BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Greater Milwaukee Synod ELCA - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Greater Milwaukee Synod ELCA X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Greater Milwaukee Synod ELCA REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20220313T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20221106T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20230312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20231105T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250921T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250921T190000 DTSTAMP:20260107T014524Z CREATED:20250826T013059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T014524Z UID:10001392-1758474000-1758481200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Immigrants in Crisis: Our Stories DESCRIPTION:Immigrants in Crisis: Our Stories\n September 21\, 2025\n @\n5:00 pm\n –\n7:00 pm \n\n \n United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay \n \n\n810 East Silver Spring Drive\n \n Whitefish Bay\,\n WI\n 53217\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n\n View Venue Website \n \n \nA panel of immigration experts will discuss who immigrants are\, the persecution they are experiencing today and how it is affecting their lives. We want to tell the stories of our immigrants – their hopes and dreams and the displacement and fear they are currently feeling. There will be time for break-out discussion\, questions and connections during the event and at the reception following.  \n \nThis even is free and open to all. Please register at the link below. \n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/immigrants-in-crisis-our-stories/ LOCATION:United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay\, 810 East Silver Spring Drive\, Whitefish Bay\, WI\, 53217 ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-08-25-at-8.02.56-PM.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1186704;-87.9006359 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay 810 East Silver Spring Drive Whitefish Bay WI 53217;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=810 East Silver Spring Drive:geo:-87.9006359,43.1186704 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250912T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250912T200000 DTSTAMP:20250826T011430Z CREATED:20250825T195727Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T011430Z UID:10001391-1757700000-1757707200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:A Binding Truth DESCRIPTION:A Binding Truth\n September 12\n @\n6:00 pm\n –\n8:00 pm \n\n \n United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay \n \n\n810 East Silver Spring Drive\n \n Whitefish Bay\,\n WI\n 53217\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n\n View Venue Website \n \n \nFrom Whirlygig Productions: \n“Jimmie transferred his senior year to an affluent Charlotte high school in 1965 – he was their first Black football star. That decision swept him into one of North Carolina’s most volatile civil rights cases\, played out at the explosive intersection of football and race. De watched that case unfold and wrote about it in his college essay application. Decades later\, a shocking discovery reveals secrets buried in church records that would change their lives. Their story\, rooted in the South\, is also America’s story – one of slavery’s legacy and our current racial divide. It’s a story of healing and shows a way forward as Jimmie and De explore their binding truth.” \n  \nFollowing the film\, Fessahaye Mebrantu\, an expert on racial justice\, will provide commentary and insights for achieving racial reconciliation in Milwaukee. A reception will follow. This event is free and we encourage you to register below. \n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/a-binding-truth/ LOCATION:United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay\, 810 East Silver Spring Drive\, Whitefish Bay\, WI\, 53217 CATEGORIES:Anti-Racism ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-08-25-at-1.27.20-PM.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1186704;-87.9006359 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay 810 East Silver Spring Drive Whitefish Bay WI 53217;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=810 East Silver Spring Drive:geo:-87.9006359,43.1186704 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250907 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250908 DTSTAMP:20250219T174018Z CREATED:20250219T174018Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T174018Z UID:10001373-1757203200-1757289599@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:“God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday 2025 DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.elca.org/our-work/congregations-and-synods/gods-work-our-hands-sunday ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Gods-Work-Our-Hands-2025-save-the-date.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250530T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T160000 DTSTAMP:20260112T211443Z CREATED:20240620T170207Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T211443Z UID:10001338-1748620800-1748707200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Synod Assembly 2025 DESCRIPTION:Synod Assembly 2025\n\n May 30\, 2025\n @\n4:00 pm\n –\n May 31\, 2025\n @\n4:00 pm\n \n\n Brookfield Conference Center\n\n325 South Moorland Road\n \n Brookfield\,\n WI\n 53005\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n \nSynod Assembly takes place each spring and brings together voting members from congregations to discuss and vote on resolutions\, elect synod council and committee representatives\, consider finances\, and other business. \nBefore you begin the registration process\, please check out our “things to know before you register” information below. \n \n Register Now\n \n \n Sign Up: Youth Worship Volunteer & WhirlyBall Social\n \n\n Our theme for this year’s Assembly is “Compassion: Spirit\, Open Our Hearts.” This name and our selection of artwork by Robyn Sand Anderson was inspired by our core value of compassion and the hymn\, “Spirit\, Open My Heart.”\n\n\n\n \n \n\n Rev. Khader El-Yateem\n \n\n\n\n \n \n\n Tyra Dennis\n \n\n \nFriday Evening Events\nOn Friday evening\, we will welcome Rev. Khader El-Yateem as our keynote dinner speaker.  Synod Assembly registrants will receive a dinner ticket when they arrive. Non-registrants may purchase a ticket here. \nAfter dinner\, Tyra Dennis will lead an energetic and contemporary-style worship; this service is open to all\, and it is not necessary to register to attend worship. \n\n\n\n \n \n\n Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons\n \n\n \nCalling All Youth!\n\n\nFriday Evening Worship Volunteers: We’d love for youth to serve as readers\, ushers\, communion assistants\, and more. \n\n\nWhirlyBall Social: After worship\, we’re inviting youth and chaperones/leaders to gather at WhirlyBall in Brookfield Square. Bishop Erickson and Tyra Dennis have promised to WhirlyBall\, too! \n\n\nLearn more and sign up here. \nImportant Dates\n\n\nApril 30\, 2025: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2025: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025: Cancellation deadline \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n2025 Registration Fees\n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\, Young Adults: $145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nThings to Know Before You Register\n\n\n How are Voting Members Determined?\n \n\nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits.\nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member must contact the synod office prior to registering.  