April 13 E-News

2011 Synod Assembly registration is now available on-line: www.oregonsynod.org

The May and June editions of “The Parish Paper” newsletter are available by contacting the synod office (503) 413-4191 or office@oregonsynod.org

Take the ELCA Board of Pensions Health Assessment at https://www.elcabop.org/RedirectorMayo.aspx to earn discounts as well as personal credits.  Deadline is April 30!

The Oregon Synod Council has designated May 1 as Luther House Sunday when congregations give thanks to God for this vibrant ministry and encourage
financial gifts that will support outreach to students long into the future. This ministry is possible only because we are supported by the ELCA, the synods of Region 1, and individuals and congregations like you. Thank you for your partnership!  We can do even more than we already do to extend our reach, provide pastoral care, offer Christian hospitality, teach leadership skills, engage ecumenical and interfaith neighbors, be a catalyst for Christian formation, and offer meaningful worship. New financial gifts from you will help us expand our outreach and provide for the spiritual needs of students and others in the generations to come.  To make a gift today visit www.luther-house.org/donate or send a check to Luther House, 211 NW 23rd Street, Corvallis, OR 97330, 541.753.5213, www.luther-house.org, info@luther-house.org

The ELCA Board of Pensions invites you to attend an important webinar on April 19. In response to questions we’ve recently received, this webinar will explain the opportunity for congregations and other church employers to potentially save money through the new Small Business Health Care Tax Credit. Up to a 25% payroll tax credit may be available to your congregation or church employer.  Joining us will be nationally recognized benefits attorney Danny Miller, who will provide insights about the tax credit and answer questions that can help you determine your next steps in pursuing this money-saving opportunity for your congregation or church employer. Mr. Miller has advised numerous church denominational benefit plans and is a partner in the Washington, D.C. office of Connor & Winters, an Oklahoma-based law firm with a full-service practice.  Don’t miss this opportunity. Also, feel free to share this invitation with other congregations and church employers who may find it useful. Space is limited to the first 200 attendees. If you are unable to attend, the webinar will be recorded and made available on our website at www.elcabop.org.  If you have any questions about this webinar, please contact Emily Zellner at the Board of Pensions, at ezellner@elcabop.org or (800) 352-2876 ext. 4136.

EVENTS:

April 16
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

April 16
Lenten Retreat: Mary: Witness & Response
9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Franciscan Spiritual Center, Milwaukie
$60/person; bring a sack lunch.  To register visit www.francisspctr.org

April 22
3:15 – 6:00 p.m.
Join EcoFaith Recovery and the Wilderness Way Community us on Good Friday (which falls on Earth Day this year) for a time of ritual and reflection as we walk the perimeter of the University of Portland Campus, hearing the story, the cries and the prayers of the Willamette River, and daring to ponder how it is that we have come to crucify Christ anew in the devastation of the waters of life here in the Willamette and in rivers and oceans the world over.  We will gather at the Pilot House at 3:15 with the walk beginning at 3:30 p.m. We will conclude with a circle in which we can share our reflections on the experience.  Please register and find additional directions, information, and photos from the last River walk at  http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/table-talks/ or by emailing Pastor Robyn Hartwig at PastorRobyn@ecofaithrecovery.org.

April 27
Public Open House – Lutheran Community Services NW new Seattle offices
4:00 – 6:00 p.m., 115 NE 100th St, Ste, 200, Seattle, WA 98125
(206) 694-5700

April 28
Dining Out for Life
Dine out at participating restaurants and 20-30% of your bill will be donated to Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon’s HIV Day Center and the Partnership Project to support people living with HIV/AIDS in the Portland area.  Find a partidipating restaurant near you at www.diningoutforlife.com/portland

April 30
Organizing for Mission
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, Portland
A day-long gathering of congregational leaders that sense a call to mission! If you’re a pastor, a lay leader or just someone who is interested in building the church, come and experience the practices and tools of organizing and learn how they can empower your congregation to better be a part of what God is up to in the world.  In this hands-on workshop you will learn: How to deepen relational connections within your congregation and beyond, How to equip leaders to put mission and faith into action, Ways to explore new connections and mission possibilities in your community, How the ELCA is tapping into the arts and practices of organizing for strengthening mission in congregations and synods.
We encourage teams of (at least) three from congregations – both clergy and lay leaders! If clergy can’t make it, lay leaders should show up anyway!
To register, contact Rev. Terry Moe at (503) 702-5453 or e-mail TMoeX@yahoo.com
Presented by: The Oregon Synod in partnership with the ELCA
Special Guests: Bishop Brauer-Reike of the Oregon Synod and The Rev. Susan Engh, ELCA Director for Congregation-Based Organizing
Cost: Just a donation for lunch

April 30 – May 2
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 1
Luther House 85th Anniversary Celebration
At its February meeting, the Oregon Synod Council adopted a resolution that says, “The Oregon Synod supports May 1, 2011 as a day of prayer and recognition for Luther House on its 85th anniversary. The Synod Council encourages each congregation to collect an offering in honor of the 85th anniversary of Luther House.”  Please join friends and alums of Lutheran Campus Ministry for worship at 8:30 or 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Corvallis on Sunday, May 1.  A reception will follow.  The Synod Council has set a challenge to the congregations of the Oregon Synod to receive a special offering which will help enhance programming, improve our campus ministry center, and offer more student service/learning opportunities in the coming years. A special litany of thanks is being written and will be sent to your congregation for use that day also.

May 2-6
Emotional Intelligence & Human Relations (EQ-HR) Workshop
Vallombrosa Conference Center, Menlo Park, CA
Tuition is $595 plus $182 for the cost of the 360 EQ assessment.  Food and lodging costs are $492 for a single and $428 for a double.  Register online at www.eqhrcenter.org or send check to the Center for EQ- HR Skills, 19806 Mill Point Road, Boonsboro, MD  21713, Attention: Barbara Holder.  For additional information contact Barbara Holder, eq-hrctr@myactv.net, or call 301-432-8933.

May 3-6
Lutheran Services in America Annual Conference
Hyatt Regency, Milwaukee, WI
www.lutheranservices.org for more information

May 6
Lutheran World Relief Ingathering
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland
For information about Kit Donations & Changes please visit www.lwr.org

May 7
Lutheran World Relief Ingathering
9:00 a.m. – noon
Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland
For information about Kit Donations & Changes please visit www.lwr.org

May 7
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

May 8
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

May 9
Open House for Pastors
2:00 – 4:00 p.m., Menucha Retreat & Conference Center, 38711 E. Historic Columbia River Highway, Corbett, OR 97019
(503) 695-2243, lauren@menucha.org, www.menucha.org

May 11
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

May 12
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon’s (EMO) Annual Community Awards & Celebration Dinner
5:00 p.m. Reception & silent auction, 6:30 p.m. Dinner & awards celebration
Hilton Hotel, 921 SW 6th Ave, Portland
$60 per person (includes dinner) or $600 for table for 10. For more information or to register, please visit www.emoregon.org or call (503) 221-1054.
Award recipients include: The Rev. Alcena Boozer, rector emerita at St. Philip the Deacon Episcopal Church, “Ecumenist of the Year”; The Honorable Dave Hunt, Oregon House of Representatives, “Louise Hunderup Religious Education Award”; Salma Ahmad, president, Islamic Society of Greater Portland, “Two Pauls Award”; Northwest Portland Ministries, “Ecumenical Service Award”; and St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Corvallis, “Ecumenical Service Award.”

May 14
Care for Creation Training
9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 210 NW 9th St, Pendleton
Oregon is one of the five ELCA synods chosen to take part in a pilot project by Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) which will train congregations to integrate Care for Creation into all aspects of their ministries.  This Biblically grounded, grace-filled approach will equip a group of 3-8 people from your congregation in a positive process that will enable your larger congregational membership to incorporate creation care into worship, education, building/grounds, home/work, and public ministry.  Your group will leave the training with an action plan to implement in your congregation.  Register by Sunday, May 1 at www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/ where you can also learn more about the training. If you prefer, you may contact Pastor Robyn Hartwig at (503) 646-0629, x211 or pastorrobyn@ecofaithrecovery.org. Any congregation registering by May 1st and checking the “energy audit” box on the registration form will receive from Mr. Doug Boleyn a back-of-the-envelope, 30 minute energy audit at the training if you bring in your congregation’s most recent electric, gas, and oil (if used) bill, and a drawing or picture of the church showing its layout and rooms!

May 14
Climate Ethics & Equity Forum
9:00 a.m. – 3:15 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1838 SW Jefferson St, Portland
Keynote speaker is Kathleen Dean Moore, author of “Moral Ground: Ethical Action for a Planet in Peril” and Distinguished Professor of Philosophy and University Writer Laureate at Oregon State University, where she teaches environmental ethics and moral reasoning. A panel on regional equity and global equity issues follows the keynote, and the event concludes with breakout sessions on various climate equity topics. The forum is free, but donations to match OIPL’s challenge grant are welcome. Lunch may be ordered for $10 per person. To register securely online, go to www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php. For more information or to register by phone, call (503) 221-1054.

May 14
John Nilsen In Concert
7:00 p.m., St. Paul Lutheran Church, 3880 SE Brooklyn St, Portland
$15 in advance or at the door benefit St. Paul’s Roof Fund
(503) 236-2389, www.stpaulportland.org

May 14 – 16
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 15
Talent Show & Silent Auction
5:30 p.m., Milwaukie Lutheran Church
Proceeds benefit Youth Mission Trip to Belize
(503) 653-0250 for more information.

May 15-21
Katrina Rebuild Trip
Work will be done in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana.  Quarters will be in the small town of Port Sulfur at the Southern tip of Louisiana.  Reports are that the place looks untouched since the hurricane.  This is a rebuilding mission – there is no clinic.  We will work for Fuller Center Disaster ReBuilders, the same outfit many of us worked for in Mississippi.
For more information or questions contact The Rev. John Maas at jsmaas@yahoo.com or 503 378-1956.

May 20
“The Cosmic Story” (Table Talk #4 for Lay and Ordained Leaders)
1:15 – 3:30 p.m.
Redeemer Lutheran Church at 5431 NE 20th (at Killingsworth), Portland
This experiential activity and time of shared reflection will be facilitated by Dr. Ruth Nickodemus of the EcoFaith Leaders Core Team. She writes, “As we face the ecological crisis of our time, we need a new story to hold this reality and the deep faith tradition that is our heritage. The story that will be offered opens us to the unfolding story of our origins in the 13.7 billion year Cosmic Story. The ancient themes of birth, death, and resurrection; chaos and order; compassion and cooperation; hope and love; unfold in this Great Story. Join us for the sharing of this awesome Mystery and revelation of Divine Love.” Please RSVP and obtain important additional information at www.ecofaithrecovery.org/table-talks/  Additional questions may be directed to Pastor Robyn Hartwig at 503-627-0237 x 211.

May 20-21
Ethnic Ministries Symposium
Concordia University, Portland
Visit http://www.nowlcms.org/Events/EthnicMinSymp.aspx for more information and to register.

May 21 – 23
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

June 3-5
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 8
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

June 10-12
Fire Up Your Educational Program with a weekend retreat at MacKenzie River Mountain resort.  Guest Presenters Nancy Gaston and Deb Mantey, in cooperation with Pastor Barbara Punch, are putting together a weekend for Congregational teachers and Education committees. Workshop sessions will include: What makes an Effective Teacher? and Teaching for Multiple Intelligences. (Cost for 2 night, meals and program under $100!) Plan to spend this Pentecost weekend adding a SPARK to your program.  Contact Barbara at oursaviorsprineville@gmail.com for more information.

June 10-12
Mission of the Atonement Anniversary Celebration
Friday, June 10 – Dinner Celebration; Saturday June 11 – Reception and dance; Sunday, June 12 Festival Worship
(503) 646-1344 or info@motaspirit.org for more information and ticket prices.

June 12
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

June 18
Bible Study Event – To Lead and to Serve: The Gospel of Mark by Reverend Patricia Lull.
9:00 a.m. – 2:15 p.m., Calvary Lutheran Church, Hillsboro
The registration fee is $15.00 per person and includes lunch. Leaders Guides and Companion Bibles can also be ordered in advance when you register.  Contact Marcia McClanahan at 503-659-3440 or mcclanahan001@comcast.net

June 20-22
Pacific Lutheran University Summer Conference on Pastoral Theology – The Spiritual Formation of the Congregation
Drawing on the ancient wisdom of Christian practice and the insights of contemporary organizational development, congregational leaders will explore a focused yet flexible model of congregational life – one which cultivates the spiritual formation of the community of faith. In a highly interactive and group-focused process, lay and ordained leaders will compose a workable vision of spiritual formation for their congregations. Keynote Speaker, The Rev. Melissa Skelton is the Director of the College for Congregational Development and rector/pastor of St. Paul Episcopal Church, Seattle, WA.
Conference Fees: $350 with housing, $265 without housing, $175 retired with housing, $100 retired without housing.
http://www.plu.edu/congregations Rev. G. Lee Kluth, 253-535-7423, crel@plu.edu

June 20-24
PLTS Week of Renewal
You are invited to a Week of Renewal at PLTS, with classes, worship, and stimulating conversation and restorative time in the company of old and new colleagues.  The week offers daily worship, morning and afternoon classes, room and board, a daily case conference on difficult pastoral situation, and all the benefits of San Francisco by BART.  For more information and to register, please visit www.plts.edu/summer_session.ntml

June 22-24
Leadership Training School, Menucha (Columbia River Gorge)
Those going into 9th-12th grade who aspire to be leaders should contact Lisa Gray at zoaryouth@canby.com.  Congregations are encouraged to help identify and support high schoolers for this amazing program! 

June 23 – July 4
Pilgrimage to France.  Enjoy seeing sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Mont St. Michel and Loire Valley.  We will also visit the sacred sites of Taizé Community, Lisieux, and the Chartres Cathedral.  Led by Pastor Charles Mantey of St. Mark Church in Salem.  For more information contact Franciscan Spiritual Center, 503-794-8542, www.FrancisSpCtr.com

July 10
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

July 11-22
Native Ministries Consortium Summer School
Vancouver (B.C.) School of Theology, www.vst.edu

July 13
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

July 14-17
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com

July 18-22
Film & Faith for High School students aspiring to develop skills in video production.  Gary Eppelsheimer, film teacher from West Linn, in cooperation with Pastor John Reutter-Harrah, Deb Mantey, and others are creating a week-long program to combine film, storytelling, personal faith development and tons of fun! Help us identify those youth in your congregation for whom this would be a great way to spend a creative and productive week this summer.  More information coming!

July 31 – August 3
Association of Lutheran Church Musicians
Seattle University
Registration is open to the public: www.alcm.org, (800) 624-2526

August 6-13
HOLDEN VILLAGE ABRIENDO CAMINOS (OPENING PATHWAYS)
An annual week of Spanish programing for the Latino community and congregations in Latino outreach.  To register or seek further information, contact Registrar, Holden Village, HCO Box 2, Chelan, WA 98816-9769, email registrar@holdenvillage.org. Bilingual (English/Spanish) volunteers may contact staffing@holdenvillage.org.

August 10
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

August 14
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 13
Wellness Day
Sponsored by Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries.  For more information watch this space or visit www.npnm.org

September 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

September 30 – October 2
Oregon Synodical Women’s Organization convention
Newport, Oregon, Best Western Agate Beach Inn
The board is working on hard to put on an informative, and spirit led program that we hope will be intriguing and meaningful to all participants.  Watch the April Grapevine for more information about speakers and programs, as well as registration forms and information for delegates.

October 9
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

October 12
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

October 15
Church Money 102
St. Mark, Portland

October 16-26
Children, Family, and Faith: a 10-day learning community
Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp, CO
A Partnership for Education And Knowledge between Wartburg Theological Seminary, Rocky Mountain Synod, and RainbowTrail Lutheran Camp.  This course is an opportunity to be immersed in a 10-day learning community to develop a deeper understanding of children’s faith development.  Led by faculty from Wartburg Theological Seminary this course may be taken for academic credit or continuing education.  For more information visit www.rmselca.org or contact Ben Larson ben@rainbowtrail.org or 719-431-0050.

November 9
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

November 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

November 11-13
Youth Gathering

December 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

December 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Part-time keyboardist, Community of Hope Lutheran Church, Wilsonville
Minimum 2 Sunday a.m. services + 1 rehearsal per week.  Enjoy a flexible genre including traditional & contemporary music.  Ability to lead and encourage others to worship through effective interpretation and music sensitivity.  Work with worship team and Praise Team Leader.  Contact BJ Shrock bjshrock@gmail.com
 
Teacher & Assistant teacher
Noah’s Ark Preschool, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Contact brenden.jessica@gmail.com for job description & application information.

Organist & choir accompanist.
Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Salem.
This is a paid, part-time position.  Applicants must have knowledge of pipe organ and piano, and must be able to play hymns, Lutheran liturgy and accompany choral anthems.  Must work with pastors and choir director.  Position could be split, if desired.  Please submit your resume to Tanya at theelias3@hughes.net

Youth Leader Opportunity
Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, Newberg
The Youth Leader provides primary leadership for developing and implementing youth ministry.  Responsibilities include teaching high school Sunday School, organizing and leading weekly Bible Study/faith based fun activities and some weekend events.  The part time position is 10 hours/week.  Please send letter and/or resume to: Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, 1716 North Villa Road, Newberg, OR 97132 or call 503-538-0475, or e-mail joyfulservant@frontier.com.

Applications for summer 2011 employment at Camp Lutherwood are available now at www.lutherwood.org.  Must be 18 or older and able to serve for 9-10 weeks.  Room & board provided.

Organist & Choir Accompanist
Grace Lutheran Church, Corvallis
Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. E-mail resumes to office@grace97330.org, or call 541-757-1600

March 11 E-News

Free altar parament sets, red and purple, also several sets of chalice linens.  Please contact First Lutheran Church, St. Helens (503) 397-0090 or (503) 397-2014.

The Evangelical Lutheran Education Association has produced a short video featuring Bill Hurst, the ELEA Pastoral Advisor, about the importance of our ELCA schools and early childhood centers.  www.eleanational.org.  Please feel free to call our office  800-500-7644 or email at eleanational@cs.com if you have questions about ELEA’s new closer relationship with the ELCA since it has become the arm of ELCA Churchwide which serves schools and centers.

Confirmation Class weeks @ Camp Lutherwood still available: June 19-24, July 17-22, or July 31-August 5.  Please let us know the numbers of campers and leaders you are planning on by e-mailing office@lutherwood.org to reserve your spots. They are not officially reserved until deposits are received for each camper.  Please contact us if you need additional information in order to plan your week at confirmation camp.

Fortress Press book sale – 40% off when purchased through www.fortresspress.com

EVENTS:

March 11
Taco Feed
5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Church, Woodburn.
All proceeds will go to help the senior high youth attend the High School Recharge retreat at Camp Lutherwood in Cheshire, Oregon.

March 13
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

March 14
Interfaith Advocacy Day 2011
A day of interfaith worship, dialogue, education and advocacy on behalf of Oregonians facing hunger, homelessness or lack of access to affordable health care. Individuals and groups from congregations and community organizations are encouraged to participate. The registration fee is $18 per person ($9 for students) and includes lunch and materials. The registration form can be downloaded at www.emoregon.org; for more information, call (503) 221-1054. The registration deadline is March 8, 2011. 

March 15
Linking OUr Voices: A Jubilee Oregon – Jubilee Zambia Partnership
7:00 – 9:00 p.m., Portland STate University Multicultural Center, Smith Memorial Student Union 228
Free and open to the public.
For more information contact Bob Brown, Jubilee OR President, 503-244-3304 or 503-267-9346, Rebrown47@gmail.com

March 16-19
Basic Preparation for Faith Community Nurses & Health Ministers
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Univeristy of Portland, Frantz Hall, Room 231
$425 includes required materials & resources and $20 credit to first year membership.
The Baius Preparation Course for faith Community Nurses is a nationally endoresed curriculum from the International Parish Resource Center.  The American Nurses Association recognizes faith community nursing as a sub-specialty in nursing.  Faith community nursing holds the spiritual dimension as central to its practice.  Contact Sandy Madsen (503) 413-2341 sandym@npnm.org, www.npnm.org for more information & registration form.

