejoicing in Africa Last February, Pastor Eric Shafer, director of the ELCA Department for Communication and a pastor of this synod, traveled to East Africa with a group of ELCA communicators and witnessed world hunger funds at work. More...   PDF version

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Highlights from the September 2004 issue:

• Tanzania Festival Raises Awareness and Money The 2004 synod assembly featured a special Tanzania Festival on Friday evening. The festival not only raised awareness of the Tanzanian culture, but also helped raise funds for our brothers and sisters who live in poverty in the synod’s newest companion synod, the South Central Diocese of Tanzania. More...   PDF version
• On Eagle's Wings: A Unique Ministry in the Arctic An ecumenical flying ministry founded by Lutheran pastor/pilot Lee Berry delivers religious and educational services to the faithful in remote and isolated areas of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Learn more about this ministry.   PDF version
• On Eagle’s Wings: One Person's Story Ruth Miller and a staff person from the ELCA's Division for Congregational Ministry traveled to Fort McPherson in the Northwest Territories to lead vacation Bible school for the First Nation children who live there. Ruth tells about her experience. More...   PDF version
• Calling All Young Adults During the past year, a group of young adults in our synod have been meeting for fellowship and support. Read about their workday at Trexler Game Preserve and their plans for future gatherings. More...   PDF version
• Member of Trinity, Topton, Receives Scholarship One of the 2004 recipients of a scholarship from the Fund for Leaders in Mission is a member of this synod. Read more about her and about the fund.  PDF version
• Anthony Pagotto: One Seminarian's Story This story from December 2003 relates Tony Pagotto's journey through seminary. A 2004 graduate of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, Tony was recently elected as pastor of St. James, Zenith. More...   PDF version

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Highlights from the August 2004 issue:

• It's True, It's Real, It's Now Youth from Region 7 gather at Wagner College for Bible study, keynote speakers, workshops, servant events, reflection groups, sports, dances, conversation and just "kicking back." More...   PDF version
• Blessed to be a Blessing: Discover Your Spiritual Gifts News of a retreat on the LifeKeys program at Bear Creek Camp in November. More...   PDF version
• Cinda Brucker: Sharing the Gospel Story Introducing a newly commissioned associate in ministry, serving at St. John, Sayre. More...   PDF version
• The Power of Opportunity: Dana Heckman-Beil Learn about this newly ordained pastor, called to serve Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Ashland. More...   PDF version
• Hola LifeKeys: Discovering Spiritual Gifts Thanks to the efforts of Raziel and Lorena Badillo, a group of people in Reading learned about their gifts in their own language. More...  PDF version
• LifeKeys: You've Got to Try This Yourself A participant in the West Berks Mission District LifeKeys Lenten program tells about the experience personally. More...   PDF version

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Highlights from the June 2004 issue:

• City Pastor Visits Orthodox Leader The Rev. Fred Opalinski, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Reading, visits Orthodox Church leaders in Turkey with ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson. More...   PDF version
• For Ruth Doty, LTSP Commencement Ends a 14-year Seminary Journey Holy Spirit, Emmaus, woman tells of her journey toward ordination. More...   PDF version
• Leonardo's Passion Novel approach to Da Vinci's Last Supper brings special meaning to portrayers. More...   PDF version
• Caring for Our Planet: Earth Day Festivities at Bear Creek Camp Lutherans and others from across synod participate in Earth Day activities. More...   PDF version
•  Judy Gifford: Personal Reflections by Ruth Miller Judy Gifford retires after many years. Co-worker Ruth Miller reflects on those years and Judy's gifts to the synod. More...   PDF version
• Walking With Bishop Shadrack Manyiewa blesses the 2004 Synod Assembly with the gifts of his presence and his country. More...   PDF version
• Whoa!  or  Wow! Bob Sitze brings humorous and insightful reflections on being blessed to be a blessing at the 2004 Synod Assembly. More...   PDF version

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Highlights from the April 2004 issue:

• O Day Full of Grace On March 10, the congregation of La Anunciacion in San Gregorio, Argentina, dedicated their new church building. On hand was the young man from Christ, Conyngham, who helped make the building possible. Also present were the pastor and a lay member of Trinity, Lehighton, with a surprise gift for the congregation. More...   PDF version
• Accessibility Award Contest; New Accessibility Resource Each year congregations of the ELCA are invited to nominate themselves for the annual ELCA Accessibility Award. Here is more information about that award and announcement of a new resource in the synod Resource Center. More...   PDF version
• Advocating for Patients in a Stressed Health-Care Environment Pastor John Richter, Atonement Lutheran Church, Wyomissing, and Atonement Health Ministry Advocate Jill Heidel described the challenge of representing aging and ill patients in their presentations at a health ministry event at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia in March. More...   PDF version
• Farmers Enjoy Night of Food, Fun, and Festivities More than 800 farmers and farm family supporters attended a Farm Family Appreciation Celebration held at the Hamburg Field House on March 13. The night offered free roast beef and chicken dinners for farmers; some 226 guests paid a small fee to give their thanks and support to the farmers. More...   PDF version
• New Consecration Sunday Is the Way to Go On March 14, 66 people from 25 congregations met to explore Herb Miller’s faith-based stewardship concept. P astors Gene Handwerk and Jim Wolford led the abbreviated and updated version of Miller's workshop, which Miller had presented to more than 400 people in September 2003. More...   PDF version
• Synod Resource Centers a Network of Information Did you know that our synod resource center, located in the Wescosville synod office building, is one of more than 70 resource centers in the ELCA? These centers are located in synod offices and multisynod centers, on college and seminary campuses, and in ecumenical and specialized centers. More...   PDF version