Retired Rostered Ministers do not register as a lay voting member of a congregation. Learn more by visiting the Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information tab below.\nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2023 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. Use our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members.\n\nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly.\nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.).\nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Registration\n \n \n Register Now\n \nImportant Dates \n\n\nApril 30\, 2025: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2025: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025: Cancellation deadline \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n2025 Registration Fees \n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\,Young Adults: $145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nWalk-in registration ($170/$270) will be available beginning May 30. Meals are not guaranteed for walk-in registrations. \nWe respectfully request that all registrations (including walk-ins) be paid by May 31\, 2025. If you need to make other arrangements\, please contact us directly at 414.671.1212. \n\n\n\n Childcare\n \nOur childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. \n  \nChildcare is available for children 6 weeks through five years old. If you have older children we’ll do our best to provide childcare for them. Please contact the office for details about childcare for older children at 414.671.1212. \n  \nChildren will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items and shareable toys with their child. \n  \nParents of registered children: Please take a few minutes to fill this form in before you arrive for assembly: Child care form. You will turn this form in to the child care providers. \nIMPORTANT!! Our childcare providers have received background checks and they are compensated for their time. If you find you won’t need childcare after registering we would appreciate a phone call. \n\n\n\n Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information\n \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly\, the number of retired rostered ministers serving as voting members shall not exceed 15% of the retired roster. All other retired ministers rostered in this synod shall be advisory members to the Synod Assembly\, with voice\, but not vote. For 2025\, the number of voting members from the retired roster is 22 (15% of the 148 retired rostered ministers in the synod as of 12/31/24). \nRetired rostered ministers do not register as lay voting members of a congregation. \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges. \nRetired rostered ministers who are NOT serving under contract in transitional ministries must contact Mary Romskog  (414.671.1212) in the synod office by March 31\, 2025 prior to registering. If there are more than 22 retired rostered ministers who express interest in serving as a voting member\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you\, as the retired rostered ministers\, to decide who will be the voting members. \nIf we reach the limit of 22 retired rostered ministers with voting privileges\, additional retired rostered ministers are welcome to register as non-voting members and are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly.  \n\n\n\n Simple Agenda\n \nA more detailed agenda will be available closer to the Assembly. \nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\n10:00 am – Break \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\n2:15 pm – Break \n\n\n4:00 pm – Sending \n\n\n\n\n\n Information for Voting Members\n \nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n\n\nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provide when you register. This includes information for voting during assembly. \n\n\nIf your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n\n\nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.   \n\n\nWe strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. \n\n\nLearn more by visiting the Resources to prepare for Assembly section below. \n\n\n\n\n\n Worship and Offering\n \nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. \nOur Synod Assembly worship service is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 7:00 pm. \nThis year’s worship will be energetic and contemporary\, in the style of the ELCA Youth Gathering. We encourage congregations to invite their youth and young adult members to attend! \nThis service is open to all. It is not necessary to register to attend worship. You do not need to be a voting member of the assembly to attend worship. \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nOpportunities for High School Youth\n\n Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons\nWorship Volunteers: We’d love for youth to serve as readers\, ushers\, communion assistants\, and more. \nWhirlyBall Social: After worship\, we’re inviting youth and chaperones/leaders to gather at WhirlyBall in Brookfield Square. Bishop Erickson and our worship leader\, Tyra Dennis\, have promised to WhirlyBall\, too! \n \n Sign Up: Youth Worship Volunteer & WhirlyBall Social\n \nTyra Dennis\, Worship Leader\n \nTyra Dennis\, better known as “Tyralucia\,” was born and raised in Los Angeles\, California and has always been drawn to the stage by her talents: singing\, composing music\, playing the piano (as well as 11 other various instruments)\, acting and writing. The singer\, songwriter and musician has accomplished so much and continues to excel beyond expectations\, from performing with the greats such as Chaka Kahn\, Stevie Wonder\, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Jackson Browne\, Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses while still being in high school to having a key role in developing and starring in the first Apple iPod commercial. Tyra’s work spans across all music genres and audiences. Tyra has also always made it important to share her blessings with others and does so\, among other music and philanthropic efforts\, with Music Mayhem; a full service entertainment company specializing in music production\, artist development\, talent management and event curation which she founded in 2012. She has also opened for Grammy winner Eric Bellinger during 2014’s Stand Against Autism Benefit Concert\, which was one of her philanthropic efforts. She has worked with the likes of Ike Turner\, YoYo\, Herbie Hancock\, Izzy The Kidd\, Symbolyc One\, Andre Merrit\, First Born\, Soaky Siren\, Kevin McCall and more. Not only did she perform with those acclaimed musical masterminds\, she also recorded an upbeat swinging version of “Let The Good Times Roll” with Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses. \n\nSince 2016\, Tyra has been able to show her passion for worship and love for Christ by becoming a worship leader within the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) when answering the call to serve at Another Level Ministries. She has led the music for many events\, including but not limited to Western States Youth Gathering (WYLE)\, Theoasis (SYC Synod)\, Synod Assembly (SWC Synod)\, ELCA Gathering\, Extravaganza and more. She is honored to use her gift in a way that elevates God’s kingdom and gives back to the one that has given her everything. \n \n Read Tyra’s Full Bio\n \nAssembly Offering\nThis year’s offering will go to support the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL). Our keynote speaker\, the Rev. Khader El-Yateem\, is a native of Bethlehem\, Palestine\, and he is one of the many gifts that comes from the Lutheran Church in that fractured part of the world. The ELCJHL has six congregations and operates four K-12 schools in Ramallah\, Beit Jala\, Bethlehem and Beit Sahour. Each year\, the ELCJHL schools serve more than 3\,000 students. The