March 18-28
Oregon Synod Awareness Trip to Mexico City
$1500 includes room & board, transportation, & program fees.
Contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger (503) 266-4061, ndovers@juno.com

March 25
“Grief, Lament, and Amendment of Life” (Table Talk #3 for Lay and Ordained Leaders)
1:15 – 3:30 p.m.
Join us during the season of Lent for a time of ritual and reflection as we walk the perimeter of the University of Portland Campus, hearing the story, the cries and the prayers of the Willamette River, and daring to ponder how it is that we have come to crucify Christ anew in the devastation of the waters of life here in the Willamette and in rivers and oceans the world over. Facilitated by Rev. Solveig Nilsen-Goodin and Ms. Trista Jolly of the EcoFaith Leadership Core Team. Please RSVP and obtain important additional information at www.ecofaithrecovery.org/table-talks/  Additional questions may be directed to Pastor Robyn Hartwig at 503-627-0237 x 211.

March 25
Lenten Taizé
7:00 – 9:00 p.m., Franciscan Spirituality Center, Milwaukie
Donation.  Visit www.francisspctr.com for more information.

March 25-28
Ecumenical Advocacy Days: Development, Security and Economic Justice – What’s Gender Got to Do with It?
Washington, D.C.
Be part of an action weekend addressing legislation that will equip you to speak boldly on behalf of people-centered sustainable development and economic justice, physical safety, security and peacemaking, with a particular focus on those most impacted — women, girls and families. Worship and dialogue with hundreds of faith-based advocates. Join us as we visit Capitol Hill to advocate remedying this global injustice. Lutheran activities are being planned. For scholarships, e-mail Jodi Deike at jodi.deike@elca.org or call 202-626-7947. More info: www.elca.org/advocacy

March 27 – April 2
Farm Worker Awareness Week.
Celebrate the contributions of farm workers in U.S. religious, economic and cultural life.  For education and action resources, go to the website of National Farm Worker Ministry www.nfwm.org or contact Rev. Ed Brandt, Oregon Farm Worker Ministry, Tel. 503-623-5153, email edgarbrandt@q.com.

March 27
Bach Cantata Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland
Features Bach’s Cantata 54, an alto solo cantata sung by Portland countertenor Tim Galloway.  The St. James Bach Choir will add two movements from Cantata 150 with strings and bassoon.  FREE PARKING in lot at SW 10th and Columbia.  Freewill offering supports the Bach Vespers series in its sixth season at St. James.  Contact: Nancy Nickel (503) 227-2439

March 30
The Northeast Emergency Food Program “Sustainers Breakfast.”
7:30 – 8:30 a.m., Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 1535 NE 17th Ave, Portland
No cost; a collection will be taken with all contributions going towards sustaining the Northeast Emergency Food Program (NEFP), a program of Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon. For reservations to the breakfast, contact EMO by March 23, at (503) 221-1054 or csiems@emoregon.org.

April 3
Installation of Associate Pastor Kim Conway
8:30, 9:45, & 11:00 a.m., St. Luke Lutheran Church, Portland
Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke will preach, all are welcome.

April 8-9, 2011
Grace in Cyber-Space: Sharing the Gospel in a post-Digital Age
Trinity Lutheran College, 2802 Wetmore Ave., Everett, WA 98201
The 2011 Lavik Series explores a faithful presence in cyberspace and using digital media to share about Jesus and the Good News, with the Rev. Eric H.F. Law as featured presenter.  Combining hands-on experience and theological-ethical reflection on the impact of computer technologies, this series of lectures and workshops will provide insight for living in a diverse and digitally-expanded world.  There is no cost to attend – including two meals.  The Lavik Series is an annual lecture event highlighting a current topic related to global evangelism, supported by the Lavik Endowment at Trinity.  For more information or to register online, visit www.tlc.edu/lavik, or call Tracy Weber at 425.249.4765.

April 8-10
High School Recharge Retreat
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
Plan for a weekend with your youth group and with your friends. Come to camp to relax, play, pray, worship, and be together. The cost is $85 for the weekend. Chaperons are needed with each group and they attend at no cost. Register at www.lutherwood.org

April 9
Portland Church World Service CROP Hunger Walk.
10 a.m., start and finish in front of the Union Gospel Mission, 3 NW Third Ave., Portland. The course is 2.64 miles and will pass several homeless agencies in downtown Portland, as well as City Hall. Please contact Ron MacKenzie, the Coordinator, at ron.w.mackenzie@gmail.com for more information.

April 10
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

April 13
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

April 16
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

April 30 – May 2
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 1
Luther House 85th Anniversary Celebration
At its February meeting, the Oregon Synod Council adopted a resolution that says, “The Oregon Synod supports May 1, 2011 as a day of prayer and recognition for Luther House on its 85th anniversary. The Synod Council encourages each congregation to collect an offering in honor of the 85th anniversary of Luther House.”  Please join friends and alums of Lutheran Campus Ministry for worship at 8:30 or 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Corvallis on Sunday, May 1.  A reception will follow.  The Synod Council has set a challenge to the congregations of the Oregon Synod to receive a special offering which will help enhance programming, improve our campus ministry center, and offer more student service/learning opportunities in the coming years. A special litany of thanks is being written and will be sent to your congregation for use that day also.

May 3-6
Lutheran Services in America Annual Conference
Hyatt Regency, Milwaukie, WI
www.lutheranservices.org for more information

May 6
Lutheran World Relief Ingathering
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland
For information about Kit Donations & Changes please visit www.lwr.org

May 7
Lutheran World Relief Ingathering
9:00 a.m. – noon
Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland
For information about Kit Donations & Changes please visit www.lwr.org

May 7
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

May 8
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

May 11
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

May 14
Climate Ethics & Equity Forum
9:00 a.m. – 3:15 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1838 SW Jefferson St, Portland
Keynote speaker is Kathleen Dean Moore, author of “Moral Ground: Ethical Action for a Planet in Peril” and Distinguished Professor of Philosophy and University Writer Laureate at Oregon State University, where she teaches environmental ethics and moral reasoning. A panel on regional equity and global equity issues follows the keynote, and the event concludes with breakout sessions on various climate equity topics. The forum is free, but donations to match OIPL’s challenge grant are welcome. Lunch may be ordered for $10 per person. To register securely online, go to www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php. For more information or to register by phone, call (503) 221-1054.

May 14 – 16
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 15-21
post-Katrina rebuilding, Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana.
Interested individuals and ministry/mission teams please contact The Rev. John Maas jsmaas@yahoo.com

May 20th
“The Cosmic Story” (Table Talk #4 for Lay and Ordained Leaders)
1:15 – 3:30 p.m.
Redeemer Lutheran Church at 5431 NE 20th (at Killingsworth), Portland
This experiential activity and time of shared reflection will be facilitated by Dr. Ruth Nickodemus of the EcoFaith Leaders Core Team. She writes, “As we face the ecological crisis of our time, we need a new story to hold this reality and the deep faith tradition that is our heritage. The story that will be offered opens us to the unfolding story of our origins in the 13.7 billion year Cosmic Story. The ancient themes of birth, death, and resurrection; chaos and order; compassion and cooperation; hope and love; unfold in this Great Story. Join us for the sharing of this awesome Mystery and revelation of Divine Love.” Please RSVP and obtain important additional information at www.ecofaithrecovery.org/table-talks/  Additional questions may be directed to Pastor Robyn Hartwig at 503-627-0237 x 211.

May 21 – 23
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

June 3-5
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 8
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

June 10-12
Fire Up Your Educational Program with a weekend retreat at MacKenzie River Mountain resort.  Guest Presenters Nancy Gaston and Deb Mantey, in cooperation with Pastor Barbara Punch, are putting together a weekend for Congregational teachers and Education committees. Workshop sessions will include: What makes an Effective Teacher? and Teaching for Multiple Intelligences. (Cost for 2 night, meals and program under $100!) Plan to spend this Pentecost weekend adding a SPARK to your program.  Contact Barbara at oursaviorsprineville@gmail.com for more information.

June 12
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

June 18
Bible Study Event – To Lead and to Serve: The Gospel of Mark by Reverend Patricia Lull.
9:00 a.m. – 2:15 p.m., Calvary Lutheran Church, Hillsboro
The registration fee is $15.00 per person and includes lunch. Leaders Guides and Companion Bibles can also be ordered in advance when you register.  Contact Marcia McClanahan at 503-659-3440 or mcclanahan001@comcast.net

June 20-22
Pacific Lutheran University Summer Conference on Pastoral Theology – The Spiritual Formation of the Congregation
Drawing on the ancient wisdom of Christian practice and the insights of contemporary organizational development, congregational leaders will explore a focused yet flexible model of congregational life – one which cultivates the spiritual formation of the community of faith. In a highly interactive and group-focused process, lay and ordained leaders will compose a workable vision of spiritual formation for their congregations. Keynote Speaker, The Rev. Melissa Skelton is the Director of the College for Congregational Development and rector/pastor of St. Paul Episcopal Church, Seattle, WA.
Conference Fees: $350 with housing, $265 without housing, $175 retired with housing, $100 retired without housing.
http://www.plu.edu/congregations Rev. G. Lee Kluth, 253-535-7423, crel@plu.edu

June 22-24
Leadership Training School, Menucha (Columbia River Gorge)
Those going into 9th-12th grade who aspire to be leaders should contact Lisa Gray at zoaryouth@canby.com.  Congregations are encouraged to help identify and support high schoolers for this amazing program! 

June 23 – July 4
Pilgrimage to France.  Enjoy seeing sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Mont St. Michel and Loire Valley.  We will also visit the sacred sites of Taizé Community, Lisieux, and the Chartres Cathedral.  Led by Pastor Charles Mantey of St. Mark Church in Salem.  For more information contact Franciscan Spiritual Center, 503-794-8542, www.FrancisSpCtr.com

July 10
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

July 13
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

July 14-17
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com

July 18-22
Film & Faith for High School students aspiring to develop skills in video production.  Gary Eppelsheimer, film teacher from West Linn, in cooperation with Pastor John Reutter-Harrah, Deb Mantey, and others are creating a week-long program to combine film, storytelling, personal faith development and tons of fun! Help us identify those youth in your congregation for whom this would be a great way to spend a creative and productive week this summer.  More information coming!

July 31 – August 3
Association of Lutheran Church Musicians
Seattle University
www.alcm.org

August 6-13
HOLDEN VILLAGE ABRIENDO CAMINOS (OPENING PATHWAYS)
An annual week of Spanish programing for the Latino community and congregations in Latino outreach.  To register or seek further information, contact Registrar, Holden Village, HCO Box 2, Chelan, WA 98816-9769, email registrar@holdenvillage.org. Bilingual (English/Spanish) volunteers may contact staffing@holdenvillage.org.

August 10
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

August 14
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 13
Wellness Day
Sponsored by Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries.  For more information watch this space or visit www.npnm.org

September 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

September 30 – October 2
Oregon Synodical Women’s Organization convention
Newport, Oregon, Best Western Agate Beach Inn
The board is working on hard to put on an informative, and spirit led program that we hope will be intriguing and meaningful to all participants.  Watch the April Grapevine for more information about speakers and programs, as well as registration forms and information for delegates.

October 9
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

October 12
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

October 15
Church Money 102
St. Mark, Portland

October 16-26
Children, Family, and Faith: a 10-day learning community
Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp, CO
A Partnership for Education And Knowledge between Wartburg Theological Seminary, Rocky Mountain Synod, and RainbowTrail Lutheran Camp.  This course is an opportunity to be immersed in a 10-day learning community to develop a deeper understanding of children’s faith development.  Led by faculty from Wartburg Theological Seminary this course may be taken for academic credit or continuing education.  For more information visit www.rmselca.org or contact Ben Larson ben@rainbowtrail.org or 719-431-0050.

November 9
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

November 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

November 11-13
Youth Gathering

December 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

December 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Accounts Payable
Small (Portland) Hollywood District law office has immediate need for part time (one day a week) accounts payable help. Candidate must possess working knowledge of office AP practices and general ledger. The ideal candidate would also be familiar with law office operations, payroll and TABS3 software.  Send resume to scott@water-law.com

Executive Director
Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp, Flathead Lake, MT
Responsibilities include leadership in administration, theology and program, personnel, church and donor relationships, and strategic planning.  
If Rostered persons apply they should have their Synod Office forward their Rostered Leaders Profile (RLP) to the Montana Synod in addition to emailing the information asked for in the Job Description. 
Compensation:  Salary based on qualifications and experience.
Application Deadline:  March 25, 2011
To apply:  Email a cover letter, resume, the names, addresses and phone numbers of three references and answers, not exceeding one page each, to the four questions below to:    office@flbc.net
1.  What role do you see for outdoor ministries in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
2.  Describe the process you would use in the development of outdoor ministry programs.
3.  How would you describe your leadership style in working with the Board of Directors
     and Staff?
4.  Where do you see the executive director’s role in developing relationships that lead to 
     one time gifts, annual gifts, and planned gifts?
5.  Please describe your experience in visioning, long term planning, and goal setting?
For additional information please contact Merv Eriksson, Search Committee at 406-274-7535, or the Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp Office at 406-7552-6602.

Regional representative for West Africa
This position is responsible for assisting the ELCA in fostering relationships with companion churches, ELCA mission personnel and programs in West Africa, with a focus on Theological Education and Interfaith Relations. Preference given to applications received by March 15, 2011. Starts July 2011. See www.elca.org/globalserve and click Global Service Opportunities to search the database for “West Africa.”

Executive Director
Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries, Portland
Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries (NPNM) is seeking an Executive Director with vision, strategic thinking, administrative strengths, demonstrated evidence of financial development and a passion for community and/or faith-based health experience.  NPNM is an interfaith, non-profit agency that develops and supports faith community nursing/health ministries throughout the Pacific Northwest. The Executive Director represents the organization to partners, donors, community organizations and participating members. Apply if your leadership gifts match the vision of faith communities partnering for wellness.  For more information about NPNM, as well as the position responsibilities and qualifications, see www.npnm.org.  To apply, send a cover letter, resume and 3 references to warner@up.edu.  Deadline for applications: 1 March 2011.  Potential start date:  1 June 2011

Music Program Developer
Columbia City Church of Hope, Seattle
If interested, please send your resume and three letters of reference by March 4, 2011 to darla@columbiacityhope.org.  The position will be .25 FTE (with four Sundays paid vacation), working directly with and accountable to the pastor. Salary is $10,500.  Projected start date April 1, 2011.

Director
Prince of Peace Lutheran School (LCMS)
Bachelor’s degree in education and certification in early childhood education.  Experience in teaching, leadership, administration and staff supervision are required.  Resumes may be emailed to pdxpop.schoolboard@gmail.com and should be received no later than March 4 for consideration.

Teacher & Assistant teacher
Noah’s Ark Preschool, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Contact brenden.jessica@gmail.com for job description & application information.

Organist & choir accompanist.
Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Salem.  This is a paid, part-time position. Applicants must have knowledge of pipe organ and piano, and must be able to play hymns, Lutheran liturgy and accompany choral anthems on sight. Must work with pastors and music director. Please submit your resume to Tanya at theelias3@netzero.net

Youth Leader Opportunity
Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, Newberg
The Youth Leader provides primary leadership for developing and implementing youth ministry.  Responsibilities include teaching high school Sunday School, organizing and leading weekly Bible Study/faith based fun activities and some weekend events.  The part time position is 10 hours/week.  Please send letter and/or resume to: Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, 1716 North Villa Road, Newberg, OR 97132 or call 503-538-0475, or e-mail joyfulservant@frontier.com.

Applications for summer 2011 employment at Camp Lutherwood are available now at www.lutherwood.org.  Must be 18 or older and able to serve for 9-10 weeks.  Room & board provided.

Preschool Director at Christian Preschool, approximately 22 hours per week, Sept. through May, 115 total hours June through August. Applicants  must love young children and be able to work well with others.  At least one year direct interaction with young children in a school setting is required. A job description is available upon request (503-256-1835).  Annual salary ranges from $15,000 to $17,000, depending upon education/experience. Start date is negotiable but needs to be filled prior to July 1, 2011. Interested applicants need to e-mail or mail resume  and cover letter to glchurch@aceweb.com  or  Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 11560 SE Market St., Portland, OR   97216, Attn. Church Office. Resumes must be submitted no later than February 28, 2011.

Organist & Choir Accompanist
Grace Lutheran Church, Corvallis
Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. E-mail resumes to office@grace97330.org, or call 541-757-1600 

Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland
Approximately 18 hours a week.  See www.allsaintspdx.com for further information about our music ministries.  The successful candidate for the position will be an inspired and inspiring director of our talented and enthusiastic volunteer chancel choir, organist, facilitate the musical and spiritual growth of our family choir and work with clergy, staff and diocesan peers in a team approach to music ministry.  Salary range $14,000-$18,000.  Applicants should address their qualifications for the  position in a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, pertinent copies of bulletins, programs or other relevant documents. Application materials and three separate letters of recommendation (all materials hardcopy please) should be sent to:  Christine McClave, All Saints Episcopal Church, 4033 SE Woodstock Blvd., Portland, OR 97202  (Internet: jamma43@comcast.net< /a>) as soon as possible.  We plan to fill the position by January 1, 2011.immanuelluth@hotmail.com

Part Time High School Youth Director
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Christian with some basic Lutheran Theological understanding, relates well and appropriately with teens, technically savvy, good communicator, motivated, self-starter, creative, team-player.  The candidate would need to be available Sundays and submit monthly reports to the Board of Education. The ability to work with pre-teens and a music background would be a long-term asset.  Starting at 10 hours per week (flexible schedule) with a vision of expansion as program grows. Rate of pay $13-$15.00 per hour depending on experience.  Resume should include a brief statement of faith – no more than 75 words.  Deadline January 25: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303N Church St, Silverton, OR 97381,

February 10 E-News

Free Rolling Carts!  Two available – first come, first serve.  24″ x 18″ x 42,” three shelves.  Contact the synod offices if interested.  You haul.

Printed Synod directories were distributed to rostered leaders during Bishop’s Convocation.  If you are a rostered leader and would like an electronic directory e-mailed to you please contact us at office@oregonsynod.org.

The March and April editions of “The Parish Paper” are now available by contacting the synod office: office@oregonsynod.org

Luther House officially an RIC Campus Ministry.  On February 1, Lutherans Concerned/North America officially recognized Lutheran Campus Ministry at OSU as their newest Reconciling in Christ campus ministry. After years of planning and talking — and acting like we were already an RIC organization — official votes were taken by the Council and student group which led to this designation. In one more way, Luther House extends holy hospitality to all who seek safety and welcome. Thanks be to God!

To earn a $150 personal wellness account credit, take your health assessment on the Mayo Clinic EmbodyHealth web portal (www.elcaforwellness.org). Pick a day to take it, and put it on your calendar. The health assessment opened January 1, 2011. Take it by April 30, 2011 so you help your employer earn a 2% discount on health contributions for all of 2011. (It remains open through September 30, 2011 as a courtesy to those enrolling in the health plan midyear.) 