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Highlights from the March 2004 issue:

• Bishop Manyiewa to Attend Assembly  The bishop of the South Central Diocese, our companion synod in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania, and his wife will be our guests at the 2004 assembly. More...   PDF version
• LYF Assembly Goers Do LYF  In spite of the snow, youth and advisors gathered for the annual LYF assembly at Pocmont.  More...   PDF version
• Celebrate Lutheran Schools Week  March 7-14, 2004, is Lutheran Schools Week. Here are some ideas about celebrating the week now and after the official week is over.  More...   PDF version
• EYTV: Training Youth in Today's Technology  Evergreen Youth Television provides youth an opportunity to learn, grow and gain hands-on experience with an exciting technology at their summer video camp.  More...   PDF version
• Partner Synod Youth Participates in LYF Assembly  Josh Toufar, a youth from the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, reflects on his experience with the synod LYF assembly..  More...   PDF version
• SWIM, Open Space, Welcoming Resolution, Elections Highlight LYF Assembly More on the happenings at the 2003 LYF assembly in December.  More...   PDF version

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Highlights from the February 2004 issue:

• Ecumenical Venture Brings Free Community Health Care to Needy  Two neighboring congregations in Wilkes-Barre team up to provide a place of healing for both members of their congregations and for needy members of the surrounding urban community. More...   PDF version
• Grace Smiles: An Inclusive Youth Group Grace Lutheran Church, Macungie, creates a new youth group — and the congregation discovers talents and treasures in people with disabilities that we never knew existed. More...   PDF version
• Faith Through the Arts St. John Lutheran Church, Nazareth, uses a room off the sanctuary with beautiful woodwork and stained glass windows to show off works of art. More...   PDF version
• Woman's Place Pr. Rebecca Knox reflects on her experience among the Chippewa/Cree people on Rocky Boy Reservation.  More...   PDF version
• Blessed to be a Blessing Information on the 2004 Synod Assembly, to be held June 4-5, 2004, at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center. More...   PDF version

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Highlights from the December 2003 issue:

• Two Journeys; Same Faith Road  Nancy Moore and daughter Kelly have each received seminary support along their faith journey. Mom is a ordination-track student; daughter experienced a Theological Education with Youth event this past summer. More...
• Blessed to be a Blessing  Pastor Peter Kuritz, Good Shepherd, Wilkes-Barre, reflects on God's abundance and sharing our blessings with others. More...
• Hearing God's Call  News and information about an event for adults where they can explore how their gifts can be expressed in their everyday life. More...
• Re-Thinking Evangelism  An activity for congregation councils and committees, adult forums, and other groups to use to explore their understanding of evangelism and evangelists. More...
• Ecumenical Covenant Celebrated in Spring Glen  Pastor Carl Shankweiler tells about a unique ministry where two pastors of different denominations (Lutheran and UCC) share the pastoral ministry of two separate congregations (Lutheran and UCC). More...
• Training for Parish Nursing Offered  News about an upcoming training event for persons and congregations interested in parish nursing, with a description of what a parish nurse does. More...

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Highlights from the November 2003 issue:

• Notes from Tanzania  Synod Vice President Priscilla Schlenker Kinney shares reflections on a visit to our companion synod in Tanzania. More...
• Get Geared Up for a Super Celebration with Davey and Goliath   Augsburg Fortress' 2004 Vacation Bible School curriculum (VBS) will feature Davey and Goliath. More...
• God's Handiwork  Youth from Christ, Conyngham, take their unique ministry to church and community. More...
• Youth Crossroads Event  Youth reflect on the first-ever Crossroads Event hosted by TEY (Theological Education with Youth). More...
• 2003 Summer Theological Academy  Two weeks of theological and vocational exploration for youth. More...
• Grace Lutheran Church Marks 125th Anniversary  Highlights from the celebration in Reading. More...

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Highlights from the October 2003 issue:

• 50th Anniversary Honorees  Eight rostered leaders of the synod were honored at the 2003 assembly in recognition of the 50th anniversaries of their ordinations or consecration. More...
• Blessed to be a Blessing  Herb Miller tells a crowd of over 400 about motivators for giving. More...
• Pastor Called to Deaf Congregation  Jeanne Beadle, Trinity Deaf, Reading, tells about the special people in her Bible study group. More...
• Biblical Miniature Golf  A biblical miniature golf course in a church? Atonement, Wyomissing, is doing it. More...
• Following Jesus Forever. Sister Verna Meckes follows Jesus even when he leads her to the Northwest Territories of Canada. More...
• Pastor Fred Crawford Receives Medal  Fred Crawford, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, Tamaqua, was awarded the Henry Melchior Muhlenberg Medal for exemplary congregational ministry. More...
• Finding discouragement, encouragement in Middle East  John Richter, pastor of Atonement, Wyomissing, reports on a visit to Palestinet. More...

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Back issues of the paper edition of Partners in the Spirit, the newspaper formerly published by Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod five times a year, are also available on this Website. These back issues are presented as PDF (Portable Document Format) files. You can view the issues and/or print them from the links. See the information in the sidebar column for instructions on viewing.

January 2003
November 2002
September 2002

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