ELCJHL also has four additional ministries; the Gender Justice Ministry\, the office of which is housed in the main offices of the Church of the Redeemer in Jerusalem\, the Environmental Education Center located on the Talitha Kumi campus in Beit Jala\, the Diaconal Ministry\, which is housed in the offices of Beit Ibrahim\, and a Youth Ministry. Their congregations and communities have suffered greatly during the Israel-Hamas war\, and our gift will be a sign of solidarity and support. \n\n\n\n Dinner Tickets and Keynote Speaker\n \nOur Synod Assembly dinner is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 5:00 pm. \nDinner tickets are included for all registered members. If you would like to attend the dinner\, but are not registering for the entire assembly\, use the button below to purchase dinner tickets. \n \n Purchase Individual Dinner Tickets\n \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nDinner guests are also invited to attend the worship service that follows. (No registration is necessary to attend worship.) \nRev. Khader El-Yateem\, Keynote Speaker\n \nThe Rev. Khader El-Yateem is the Executive Director of the Service and Justice home area of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). \nPastor El-Yateem has served as Assistant to the Bishop and Director for Evangelical Mission with the ELCA Florida-Bahamas Synod. Prior to joining the synod staff\, he served as pastor of Salam Arabic Lutheran Church in Brooklyn\, N.Y.\, a congregation he started as a mission developer in 1995. El-Yateem also worked in patient relations at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn from 2010 to 2017 and was chief financial officer at Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem from 1990 to 1992. \nBorn and raised in Bethlehem\, El-Yateem received his Bachelor of Theology from Bethlehem Bible College in 1989 and his Bachelor of Theology and World Religions from the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo in 1991. He received his Master of Divinity degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (now United Seminary) in 1996. \n\n\nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits.\nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member must contact the synod office prior to registering.  Retired Rostered Ministers do not register as a lay voting member of a congregation. Learn more by visiting the Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information tab below.\nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2023 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. Use our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members.\n\nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly.\nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.).\nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected).\n\n\n\n \n Register Now\n \nImportant Dates \n\n\nApril 30\, 2025: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2025: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025: Cancellation deadline \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n2025 Registration Fees \n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\,Young Adults: $145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nWalk-in registration ($170/$270) will be available beginning May 30. Meals are not guaranteed for walk-in registrations. \nWe respectfully request that all registrations (including walk-ins) be paid by May 31\, 2025. If you need to make other arrangements\, please contact us directly at 414.671.1212. \nOur childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. \n  \nChildcare is available for children 6 weeks through five years old. If you have older children we’ll do our best to provide childcare for them. Please contact the office for details about childcare for older children at 414.671.1212. \n  \nChildren will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items and shareable toys with their child. \n  \nParents of registered children: Please take a few minutes to fill this form in before you arrive for assembly: Child care form. You will turn this form in to the child care providers. \nIMPORTANT!! Our childcare providers have received background checks and they are compensated for their time. If you find you won’t need childcare after registering we would appreciate a phone call. \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly\, the number of retired rostered ministers serving as voting members shall not exceed 15% of the retired roster. All other retired ministers rostered in this synod shall be advisory members to the Synod Assembly\, with voice\, but not vote. For 2025\, the number of voting members from the retired roster is 22 (15% of the 148 retired rostered ministers in the synod as of 12/31/24). \nRetired rostered ministers do not register as lay voting members of a congregation. \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges. \nRetired rostered ministers who are NOT serving under contract in transitional ministries must contact Mary Romskog  (414.671.1212) in the synod office by March 31\, 2025 prior to registering. If there are more than 22 retired rostered ministers who express interest in serving as a voting member\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you\, as the retired rostered ministers\, to decide who will be the voting members. \nIf we reach the limit of 22 retired rostered ministers with voting privileges\, additional retired rostered ministers are welcome to register as non-voting members and are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly.  \nA more detailed agenda will be available closer to the Assembly. \nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\n10:00 am – Break \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\n2:15 pm – Break \n\n\n4:00 pm – Sending \n\n\nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n\n\nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provide when you register. This includes information for voting during assembly. \n\n\nIf your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n\n\nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.   \n\n\nWe strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. \n\n\nLearn more by visiting the Resources to prepare for Assembly section below. \n\n\nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. \nOur Synod Assembly worship service is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 7:00 pm. \nThis year’s worship will be energetic and contemporary\, in the style of the ELCA Youth Gathering. We encourage congregations to invite their youth and young adult members to attend! \nThis service is open to all. It is not necessary to register to attend worship. You do not need to be a voting member of the assembly to attend worship. \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nOpportunities for High School Youth\n\n Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons\nWorship Volunteers: We’d love for youth to serve as readers\, ushers\, communion assistants\, and more. \nWhirlyBall Social: After worship\, we’re inviting youth and chaperones/leaders to gather at WhirlyBall in Brookfield Square. Bishop Erickson and our worship leader\, Tyra Dennis\, have promised to WhirlyBall\, too! \n \n Sign Up: Youth Worship Volunteer & WhirlyBall Social\n \nTyra Dennis\, Worship Leader\n \nTyra Dennis\, better known as “Tyralucia\,” was born and raised in Los Angeles\, California and has always been drawn to the stage by her talents: singing\, composing music\, playing the piano (as well as 11 other various instruments)\, acting and writing. The singer\, songwriter and musician has accomplished so much and continues to excel beyond expectations\, from performing with the greats such as Chaka Kahn\, Stevie Wonder\, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Jackson