Looking for a great gift?  Prayerfully consider the ELCA Mission Investment Fund….purchase an investment, and start someone out on a plan that helps them, AND builds the church!!  When the Mission Investment Fund lends money to ministries to become accessible, energy efficient, for a roof, or parking lot ….the money is ONLY available because individuals and congregations INVEST in the Mission Investment Fund!  When you give an MIF investment you are: teaching the recipient about stewardship, and that where we invest our money DOES make a difference, and helping ministries that desire to grow their mission and outreach, be able to borrow!  YOUR …investments support 15 congregations/ministries in the Oregon Synod that have a loan.  For applications and more information, contact: margie.fiedler@elca.org, 208-664-7973 or visit: www.elca.org/mif

Camp Lutherwood Summer Camp registration is now open.  Visit www.lutherwood.org for schedules & forms.

February is mattress month at Camp Lutherwood.  Brand new mattresses for all the cabins…that is the plan for the month of February.  We need to raise $8,000 this month so we can order 85 mattresses. Prices increase on March 1st so we have until February 28th to place the order. Mail your gift to Camp Lutherwood, 22960 Hwy 36, Cheshire, OR  97419

Portland Lutheran School has been recognized by Portland Monthly’s Ultimate Guide to Private Schools 2011. The Private Schools Guide 2011 features the magazine’s picks in six categories: science, art, language, college prep, environment, and community service. PLS is identified as an “Honor Roll” school in the college prep category.  The February edition of Portland Monthly contains the Ultimate Guide To Private Schools 2011 and can be found online and in print.

EVENTS:

February 12
Church Money 101
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland
For pastors, council members, treasurers, financial secretaries and everyone who handles numbers at your congregation.  Presented by the synod “Money Team.”
RSVP to traci@smpdx.org or call 503-777-1443, and let us know your role in handling money at your congregation.  $5 charge to cover food.

February 13
PLU Sunday
Please join congregations throughout ELCA Region 1 to lift up the work of higher education at Pacific Lutheran University during your worship services on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  Call 253-535-7424 or email crel@pu.edu the Office of Congregation Relations at Pacific Lutheran University to express your interest in participating.  You will be sent a PLU Sunday kit containing suggested text for your bulletins, bulletin board decorations, small giveaways, and a variety of PLU informational materials.

February 13
Installation of The Rev. Michael O’Berg
3:30 p.m., Resurrection Lutheran Church, Portland
Clergy are invited to vest in green, reception to follow.

February 13
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

February 14
Have a Heart Day
8:00 a.m., State Capitol, Salem
Demonstrate your commitment to economic justice and opportunity for all Oregonians by joining Oregon Thrives and Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon.  Speak to our legislators about the problems we face and how the prolonged recession has left many of our neighbors unemployed, under-employed, and at risk of hunger or homelessness.  Lunch will be provided.  R.S.V.P. to Alison at amcintosh@neighborhoodpartnerships.org or 503.226.3001 x107. If you need a ride to Salem, please let Alison know. Oregon Thrives is working with partners statewide to get everyone to Salem.

February 15
Fostering Careers in Health Care: A Discussion with Faith & Community Leaders
10:30 AM Pacific Time.  Dial in information: 1-888-323-9813 (no passcode is needed)
Participants: Joshua DuBois, Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, Dr. Mary Wakefield, Administrator, Health Resources and Services Administration, Mara Vanderslice, Acting Director, Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, Burt Waller, Executive Director, Christ Community Health Services, Memphis, TN, Dr. Mary Hill, Associate Dean, College of Pharmacy, Nursing & Allied Health Sciences, Howard University
You do not need to RSVP for this call. If you have questions, email partnerships@hhs.gov
Hosted by the Partnership Center and the Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

February 15
ELCA Health Initiatives Meeting
7:00 – 8:30 p.m., West Linn Lutheran Church
Jennifer Barger Williamson, Associate Director for Development of the ELCA World Hunger Appeal, will make a presentation on the ELCA Health Initiatives – HIV/Aids, Malaria Prevention, and other health issues.  Come to learn more about these important projects, and to share what your congregation or cluster may be doing to support these projects.  For more information, contact WLLC at 503-656-0110.

February 16
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

February 18-19
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit www.catechumenate.org.

February 18-20
Chi Rho Series, Central Lutheran Church & NW Christian University Library
Dr. Gordon Lathrop is Emeritus Professor of Liturgy at Lutheran Tehological Seminary
Friday, February 18, 7:30 p.m.: Rare Beasts – What are the Gospels?  How do they shape Christian Worship? (Central Lutheran Church, Eugene)
Saturday, February 19, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: The Land of Unlikeness – How does the Gospel of Mark relate to the Christian assembly anciently and today?  (NW Christian Univeristy Library, room 203)
Saturday, February 19, 7:30 p.m.: Unique Adventures – What do the Gospels say about leadership in Christian assemblies for worship today?  (Central Lutheran Church, Eugene)
Sunday, February 20: Dr. Lathrop will be preaching in the 8:15 & 10:45 a.m. services and teaching in the 9:30 a.m. Adult Education hour @ Central Lutheran.

February 20
Installation of The Rev. Kelle Nelson-Bunkers
6:00 p.m., St. Paul Lutheran Church, Portland
Clergy are invited to vest in green, light refreshments following.

February 21-25
Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) annual retreat
Las Vegas, NV
Lutheran Clergy, both ELCA & LCMS who are currently active in recovery from alcoholism or addictions, or who are interested in being in recovery are welcome to attend.  More information is available at www.frlc.org or by contacting The Rev. Ed Treat (952) 884-2364, x16.

February 24
Mystical Women
7:00 – 9:00 p.m., Franciscan Spirituality Center, Milwaukie
The second millennium of Christianity saw a flourishing of women’s writing, both on spiritual matters in general and on the Eucharist in particular. This course will examine the historical contexts, sample the meditative writings, and come to a personal appreciation of these Mystical Women.
$30, visit www.francisspctr.com

February 26
Northwest Family Services: Couples Workshop
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Franciscan Spirituality Center, Milwaukie Learn the necessary skills to have meaningful, healthy communication. Topics include: What makes a healthy relationship, communication tools, moving beyond the same old conflicts and how to make your love last. Bring a lunch.
$20, visit www.francisspctr.com

March 1
Not Just US: Being the Church in a Global Communion
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Salem Lutheran Church, Spokane, WA
Visit www.nrit.org for more information or to register

March 4-6
Renewal Weekend
United Lutheran Church, 2230 Washington St., Eugene
Dr. Christian Scharen, Assistant Professor of Worship at Luther Seminary, will be speaking on the topic of “Worship in Today’s World.”  Friday, March 4, 7:00 p.m.: “Faith in a Secular Age: What does it mean for people of faith to live in a post-Christian society?”  Saturday, March 5, 10:00 a.m.: “Constricted Imagination: How churches fail to connect to the vital challenges of God’s world today.”  6:15 p.m.: “Singing a Broken Hallelujah: How churches can join God’s creative and redeeming work in the midst of culture and change.”  Sunday, March 6, 9:45 a.m.: “Hearing the World’s Cries: Transfiguration as a model for Mission Today.”  Free and open to all.  Please call (541) 342-5808 for more information.

March 5
Care for Creation Training: Gracefully Greening every area of your Ministry
9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Trinity Cooperative Ministries, 544 NE 2nd St, McMinnville, OR 97128
Oregon is one of the five ELCA synods chosen to take part in a pilot project by Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) which will train congregations to integrate Care for Creation into all aspects of their ministries.  This Biblically grounded, grace-filled approach will equip a group of 3-8 people from your congregation in a positive process that will enable your larger congregational membership to incorporate creation care into worship, education, building/grounds, home/work, and public ministry.  Your group will leave the training with an action plan to implement in your congregation.  Register by Sunday, February 20 at www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/ where you can also learn more about the training. If you prefer, you may contact Pastor Robyn Hartwig at (503) 646-0629, x211 or pastorrobyn@aol.com.

March 5-6
OLYO Middle School Gathering
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
$25, contact Lisa Gray at zoaryouth@gmail.com or (503) 266-4061

March 5
Partnering with God: Becoming A Missional Church
Join us for this opportunity to learn about and have conversation with Rev. Reggie McNeal, author and a leader of the Missional Church movement, about how your congregation can join in God’s mission of salvation in your own community.
$35/person, pre-registration is required.  You can register online by (503-581-3969), e-mailing (office@westerndistrictumc.org) or mailing your registration to the Western District Office, 680 State St., Suite 200, Salem, Oregon 97301.  Registration is limited to 288 persons.  For more information visit www.umoi.net

March 6-9
Lutheran Staff Association Annual Conference/Retreat
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
Open to all Lay Ministers, staff or volunteer.  For more information visit lutheranstaffnw.org/

March 9
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

March 13
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

March 14
Interfaith Advocacy Day 2011
A day of interfaith worship, dialogue, education and advocacy on behalf of Oregonians facing hunger, homelessness or lack of access to affordable health care. Individuals and groups from congregations and community organizations are encouraged to participate. The registration fee is $18 per person ($9 for students) and includes lunch and materials. The registration form can be downloaded at www.emoregon.org; for more information, call (503) 221-1054. The registration deadline is March 8, 2011. 

March 16-19
Basic Preparation for Faith Community Nurses & Health Ministers
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Univeristy of Portland, Frantz Hall, Room 231
$425 includes required materials & resources and $20 credit to first year membership.
The Baius Preparation Course for faith Community Nurses is a nationally endoresed curriculum from the International Parish Resource Center.  The American Nurses Association recognizes faith community nursing as a sub-specialty in nursing.  Faith community nursing holds the spiritual dimension as central to its practice.  Contact Sandy Madsen (503) 413-2341 sandym@npnm.org, www.npnm.org for more information & registration form.

March 18-28
Oregon Synod Awareness Trip to Mexico City
$1500 includes room & board, transportation, & program fees.
Contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger (503) 266-4061, ndovers@juno.com

March 25-28
Ecumenical Advocacy Days: Development, Security and Economic Justice – What’s Gender Got to Do with It?
Washington, D.C.
Be part of an action weekend addressing legislation that will equip you to speak boldly on behalf of people-centered sustainable development and economic justice, physical safety, security and peacemaking, with a particular focus on those most impacted — women, girls and families. Worship and dialogue with hundreds of faith-based advocates. Join us as we visit Capitol Hill to advocate remedying this global injustice. Lutheran activities are being planned. For scholarships, e-mail Jodi Deike at jodi.deike@elca.org or call 202-626-7947. More info: www.elca.org/advocacy

March 27 – April 2
Farm Worker Awareness Week.
Celebrate the contributions of farm workers in U.S. religious, economic and cultural life.  For education and action resources, go to the website of National Farm Worker Ministry www.nfwm.org or contact Rev. Ed Brandt, Oregon Farm Worker Ministry, Tel. 503-623-5153, email edgarbrandt@q.com.

March 30
The Northeast Emergency Food Program “Sustainers Breakfast.”
7:30 – 8:30 a.m., Grace Memorial Episcopal Church, 1535 NE 17th Ave, Portland
No cost; a collection will be taken with all contributions going towards sustaining the Northeast Emergency Food Program (NEFP), a program of Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon. For reservations to the breakfast, contact EMO by March 23, at (503) 221-1054 or csiems@emoregon.org.

April 8-9, 2011
Grace in Cyber-Space: Sharing the Gospel in a post-Digital Age
Trinity Lutheran College, 2802 Wetmore Ave., Everett, WA 98201
The 2011 Lavik Series explores a faithful presence in cyberspace and using digital media to share about Jesus and the Good News, with the Rev. Eric H.F. Law as featured presenter.  Combining hands-on experience and theological-ethical reflection on the impact of computer technologies, this series of lectures and workshops will provide insight for living in a diverse and digitally-expanded world.  There is no cost to attend – including two meals.  The Lavik Series is an annual lecture event highlighting a current topic related to global evangelism, supported by the Lavik Endowment at Trinity.  For more information or to register online, visit www.tlc.edu/lavik, or call Tracy Weber at 425.249.4765.

April 8-10
High School Recharge Retreat
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

April 9
Portland Church World Service CROP Hunger Walk.
10:00 a.m., Union Gospel Mission, 3 N.W. Third Ave, Portland
The course is approximately three miles and will pass several homeless agencies in downtown Portland, as well as City Hall. Please contact Ron MacKenzie, the Coordinator, at ron.w.mackenzie@gmail.com for more information.

April 10
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

April 13
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

April 16
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

April 30 – May 2
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 1
Luther House Celebrates 85th Anniversary
Friends and alums of Luther House, save the date. Sunday, May 1 is designated as the day to celebrate 85 years of continuous Lutheran Campus Ministry in Corvallis. Morning worship, samplers of our ministry, and a appetizer and dessert buffet will make the day joyful. Awards, mementos, and the good fun of seeing old friends will round out the celebration. Watch for detailed information in the near future. Plan to join us for the party!

May 3-6
Lutheran Services in America Annual Conference
Hyatt Regency, Milwaukie, WI
www.lutheranservices.org for more information

May 7
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

May 8
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

May 11
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

May 14 – 16
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 21 – 23
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

June 3-5
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 8
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

June 10-12
Fire Up Your Educational Program with a weekend retreat at MacKenzie River Mountain resort.  Guest Presenters Nancy Gaston and Deb Mantey, in cooperation with Pastor Barbara Punch, are putting together a weekend for Congregational teachers and Education committees. Workshop sessions will include: What makes an Effective Teacher? and Teaching for Multiple Intelligences. (Cost for 2 night, meals and program under $100!) Plan to spend this Pentecost weekend adding a SPARK to your program.  Contact Barbara at oursaviorsprineville@gmail.com for more information.

June 12
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

June 18
Bible Study Event – To Lead and to Serve: The Gospel of Mark by Reverend Patricia Lull.
9:00 a.m. – 2:15 p.m., Calvary Lutheran Church, Hillsboro
The registration fee is $15.00 per person and includes lunch. Leaders Guides and Companion Bibles can also be ordered in advance when you register.  Contact Marcia McClanahan at 503-659-3440 or mcclanahan001@comcast.net

June 20-22
Pacific Lutheran University Summer Conference on Pastoral Theology – The Spiritual Formation of the Congregation
Drawing on the ancient wisdom of Christian practice and the insights of contemporary organizational development, congregational leaders will explore a focused yet flexible model of congregational life – one which cultivates the spiritual formation of the community of faith. In a highly interactive and group-focused process, lay and ordained leaders will compose a workable vision of spiritual formation for their congregations. Keynote Speaker, The Rev. Melissa Skelton is the Director of the College for Congregational Development and rector/pastor of St. Paul Episcopal Church, Seattle, WA.
Conference Fees: $350 with housing, $265 without housing, $175 retired with housing, $100 retired without housing.
www.plu.edu/congregations Rev. G. Lee Kluth, 253-535-7423, crel@plu.edu

June 22-24
Leadership Training School, Menucha (Columbia River Gorge)
Those going into 9th-12th grade who aspire to be leaders should contact Lisa Gray at zoaryouth@canby.com.  Congregations are encouraged to help identify and support high schoolers for this amazing program! 

June 23 – July 4
Pilgrimage to France.  Enjoy seeing sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Mont St. Michel and Loire Valley.  We will also visit the sacred sites of Taizé Community, Lisieux, and the Chartres Cathedral.  Led by Pastor Charles Mantey of St. Mark Church in Salem.  For more information contact Franciscan Spiritual Center, 503-794-8542, www.FrancisSpCtr.com

July 10
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

July 13
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

July 14-17
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com

July 18-22
Film & Faith for High School students aspiring to develop skills in video production.  Gary Eppelsheimer, film teacher from West Linn, in cooperation with Pastor John Reutter-Harrah, Deb Mantey, and others are creating a week-long program to combine film, storytelling, personal faith development and tons of fun! Help us identify those youth in your congregation for whom this would be a great way to spend a creative and productive week this summer.  More information coming!

July 31 – August 3
Association of Lutheran Church Musicians
Seattle University
www.alcm.org

August 6-13
HOLDEN VILLAGE ABRIENDO CAMINOS (OPENING PATHWAYS)
An annual week of Spanish programing for the Latino community and congregations in Latino outreach.  To register or seek further information, contact Registrar, Holden Village, HCO Box 2, Chelan, WA 98816-9769, email registrar@holdenvillage.org. Bilingual (English/Spanish) volunteers may contact staffing@holdenvillage.org.

August 10
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

August 14
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

September 30 – October 2
Oregon Synodical Women’s Organization convention
Newport, Oregon, Best Western Agate Beach Inn
The board is working on hard to put on an informative, and spirit led program that we hope will be intriguing and meaningful to all participants.  Watch the April Grapevine for more information about speakers and programs, as well as registration forms and information for delegates.

October 9
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

October 12
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

November 9
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

November 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

November 11-13
Youth Gathering

December 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

December 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Executive Director
Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries, Portland
Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries (NPNM) is seeking an Executive Director with vision, strategic thinking, administrative strengths, demonstrated evidence of financial development and a passion for community and/or faith-based health experience.  NPNM is an interfaith, non-profit agency that develops and supports faith community nursing/health ministries throughout the Pacific Northwest. The Executive Director represents the organization to partners, donors, community organizations and participating members. Apply if your leadership gifts match the vision of faith communities partnering for wellness.  For more information about NPNM, as well as the position responsibilities and qualifications, see www.npnm.org.  To apply, send a cover letter, resume and 3 references to warner@up.edu.  Deadline for applications: 1 March 2011.  Potential start date:  1 June 2011

Music Program Developer
Columbia City Church of Hope, Seattle
If interested, please send your resume and three letters of reference by March 4, 2011 to darla@columbiacityhope.org.  The position will be .25 FTE (with four Sundays paid vacation), working directly with and accountable to the pastor. Salary is $10,500.  Projected start date April 1, 2011.

Director
Prince of Peace Lutheran School (LCMS)
Bachelor’s degree in education and certification in early childhood education.  Experience in teaching, leadership, administration and staff supervision are required.  Resumes may be emailed to pdxpop.schoolboard@gmail.com and should be received no later than March 4 for consideration.

Teacher & Assistant teacher
Noah’s Ark Preschool, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Contact brenden.jessica@gmail.com for job description & application information.

Organist & choir accompanist.
Christ the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Salem.  This is a paid, part-time position. Applicants must have knowledge of pipe organ and piano, and must be able to play hymns, Lutheran liturgy and accompany choral anthems on sight. Must work with pastors and music director. Please submit your resume to Tanya at theelias3@netzero.net

Youth Leader Opportunity
Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, Newberg
The Youth Leader provides primary leadership for developing and implementing youth ministry.  Responsibilities include teaching high school Sunday School, organizing and leading weekly Bible Study/faith based fun activities and some weekend events.  The part time position is 10 hours/week.  Please send letter and/or resume to: Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, 1716 North Villa Road, Newberg, OR 97132 or call 503-538-0475, or e-mail joyfulservant@frontier.com.

Applications for summer 2011 employment at Camp Lutherwood are available now at www.lutherwood.org.  Must be 18 or older and able to serve for 9-10 weeks.  Room & board provided.

Preschool Director at Christian Preschool, approximately 22 hours per week, Sept. through May, 115 total hours June through August. Applicants  must love young children and be able to work well with others.  At least one year direct interaction with young children in a school setting is required. A job description is available upon request (503-256-1835).  Annual salary ranges from $15,000 to $17,000, depending upon education/experience. Start date is negotiable but needs to be filled prior to July 1, 2011. Interested applicants need to e-mail or mail resume  and cover letter to glchurch@aceweb.com  or  Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 11560 SE Market St., Portland, OR   97216, Attn. Church Office. Resumes must be submitted no later than February 28, 2011.

Organist & Choir Accompanist
Grace Lutheran Church, Corvallis
Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. E-mail resumes to office@grace97330.org, or call 541-757-1600 

Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland
Approximately 18 hours a week.  See www.allsaintspdx.com for further information about our music ministries.  The successful candidate for the position will be an inspired and inspiring director of our talented and enthusiastic volunteer chancel choir, organist, facilitate the musical and spiritual growth of our family choir and work with clergy, staff and diocesan peers in a team approach to music ministry.  Salary range $14,000-$18,000.  Applicants should address their qualifications for the  position in a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, pertinent copies of bulletins, programs or other relevant documents. Application materials and three separate letters of recommendation (all materials hardcopy please) should be sent to:  Christine McClave, All Saints Episcopal Church, 4033 SE Woodstock Blvd., Portland, OR 97202  (Internet: jamma43@comcast.net) a s soon as possible.