Browne\, Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses while still being in high school to having a key role in developing and starring in the first Apple iPod commercial. Tyra’s work spans across all music genres and audiences. Tyra has also always made it important to share her blessings with others and does so\, among other music and philanthropic efforts\, with Music Mayhem; a full service entertainment company specializing in music production\, artist development\, talent management and event curation which she founded in 2012. She has also opened for Grammy winner Eric Bellinger during 2014’s Stand Against Autism Benefit Concert\, which was one of her philanthropic efforts. She has worked with the likes of Ike Turner\, YoYo\, Herbie Hancock\, Izzy The Kidd\, Symbolyc One\, Andre Merrit\, First Born\, Soaky Siren\, Kevin McCall and more. Not only did she perform with those acclaimed musical masterminds\, she also recorded an upbeat swinging version of “Let The Good Times Roll” with Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses. \n\nSince 2016\, Tyra has been able to show her passion for worship and love for Christ by becoming a worship leader within the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) when answering the call to serve at Another Level Ministries. She has led the music for many events\, including but not limited to Western States Youth Gathering (WYLE)\, Theoasis (SYC Synod)\, Synod Assembly (SWC Synod)\, ELCA Gathering\, Extravaganza and more. She is honored to use her gift in a way that elevates God’s kingdom and gives back to the one that has given her everything. \n \n Read Tyra’s Full Bio\n \nAssembly Offering\nThis year’s offering will go to support the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL). Our keynote speaker\, the Rev. Khader El-Yateem\, is a native of Bethlehem\, Palestine\, and he is one of the many gifts that comes from the Lutheran Church in that fractured part of the world. The ELCJHL has six congregations and operates four K-12 schools in Ramallah\, Beit Jala\, Bethlehem and Beit Sahour. Each year\, the ELCJHL schools serve more than 3\,000 students. The ELCJHL also has four additional ministries; the Gender Justice Ministry\, the office of which is housed in the main offices of the Church of the Redeemer in Jerusalem\, the Environmental Education Center located on the Talitha Kumi campus in Beit Jala\, the Diaconal Ministry\, which is housed in the offices of Beit Ibrahim\, and a Youth Ministry. Their congregations and communities have suffered greatly during the Israel-Hamas war\, and our gift will be a sign of solidarity and support. \nOur Synod Assembly dinner is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 5:00 pm. \nDinner tickets are included for all registered members. If you would like to attend the dinner\, but are not registering for the entire assembly\, use the button below to purchase dinner tickets. \n \n Purchase Individual Dinner Tickets\n \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nDinner guests are also invited to attend the worship service that follows. (No registration is necessary to attend worship.) \nRev. Khader El-Yateem\, Keynote Speaker\n \nThe Rev. Khader El-Yateem is the Executive Director of the Service and Justice home area of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). \nPastor El-Yateem has served as Assistant to the Bishop and Director for Evangelical Mission with the ELCA Florida-Bahamas Synod. Prior to joining the synod staff\, he served as pastor of Salam Arabic Lutheran Church in Brooklyn\, N.Y.\, a congregation he started as a mission developer in 1995. El-Yateem also worked in patient relations at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn from 2010 to 2017 and was chief financial officer at Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem from 1990 to 1992. \nBorn and raised in Bethlehem\, El-Yateem received his Bachelor of Theology from Bethlehem Bible College in 1989 and his Bachelor of Theology and World Religions from the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo in 1991. He received his Master of Divinity degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (now United Seminary) in 1996. \nResources to Prepare for Assembly\n\n\n Detailed Agenda\n \nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\nWelcome \nLand Acknowledgment \nOpening of the Assembly \nOrientation and Welcome Special Guests \nInterfaith Greetings \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nAssembly Appointments \nAdoption of Agenda \nApproval of Rules and Procedures \nNominations Report \nReference and Counsel Report \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\n8:15 pm – Dessert Reception \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens/Breakfast available \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\nDevotion  \nOrientation/Review \nBudget Presentation \nBishop Report  \nDevotion \nBreak \nFirst Ballot for Open Positions \nVice President Report \nReport of the First Ballot \nAction on the Budget \nResolutions \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\nDevotion \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nSecond Ballot for Open Positions \nELCA Representative Report \nDevotion \nBreak \nReport of the Second Ballot \nThird Ballot for Open Positions \nResolutions \nInstall Elected persons \nClosing of the Assembly \n  \nPlease note: This agenda is not finalized and may change prior to the opening of assembly. \n\n\n\n Assembly Rules\n \n2025 Rules and Procedures \nThe Greater Milwaukee Synod Council recommends to the Synod Assembly the following Rules and Procedures for 2025. These will be formalized by the Assembly at the First Plenary Session of the Assembly\, but will be followed prior to that action. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2025 Synod Assembly Rules\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n You need to login to be able to upload file!\n Username or Email Address\n \n \n Password\n \n Remember Me \n \n \n \n \n\n\n Nominations and Open Positions\n \nOpen positions for nominations are listed below. Use this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. \nPlease note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \nConsultation Committee \nThe role of the consultation committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nThom Nicla (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nBonnie Zimmermann (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Carolyn Sellers Rizzo (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Jackie Cook (she/her)\n\n\n\nSynod Council \nThe role of the Synod Council is to be the board of directors of this synod and to serve as its interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJeffrey Kehoe (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJean Nelson (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Perrie Dralle (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth/Young Adult aged 30 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nAlex Pechauer Bates (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth aged 18 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2027) \n\nAvery Newell (she/her)\n\n\n\nVice President – Layperson (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nDr. Rose Dotson (she/her)\n\n\n\nTreasurer – Layperson or Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\nCentral Conference – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRoxanne Rhinehart (she/her)\n\n\n\nNorth Conference – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Alexis Twito (she/her)\n\n\n\nSouth Conference– Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\n\n\n\n Resolutions\n \nThe deadline to submit a resolution is March 31\, 2025. When a resolution is submitted it will be reviewed