Part Time High School Youth Director
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Christian with some basic Lutheran Theological understanding, relates well and appropriately with teens, technically savvy, good communicator, motivated, self-starter, creative, team-player.  The candidate would need to be available Sundays and submit monthly reports to the Board of Education. The ability to work with pre-teens and a music background would be a long-term asset.  Starting at 10 hours per week (flexible schedule) with a vision of expansion as program grows. Rate of pay $13-$15.00 per hour depending on experience.  Resume should include a brief statement of faith – no more than 75 words.  Deadline January 25: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303N Church St, Silverton, OR 97381, immanuelluth@hotmail.com

January 27 Synod E-News

Excellence in Education Award nominations: As you consider the educational opportunities in your congregation, can you identify a person, team, or event that has been especially significant in the Christian education program in your congregation?  We invite you to nominate a person, team, or event to receive the Excellence in Education Award.  Please contact the synod office (503) 413-4191 office@oregonsynod.org for information and nomination forms.  Deadline is January 31.

Bishop’s Convocation February 7-9
Check-in begins at noon, lunch is on your own.  Opening Eucharist will be @ 2:00 p.m.  Closing Eucharist will be Wednesday morning.  Bishop Dave and the synod staff are looking forward to this gathering.

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to learn more about your faith?  Well, here’s an opportunity that you should not pass up.  The Lay School of Theology at Luther Seminary is a program of informal, non-credit classes taught by seminary professors for laypersons who want to learn more about matters that relate to their Christian faith and life.  There are two on-line classes this semester in which we can participate.  “The New (and Old) Religions Around Us” will be taught on Mondays from 5-7pm from February 7th – March 7th.  “Paul: Pastor at Large” is the class that will be taught March 28th through April 25th at the same time.  The fee per course is $60.  The congregation rate for webcast is $100 per course.  Each class is archived for three weeks for those who are registered.  Please register online at www.luthersem.edu/layschool.  For additional information, call the Center of Lifelong Learning at 651-641-3416 or send e-mail to kairos@luthersem.edu.

To earn a $150 personal wellness account credit, take your health assessment on the Mayo Clinic EmbodyHealth web portal (www.elcaforwellness.org). Pick a day to take it, and put it on your calendar. The health assessment opened January 1, 2011. Take it by April 30, 2011 so you help your employer earn a 2% discount on health contributions for all of 2011. (It remains open through September 30, 2011 as a courtesy to those enrolling in the health plan midyear.) 

Camp Lutherwood Summer Camp registration is now open.  Visit www.lutherwood.org for schedules & forms.

EVENTS:

January 28
Table Talk #2 – Biblical Sources for a Time of Ecological Crisis
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
Join members of the EcoFaith Leadership Core Team, Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke, and other lay and ordained leaders in faith for a conversation about Biblical perspectives for a time of ecological crisis. In advance of the gathering, please read the article “Love God, Love your Neighbor, Care for Creation” by Professor David Rhoads (who recently retired from Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago). The article is available for download at http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/table-talks/  Then come prepared for a stimulating discussion. Please RSVP by Wednesday, January 26th via this link: http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/table-talks/, or pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt at (503) 284-2331.

January 28
Lutheran Night
5:30 & 7:30 p.m., Concordia University Gymnasium, 2811 NE Holman St, Portland.
Women & Men’s Basketball v. The College of Idaho
Featuring dance teams, band & choirs, giveaways, contests, and more.  Bring a church bulletin from the month of January and get into the game for free!

January 29
Ordination/Installation of Roger Fuchs
11:00 a.m., Resurrection Lutheran Church, Portland
Lunch & reception to follow, Clergy are requested to vest – liturgical color is red.

January 29
Farewell party for Deb Mantey
3:00 – 6:00 p.m., Lorenzen Center, Emanuel Hospital, Portland
Please come celebrate the 13 years of ministry that Deb Mantey has accomplished during her time on the Oregon Synod staff.  There will be a short program at 4:30pm.  Finger food will be provided and there will be a no-host bar.  If you have a story, remembrance, or picture of Deb, please bring it on paper so that we can incorporate it into a memory book at the party.  (If you aren’t able to attend and would like to share a story, please mail the information to Becky Brown at 10120 SW Lancaster Road, Portland 97219 or use her e-mail address which follows.)  Also, we would like to accumulate enough cash so that we can give her a gift that would include a weekend on the Oregon Coast.  Please RSVP to either Bonny Groshong (503-233-4236 or bonnygroshong@yahoo.com) or Becky Brown (503-244-1797 or becky.brown@comcast.net) by January 25.  We look forward to seeing you there!

January 29
RIC Dinner and Presentation by Pastor Megan Rohrer
6:00 p.m., St. Paul Lutheran Church, corner of 13th & Franklin Streets, Downtown Vancouver
The Rev. Rohrer is the first openly transgender pastor ordained in the Lutheran Church and was officially received as an ELCA Pastor by Rite of Reception this past July in San Francisco.  A freewill offering will be taken to cover the costs of the meal.  Please RSVP with any dietary restrictions to portmetrolcna@yahoo.com. 

January 30
Presentation by The Rev. Megan Rohrer, first openly transgender pastor in the Lutheran Church
9:00 a.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland.

January 30
Installation of The Rev. Dawn Gregg
2:30 p.m., Faith Lutheran Church, Albany
Clergy invited to vest in green, reception following.

January 30
Annual RIC Worship Service
7:00 p.m., First Immanuel Lutheran Church, NW 19th & Irving Ave., Portland

January 31
Earth Care Summit
6:00 – 8:30 p.m., Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Ln, Portland
This annual event will include a locally grown dinner, inspirational keynote speaker and presentations from congregations about their greening efforts.
Pre-registration is required.  $30 ($20 for students & seniors), discounts of $5 are available for registrations before December 31; scholarships are also available.  Registrations forms are available online at www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon

February 2
Installation of The Rev. Gregory Fairow as Campus Pastor at Concordia University
10:00 a.m., St. Michael Lutheran Church, 6700 NE 29th Ave, Portland
Reception to follow

February 5
Oregon Synod Global Mission Event, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
Featured speaker will be The Rev. Kim Erno of the Lutheran Center in Mexico City.  For more information contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger, Zoar, Canby – Global Mission Committee Interim Chair

February 5
Installation of The Rev. Doug Vold
1:00 p.m., Ascension Lutheran Church, Medford
Clergy are invited to vest in green, reception following.

February 7-9
Bishop’s Convocation
Oregon Garden Resort, Silverton (correct 800 number is (800) 966-6490.  Also, the (503) 874-2500 number is correct as long as you dial “1″ first.)
For all Oregon Synod Clergy & Rostered Leaders

February 9-17
Israel: A Biblical pre-Lent tour of the Holy Land.
Contact The Rev. Dan B. Hallgrimson (541) 753-8581, prdan@comcast.net

February 12
Church Money 101
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland
For pastors, council members, treasurers, financial secretaries and everyone who handles numbers at your congregation.  Presented by the synod “Money Team.”
RSVP to traci@smpdx.org or call 503-777-1443, and let us know your role in handling money at your congregation.  $5 charge to cover food.

February 13
PLU Sunday
Please join congregations throughout ELCA Region 1 to lift up the work of higher education at Pacific Lutheran University during your worship services on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  Call 253-535-7424 or email crel@pu.edu the Office of Congregation Relations at Pacific Lutheran University to express your interest in participating.  You will be sent a PLU Sunday kit containing suggested text for your bulletins, bulletin board decorations, small giveaways, and a variety of PLU informational materials.

February 13
Installation of The Rev. Michael O’Berg
3:30 p.m., Resurrection Lutheran Church, Portland
Clergy are invited to vest in green, reception to follow.

February 13
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

February 18-19
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit http://catechumenate.org.

February 18-20
Chi Rho Series, Central Lutheran Church & NW Christian University Library
Dr. Gordon Lathrop is Emeritus Professor of Liturgy at Lutheran Tehological Seminary
Friday, February 18, 7:30 p.m.: Rare Beasts – What are the Gospels?  How do they shape Christian Worship? (Central Lutheran Church, Eugene)
Saturday, February 19, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: The Land of Unlikeness – How does the Gospel of Mark relate to the Christian assembly anciently and today?  (NW Christian Univeristy Library, room 203)
Saturday, February 19, 7:30 p.m.: Unique Adventures – What do the Gospels say about leadership in Christian assemblies for worship today?  (Central Lutheran Church, Eugene)
Sunday, February 20: Dr. Lathrop will be preaching in the 8:15 & 10:45 a.m. services and teaching in the 9:30 a.m. Adult Education hour @ Central Lutheran.

February 20
Installation of The Rev. Kelle Nelson-Bunkers
6:00 p.m., St. Paul Lutheran Church, Portland
Clergy are invited to vest in green, light refreshments following.

February 21-25
Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) annual retreat
Las Vegas, NV
Lutheran Clergy, both ELCA & LCMS who are currently active in recovery from alcoholism or addictions, or who are interested in being in recovery are welcome to attend.  More information is available at www.frlc.org or by contacting The Rev. Ed Treat (952) 884-2364, x16.

March 1
Not Just US: Being the Church in a Global Communion
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Salem Lutheran Church, Spokane, WA
Visit www.nrit.org for more information or to register

March 4-6
Renewal Weekend
United Lutheran Church, 2230 Washington St., Eugene
Dr. Christian Scharen, Assistant Professor of Worship at Luther Seminary, will be speaking on the topic of “Worship in Today’s World.”  Friday, March 4, 7:00 p.m.: “Faith in a Secular Age: What does it mean for people of faith to live in a post-Christian society?”  Saturday, March 5, 10:00 a.m.: “Constricted Imagination: How churches fail to connect to the vital challenges of God’s world today.”  6:15 p.m.: “Singing a Broken Hallelujah: How churches can join God’s creative and redeeming work in the midst of culture and change.”  Sunday, March 6, 9:45 a.m.: “Hearing the World’s Cries: Transfiguration as a model for Mission Today.”  Free and open to all.  Please call (541) 342-5808 for more information.

March 5
Care for Creation Training: Gracefully Greening every area of your Ministry
9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., Trinity Cooperative Ministries, 544 NE 2nd St, McMinnville, OR 97128
Oregon is one of the five ELCA synods chosen to take part in a pilot project by Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) which will train congregations to integrate Care for Creation into all aspects of their ministries.  This Biblically grounded, grace-filled approach will equip a group of 3-8 people from your congregation in a positive process that will enable your larger congregational membership to incorporate creation care into worship, education, building/grounds, home/work, and public ministry.  Your group will leave the training with an action plan to implement in your congregation.  Register by Sunday, February 20th at http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/ where you can also learn more about the training. If you prefer, you may contact Pastor Robyn Hartwig at (503) 646-0629, x211 or pastorrobyn@aol.com.

March 5-6
Middle School Rally
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene

March 6-9
Lutheran Staff Association Annual Conference/Retreat
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
Open to all Lay Ministers, staff or volunteer.  For more information visit http://lutheranstaffnw.org/

March 9
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

March 13
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

March 16-19
Basic Preparation for Faith Community Nurses & Health Ministers
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Univeristy of Portland, Frantz Hall, Room 231
$425 includes required materials & resources and $20 credit to first year membership.
The Baius Preparation Course for faith Community Nurses is a nationally endoresed curriculum from the International Parish Resource Center.  The American Nurses Association recognizes faith community nursing as a sub-specialty in nursing.  Faith community nursing holds the spiritual dimension as central to its practice.  Contact Sandy Madsen (503) 413-2341 sandym@npnm.org, www.npnm.org for more information & registration form.

March 18-28
Oregon Synod Awareness Trip to Mexico City
$1500 includes room & board, transportation, & program fees.
Contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger (503) 266-4061, ndovers@juno.com

March 25-28
Ecumenical Advocacy Days: Development, Security and Economic Justice – What’s Gender Got to Do with It?
Washington, D.C.
Be part of an action weekend addressing legislation that will equip you to speak boldly on behalf of people-centered sustainable development and economic justice, physical safety, security and peacemaking, with a particular focus on those most impacted — women, girls and families. Worship and dialogue with hundreds of faith-based advocates. Join us as we visit Capitol Hill to advocate remedying this global injustice. Lutheran activities are being planned. For scholarships, e-mail Jodi Deike at jodi.deike@elca.org or call 202-626-7947. More info: www.elca.org/advocacy

March 27 – April 2
Farm Worker Awareness Week.
Celebrate the contributions of farm workers in U.S. religious, economic and cultural life.  For education and action resources, go to the website of National Farm Worker Ministry www.nfwm.org or contact Rev. Ed Brandt, Oregon Farm Worker Ministry, Tel. 503-623-5153, email edgarbrandt@q.com.

April 8-10
High School Recharge Retreat
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

April 9
Portland Church World Service CROP Hunger Walk.
10:00 a.m., Union Gospel Mission, 3 N.W. Third Ave, Portland
The course is approximately three miles and will pass several homeless agencies in downtown Portland, as well as City Hall. Please contact Ron MacKenzie, the Coordinator, at ron.w.mackenzie@gmail.com for more information.

April 10
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

April 13
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

April 16
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

April 30 – May 2
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 3-6
Lutheran Services in America Annual Conference
Hyatt Regency, Milwaukie, WI
www.lutheranservices.org for more information

May 7
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR
www.lutherwood.org for more information

May 8
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

May 11
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

May 14 – 16
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

May 21 – 23
Holden Youth Weekend
$160/person includes round trip boat fare, lodging and meals, a t-shirt and program supplies.
Get leader packet and registration materials at www.tlc.edu/holden

June 3-5
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 8
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

June 10-12
Fire Up Your Educational Program with a weekend retreat at MacKenzie River Mountain resort.  Guest Presenters Nancy Gaston and Deb Mantey, in cooperation with Pastor Barbara Punch, are putting together a weekend for Congregational teachers and Education committees. Workshop sessions will include: What makes an Effective Teacher? and Teaching for Multiple Intelligences. (Cost for 2 night, meals and program under $100!) Plan to spend this Pentecost weekend adding a SPARK to your program.  Contact Barbara at oursaviorsprineville@gmail.com for more information.

June 12
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

June 20-22
Pacific Lutheran University Summer Conference on Pastoral Theology – The Spiritual Formation of the Congregation
Drawing on the ancient wisdom of Christian practice and the insights of contemporary organizational development, congregational leaders will explore a focused yet flexible model of congregational life – one which cultivates the spiritual formation of the community of faith. In a highly interactive and group-focused process, lay and ordained leaders will compose a workable vision of spiritual formation for their congregations. Keynote Speaker, The Rev. Melissa Skelton is the Director of the College for Congregational Development and rector/pastor of St. Paul Episcopal Church, Seattle, WA.
Conference Fees: $350 with housing, $265 without housing, $175 retired with housing, $100 retired without housing.
http://www.plu.edu/congregations Rev. G. Lee Kluth, 253-535-7423, crel@plu.edu

June 22-24
Leadership Training School, Menucha (Columbia River Gorge)
Those going into 9th-12th grade who aspire to be leaders should contact Lisa Gray at zoaryouth@canby.com.  Congregations are encouraged to help identify and support high schoolers for this amazing program! 

June 23 – July 4
Pilgrimage to France.  Enjoy seeing sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Mont St. Michel and Loire Valley.  We will also visit the sacred sites of Taizé Community, Lisieux, and the Chartres Cathedral.  Led by Pastor Charles Mantey of St. Mark Church in Salem.  For more information contact Franciscan Spiritual Center, 503-794-8542, www.FrancisSpCtr.com

July 10
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

July 13
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

July 14-17
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Registration opens September 15, 2010.  More information available soon.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com or visit http://www.elca.org/Growing-In-Faith/Ministry/Women-of-the-ELCA.aspx

July 18-22
Film & Faith for High School students aspiring to develop skills in video production.  Gary Eppelsheimer, film teacher from West Linn, in cooperation with Pastor John Reutter-Harrah, Deb Mantey, and others are creating a week-long program to combine film, storytelling, personal faith development and tons of fun! Help us identify those youth in your congregation for whom this would be a great way to spend a creative and productive week this summer.  More information coming!

July 31 – August 3
Association of Lutheran Church Musicians
Seattle University
www.alcm.org

August 6-13
HOLDEN VILLAGE ABRIENDO CAMINOS (OPENING PATHWAYS)
An annual week of Spanish programing for the Latino community and congregations in Latino outreach.  To register or seek further information, contact Registrar, Holden Village, HCO Box 2, Chelan, WA 98816-9769, email registrar@holdenvillage.org. Bilingual (English/Spanish) volunteers may contact staffing@holdenvillage.org.

August 10
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

August 14
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

September 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

October 9
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

October 12
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

November 9
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices

November 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

November 11-13
Youth Gathering

December 11
Jazz Vespers
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church, 1315 SW Park Ave, Portland

December 14
Project Believe! team meeting
3:00 p.m., Synod offices
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Teacher & Assistant teacher
Noah’s Ark Preschool, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Contact brenden.jessica@gmail.com for job description & application information.

Youth Leader Opportunity
Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, Newberg
The Youth Leader provides primary leadership for developing and implementing youth ministry.  Responsibilities include teaching high school Sunday School, organizing and leading weekly Bible Study/faith based fun activities and some weekend events.  The part time position is 10 hours/week.  Please send letter and/or resume to: Joyful Servant Lutheran Church, 1716 North Villa Road, Newberg, OR 97132 or call 503-538-0475, or e-mail joyfulservant@frontier.com.

Applications for summer 2011 employment at Camp Lutherwood are available now at www.lutherwood.org.  Must be 18 or older and able to serve for 9-10 weeks.  Room & board provided.

Preschool Director at Christian Preschool, Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Portland

Aapproximately 22 hours per week, Sept. through May, 115 total hours June through August. Applicants  must love young children and be able to work well with others.  At least one year direct interaction with young children in a school setting is required. A job description is available upon request (503-256-1835).  Annual salary ranges from $15,000 to $17,000, depending upon education/experience. Start date is negotiable but needs to be filled prior to July 1, 2011. Interested applicants need to e-mail or mail resume  and cover letter to glchurch@aceweb.com  or  Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 11560 SE Market St., Portland, OR   97216, Attn. Church Office. Resumes must be submitted no later than February 28, 2011.

 

Organist & Choir Accompanist
Grace Lutheran Church, Corvallis
Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. E-mail resumes to office@grace97330.org, or call 541-757-1600 

 

Part Time High School Youth Director
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Christian with some basic Lutheran Theological understanding, relates well and appropriately with teens, technically savvy, good communicator, motivated, self-starter, creative, team-player.  The candidate would need to be available Sundays and submit monthly reports to the Board of Education. The ability to work with pre-teens and a music background would be a long-term asset.  Starting at 10 hours per week (flexible schedule) with a vision of expansion as program grows. Rate of pay $13-$15.00 per hour depending on experience.  Resume should include a brief statement of faith – no more than 75 words.  Deadline January 25: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303N Church St, Silverton, OR 97381, immanuelluth@hotmail.com

Contemporary Music Director
Bethesda Lutheran Church, Eugene
This is a part time paid position. Please contact Larry Painter at (541) 689-4205, lw_painter_75@msn.com or Michelle (541) 688-9085 for more information.

December 29 Oregon Synod E-News

The 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering will be in New Orleans July 18-22.  For more information contact gathering@elca.org or visit http://www.elca.org/growing-in-faith/ministry/youth-ministry/youth-gathering/downloads.aspx

EVENTS:

January 3-21, 2011
Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry
Trinity Lutheran College (Everett, WA) will offer a three-week Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry, January 3-21, 2011.  The program is designed to equip church staff, volunteers, and pastors for effective leadership in congregational children, youth, and family ministry.  Students learn from a team of four faculty in a seminar format, including class discussions, presentations, videos, role plays, and more.  Topics include Biblical and theological foundations, Bible study methods, human lifespan development, creative programming, counseling and relational skills, and program administration.  Housing is available.
For more information, visit www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu.

January 8, 2011
Retirement party for Pastor Zane Wilson
1:00 – 4:00 p.m., Ascension Lutheran Church, Medford
All are welcome.

January 9, 2011
Lutheran Choral Association Christmas Concert
3:00 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Park Wy, Portland

January 16, 2011
Installation of The Rev. Glenn Chase
3:00 p.m., Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, Portland

January 16, 2011
Installation of The Rev. Eric Burtness
Zion Lutheran Church, Redmond

January 17-19, 2011
Byberg Preaching Workshop – Give Us Today Our Daily Bread: Preaching Abundant Life as Renewal for Creation
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
www.bybergpreaching.org
Three Sessions with Barbara Rossing: How do preachers address climate change and other environmental issues without depressing the listener? How do we preach Jesus’ radical vision of hope for our future in the face of urgent ecological crises? Drawing on lectionary texts for Year A we will explore ways to preach the kingdom of God as a narrative of renewal for all creation, through biblical themes of food justice, hospitality, and sustainability.
One Session with Ben Stewart: What formerly served as condemnation now serves as a gift: Preaching to Earth-creatures in the Ash Wednesday Era. In an age in which ecological news is consistently experienced as condemnation, how do preachers tell (and assemblies hear) the whole truth about the goodness of the earth, the ecological perils of our age, our rootedness in the earth, and the promise of the gospel?
Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke will preach at the opening Eucharist at 2:30 PM on Monday the 17th!

January 20, 2011
Christianity and Island: Facing fears to find Peace and Salaam, a lecture by Dr. Will Deming, U of P Theology Professor and author.
7:00 p.m., Bethel Lutheran Church, 5658 N Denver, Portland
Free-will offering, reception following
(503) 289-4919, www.bethelpdx.org

Janaury 25-27, 2011
Spiritual Formation Discovery Event
St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Beaverton OR
Directed by The Rev. Dr. Tom Ashbrook, ELCA pastor and former colleague of the Oregon Synod.  Tom’s book “Mansions of the Heart” explores a process of self- discovery based on the teachings of Teresa of Avila.  Register for the event on line at http://imagochristi.org/PortlandDiscovery012F11.aspx.  Cost for the three-day event is $195 and includes lunches.

January 28
Table Talk #2 – Biblical Sources for understanding our Human Vocation in a time of Ecological Crisis
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
The EcoFaith Leadership Core Team seeks to gather leaders of Lutheran and other faith communities to offer mutual support in our eco-spiritual leadership efforts, to create opportunities for deep education, reflection and agitation, and to reform/transform the consciousness of individuals, faith communities, institutions, and the societies in which we live.
Freewill offering.  Please R.S.V.P. to pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt (503) 284-2331.  Visit http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/
for more information.

January 29
Ordination/Installation of Roger Fuchs
Resurrection, Portland (time TBA)

January 31, 2011
Earth Care Summit
6:00 – 8:30 p.m., Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Ln, Portland
This annual event will include a locally grown dinner, inspirational keynote speaker and presentations from congregations about their greening efforts.
Pre-registration is required.  $30 ($20 for students & seniors), discounts of $5 are available for registrations before December 31; scholarships are also available.  Registrations forms are available online at www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
 
February 5, 2011
Oregon Synod Global Mission Event, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
Featured speaker will be The Rev. Kim Erno of the Lutheran Center in Mexico City.  For more information contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger, Zoar, Canby – Global Mission Committee Interim Chair

February 7-9, 2011
Bishop’s Convocation
Oregon Garden Resort, Silverton (correct 800 number is (800) 966-6490.  Also, the (503) 874-2500 number is correct as long as you dial “1″ first.)
For all Oregon Synod Clergy & Rostered Leaders

February 9-17, 2011
Israel: A Biblical pre-Lent tour of the Holy Land.
Contact The Rev. Dan B. Hallgrimson (541) 753-8581, prdan@comcast.net

February 12, 2011
Church Money 101, St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland
For pastors, council members, treasurers, financial secretaries and everyone who handles numbers at your congregation.  Presented by the synod “Money Team.”
RSVP to traci@smpdx.org or call 503-775-1443, and let us know your role in handling money at your congregation.  $5 charge to cover food.

February 13, 2011
PLU Sunday
Please join congregations throughout ELCA Region 1 to lift up the work of higher education at Pacific Lutheran University during your worship services on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  Call 253-535-7424 or email crel@pu.edu the Office of Congregation Relations at Pacific Lutheran University to express your interest in participating.  You will be sent a PLU Sunday kit containing suggested text for your bulletins, bulletin board decorations, small giveaways, and a variety of PLU informational materials.

February 18-19, 2011
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit http://catechumenate.org.

February 21-25, 2011
Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) annual retreat
Las Vegas, NV
Lutheran Clergy, both ELCA & LCMS who are currently active in recovery from alcoholism or addictions, or who are interested in being in recovery are welcome to attend.  More information is available at www.frlc.org or by contacting The Rev. Ed Treat (952) 884-2364, x16.

March 5-6, 2011
Middle School Rally
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene

March 6-9, 2011
Lutheran Staff Association Annual Conference/Retreat
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
Open to all Lay Ministers, staff or volunteer.  For more information visit http://lutheranstaffnw.org/

March 18-28, 2011
Oregon Synod Awareness Trip to Mexico City
$1500 includes room & board, transportation, & program fees.
Contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger (503) 266-4061, ndovers@juno.com

April 8-10, 2011
High School Recharge Retreat
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

April 16
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

May 3-6, 2011
Lutheran Services in America Annual Conference
Hyatt Regency, Milwaukie, WI
www.lutheranservices.org for more information

May 7
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

June 2011
Leadership Training School

June 3-5, 2011
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5, 2011
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 20-22, 2011
Pacific Lutheran University Summer Conference on Pastoral Theology – The Spiritual Formation of the Congregation
Drawing on the ancient wisdom of Christian practice and the insights of contemporary organizational development, congregational leaders will explore a focused yet flexible model of congregational life – one which cultivates the spiritual formation of the community of faith. In a highly interactive and group-focused process, lay and ordained leaders will compose a workable vision of spiritual formation for their congregations. Keynote Speaker, The Rev. Melissa Skelton is the Director of the College for Congregational Development and rector/pastor of St. Paul Episcopal Church, Seattle, WA.
Conference Fees: $350 with housing, $265 without housing, $175 retired with housing, $100 retired without housing.
http://www.plu.edu/congregations Rev. G. Lee Kluth, 253-535-7423, crel@plu.edu

June 23 – July 4
Pilgrimate to France.  Enjoy seeing sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Mont St. Michel and Loire Valley.  We will also visit the sacred sites of Taizé Community, Lisieux, and the Chartres Cathedral.  Led by Pastor Charles Mantey of St. Mark Church in Salem.  For more information contact Franciscan Spiritual Center, 503-794-8542, www.FrancisSpCtr.com
July 14-17, 2011
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Registration opens September 15, 2010.  More information available soon.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com or visit http://www.elca.org/Growing-In-Faith/Ministry/Women-of-the-ELCA.aspx

July 31 – August 3, 2011
Association of Lutheran Church Musicians
Seattle University
www.alcm.org

November 11-13, 2011
Youth Gathering
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Parish Secretary
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Beaverton
We are searching for a candidate with advanced office experience, including coordination of volunteer work assignments.  Qualifications: 3-5 years administrative assistance experience with a high level of computer skills, ability to use specialty software, and experience interfacing with web site management.   Strong management, leadership and communication skills; working knowledge of safety and security guidelines.  Submit cover letter, resume and contact information for 3 references to: Frances E. Mack, Parish manager, St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 12405 SW Butner Road, Beaverton, OR  97005.  E-Mail: jobs@standrewlutheran.com (503) 646-0629

Organist & Choir Accompanist
Grace Lutheran Church, Corvallis
Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. E-mail resumes to office@grace97330.org, or call 541-757-1600 

Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland
Approximately 18 hours a week.  See www.allsaintspdx.com for further information about our music ministries.  The successful candidate for the position will be an inspired and inspiring director of our talented and enthusiastic volunteer chancel choir, organist, facilitate the musical and spiritual growth of our family choir and work with clergy, staff and diocesan peers in a team approach to music ministry.  Salary range $14,000-$18,000.  Applicants should address their qualifications for the  position in a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, pertinent copies of bulletins, programs or other relevant documents. Application materials and three separate letters of recommendation (all materials hardcopy please) should be sent to:  Christine McClave, All Saints Episcopal Church, 4033 SE Woodstock Blvd., Portland, OR 97202  (Internet: jamma43@comcast.net) a s soon as possible.  We plan to fill the position by January 1, 2011.

Part Time High School Youth Director
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Christian with some basic Lutheran Theological understanding, relates well and appropriately with teens, technically savvy, good communicator, motivated, self-starter, creative, team-player.  The candidate would need to be available Sundays and submit monthly reports to the Board of Education. The ability to work with pre-teens and a music background would be a long-term asset.  Starting at 10 hours per week (flexible schedule) with a vision of expansion as program grows. Rate of pay $13-$15.00 per hour depending on experience.  Resume should include a brief statement of faith – no more than 75 words.  Deadline December 10: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303N Church St, Silverton, OR 97381, immanuelluth@hotmail.com

Contemporary Music Director
Bethesda Lutheran Church, Eugene
This is a part time paid position. Please contact Larry Painter at (541) 689-4205, lw_painter_75@msn.com or Michelle (541) 688-9085 for more information.

Organist/Pianist – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Coos Bay, OR
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (ELCA) is a traditional Christian worshipping congregation on Oregon’s South Coast with an active choral music program.  We are looking for a highly-skilled organist/pianist to accompany our worship and choirs.  Ten hours/week average, $625-$725/month.
Full Job Description available on web at www.gloriadeifamily.org
Contact David Aakre, Director of Church Music (541) 267-2347

December 16 E-News

The Synod office will be closed for the Christmas holiday on December 23 and 24, and for the New Year holiday on December 31.  Messages are checked on a regular basis for any requiring immediate response.  Bishop Dave and the synod staff wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Presiding Bishop Hanson’s Christmas message is available to read, watch, or download at http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/Office-of-the-Presiding-Bishop/Messages-and-Statements/101215christmas.aspx

The Rev. Zane Wilson has been serving as Ascension Lutheran’s interim pastor for almost 2 years.  Ascenson has called a new pastor and Zane is retiring.  They’re sending him home with a party and roast on Saturday, Jan. 8 from 1-4.  Ascension is preparing a program to talk about his career and is looking for stories and items of interest.  Stories may be sent to carla@ascensionlutheran.com or mailed to 2640 E. Barnett Rd., Ste. E-334, Medford, OR 97504. Of course, any of his friends are invited to attend.

The 2011 ELCA Youth Gathering will be in New Orleans July 18-22.  For more information contact gathering@elca.org or visit http://www.elca.org/growing-in-faith/ministry/youth-ministry/youth-gathering/downloads.aspx

A new Para-church organization has been formed to address the social skills necessary for effective leadership in the church.  It is the Center for Emotional Intelligence and Human Relations Skills (Center for EQ-HR Skills).  Executive Director of the group is Roy M. Oswald former senior consultant with the Alban Institute. He is an ordained Lutheran Pastor and resides in Boonsboro, MD.  This group sponsors workshops across this continent, many at denominational seminaries. Their target group is clergy, seminarians, and faith based leaders.  Their website is:  www.eqhrcenter.org

EVENTS:

December 16
nterfaith Vigil and Posada: Welcoming the Stranger
Vigil at 5pm, Terry Schrunk Plaza across from the Federal Building, 1220 SW 3rd Ave, Portland.  Fiesta at 5:30pm, First Congregational UCC Fellowship Hall, 1126 SW Park Ave, Portland

December 17
Advent Organ Recital
7:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, 790 Marion St NE, Salem
Free and open to the public.

December 19
Interfaith Peace Solidarity Rally, “A Call for Love and Understanding: Responding to Violence with Unity”
2:00 – 3:00 p.m., Pioneer Courthouse Square, downtown Portland

December 19
Installation of The Rev. Linda Easterling
2:30 p.m., Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Lebanon, OR
Reception to follow.  All clergy are invited to vest; color of the day is blue.

December 21
Grief Recovery – An Introduction
Franciscan Spirituality Center, Milwaukie
1:30 – 3:30 p.m., $15/person
We think of “death” only in the physical sense. Yet, life also brings us divorce, lost jobs & finances, disappointments–the very real death of hopes, dreams, & expectations. When we are told to get over it, our grief often goes inward, remains unresolved.  Learn the necessary steps to go through grief and recover the lost thread of aliveness in the fabric of your life.  info@francisspctr.com (503) 794-8542

January 3-21, 2011
Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry
Trinity Lutheran College (Everett, WA) will offer a three-week Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry, January 3-21, 2011.  The program is designed to equip church staff, volunteers, and pastors for effective leadership in congregational children, youth, and family ministry.  Students learn from a team of four faculty in a seminar format, including class discussions, presentations, videos, role plays, and more.  Topics include Biblical and theological foundations, Bible study methods, human lifespan development, creative programming, counseling and relational skills, and program administration.  Housing is available.
For more information, visit www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu.

January 8, 2011
Retirement party for Pastor Zane Wilson
1:00 – 4:00 p.m., Ascension Lutheran Church, Medford
All are welcome.

January 9, 2011
Lutheran Choral Association Christmas Concert
3:00 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Park Wy, Portland

January 16, 2011
Installation of The Rev. Glenn Chase
3:00 p.m., Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, Portland

January 16, 2011
Installation of The Rev. Eric Burtness
Zion Lutheran Church, Redmond

January 17-19, 2011
Byberg Preaching Workshop – Give Us Today Our Daily Bread: Preaching Abundant Life as Renewal for Creation
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
www.bybergpreaching.org
Three Sessions with Barbara Rossing: How do preachers address climate change and other environmental issues without depressing the listener? How do we preach Jesus’ radical vision of hope for our future in the face of urgent ecological crises? Drawing on lectionary texts for Year A we will explore ways to preach the kingdom of God as a narrative of renewal for all creation, through biblical themes of food justice, hospitality, and sustainability.
One Session with Ben Stewart: What formerly served as condemnation now serves as a gift: Preaching to Earth-creatures in the Ash Wednesday Era. In an age in which ecological news is consistently experienced as condemnation, how do preachers tell (and assemblies hear) the whole truth about the goodness of the earth, the ecological perils of our age, our rootedness in the earth, and the promise of the gospel?
Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke will preach at the opening Eucharist at 2:30 PM on Monday the 17th!

Janaury 25-27, 2011
Spiritual Formation Discovery Event
St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Beaverton OR
Directed by The Rev. Dr. Tom Ashbrook, ELCA pastor and former colleague of the Oregon Synod.  Tom’s book “Mansions of the Heart” explores a process of self- discovery based on the teachings of Teresa of Avila.  Register for the event on line at http://imagochristi.org/PortlandDiscovery012F11.aspx.  Cost for the three-day event is $195 and includes lunches.

January 28
Table Talk #2 – Biblical Sources for understanding our Human Vocation in a time of Ecological Crisis
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
The EcoFaith Leadership Core Team seeks to gather leaders of Lutheran and other faith communities to offer mutual support in our eco-spiritual leadership efforts, to create opportunities for deep education, reflection and agitation, and to reform/transform the consciousness of individuals, faith communities, institutions, and the societies in which we live.
Freewill offering.  Please R.S.V.P. to pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt (503) 284-2331.  Visit http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/
for more information.

January 29
Ordination/Installation of Roger Fuchs
Resurrection, Portland (time TBA)

January 31, 2011
Earth Care Summit
6:00 – 8:30 p.m., Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Ln, Portland
This annual event will include a locally grown dinner, inspirational keynote speaker and presentations from congregations about their greening efforts.
Pre-registration is required.  $30 ($20 for students & seniors), discounts of $5 are available for registrations before December 31; scholarships are also available.  Registrations forms are available online at www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
 
February 5, 2011
Oregon Synod Global Mission Event, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
Featured speaker will be The Rev. Kim Erno of the Lutheran Center in Mexico City.  For more information contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger, Zoar, Canby – Global Mission Committee Interim Chair

February 7-9, 2011
Bishop’s Convocation
Oregon Garden Resort, Silverton (correct 800 number is (800) 966-6490.  Also, the (503) 874-2500 number is correct as long as you dial “1″ first.)
For all Oregon Synod Clergy & Rostered Leaders

February 9-17, 2011
Israel: A Biblical pre-Lent tour of the Holy Land.
Contact The Rev. Dan B. Hallgrimson (541) 753-8581, prdan@comcast.net

February 12, 2011
Church Money 101, St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland
For pastors, council members, treasurers, financial secretaries and everyone who handles numbers at your congregation.  Presented by the synod “Money Team.”
RSVP to traci@smpdx.org or call 503-775-1443, and let us know your role in handling money at your congregation.  $5 charge to cover food.

February 13, 2011
PLU Sunday
Please join congregations throughout ELCA Region 1 to lift up the work of higher education at Pacific Lutheran University during your worship services on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  Call 253-535-7424 or email crel@pu.edu the Office of Congregation Relations at Pacific Lutheran University to express your interest in participating.  You will be sent a PLU Sunday kit containing suggested text for your bulletins, bulletin board decorations, small giveaways, and a variety of PLU informational materials.

February 18-19, 2011
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit http://catechumenate.org.

February 21-25, 2011
Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) annual retreat
Las Vegas, NV
Lutheran Clergy, both ELCA & LCMS who are currently active in recovery from alcoholism or addictions, or who are interested in being in recovery are welcome to attend.  More information is available at www.frlc.org or by contacting The Rev. Ed Treat (952) 884-2364, x16.