and then added to this page. \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nResolution 1 SA 2025 Recreate the Welcome Statement of the Greater Milwaukee Synod\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 2 SA 2025 Resolution to Thank Congregtions\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 3 SA 2025 Partnership with Sumud- For Justice in Palestine and Israel\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 4 SA 2025 Addressing the Legacy of Indian Boarding Schools in the United States\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 5 SA 2025 Resolution in Support of Efforts to Hold the Fossil Fuel Industry Accountable\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 6 SA 2025 Evaluate and Update the Call Process\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Reports\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter English\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter Spanish\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Federal Credit Union Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Foundation Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nGlobal Refuge Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther Seminary Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Social Services Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMeru Coffee Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMission Investment Fund Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nRegion 5 Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nSt. Olaf College – Synod Assembly Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nWartburg College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nVideo Reports: \n\nLuther College\nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago\nWartburg Theological Seminary\n\n\n\n\n Transportation\, Meals\, and Facility Information\n \nBrookfield Conference Center \nThe Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 S Moorland Rd\, Brookfield\, WI 53005\, is the location of our annual assembly in 2025. This conference facility is located just off 1-94 near Brookfield Square Mall. Ample parking is available right outside the venue. \nPublic Transportation \nPublic transportation is available  from Milwaukee. Learn more about the bus route and transfers here. \n \nAdditional Information \n\n\nDress in Layers: Conference facilities can vary greatly in temperature and you will be more comfortable if you dress in layers. \n\n\nWi-Fi: Coming soon \n\n\nFriday Dinner: You will find a dinner ticket tucked in the middle of the name badge holder that notes your dinner choice. Place your meal ticket on the table in front of after the conclusion of Plenary 1. If you shared information about an allergy or dietary restriction that requires a special meal\, you will have a red colored ticket. Be sure to confirm with the server that you are receiving the correct meal. \n\n\nSaturday Meals: We have a light continental breakfast buffet featuring juice\, house-made pastries\, sliced breakfast breads\, muffins\, coffee\, tea\, and water scheduled for 7:30 am. Lunch is a southwest buffet featuring garden chopped salad\, chicken street tacos\, cheese enchiladas\, black beans\, Spanish rice and more. \n\n\nRestrooms: The primary set of restrooms is located past the display tables on the west end of the building. An all-gender restroom is available on the east end of the building. There is also a private space for nursing mothers. \n\n\nChildcare: Our childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. Children will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items\, and shareable toys with their child.  \n\n\nElectronic Devices: You are encouraged and welcome to bring your electronic devices along to access documents needed for the assembly. Please do not bring extension cords with you. We will have a charging station near the back of the room if you need to charge your device. Extension cords are a tripping hazard and will be removed. \n\n\n\nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\nWelcome \nLand Acknowledgment \nOpening of the Assembly \nOrientation and Welcome Special Guests \nInterfaith Greetings \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nAssembly Appointments \nAdoption of Agenda \nApproval of Rules and Procedures \nNominations Report \nReference and Counsel Report \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\n8:15 pm – Dessert Reception \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens/Breakfast available \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\nDevotion  \nOrientation/Review \nBudget Presentation \nBishop Report  \nDevotion \nBreak \nFirst Ballot for Open Positions \nVice President Report \nReport of the First Ballot \nAction on the Budget \nResolutions \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\nDevotion \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nSecond Ballot for Open Positions \nELCA Representative Report \nDevotion \nBreak \nReport of the Second Ballot \nThird Ballot for Open Positions \nResolutions \nInstall Elected persons \nClosing of the Assembly \n  \nPlease note: This agenda is not finalized and may change prior to the opening of assembly. \n2025 Rules and Procedures \nThe Greater Milwaukee Synod Council recommends to the Synod Assembly the following Rules and Procedures for 2025. These will be formalized by the Assembly at the First Plenary Session of the Assembly\, but will be followed prior to that action. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2025 Synod Assembly Rules\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nOpen positions for nominations are listed below. Use this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. \nPlease note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \nConsultation Committee \nThe role of the consultation committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nThom Nicla (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nBonnie Zimmermann (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Carolyn Sellers Rizzo (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Jackie Cook (she/her)\n\n\n\nSynod Council \nThe role of the Synod Council is to be the board of directors of this synod and to serve as its interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJeffrey Kehoe (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJean Nelson (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Perrie Dralle (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth/Young Adult aged 30 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nAlex Pechauer Bates (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth aged 18 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2027) \n\nAvery Newell (she/her)\n\n\n\nVice President – Layperson (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nDr. Rose Dotson (she/her)\n\n\n\nTreasurer – Layperson or Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\nCentral Conference – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRoxanne Rhinehart (she/her)\n\n\n\nNorth Conference – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Alexis Twito (she/her)\n\n\n\nSouth Conference– Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\nThe deadline to submit a resolution is March 31\, 2025. When a resolution is submitted it will be reviewed and then added to this page. \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nResolution 1 SA 2025 Recreate the Welcome Statement of the Greater Milwaukee Synod\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 2 SA 2025 Resolution to Thank Congregtions\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 3 SA 2025 Partnership with Sumud- For Justice in Palestine and Israel\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 4 SA 2025 Addressing the Legacy of Indian Boarding Schools in the United States\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 5 SA 2025 Resolution in Support of Efforts to Hold the Fossil Fuel Industry Accountable\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 6 SA 2025 Evaluate and Update the Call Process\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter English\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter Spanish\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Federal Credit Union Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Foundation Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nGlobal Refuge Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther Seminary Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Social Services Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMeru Coffee Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMission Investment Fund Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nRegion 5 Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nSt. Olaf College – Synod Assembly Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nWartburg College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nVideo Reports: \n\nLuther College\nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago\nWartburg Theological Seminary\n\nBrookfield Conference Center \nThe Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 S Moorland Rd\, Brookfield\, WI 53005\, is the location of our annual assembly in 2025. This conference facility is located just off 1-94 near Brookfield Square Mall. Ample parking is available right outside the venue. \nPublic Transportation \nPublic transportation is available  from Milwaukee. Learn more about the bus route and transfers here. \n \nAdditional Information \n\n\nDress in Layers: Conference facilities can vary greatly in temperature and you will be more comfortable if you dress in layers. \n\n\nWi-Fi: Coming soon \n\n\nFriday Dinner: You will find a dinner ticket tucked in the middle of the name badge holder that notes your dinner choice. Place your meal ticket on the table in front of after the conclusion of Plenary 1. If you shared information about an allergy or dietary restriction that requires a special meal\, you will have a red colored ticket. Be sure to confirm with the server that you are receiving the correct meal. \n\n\nSaturday Meals: We have a light continental breakfast buffet featuring juice\, house-made pastries\, sliced breakfast breads\, muffins\, coffee\, tea\, and water scheduled for 7:30 am. Lunch is a southwest buffet featuring garden chopped salad\, chicken street tacos\, cheese enchiladas\, black beans\, Spanish rice and more. \n\n\nRestrooms: The primary set of restrooms is located past the display tables on the west end of the building. An all-gender restroom is available on the east end of the building. There is also a private space for nursing mothers. \n\n\nChildcare: Our childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. Children will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items\, and shareable toys with their child.  \n\n\nElectronic Devices: You are encouraged and welcome to bring your electronic devices along to access documents needed for the assembly. Please do not bring extension cords with you. We will have a charging station near the back of the room if you need to charge your device. Extension cords are a tripping hazard and will be removed. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/synod-assembly-2025/ LOCATION:Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 South Moorland Road\, Brookfield\, WI\, 53005\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-SA_Logo.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0283851;-88.1071474 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Brookfield Conference Center 325 South Moorland Road Brookfield WI 53005 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=325 South Moorland Road:geo:-88.1071474,43.0283851 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T120000 DTSTAMP:20250219T173735Z CREATED:20250130T173936Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T173735Z UID:10001372-1744711200-1744718400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:2025 Chrism Mass DESCRIPTION:2025 Chrism Mass\nApril 15 \n\nHoly Cross Lutheran Church \nW156 N8131 Pilgrim RoadMenomonee Falls\, \n\n+ Google Map \n\n262-251-2740 \n \nWe invite all rostered ministers and lay leaders to join us on Tuesday of Holy Week for a Chrism Mass. Participants will have the opportunity to renew their ordination and baptismal vows and receive a small container of oil that can be used for anointing. \nWe are grateful for the many ways that our leaders are serving during Lent and Holy Week\, and hope that this time of worship can be a chance to reflect and be renewed in body and spirit. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/2025-chrism-mass/ LOCATION:Holy Cross Lutheran Church\, W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road\, Menomonee Falls ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1712528;-88.1019562 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Holy Cross Lutheran Church W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road Menomonee Falls;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road:geo:-88.1019562,43.1712528 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250325T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250325T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20241210T205312Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001357-1742927400-1742931000@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "This is My Story\, This is My Song" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “This is My Story\, This is My Song”\n March 25\, 2025\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for March is “This is My Story\, This is My Song.” Music is a gift from God. It comforts us\, connects us with one another\, and often gives us words when we cannot find our own. At this month’s Inspired for Mission Zoom\, we’ll hear some inspiring stories from people in our synod about a song that is important to them. Join us for an hour of storytelling and inspiration – and perhaps be inspired to share your own short story! \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \n Meeting ID: 820 9300 9097\nPasscode: 188373 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/my_story_my_song/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20241210T204642Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001356-1740508200-1740511800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Church Councils and Faith Formation" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Church Councils and Faith Formation”\n February 25\, 2025\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCST \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for February is “Church Councils and Faith Formation.” \nDuring this month’s Inspired for Mission Zoom conversation\, we’ll try out a spiritual practice together\, and then hear stories and ideas from congregations around our synod. How can councils\, teams\, and committees grow in faith together? What spiritual or devotional practices have been helpful for your council? Bring a story or practice to share – or just come to listen and learn!\n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 880 1299 8253 \nPasscode: 238656 \n  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/church_councils/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T113000 DTSTAMP:20260107T051025Z CREATED:20250114T145944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T051025Z UID:10001358-1740214800-1740223800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Adventures in Renewal CO-LAB: Celebration Edition DESCRIPTION:Adventures in Renewal CO-LAB: Celebration Edition\n \n February 22\n @\n9:00 am\n –\n11:30 am \n\n \n DenizenMKE \n \n\n4227 W Vliet St\n \n Milwaukee\,\n WI\n 53208\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n \n \nRaise a Toast to Learning!