March 5-6, 2011
Middle School Rally
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene

March 6-9, 2011
Lutheran Staff Association Annual Conference/Retreat
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
Open to all Lay Ministers, staff or volunteer.  For more information visit http://lutheranstaffnw.org/

March 18-28, 2011
Oregon Synod Awareness Trip to Mexico City
$1500 includes room & board, transportation, & program fees.
Contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger (503) 266-4061, ndovers@juno.com

April 8-10, 2011
High School Recharge Retreat
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

April 16
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

May 3-6, 2011
Lutheran Services in America Annual Conference
Hyatt Regency, Milwaukie, WI
www.lutheranservices.org for more information

May 7
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

June 2011
Leadership Training School

June 3-5, 2011
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5, 2011
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 20-22, 2011
Pacific Lutheran University Summer Conference on Pastoral Theology – The Spiritual Formation of the Congregation
Drawing on the ancient wisdom of Christian practice and the insights of contemporary organizational development, congregational leaders will explore a focused yet flexible model of congregational life – one which cultivates the spiritual formation of the community of faith. In a highly interactive and group-focused process, lay and ordained leaders will compose a workable vision of spiritual formation for their congregations. Keynote Speaker, The Rev. Melissa Skelton is the Director of the College for Congregational Development and rector/pastor of St. Paul Episcopal Church, Seattle, WA.
Conference Fees: $350 with housing, $265 without housing, $175 retired with housing, $100 retired without housing.
http://www.plu.edu/congregations Rev. G. Lee Kluth, 253-535-7423, crel@plu.edu

June 23 – July 4
Pilgrimage to France.  Enjoy seeing sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Mont St. Michel and Loire Valley.  We will also visit the sacred sites of Taizé Community, Lisieux, and the Chartres Cathedral.  Led by Pastor Charles Mantey of St. Mark Church in Salem.  For more information contact Franciscan Spiritual Center, 503-794-8542, www.FrancisSpCtr.com
July 14-17, 2011
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Registration opens September 15, 2010.  More information available soon.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com or visit http://www.elca.org/Growing-In-Faith/Ministry/Women-of-the-ELCA.aspx

July 31 – August 3, 2011
Association of Lutheran Church Musicians
Seattle University
www.alcm.org

November 11-13, 2011
Youth Gathering
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Parish Secretary
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Beaverton
We are searching for a candidate with advanced office experience, including coordination of volunteer work assignments.  Qualifications: 3-5 years administrative assistance experience with a high level of computer skills, ability to use specialty software, and experience interfacing with web site management.   Strong management, leadership and communication skills; working knowledge of safety and security guidelines.  Submit cover letter, resume and contact information for 3 references to: Frances E. Mack, Parish manager, St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 12405 SW Butner Road, Beaverton, OR  97005.  E-Mail: jobs@standrewlutheran.com (503) 646-0629

Organist & Choir Accompanist
Grace Lutheran Church, Corvallis
Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. E-mail resumes to office@grace97330.org, or call 541-757-1600 

Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland
Approximately 18 hours a week.  See www.allsaintspdx.com for further information about our music ministries.  The successful candidate for the position will be an inspired and inspiring director of our talented and enthusiastic volunteer chancel choir, organist, facilitate the musical and spiritual growth of our family choir and work with clergy, staff and diocesan peers in a team approach to music ministry.  Salary range $14,000-$18,000.  Applicants should address their qualifications for the  position in a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, pertinent copies of bulletins, programs or other relevant documents. Application materials and three separate letters of recommendation (all materials hardcopy please) should be sent to:  Christine McClave, All Saints Episcopal Church, 4033 SE Woodstock Blvd., Portland, OR 97202  (Internet: jamma43@comcast.net) a s soon as possible.  We plan to fill the position by January 1, 2011.

Part Time High School Youth Director
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Christian with some basic Lutheran Theological understanding, relates well and appropriately with teens, technically savvy, good communicator, motivated, self-starter, creative, team-player.  The candidate would need to be available Sundays and submit monthly reports to the Board of Education. The ability to work with pre-teens and a music background would be a long-term asset.  Starting at 10 hours per week (flexible schedule) with a vision of expansion as program grows. Rate of pay $13-$15.00 per hour depending on experience.  Resume should include a brief statement of faith – no more than 75 words.  Deadline December 10: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303N Church St, Silverton, OR 97381, immanuelluth@hotmail.com

Contemporary Music Director
Bethesda Lutheran Church, Eugene
This is a part time paid position. Please contact Larry Painter at (541) 689-4205, lw_painter_75@msn.com or Michelle (541) 688-9085 for more information.

Organist/Pianist – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Coos Bay, OR
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (ELCA) is a traditional Christian worshipping congregation on Oregon’s South Coast with an active choral music program.  We are looking for a highly-skilled organist/pianist to accompany our worship and choirs.  Ten hours/week average, $625-$725/month.
Full Job Description available on web at www.gloriadeifamily.org
Contact David Aakre, Director of Church Music (541) 267-2347

December 1 E-News

January & February 2011 editions of “The Parish Paper” are available by contacting the Synod Offices office@oregonsynod.org (503) 413-4191

Camp Lutherwood News: Applications for summer 2011 employment are now available.  Applicants must be 18 years of age to apply.  Day Camp 2011 reservations are available NOW on the website www.lutherwood.org.  Also see the web-site for the 2011 summer camp schedule.

Bright Stars of Bethlehem, NFP, a not- for-profit charity founded to ensure that Christianity survives and thrives in the Middle East, dedicated the Mt. Murair campus of the Dar al-Kalima College in Bethlehem, Palestine on Tuesday, Nov. 30.  The college, which opened its doors Sept. 15, offers 2-year degrees in the arts, multimedia, communication and tourism studies and in other major academic disciplines. Dar al-Kalima College offers majors and courses not offered elsewhere in Palestine, which can mean new jobs and opportunities for graduates. More than 200 full-time students will attend classes  there and more than 1,000 people will participate in continuing education classes this academic year.  Bright Stars of Bethlehem, NFP, a 501 (c) (3) charity in the United States, was founded in 2003 to support educational, health and wellness, cultural and arts programs in the Holy Land. Its mission is to ensure that Christianity survives and thrives in the Middle East and to bring hope and healing to people in need. For more information visit www.brightstarsbethlehem.org
 
EVENTS:

December 1
Dinner and Lecture by Sara Miles
6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Common Table, 150 NW Oregon St, Bend
$50 includes dinner and a beverage.  Tickets available by calling Corry at (541) 388-0765 or corry@nativitybend.com

December 2
Lecture by Sara Miles
9:30 – 11:00 a.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 469 NW Wall St, Bend
Sara will offer some reflections and be available to sign books.
Freewill offering, call (541) 388-0765 for more information.

December 4
CIVIL WAR GAME-DAY PARKING ­ LUTHER HOUSE FUNDRAISER
Luther House is offering game day parking in the Grace Lutheran parking lot, thanks to the Grace Lutheran Church Council.  Parking attendants will greet you and your friends at the parking lot entrance. You give them a donation (we suggest $10 per car). You get all-day parking plus a coupon for the pre-and post-game open house at Luther House which includes refreshments. There will be receptacles for recycling and garbage strategically placed, but the Council’s condition of use is that there are no tailgate parties or drinking on premises.  Please support Luther House as you support your favorite team.

December 4
A Baroque Christmas Chautauqua Community Chorus Concert
7:00 p.m., St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 290 W Gloucester, Gladstone
Free-will offering to sponsor a mission team to Servia

December 4
A PLU Christmas
Pacific Lutheran University’s inspirational Christmas concert returns this year in Portland’s Schnitzer Concert Hall on Saturday, December 4 at 7:30pm. The program features the Choir of the West, University Chorale and members of the University Symphony Orchestra performing hymns, carols and a choral orchestral masterwork, all in the great tradition of Lutheran choral music.  For ticket information visit www.plu.edu/christmas or call (253) 535-7787

December 5
A Baroque Christmas Chautauqua Community Chorus Concert
3:00 p.m., St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 290 W Gloucester, Gladstone
Free-will offering to sponsor a mission team to Servia

 

December 9

Native Christmas Communion

6:30 p.m., St. Timothy Lutheran Church, 14500 SE Powell Blvd, Portland.  Contact The Rev. Chuck Hunt (503) 515-2053

 

December 10
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Matthew Episcopal Church, 11229 NE Prescott St, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

December 11
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Stephen Episcopal Church, 1432 SW 13th Ave, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

December 17
Advent Organ Recital
7:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, 790 Marion St NE, Salem
Free and open to the public.

December 19
Installation of The Rev. Linda Easterling
2:30 p.m., Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Lebanon, OR
Reception to follow.  All clergy are invited to vest; color of the day is blue.

January 3-21, 2011
Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry
Trinity Lutheran College (Everett, WA) will offer a three-week Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry, January 3-21, 2011.  The program is designed to equip church staff, volunteers, and pastors for effective leadership in congregational children, youth, and family ministry.  Students learn from a team of four faculty in a seminar format, including class discussions, presentations, videos, role plays, and more.  Topics include Biblical and theological foundations, Bible study methods, human lifespan development, creative programming, counseling and relational skills, and program administration.  Housing is available.
For more information, visit www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu.

January 9, 2011
Lutheran Choral Association Christmas Concert
3:00 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Park Wy, Portland

January 16, 2011
Installation of The Rev. Glenn Chase
3:00 p.m., Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, Portland

January 16, 2011
Installation of The Rev. Eric Burtness
Zion Lutheran Church, Redmond

January 17-19, 2011
Byberg Preaching Workshop – Give Us Today Our Daily Bread: Preaching Abundant Life as Renewal for Creation
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
www.bybergpreaching.org
Three Sessions with Barbara Rossing: How do preachers address climate change and other environmental issues without depressing the listener? How do we preach Jesus’ radical vision of hope for our future in the face of urgent ecological crises? Drawing on lectionary texts for Year A we will explore ways to preach the kingdom of God as a narrative of renewal for all creation, through biblical themes of food justice, hospitality, and sustainability.
One Session with Ben Stewart: What formerly served as condemnation now serves as a gift: Preaching to Earth-creatures in the Ash Wednesday Era. In an age in which ecological news is consistently experienced as condemnation, how do preachers tell (and assemblies hear) the whole truth about the goodness of the earth, the ecological perils of our age, our rootedness in the earth, and the promise of the gospel?
Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke will preach at the opening Eucharist at 2:30 PM on Monday the 17th!

January 28
Table Talk #2 – Biblical Sources for understanding our Human Vocation in a time of Ecological Crisis
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
The EcoFaith Leadership Core Team seeks to gather leaders of Lutheran and other faith communities to offer mutual support in our eco-spiritual leadership efforts, to create opportunities for deep education, reflection and agitation, and to reform/transform the consciousness of individuals, faith communities, institutions, and the societies in which we live.
Freewill offering.  Please R.S.V.P. to pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt (503) 284-2331.  Visit http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/
for more information.

January 31, 2011
Earth Care Summit
6:00 – 8:30 p.m., Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Ln, Portland
This annual event will include a locally grown dinner, inspirational keynote speaker and presentations from congregations about their greening efforts.
Pre-registration is required.  $30 ($20 for students & seniors), discounts of $5 are available for registrations before December 31; scholarships are also available.  Registrations forms are available online at www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
 
February 5, 2011
Oregon Synod Global Mission Event, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
Featured speaker will be The Rev. Kim Erno of the Lutheran Center in Mexico City.  For more information contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger, Zoar, Canby – Global Mission Committee Interim Chair

February 7-9, 2011
Bishop’s Convocation
Oregon Garden Resort, Silverton (correct 800 number is (800) 966-6490.  Also, the (503) 874-2500 number is correct as long as you dial “1″ first.)
For all Oregon Synod Clergy & Rostered Leaders

February 9-17, 2011
Israel: A Biblical pre-Lent tour of the Holy Land.
Contact The Rev. Dan B. Hallgrimson (541) 753-8581, prdan@comcast.net

February 12, 2011
Church Money 101, St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland
For pastors, council members, treasurers, financial secretaries and everyone who handles numbers at your congregation.  Presented by the synod “Money Team.”
RSVP to traci@smpdx.org or call 503-775-1443, and let us know your role in handling money at your congregation.  $5 charge to cover food.

February 13, 2011
PLU Sunday
Please join congregations throughout ELCA Region 1 to lift up the work of higher education at Pacific Lutheran University during your worship services on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  Call 253-535-7424 or email crel@pu.edu the Office of Congregation Relations at Pacific Lutheran University to express your interest in participating.  You will be sent a PLU Sunday kit containing suggested text for your bulletins, bulletin board decorations, small giveaways, and a variety of PLU informational materials.

February 18-19, 2011
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit http://catechumenate.org.

February 21-25, 2011
Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) annual retreat
Las Vegas, NV
Lutheran Clergy, both ELCA & LCMS who are currently active in recovery from alcoholism or addictions, or who are interested in being in recovery are welcome to attend.  More information is available at www.frlc.org or by contacting The Rev. Ed Treat (952) 884-2364, x16.

March 5-6, 2011
Middle School Rally
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene

March 6-9, 2011
Lutheran Staff Association Annual Conference/Retreat
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
Open to all Lay Ministers, staff or volunteer.  For more information visit http://lutheranstaffnw.org/

April 8-10, 2011
High School Recharge Retreat
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

April 16
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

May 3-6, 2011
Lutheran Services in America Annual Conference
Hyatt Regency, Milwaukie, WI
www.lutheranservices.org for more information

May 7
Spring Work Day
Camp Lutherwood, Cheshire, OR

June 2011
Leadership Training School

June 3-5, 2011
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5, 2011
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

July 14-17, 2011
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Registration opens September 15, 2010.  More information available soon.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com or visit http://www.elca.org/Growing-In-Faith/Ministry/Women-of-the-ELCA.aspx

 

July 31 – August 3, 2011

Association of Lutheran Church Musicians

Seattle University

visit www.alcm.org for more information

 

November 11-13, 2011
Youth Gathering
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland
Approximately 18 hours a week.  See www.allsaintspdx.com for further information about our music ministries.  The successful candidate for the position will be an inspired and inspiring director of our talented and enthusiastic volunteer chancel choir, organist, facilitate the musical and spiritual growth of our family choir and work with clergy, staff and diocesan peers in a team approach to music ministry.  Salary range $14,000-$18,000.  Applicants should address their qualifications for the  position in a cover letter, a curriculum vitae, pertinent copies of bulletins, programs or other relevant documents. Application materials and three separate letters of recommendation (all materials hardcopy please) should be sent to:  Christine McClave, All Saints Episcopal Church, 4033 SE Woodstock Blvd., Portland, OR 97202  (Internet: jamma43@comcast.net) as soon as possible.  We plan to fill the position by January 1, 2011.

Part Time High School Youth Director
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Silverton
Christian with some basic Lutheran Theological understanding, relates well and appropriately with teens, technically savvy, good communicator, motivated, self-starter, creative, team-player.  The candidate would need to be available Sundays and submit monthly reports to the Board of Education. The ability to work with pre-teens and a music background would be a long-term asset.  Starting at 10 hours per week (flexible schedule) with a vision of expansion as program grows. Rate of pay $13-$15.00 per hour depending on experience.  Resume should include a brief statement of faith – no more than 75 words.  Deadline December 10: Immanuel Lutheran Church, 303N Church St, Silverton, OR 97381, immanuelluth@hotmail.com

Contemporary Music Director
Bethesda Lutheran Church, Eugene
This is a part time paid position. Please contact Larry Painter at (541) 689-4205, lw_painter_75@msn.com or Michelle (541) 688-9085 for more information.

Organist/Pianist – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Coos Bay, OR
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (ELCA) is a traditional Christian worshipping congregation on Oregon’s South Coast with an active choral music program.  We are looking for a highly-skilled organist/pianist to accompany our worship and choirs.  Ten hours/week average, $625-$725/month.
Full Job Description available on web at www.gloriadeifamily.org
Contact David Aakre, Director of Church Music (541) 267-2347

November 17 e-news

The Synod Offices will close at noon on Wednesday, November 24 for the Thanksgiving Holiday and will re-open at 8:30 on Tuesday, November 30.  Messages will be checked and responded to in case of pastoral emergencies.  Bishop Dave and the synod staff wish everyone a safe and blessed holiday.

Fall Lutheran World Relief ingathering: 39,290 pounds, consisting of: 4720 quilts, 131 blankets, 443 pounds of soap, 6791 school kits, 1785 health kits, 254 sewing kits, 50 pieces of yardage, and 755 layettes.  For more information about this or the spring ingathering contact Larry & Phyllis Vachal vachall@aol.com

Free!  Communion trays, paten, and cover.  Stainless steel, good condition.  Contact Judy at Gethsemane Lutheran Church (503) 256-1835.

We are looking for 50-60 green hymnals in good condition.  Please contact me at guynrobin@hotmail.com – thank you for your help!  Robin Bradley, VP, Prairie Peace Lutheran Church, Cut Bank, MT

Is your congregation interested in preparing clergy and lay leaders to intervene in and prevent family violence and to create safe congregations and facilities?  You are invited to apply for a three-day “Safe and Healthy Congregations” Lutheran Advocates for Safe Families training session to be held February 2-4, 2011, in San Francisco, California.  Each three-day training event will educate and equip congregational leaders in the area of adult domestic violence prevention, healthy teen relationships, reducing the risk for child abuse and pastoral care for survivors. Through these practical events, ELCA congregational leaders become part of the larger constellation of this church, fulfilling the call to denounce and combat domestic violence and violence against women.  The Lutheran Community Foundation is making the training, materials and lodging available at no cost, and they may also provide some financial assistance for travel upon acceptance to the training.  More information on the training is available at www.thelcf.org/lasf_training_info.  Application is due no later than December 1, 2010. The application is available online at www.thelcf.org/safe_families_training.  If you have questions, please contact Susan at Susan.Hayes@thelcf.org.

Church Publishing Incorporated (CPI) has launched www.buildfaith.org, an ecumenical online community expressly designed for Christian Educators and faith formation leaders from across the denominational spectrum.  The new website features a forum for sharing knowledge and best practices, offering practical tools, links, and encouragement.  Complementing the www.buildfaith.org are related links for people to follow via Facebook, Twitter and RSS feeds, plus a variety of other links to professional faith-formation resources and organizations.

Trinity Lutheran Seminary Spring On-Line Course Offering: The Church and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Working for Peace in the Holy Land
An introduction to the history, politics, and religious and ethical dimensions of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.  The church has addressed this conflict for a number of years on a variety of specific topics that will be incorporated in the readings, study and on-line discussion.  February 1 – May 17, 2 credit hours.  Students outside the Trinity community must apply and register as non-degree students.  614-235-4136 x 4632 registrar@tlsohio.edu, http://www.trinitylutheranseminary.edu/office-of-the-registrar
EVENTS:

November 18
“Who Is Our Neighbor: Imagining Beyond Our Borders” 2010 Collins Lecture
7:00 p.m., First Baptist Church, 909 SW 11th Ave, Portland
The cost to attend the lecture is $10 per person. Download a registration brochure at www.emoregon.org or call (503) 221-1054 for more information.
The keynote speakers will be the Rev. Dr. S. Wesley Ariarajah, a Methodist minister and professor at the Drew School of Theology, and the Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC) and an ordained Assemblies of God pastor.

November 19
Table Talk #1 – Organizing in the Biocommons: An Introduction
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
Leaders of Lutheran and other faith communities will gather to offer mutual support in our eco-spiritual leadership efforts, create opportunities for deep education, reflection and agitation, and reform/transform the consciousness of individuals, faith communities, institutions, and the societies in which we live. Learn more and RSVP to any of the following by this Thursday, November 18th at 3:00 p.m.: http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/,  pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt (503) 284-2331.

November 19
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., Pilgrim LUtheran Church, 4244 SE 91st Ave, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

November 20
Care for Creation Training: Gracefully Greening every area of your Ministry
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Beaverton
Oregon is one of the five ELCA synods chosen to take part in a pilot project by Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) which will train congregations to integrate Care for Creation into all aspects of their ministry.  This Biblically grounded, grace-filled approach will equip a group of 3-8 people from your congregation in a positive process that will enable your members to gradually green every area of ministry including worship, education, building/grounds, home/work, and public ministry.  Your group will leave the training with an action plan to implement in your congregation.  This workshop will be led by The Revs. Brian Brandt, Aimee Bruno, Matthew Eagan, and Robyn Hartwig, all of whom have been trained by LRC.  Register by Thursday, November 18th at http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/ where you can also learn more about the training. If you prefer, you may contact Pastor Robyn Hartwig at (503) 646-0629, x211 or pastorrobyn@aol.com.

November 21
Advent Fair
9:45 – 11:00 a.m., Milwaukie Lutheran Church, 3810 SE Lake Rd, Milwaukie
Many activities for families and individuals of all ages to do including wreath making, gingerbread houses, making yummy food, and a lot more.  Come join us as we prepare for the season of Advent leading up to Christmas and the birth of our Savior. 
 
November 21
Online Town Hall Forum with Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson
5:00 p.m., EST.  Use the online tool kit at www.elca.org/townhall to plan a viewing party.  Watch the event live and submit your question for the presiding bishop at www.elca.org/townhall.  Post comments using Facebook Connect.  Tweet about the event using hashtag #ELCA.  View open captioning.  Whether or not you have a question to ask the presiding bishop, you will be part of building community with the more than 10,000 congregations across this church.