\nHere’s what to expect: \n\nA fun and inspiring gathering to reflect on how we have much to learn and how God teaches us even when – especially when – things don’t go like we expected\nAn opportunity to share your team’s Adventures in Renewal stories (prizes may be awarded!)\nLaughter\, learning\, and a practical tool to bring back to your congregation\n\nStay tuned for more details as we finalize plans. Until then\, please save the date and share this information with your team. \nWe look forward to celebrating together! \n \n RSVP to attend\n \n\n\n Questions? Contact Danette Braun\, Rev. Andy Fetters\, or Sonja Wolfe. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/adventures-in-renewal-co-lab-celebration/ LOCATION:DenizenMKE\, 4227 W Vliet St\, Milwaukee\, WI\, 53208\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/CO-LAB-Celebration-Edition.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0485568;-87.9679741 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=DenizenMKE 4227 W Vliet St Milwaukee WI 53208 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=4227 W Vliet St:geo:-87.9679741,43.0485568 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250216T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250216T220000 DTSTAMP:20260107T050905Z CREATED:20250122T172053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T050905Z UID:10001370-1739725200-1739743200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Gather Games for Young Adults (18-35) DESCRIPTION:Gather Games for Young Adults (18-35)\n \n3rd Sunday of every month\, 5 – 10 pm\nDate & Time:\nFebruary 16\n@\n5:00 pm\n–\n10:00 pm \n\nGethsemane Lutheran Church – Brookfield \n13200 W. Greenfield Ave. \nBrookfield\,\nWI\n53005\nUnited States\n+ Google Map \n\nCost:\nFree (Dinner Included)\nGather MKE is a group of young adults looking for meaningful connections to our faith and our world. We are ELCA-based\, but welcome all who are looking for authentic community. Whether you have a home church you love or have never felt at home in organized religious spaces\, we are here for you. \nQuestions? Contact gathermke@gmail.com. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/gather_games/ LOCATION:Gethsemane Lutheran Church – Brookfield\, 13200 W. Greenfield Ave.\, Brookfield\, WI\, 53005\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/gather.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.016807;-88.077819 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gethsemane Lutheran Church – Brookfield 13200 W. Greenfield Ave. Brookfield WI 53005 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=13200 W. Greenfield Ave.:geo:-88.077819,43.016807 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T150000 DTSTAMP:20260107T062402Z CREATED:20240626T200621Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T062402Z UID:10001340-1739606400-1739631600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Together in Mission 2025 DESCRIPTION:Together in Mission 2025\n \n February 15\, 2025\n @\n8:00 am\n –\n3:00 pm \n\n \n St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa \n \n\n1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\n \n Wauwatosa\,\n WI\n 53213\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $25 (includes lunch) \nJoin us for our synod’s annual learning gathering of pastors\, deacons and lay leaders from across Southeast Wisconsin! Together we’ll worship\, celebrate our partnership in the Gospel\, and attend workshops on a variety of ministry topics. We are delighted to welcome Bishop Meggan Manlove from our Domestic Companion Synod\, the Northwest Intermountain Synod\, as our preacher and workshop presenter! \nPlease note: Although online registration closed on February 11th\, you can still attend by registering at the door on Saturday.  Please bring the $25 event fee in cash or by check (made payable to “Greater Milwaukee Synod”) and fill out a registration form when you enter.  IMPORTANT NOTE: Because our catering order was placed on Tuesday\, meals are NOT available for walk-in registrants.  A list of area restaurants is available upon request. \n \n Register Now\n \nBishop Meggan Manlove\, Worship Preacher and Workshop Presenter\nBishop Meggan Manlove grew up in Custer\, South Dakota. She graduated from Concordia College\, Moorhead\, spent a year in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in Syracuse\, NY and then earned her M.Div. from the Univ. of Chicago Divinity School. She was shaped and nourished by both outdoor ministries (including three summers at Christikon) and campus ministry (ELCA and Episcopal in Chicago). She served a parish in rural Western Iowa for six years and moved to Nampa\, Idaho in 2010 to serve as pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church. She earned her Doctor in Ministry from San Francisco Theological Seminary in May 2021. Her dissertation is titled Equipping Lutherans for Faith Storytelling. \n  \nBishop Manlove loves working collaboratively and cares deeply about food security and affordable housing. In her free time\, she enjoys exploring the region\, deepening friendships\, reading fiction\, and watching good movies. She blogs at www.megganmanlove.com. \nAgenda\n8:00 am – Registration opens \n8:30 am – Worship \n9:45 am – Announcements and Updates \n10:00 am – Break \n10:15 am – Morning Workshops \n11:30 am – Lunch \n12:30 pm – Conference Gatherings* \n1:15 pm – Break \n1:30 pm – Afternoon Workshops \n2:45 pm – Sending \n*After lunch\, attendees are invited to attend special meetings\, grouped by conference and led by the conference dean. Your nametag will help you identify which conference your congregation is in\, and more information on the meetings will be available at the event. Read more about conferences here. \nDownload a pdf of all workshop descriptions here. \nMorning Workshops\n\n\n The Art and Practice of Forgiveness (Marye Beth Dugan\, The Nehemiah Project)\n \nThis presentation explores the healing and restorative powers of forgiveness. Marye Beth Dugan is the Executive Director of the Nehemiah Project. The mission of this organization is to promote the physical and emotional well-being of youth through psychological\, educational\, leadership\, and transitional living services in a residential community. \n\n\n\n Bipoc/LGBTQIA+ Advocacy and Public Safety in a White Christian Nationalist Era (Rev. Michelle Townsend de Lopez\, Cross\, Milwaukee)\n \n“A holistic strategy to help advocates maintain their well-being in action. This approach integrates self-care\, well being\, digital security and information security into traditional security practices for public advocacy. Key steps in the process are: Prepare\, Explore\, Strategize & Act. “Caring for myself is not an indulgence\, it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.” – Audre Lorde” \n\n\n\n Bowen Family Systems Theory and Congregations (Rev. Kristin Nielsen\, Assistant to the Bishop for Congregations in Mission)\n \nDr Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory is a lens through which to understand human behavior in families. Rabbi Edwin Friedman applied this theory to behavior in congregations and synagogues. In our TIM workshop\, we will briefly name the eight concepts of Bowen’s theory\, and then look specifically at the concept of “Triangles” in our families of origin\, and in our congregations. \n\n\n\n Church Communicators Chat (Robyn Bayland\, Communications Manager)\n \nThis session is for anyone who helps make communications or creative content for their congregation. There will be an open Q&A session and time to connect with a community of creatives from