November 24
Interfaith Thanksgiving Service
7:00 p.m., First Christian Church, 1314 SW Park Avenue (across from the South Park Blocks), Portland
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (EMO), the downtown congregations and various interfaith partners. City of Portland Commissioner Nick Fish will read President Obama’s Thanksgiving Proclamation. Faith leaders participating include: Ms. Lynne Joy Nesbitt and the Baha’i Choir, Rabbi Michael Cahana of Congregation Beth Israel, Rev. Mark Schlessman and the choir of the First Christian Church, Fr. Steve Newton of St. Vincent de Paul Downtown Chapel, Mr. Wajdi Said of the Muslim Educational Trust, and Gail Chen of the Tzu Chi Foundation (Buddhism).

December 1
HIV Day Center Fundraiser Breakfast.
7:30 – 8:30 a.m., Concordia University
No cost; a collection will be taken with all contributions going towards sustaining Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon’s (EMO) HIV Day Center. As the only HIV drop-in center serving greater Portland’s most vulnerable, low-income, HIV-positive individuals, the HIV Day Center provides over 700 meals each month to low income people living with HIV/AIDS in addition to counseling, recreational therapy, computers, phones, laundry, clothing and showers. For reservations to the breakfast, contact EMO by Nov. 24 at (503) 221-1054 or emo@emoregon.org.

December 1
Dinner and Lecture by Sara Miles
6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Common Table, 150 NW Oregon St, Bend
$50 includes dinner and a beverage.  Tickets available by calling Corry at (541) 388-0765 or corry@nativitybend.com

December 2
Lecture by Sara Miles
9:30 – 11:00 a.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 469 NW Wall St, Bend
Sara will offer some reflections and be available to sign books.
Freewill offering, call (541) 388-0765 for more information.

December 4
CIVIL WAR GAME-DAY PARKING ­ LUTHER HOUSE FUNDRAISER
Luther House is offering game day parking in the Grace Lutheran parking lot, thanks to the Grace Lutheran Church Council.  Parking attendants will greet you and your friends at the parking lot entrance. You give them a donation (we suggest $10 per car). You get all-day parking plus a coupon for the pre-and post-game open house at Luther House which includes refreshments. There will be receptacles for recycling and garbage strategically placed, but the Council’s condition of use is that there are no tailgate parties or drinking on premises.  Please support Luther House as you support your favorite team.

December 4
A Baroque Christmas Chautauqua Community Chorus Concert
7:00 p.m., St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 290 W Gloucester, Gladstone
Free-will offering to sponsor a mission team to Servia

December 4
A PLU Christmas
Pacific Lutheran University’s inspirational Christmas concert returns this year in Portland’s Schnitzer Concert Hall on Saturday, December 4 at 7:30pm. The program features the Choir of the West, University Chorale and members of the University Symphony Orchestra performing hymns, carols and a choral orchestral masterwork, all in the great tradition of Lutheran choral music.  For ticket information visit www.plu.edu/christmas or call (253) 535-7787

December 5
A Baroque Christmas Chautauqua Community Chorus Concert
3:00 p.m., St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 290 W Gloucester, Gladstone
Free-will offering to sponsor a mission team to Servia

December 10
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Matthew Episcopal Church, 11229 NE Prescott St, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

December 11
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Stephen Episcopal Church, 1432 SW 13th Ave, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

December 19
Installation of The Rev. Linda Easterling
2:30 p.m., Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Lebanon, OR

January 3-21, 2011
Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry
Trinity Lutheran College (Everett, WA) will offer a three-week Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry, January 3-21, 2011.  The program is designed to equip church staff, volunteers, and pastors for effective leadership in congregational children, youth, and family ministry.  Students learn from a team of four faculty in a seminar format, including class discussions, presentations, videos, role plays, and more.  Topics include Biblical and theological foundations, Bible study methods, human lifespan development, creative programming, counseling and relational skills, and program administration.  Housing is available.
For more information, visit www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu.

January 9, 2011
Lutheran Choral Association Christmas Concert
3:00 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Park Wy, Portland

January 28
Table Talk #2 – Biblical Sources for understanding our Human Vocation in a time of Ecological Crisis
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
The EcoFaith Leadership Core Team seeks to gather leaders of Lutheran and other faith communities to offer mutual support in our eco-spiritual leadership efforts, to create opportunities for deep education, reflection and agitation, and to reform/transform the consciousness of individuals, faith communities, institutions, and the societies in which we live.
Freewill offering.  Please R.S.V.P. to pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt (503) 284-2331.  Visit http://www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training/
for more information.

January 31, 2011
Earth Care Summit
6:00 – 8:30 p.m., Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Ln, Portland
This annual event will include a locally grown dinner, inspirational keynote speaker and presentations from congregations about their greening efforts.
Pre-registration is required.  $30 ($20 for students & seniors), discounts of $5 are available for registrations before December 31; scholarships are also available.  Registrations forms are available online at www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
 
February 4, 2011
Oregon Synod Global Mission Event, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
Featured speaker will be The Rev. Kim Erno of the Lutheran Center in Mexico City.  For more information contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger, Zoar, Canby – Global Mission Committee Interim Chair

February 7-9, 2011
Bishop’s Convocation
Oregon Gardens
For all Oregon Synod Clergy & Rostered Leaders

February 9-17, 2011
Israel: A Biblical pre-Lent tour of the Holy Land.
Contact The Rev. Dan B. Hallgrimson (541) 753-8581, prdan@comcast.net

February 12, 2011
Church Money 101, St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland
For pastors, council members, treasurers, financial secretaries and everyone who handles numbers at your congregation.  Presented by the synod “Money Team.”
RSVP to traci@smpdx.org or call 503-775-1443, and let us know your role in handling money at your congregation.  $5 charge to cover food.

February 13, 2011
PLU Sunday
Please join congregations throughout ELCA Region 1 to lift up the work of higher education at Pacific Lutheran University during your worship services on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  Call 253-535-7424 or email crel@pu.edu the Office of Congregation Relations at Pacific Lutheran University to express your interest in participating.  You will be sent a PLU Sunday kit containing suggested text for your bulletins, bulletin board decorations, small giveaways, and a variety of PLU informational materials.

February 18-19, 2011
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit http://catechumenate.org.

February 21-25, 2011
Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) annual retreat
Las Vegas, NV
Lutheran Clergy, both ELCA & LCMS who are currently active in recovery from alcoholism or addictions, or who are interested in being in recovery are welcome to attend.  More information is available at www.frlc.org or by contacting The Rev. Ed Treat (952) 884-2364, x16.

March 5-6, 2011
Middle School Rally
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene

March 6-9, 2011
Lutheran Staff Association Annual Conference/Retreat
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
Open to all Lay Ministers, staff or volunteer.  For more information visit http://lutheranstaffnw.org/

June 2011
Leadership Training School

June 3-5, 2011
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5, 2011
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

July 14-17, 2011
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Registration opens September 15, 2010.  More information available soon.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com

November 11-13, 2011
Youth Gathering
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Contemporary Music Director
Bethesda Lutheran Church, Eugene
This is a part time paid position. Please contact Larry Painter at (541) 689-4205, lw_painter_75@msn.com or Michelle (541) 688-9085 for more information.

Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland, Oregon seeks a part-time Director of Music Ministries to both build upon and expand its currently strong and vibrant music ministries. For the full position announcement and job description, contact Christine McClave, jamma43@gmail.com  or 503 771-8529;  or go www.allsaintspdx.com 

Children’s Choir Director
West Linn Lutheran Church, West Linn
Please visit our website at www.wllc.org for more information and how to apply.  The contact is Susan Swizer and can be reached via email at westlinnlutheran@live.com. 

Executive Director
Samaritan Counseling Center, Fairbanks, Alaska
Contact The Rev. Susan Granata at clcpastor@mosquitonet.com
 
Organist/Pianist – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Coos Bay, OR
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (ELCA) is a traditional Christian worshipping congregation on Oregon’s South Coast with an active choral music program.  We are looking for a highly-skilled organist/pianist to accompany our worship and choirs.  Ten hours/week average, $625-$725/month.
Full Job Description available on web at www.gloriadeifamily.org
Contact David Aakre, Director of Church Music (541) 267-2347

November 3 E-News

For those who are working at building relationships in a changing community or broading your skills at cultural competency, we hope you will register NOW for Kaleidoscope Institute’s A New Heaven and A New Earth training this Saturday at St. Timothy Portland.  Registration includes lunch and program materials.  There is a group discount.  Register online at www.pnwumc.org (click “Training Events” and then “A New Heaven and A New Earth”)

The ELCA Justice for Women program’s work on violence against women, including domestic violence, is made possible by a generous grant from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Please take a moment to fill out a brief questionnaire about various ways that the ELCA Justice for Women program works against domestic violence. Simply click on the link to go directly to the questionnaire. If you have any questions, contact Victoria Flood, ELCA Research & Evaluation, at Victoria.Flood@elca.org.  Please complete this questionnaire no later than November 15, 2010. Thank you — your feedback is valued!  Survey link:  http://archive.elca.org/cgi-bin/rws/rws5.pl?FORM=dvgrant

EVENTS:

November 5-6
Focus on Youth Ministry: Peer Ministry Training
Trinity Lutheran College, 2802 Wetmore Ave., Everett, WA 98201
Lyle Griner, national director of Peer Ministry Leadership, will lead a two-day training event for youth ministry staff, pastors, volunteers, and young people.  Peer Ministry empowers youth for important roles as leaders and listeners among their peers.  Participants will be equipped to facilitate training in practical ministry skills within churches, camps, college ministries, and other groups.  Only $99 per adult – including training manual!  For more information about this events, including registration materials, go to www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter, or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu. 

November 6
“A New Heaven and A New Earth” Cultural Competency Training for the Northwest
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Portland
An ecumenical workshop that assists in building skills to effectively communicate with a diversity of people, to initiate and deepen relationship across cultural, ethnic, and racial difference.
Early registration $25 through October 24, late registration $35 through October 31.  Group discount: every 5th participant attends free.  Register online at www.pnwumc.org (click “Training Events” and then “A New Heaven and A New Earth”) or call (206) 870-6820 to request a registration form.

November 7
Lutheran Lifelong Learning Network NW presents “God & Violence – how do we understand the OT Stories?”
Worship 11:00 a.m., followed by lunch and then program from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, 6730 N 17th St, Tacoma WA
Diane Jacobson, Director of the ELCA Book of Faith Initiative and recently retired professor of OT Studies at Luthera Seminary.  R.S.V.P. Marcia Riggers, riggersmk@comcast.net

November 7
Installation of the Rev. Charles Mantey
3:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, Salem

November 8 – December 18
Exploring Seminary online course
Learn the fundamentals of theological education and interact with other students and our professor, Dr. Craig Nessan, Academic Dean at Wartburg
Theological Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa.  $50 technology fee.  For more information contact admissions@wartburgseminary.edu

November 9
Clergy Wellness Breakfast
10:00 a.m. – noon, Westside Community Church, 4000 SW Western Blvd., Corvallis
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon Interfaith Food & Farms Parnership hosts this free event to provide inspiration and practical resources for faith leaders interested in health ministry, health equity issues, and a faith-based approach to chronic disease prevention.
Pre-registration required: emo@emoregon.org or (503) 221-1054 by November 5.  Contact Laura Raymond lraymond@emoregon.org or (503) 939-7507 for more information.

November 10
Portland Lutheran School open house
4:00 – 7:00 p.m., 740 SE 182nd, Portland
www.portland-lutheran.org, (503) 667-3199 x354

November 12
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Matthew Episcopal Church, 11229 NE Prescott St, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

November 12-14
High School Youth Gathering – “Living into the Future Together”
Information may be found at: http://www.oregonsynod.org/growingfaith/ministries/youth/10msrally.pdf.  They can be accessed through the link at the top of http://www.oregonsynod.org/growingfaith/ministries/youth.htm which reads “PDF MS 2010 OLYO Reg Forms.”

November 13
Northwest Farm Worker support meeting
10:00 a.m. – noon, Richland Public Library, Richland, WA
Thanks to Madeleine Brown, Richland; Arturo Sepulveda, United Farm Workers; and John Nichols, Oregon Farm Worker Ministry for moving forward this event of education, solidarity and action.  We look forward to hearing an update from Ruby Ridge Dairy workers, continuing support for them (and all NW immigrant farm workers).  If your organization or faith community would like to co-sponsor and help plan the agenda, please contact me as soon as possible.  Thanks!
Ed Brandt, President, Oregon Farm Worker Ministry, Tel. 503-623-5153, edgarbrandt@q.com

November 13
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Michael & All Angels, 1704 NE 43rd Ave, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

November 14
Fair Trade Handcraft Festival
9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 10390 SW Canyon Road, Beaverton
Handcrafts from Africa and around the world. Coffee, chocolate, and teas also available. Call the church for more information at 503.644.9148.

November 14
Lutherwood Association Gathering
3:00 – 5:00 p.m., St. John Lutheran Church, 1350 Court Street NE, Salem, OR
All congregations who are members of the Camp Lutherwood Association are requested to send three delegates (one clergy, two lay leaders) to this event.  The 2011 budget will be presented for approval, update on 2010 and 2011 programs, facility update, and report on master site planning. Refreshments will be served. Please come and support Camp Lutherwood with your voice and vote.  R.S.V.P. office@lutherwood.org

November 14
Installation of the Rev. Laura O’Brien
4:00 p.m., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Albany

November 14
JAZZ VESPERS ALIVE
5:00 p.m., St. James Lutheran Church Portland (1 block from Portland streetcar on corner of SW Park Ave. & Jefferson)
Please come to hear, sing, and worship in this refreshing new service. Jazz pianist Graham Covington and bass player Dennis Caiazza are guest musicians for this 45 minute service. Groups, families and children are welcome!  For more info contact Nancy Nickel nancyn@stjamespdx.org or (503) 227-2439.

November 16
Day of Homelessness Awareness walk to the new 13 Salmon Family Day Center at First Unitarian Church
7:00 a.m., Downtown Chapel Roman Catholic Parish, SW 6th & Burnside, Portland
People who are homeless must often rise early to break camp and start walking; consider this an opportunity to gain awareness of how it feels to be in their shoes.  You can also bring a blanket, socks, or a coat to donate and drop them off at the Day Center.

November 18
“Who Is Our Neighbor: Imagining Beyond Our Borders” 2010 Collins Lecture
7:00 p.m., First Baptist Church, 909 SW 11th Ave, Portland
The cost to attend the lecture is $10 per person. Download a registration brochure at www.emoregon.org or call (503) 221-1054 for more information.
The keynote speakers will be the Rev. Dr. S. Wesley Ariarajah, a Methodist minister and professor at the Drew School of Theology, and the Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC) and an ordained Assemblies of God pastor.

November 19
Table Talk #1 – Organizing in the Biocommons: An Introduction
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
The EcoFaith Leadership Core Team seeks to gather leaders of Lutheran and other faith communities to offer mutual support in our eco-spiritual leadership efforts, to create opportunities for deep education, reflection and agitation, and to reform/transform the consciousness of individuals, faith communities, institutions, and the societies in which we live.
Freewill offering.  Please R.S.V.P. to pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt (503) 284-2331.  Visit www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training for more information.

November 19
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., Pilgrim LUtheran Church, 4244 SE 91st Ave, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

November 20
Care for Creation Training: Gracefully Greening every area of your Ministry
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Beaverton
Oregon is one of the five ELCA synods chosen to take part in a pilot project by Lutherans Restoring Creation (LRC) which will train congregations to integrate Care for Creation into all aspects of their ministry.  This Biblically grounded, grace-filled approach will equip a group of 4-8 people from your congregation in a positive process that will enable your members to gradually green every area of ministry including worship, education, building/grounds, home/work, and public ministry.  Your group will leave the training with an action plan to implelemt in your congregation.  This workshop will be led by The Revs. Brian Brandt, Aimee Bruno, Matthew Eagan, and Robyn Hartwig, all whom have been trained by LRC.  To learn more or schedule an introductory presentation for your leaders, contact Pastor Robyn Hartwig at (503) 646-0629, x211 or pastorrobyn@aol.com

December 1
HIV Day Center Fundraiser Breakfast.
7:30 – 8:30 a.m., Concordia University
No cost; a collection will be taken with all contributions going towards sustaining Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon’s (EMO) HIV Day Center. As the only HIV drop-in center serving greater Portland’s most vulnerable, low-income, HIV-positive individuals, the HIV Day Center provides over 700 meals each month to low income people living with HIV/AIDS in addition to counseling, recreational therapy, computers, phones, laundry, clothing and showers. For reservations to the breakfast, contact EMO by Nov. 24 at (503) 221-1054 or emo@emoregon.org.

December 1
Dinner and Lecture by Sara Miles
6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Common Table, 150 NW Oregon St, Bend
$50 includes dinner and a beverage.  Tickets available by calling Corry at (541) 388-0765 or corry@nativitybend.com

December 2
Lecture by Sara Miles
9:30 – 11:00 a.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 469 NW Wall St, Bend
Sara will offer some reflections and be available to sign books.
Freewill offering, call (541) 388-0765 for more information.

December 4
CIVIL WAR GAME-DAY PARKING ­ LUTHER HOUSE FUNDRAISER
Luther House is offering game day parking in the Grace Lutheran parking lot, thanks to the Grace Lutheran Church Council.  Parking attendants will greet you and your friends at the parking lot entrance. You give them a donation (we suggest $10 per car). You get all-day parking plus a coupon for the pre-and post-game open house at Luther House which includes refreshments. There will be receptacles for recycling and garbage strategically placed, but the Council’s condition of use is that there are no tailgate parties or drinking on premises.  Please support Luther House as you support your favorite team.

December 4
A PLU Christmas
Pacific Lutheran University’s inspirational Christmas concert returns this year in Portland’s Schnitzer Concert Hall on Saturday, December 4 at 7:30pm. The program features the Choir of the West, University Chorale and members of the University Symphony Orchestra performing hymns, carols and a choral orchestral masterwork, all in the great tradition of Lutheran choral music.  For ticket information visit www.plu.edu/christmas or call (253) 535-7787

December 10
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Matthew Episcopal Church, 11229 NE Prescott St, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

December 11
“The Sound of Portland” Portland Chamber Music
7:00 – 8:00 p.m., St. Stephen Episcopal Church, 1432 SW 13th Ave, Portland
Free and open to the public.  www.portlanchambermusic.org, (206) 596-7070, pcmlessons@gmail.com

December 19
Installation of The Rev. Linda Easterling
2:30 p.m., Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Lebanon, OR

January 3-21, 2011
Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry
Trinity Lutheran College (Everett, WA) will offer a three-week Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry, January 3-21, 2011.  The program is designed to equip church staff, volunteers, and pastors for effective leadership in congregational children, youth, and family ministry.  Students learn from a team of four faculty in a seminar format, including class discussions, presentations, videos, role plays, and more.  Topics include Biblical and theological foundations, Bible study methods, human lifespan development, creative programming, counseling and relational skills, and program administration.  Housing is available.
For more information, visit www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu.

January 9, 2011
Lutheran Choral Association Christmas Concert
3:00 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Park Wy, Portland

January 28
Table Talk #2 – Biblical Sources for understanding our Human Vocation in a time of Ecological Crisis
1:15 – 3:30 p.m., Central Lutheran Church, 1820 NE 21st Ave, Portland
The EcoFaith Leadership Core Team seeks to gather leaders of Lutheran and other faith communities to offer mutual support in our eco-spiritual leadership efforts, to create opportunities for deep education, reflection and agitation, and to reform/transform the consciousness of individuals, faith communities, institutions, and the societies in which we live.
Freewill offering.  Please R.S.V.P. to pastorrobyn@aol.com or Pastor Brian Brandt (503) 284-2331.  Visit www.ecofaithrecovery.org/lrc-training for more information.

January 31, 2011
Earth Care Summit
6:00 – 8:30 p.m., Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Ln, Portland
This annual event will include a locally grown dinner, inspirational keynote speaker and presentations from congregations about their greening efforts.
Pre-registration is required.  $30 ($20 for students & seniors), discounts of $5 are available for registrations before December 31; scholarships are also available.  Registrations forms are available online at www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
 
February 4, 2011
Oregon Synod Global Mission Event, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
Featured speaker will be The Rev. Kim Erno of the Lutheran Center in Mexico City.  For more information contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger, Zoar, Canby – Global Mission Committee Interim Chair

February 7-9, 2011
Bishop’s Convocation
Oregon Gardens
For all Oregon Synod Clergy & Rostered Leaders

February 9-17, 2011
Israel: A Biblical pre-Lent tour of the Holy Land.
Contact The Rev. Dan B. Hallgrimson (541) 753-8581, prdan@comcast.net

February 12, 2011
Church Money 101, St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd., Portland
For pastors, council members, treasurers, financial secretaries and everyone who handles numbers at your congregation.  Presented by the synod “Money Team.”
RSVP to traci@smpdx.org or call 503-775-1443, and let us know your role in handling money at your congregation.  $5 charge to cover food.

February 13, 2011
PLU Sunday
Please join congregations throughout ELCA Region 1 to lift up the work of higher education at Pacific Lutheran University during your worship services on Sunday, February 13, 2011.  Call 253-535-7424 or email crel@pu.edu the Office of Congregation Relations at Pacific Lutheran University to express your interest in participating.  You will be sent a PLU Sunday kit containing suggested text for your bulletins, bulletin board decorations, small giveaways, and a variety of PLU informational materials.

February 18-19, 2011
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit http://catechumenate.org.

February 21-25, 2011
Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy (FRLC) annual retreat
Las Vegas, NV
Lutheran Clergy, both ELCA & LCMS who are currently active in recovery from alcoholism or addictions, or who are interested in being in recovery are welcome to attend.  More information is available at www.frlc.org or by contacting The Rev. Ed Treat (952) 884-2364, x16.

March 5-6, 2011
Middle School Rally
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene

March 6-9, 2011
Lutheran Staff Association Annual Conference/Retreat
Cannon Beach Christian Conference Center
Open to all Lay Ministers, staff or volunteer.  For more information visit http://lutheranstaffnw.org/

June 2011
Leadership Training School

June 3-5, 2011
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5, 2011
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

July 14-17, 2011
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Registration opens September 15, 2010.  More information available soon.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com

November 11-13, 2011
Youth Gathering
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland, Oregon seeks a part-time Director of Music Ministries to both build upon and expand its currently strong and vibrant music ministries. For the full position announcement and job description, contact Christine McClave, jamma43@gmail.com  or 503 771-8529;  or go www.allsaintspdx.com 

Children’s Choir Director
West Linn Lutheran Church, West Linn
Please visit our website at www.wllc.org for more information and how to apply.  The contact is Susan Swizer and can be reached via email at westlinnlutheran@live.com. 

Executive Director
Samaritan Counseling Center, Fairbanks, Alaska
Contact The Rev. Susan Granata at clcpastor@mosquitonet.com
 
Organist/Pianist – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Coos Bay, OR
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (ELCA) is a traditional Christian worshipping congregation on Oregon’s South Coast with an active choral music program.  We are looking for a highly-skilled organist/pianist to accompany our worship and choirs.  Ten hours/week average, $625-$725/month.
Full Job Description available on web at www.gloriadeifamily.org
Contact David Aakre, Director of Church Music (541) 267-2347

October 5 E-News

Living Faithfully (October 8-9) update: Weather permitting there will be a guided bike trek through the neighborhood.  Remember, this is an intergenerational event!  Child-care is provided.  Congregations are invited to bring a poster showing how they have walked alongside their neighbors.  We have heard that some folks have had a hard time finding the elca.org/globalevents link for registering for this weekend’s Living Faithfully…connecting Global and Local.  On the ELCA website, it will be referred to as the Glocal Mission Gathering in West Linn, October 8-9.  If you have further problems with online registration, call 1-800-638-3522 x2457.  There will be a wealth of resources there – and you, your family and congregation will have a chance to network and draw from over 20 guest presenters from around the country!  There is something for all ages, including a junior high track with Camp Lutherwood (children and senior high tracks with youth directors as facilitators also!)  We hope that your congregation will support you in coming to be equipped for the ministry that we share!  If you have more questions- call the synod office 503-413-4191 and ask for Deb.

The ELCA News Service has just launched their Facebook page and would love you to “like” the page if you haven’t already. It’s a great and easy way to pass along ELCA News and Photos to your friends and family on Facebook. Please visit http://www.facebook.com/ELCANews and click on the “Like” button to become a fan.

Disciples thrive and grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ when they offer themselves to do God’s work. The fall issue of “Mission Partners Focus” shares the stories of ELCA congregations that are intentional about teaching discipleship. I invite you to read about them at www.elca.org/mp/mpfocus.  Sincerely, Marlys Waldo, Director for Support Networks, Evangelical Outreach and Congregational Mission

On Thursday, September 30, Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson announced changes to the scope and structure of the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Read more at http://www.elca.org/News/Releases.asp?a=4645.
Thank you for your patience as we continue to resolve our internet and web-site issues.  Please contact the synod office at (503) 413-4191 or office@oregonsynod.org with questions about events, pulpit supply, etc.

EVENTS:

October 8-9
Living Faithfully…Connecting Global & Local
West Linn Lutheran Church
Living Faithfully this year partners with ELCA Global Mission and brings together experience and resources in global and domestic ministry under one roof, for one weekend, in one convenient location–so leadership teams can build the skills needed to be a part of God’s mission, no matter where service happens. Additionally, the dialogue initiated at this event will help ELCA Global Mission understand how to be of better service to you.
Register for an upcoming event: www.elca.org/globalevents, click on the middle photo “2010 Glocal Mission Gatherings.”  $35/person ($20 youth & children).  Workshops include: Mission Trips, Stewardship, Cross-Generational Engagement, Social Action, and New & Renewing Congregations.  If you have any questions, please call 1-800-638-3522 and stay on the line to speak with an ELCA Resource Information Specialist.

October 9-10
Faith & Courage Weekend – celebrating 100 years of PLTS
Join is in celebrating “Faith and Courage Sunday” on 10-10-10.  In addition to the Sunday worship, there are two other major events to commemorate our birth at St. James Lutheran Church 100 years ago.  On Saturday evening, October 9, we will host a special centennial banquet at Emanuel Hospital in the beautiful atrium.  The evening begins at 6 p.m. with a social time; dinner is served at 7, followed by a program, during which two PLTS graduates will receive the Centennial Award for Faith and Courage and a young woman from Portland, Christina Schmidt, will receive the Mustard Seed Award for Faith and Courage.  There is no charge for the Centennial Celebration, and everyone is invited.  We do ask, however, that people rsvp to us at http://www.plts.edu/centennial.html so we can prepare accordingly.  We are also inviting everyone to bring a bottle of their favorite Oregon wine to share.
On Sunday, October 10, there will be a special Centennial Bach Cantata Vespers at St. James Lutheran Church at 5 p.m.  The president of the seminary, Rev. Dr. Phyllis Anderson, will preach at this worship, and the evening will include the premier of a hymn that was commissioned for the 100th anniversary of the founding of the seminary in Portland.
Joel S. Wudel, Vice President for Seminary Relations, PLTS.  (510) 559-2711, jwudel@plts.edu

October 9-11
Let Justice Roll
Holden Village, Chelan, WA
Trinity Lutheran College co-sponsors an annual high school youth event for those interested in peace and justice issues, held at Holden Village.  This year’s theme is Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust. The program includes group presentations, small group discussions, a service project, and lots of time to relax, hike, and enjoy God’s creation. Bring a small group from your church!  For more information about this events, including registration materials, go to www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter, or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu. 

October 10
Global Work Party for Climate
Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon’s (EMO) Interfaith Network for Earth Concerns and Oregon Interfaith Power & Light will participate in the 10/10/10 Global Work Party of by organizing ten work party projects in the greater Portland area focused on energy conservation, watersheds and community gardens. Faith communities throughout the state are encouraged to organize hands-on projects that have a positive impact on global warming. Participants will be community members and members of local congregations.  Congregations that would like to volunteer for a project, suggest work party ideas or connect with others in their area are encouraged to visit the www.350oregon.org website to sign up. For further information on how to get involved, please contact Natalie Ullman at nullman@emoregon.org or call (503) 221-1054, ext. 210.

October 10
Music At The Mount presents: A Study in Contrasts – Songs from Way Back Then Until Close to Now.  Lisa Frenz, soprano & Steve Cleveland, Pianist
3:00 p.m., Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, 515 SW Maplecrest Dr, Portland.  (503) 244-5143 www.mtcarmellutheran.com
A free will offering will be collected to benefit the Mt. Carmel Women’s Retreat.  The SW Portland Chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will provide matching funds.

October 16
Endowment Fund Workshop
9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5415 SE Powell Blvd, Portland  www.smpdx.org
Many congregations receive at least one large gift that the donor intends as a lasting benefit for ministry. Unfortunately, many congregations are unprepared to receive such a gift. Some congregations have endowment funds, but aren’t sure what they’re for.  Some congregations have endowment funds which are ready to go to the next step.  We invite congregation leaders interested in starting an endowment fund, endowment fund boards, and church council members to a workshop led by Pastor Keith T. Nelson of the ELCA Foundation.  Cost: $5, lunch & snacks provided.
For more information on the ELCA Foundation visit http://www.elca.org/Who-We-Are/Our-Three-Expressions/Churchwide-Organization/ELCA-Foundation.aspx

October 16
Shift – a one-day conference on change in the church.
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Trinity Lutheran Church, Lynnwood, WA
To register and for more information call (425) 778-2159 or visit www.shiftnow.org

October 17
St. Olaf Orchestra Concert
4:00 p.m., Lake Oswego H.S. Auditorium
$10 adult/senior, free for students at the door.  www.stolaftickets.com, (800) 363-5487
Group rates (10+) are available by contacting stocks@stolaf.edu or (503) 786-3646

October 18
St. Olaf Orchestra Concert
7:00 p.m., West Salem High School Auditorium
Free Admission

October 22
Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries presents: Stretching our Connections – Joining Hands, Moving Forward
7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., University of Portland, Buckley Auditorium
Register on-line at www.npnm.org.  For more information contact Sandi (503) 413-4137, sandrad@npnm.org

October 23
Cool Congregations Workshop
First United Methodist Church, 1376 Olive St, Eugene
This interactive workshop will equip congregational teams to conduct a naitonally-tested program to help members of their congregations reduce their carbon footprint and save money.  Pre-registration is required.  Groups of two to five from congregations can pre-register by e-mailing awarren@emoregon.org to report the number of team members or use the registration brochure found on the events page at www.emoregon.org.  Cost: suggested donation of $20/person or $50/team of three or more.  Call (503) 221-1054 x 210 for more inforation.  Registration deadline is October 14.

October 23
Humor & Health Fest V
6:00 – 9:00 p.m., Red Lion Jantzen Beach, Portland
Reception, dinner, & program sponsored by Northwest Parish Nurse Ministries
For more information (503) 413-4137, sandrad@npnm.org

October 24
Lutheran College Fair
Noon – 3:00 p.m., Ascension LUtheran Church, Portland
Lunch, Admissions, Financial Aid, and dessert.  Free; no need to register.

October 24
The Gospel of John, performed by Brad Sherrill
2:00 p.m., Raymond Theatre, Raymond, Washington
This one-man show is a unique and inspiring production.  Brad Sherrill has memorized the entire gospel according to Sain John and tells it on stage as if it was his own, making the Biblical text come to life.
$10; please send a SASE to Box 598, South Bend, WA 98586.  Checks should be made payable to FLC/Thrivent.

October 24
Lutheran College Fair
6:45 – 9:00 p.m., St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Beaverton
Includes Financial Aid seminar & hors d’oeuvres.  Free; no need to register.

November 5-6
Focus on Youth Ministry: Peer Ministry Training
Trinity Lutheran College, 2802 Wetmore Ave., Everett, WA 98201
Lyle Griner, national director of Peer Ministry Leadership, will lead a two-day training event for youth ministry staff, pastors, volunteers, and young people.  Peer Ministry empowers youth for important roles as leaders and listeners among their peers.  Participants will be equipped to facilitate training in practical ministry skills within churches, camps, college ministries, and other groups.  Only $99 per adult – including training manual!  For more information about this events, including registration materials, go to www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter, or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu. 

November 6
“A New Heaven and A New Earth” Cultural Competency Training for the Northwest
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Portland
An ecumenical workshop that assists in building skills to effectively communicate with a diversity of people, to initiate and deepen relationship across cultural, ethnic, and racial difference.  Early registration $25 through October 24, late registration $35 through October 31.  Group discount: every 5th participant attends free.  Register online at www.pnwumc.org (click “Training Events” and then “A New Heaven and A New Earth”) or call (206) 870-6820 to request a registration form.

November 7
Installation of the Rev. Charles Mantey
3:00 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, Salem

November 8 – December 18
Exploring Seminary online course
Learn the fundamentals of theological education and interact with other students and our professor, Dr. Craig Nessan, Academic Dean at Wartburg
Theological Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa.  $50 technology fee.  For more information contact admissions@wartburgseminary.edu

November 12-14
High School Youth Gathering – “Living into the Future Together”
Information may be found at: http://www.oregonsynod.org/growingfaith/ministries/youth/10msrally.pdf.  They can be accessed through the link at the top of http://www.oregonsynod.org/growingfaith/ministries/youth.htm which reads “PDF MS 2010 OLYO Reg Forms.”

November 14
Installation of the Rev. Laura O’Brien
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Albany

November 18
“Who Is Our Neighbor: Imagining Beyond Our Borders” 2010 Collins Lecture
7:00 p.m., First Baptist Church, 909 SW 11th Ave, Portland
The cost to attend the lecture is $10 per person. Download a registration brochure at www.emoregon.org or call (503) 221-1054 for more information.
The keynote speakers will be the Rev. Dr. S. Wesley Ariarajah, a Methodist minister and professor at the Drew School of Theology, and the Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC) and an ordained Assemblies of God pastor.

December 4
A PLU Christmas
Pacific Lutheran University’s inspirational Christmas concert returns this year in Portland’s Schnitzer Concert Hall on Saturday, December 4 at 7:30pm. The program features the Choir of the West, University Chorale and members of the University Symphony Orchestra performing hymns, carols and a choral orchestral masterwork, all in the great tradition of Lutheran choral music.  For ticket information visit www.plu.edu/christmas or call (253) 535-7787

January 3-21, 2011
Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry
Trinity Lutheran College (Everett, WA) will offer a three-week Certificate Program in Children, Youth & Family Ministry, January 3-21, 2011.  The program is designed to equip church staff, volunteers, and pastors for effective leadership in congregational children, youth, and family ministry.  Students learn from a team of four faculty in a seminar format, including class discussions, presentations, videos, role plays, and more.  Topics include Biblical and theological foundations, Bible study methods, human lifespan development, creative programming, counseling and relational skills, and program administration.  Housing is available.
For more information, visit www.tlc.edu/cyfcenter or contact Rev. David Ellingson at 425.249.4722 or david.ellingson@tlc.edu.

January 9, 2011
Lutheran Choral Association Christmas Concert
3:00 p.m., Peace Lutheran Church, 2201 N Rosa Park Wy, Portland

January 31, 2011
Earth Care Summit
6:00 – 8:30 p.m., Congregation Neveh Shalom, 2900 SW Peaceful Ln, Portland
This annual event will include a locally grown dinner, inspirational keynote speaker and presentations from congregations about their greening efforts.
Pre-registration is required.  $30 ($20 for students & seniors), discounts of $5 are available for registrations before December 31; scholarships are also available.  Registrations forms are available online at www.emoregon.org/emo_events.php
Sponsored by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon
 
February 4, 2011
Oregon Synod Global Mission Event, Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene
Featured speaker will be The Rev. Kim Erno of the Lutheran Center in Mexico City.  For more information contact The Rev. Nick Doversberger, Zoar, Canby – Global Mission Committee Interim Chair

February 9-17, 2011
Israel: A Biblical pre-Lent tour of the Holy Land.
Contact The Rev. Dan B. Hallgrimson (541) 753-8581, prdan@comcast.net

February 18-19, 2011
“Come to the Water” Ecumenical Catechumenal Process Training Event
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Vancouver
Speakers for the event are Bishop Rob Hofstad, SWWA Synod of the ELCA and Ann McElligott, Episcopalian and author of The Catechumenal Process: Adult Initiation and Formation for Christian Life and Ministry. Other leadership will be provided by pastors and lay leaders from the Episcopal Diocese of Oregon and the Oregon and Southwest Washington Synods of the ELCA.  This training event is recommended for congregation teams of two or more and will provide necessary background & resources to begin a congregational catechumenal process. The cost will be around $30/person and will include some meals. For more information on the training event, contact Pastor Martha Maier, maierm@comcast.net or 360-892-7160.
The catechumenal process is a journey of faith formation for those new (and not so new) to Christianity. It goes beyond the traditional study of “what Christians believe” and incorporates worship, prayer, small groups, reflective Bible reading, sponsors and ministry in daily life into a process that changes lives and makes disciples. This process not only transforms lives, but it can transform congregations as well. For more on the catechumenate, visit http://catechumenate.org.

March 5-6, 2011
Middle School Rally
Emmaus Lutheran Church, Eugene

June 2011
Leadership Training School

June 3-5, 2011
Synod Assembly
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

June 3-5, 2011
High School Convo
Eugene Hilton Hotel & Conference Center

July 14-17, 2011
WELCA Eighth Triennial Gathering “Renew, Respond, Rejoice!”
Spokane, Washington
This is the closest it will be for many years so start thinking about this opportunity.  The convention portion will be a couple days prior to that (12-14).  Motivational speakers, beautiful surroundings, wonderful people.  You will want to attend.  Set aside this date and start saving now.  Registration opens September 15, 2010.  More information available soon.  Contact Gloria McCuchen, PO Box 23352, Eugene, OR   97402, 541-515-9175, oregontgp@yahoo.com

November 11-13, 2011
Youth Gathering
 
POSITION OPENINGS:
 
Director of Music Ministries
All Saints Episcopal Church, Portland, Oregon seeks a part-time Director of Music Ministries to both build upon and expand its currently strong and vibrant music ministries. For the full position announcement and job description, contact Christine McClave, jamma43@gmail.com  or 503 771-8529;  or go www.allsaintspdx.com 

Children’s Choir Director
West Linn Lutheran Church, West Linn
Please visit our website at www.wllc.org for more information and how to apply.  The contact is Susan Swizer and can be reached via email at westlinnlutheran@live.com. 

Director of Young Family & Children’s Ministry, 1/2 time
Atonement Lutheran in Newport, Oregon
Training will be provided.  Position starts as soon as possible.  Resumes may be sent to and position descriptions obtained from Pastor Ed Milliken, Atonement Lutheran Church, 2315 North Coast Highway, Newport OR, 97365-9740 or pastored@atonementlutheran.com.

Executive Director
Samaritan Counseling Center, Fairbanks, Alaska
Contact The Rev. Susan Granata at clcpastor@mosquitonet.com
 
Organist/Pianist – Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Coos Bay, OR
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church (ELCA) is a traditional Christian worshipping congregation on Oregon’s South Coast with an active choral music program.  We are looking for a highly-skilled organist/pianist to accompany our worship and choirs.  Ten hours/week average, $625-$725/month.
Full Job Description available on web at www.gloriadeifamily.org
Contact David Aakre, Director of Church Music (541) 267-2347