other congregations in our synod. Bring all your creative hats — all experience levels and mediums (print and digital) are welcome! \n\n\n\n Confused about the Constitution? (Rev. Sarah Stobie\, Synod Secretary)\n \nSecretary Sarah Stobie will demonstrate how to take the model constitution and your own church’s out-dated constitution and blend them together. She will answer questions as she does it\, and by the end of the session participants will know how to do it themselves. \n\n\n\n Discover the Keys to Unlocking Generosity in Your Congregation (Rev. Chris Manke\, Executive Director\, Outreach for Hope)\n \nIn this class\, you’ll learn strategies to inspire generosity\, strengthen stewardship\, and align your church’s fundraising efforts with its mission. Explore practical tools for creating a culture of giving\, engaging members of all generations\, and sharing your church’s story in a way that compels support. Whether you’re looking to boost your annual giving or launch a specific campaign\, this class will equip you with actionable steps to achieve your goals and transform your congregation’s approach to fundraising. Join us and take the next step in faithful stewardship! \n\n\n\n Keeping God’s People Safe (Rev. Debra Trakel)\n \nHuman beings can and do harm one another. By increasing their knowledge of what to pay attention to\, congregation leaders can help ensure that the church is a safe place for all of God’s people—children and adults. You will leave this workshop with more information about how to create a safer church environment and a tool to help you engage in dialogue with other congregation leaders regarding the important issue: how to keep God’s people safe. \n\n\n\n Paperwork\, Please! A Fun & Practical Workshop on Mastering Church Record-Keeping (Mary Romskog\, Executive Assistant for Administration and Candidacy)\n \nLet’s face it—paperwork can feel like a never-ending mountain\, but what if it could be a manageable\, even enjoyable task? Whether you’re tracking membership\, managing donations\, or organizing historical records\, this workshop will help you conquer your record-keeping duties with confidence\, efficiency\, and maybe even a little fun! Come prepared to share your own best tips. \n\n\n\n Smooth Sailing: Becoming a Resilient Leader in Turbulent Times (Jennifer Prinz\, Portico Benefit Services)\n \nResilience is not perfection\, but the ability to move forward in imperfect realities. Whether it’s leading the church\, dealing with difficult situations\, or navigating the inevitable bumps and setbacks of life\, it is possible to not just survive\, but thrive. Discover how to cultivate your God-given strengths and develop healthy practices that will give you the stamina\, confidence\, and inner peace you need to be a resilient leader. \n\n\n\n What is White Christian Nationalism & How do we Respond? (Breanna Illéné\, Wisconsin Council of Churches)\n \nThe Wisconsin Council of Churches has been working to address Christian Nationalism on a variety of fronts for the past several years. Join WCC’s Director of Ecumenical Innovation and Justice Initiatives to learn about White Christian Nationalism and brainstorm with others about how we as Christians can respond. \n\nThis presentation explores the healing and restorative powers of forgiveness. Marye Beth Dugan is the Executive Director of the Nehemiah Project. The mission of this organization is to promote the physical and emotional well-being of youth through psychological\, educational\, leadership\, and transitional living services in a residential community. \n“A holistic strategy to help advocates maintain their well-being in action. This approach integrates self-care\, well being\, digital security and information security into traditional security practices for public advocacy. Key steps in the process are: Prepare\, Explore\, Strategize & Act. “Caring for myself is not an indulgence\, it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.” – Audre Lorde” \nDr Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory is a lens through which to understand human behavior in families. Rabbi Edwin Friedman applied this theory to behavior in congregations and synagogues. In our TIM workshop\, we will briefly name the eight concepts of Bowen’s theory\, and then look specifically at the concept of “Triangles” in our families of origin\, and in our congregations. \nThis session is for anyone who helps make communications or creative content for their congregation. There will be an open Q&A session and time to connect with a community of creatives from other congregations in our synod. Bring all your creative hats — all experience levels and mediums (print and digital) are welcome! \nSecretary Sarah Stobie will demonstrate how to take the model constitution and your own church’s out-dated constitution and blend them together. She will answer questions as she does it\, and by the end of the session participants will know how to do it themselves. \nIn this class\, you’ll learn strategies to inspire generosity\, strengthen stewardship\, and align your church’s fundraising efforts with its mission. Explore practical tools for creating a culture of giving\, engaging members of all generations\, and sharing your church’s story in a way that compels support. Whether you’re looking to boost your annual giving or launch a specific campaign\, this class will equip you with actionable steps to achieve your goals and transform your congregation’s approach to fundraising. Join us and take the next step in faithful stewardship! \nHuman beings can and do harm one another. By increasing their knowledge of what to pay attention to\, congregation leaders can help ensure that the church is a safe place for all of God’s people—children and adults. You will leave this workshop with more information about how to create a safer church environment and a tool to help you engage in dialogue with other congregation leaders regarding the important issue: how to keep God’s people safe. \nLet’s face it—paperwork can feel like a never-ending mountain\, but what if it could be a manageable\, even enjoyable task? Whether you’re tracking membership\, managing donations\, or organizing historical records\, this workshop will help you conquer your record-keeping duties with confidence\, efficiency\, and maybe even a little fun! Come prepared to share your own best tips. \nResilience is not perfection\, but the ability to move forward in imperfect realities. Whether it’s leading the church\, dealing with difficult situations\, or navigating the inevitable bumps and setbacks of life\, it is possible to not just survive\, but thrive. Discover how to cultivate your God-given strengths and develop healthy practices that will give you the stamina\, confidence\, and inner peace you need to be a resilient leader. \nThe Wisconsin Council of Churches has been working to address Christian Nationalism on a variety of fronts for the past several years. Join WCC’s Director of Ecumenical Innovation and Justice Initiatives to learn about White Christian Nationalism and brainstorm with others about how we as Christians can respond. \nAfternoon Workshops\n\n\n Authentically Diverse Worship (Rev. Denise Mbise\, Trinity\, South Milwaukee & Rev. Aida Muñiz\, Ascension\, Milwaukee)\n \nAs the synod journeys through our Authentic Diversity Strategic Plan\, Authentically Diverse Worship resources is one of our goals. What does Authentically Diverse Worship look like? What are some resources we can use to build worship that is authentically diverse? Join us as we have conversation about what Authentically Diverse Worship might look like. We will provide a few resources and will crowdsource from the room any resources you may have. Bring your ideas to share! \n\n\n\n Church Treasurers and Administrators Benefits Training (Jennifer Prinz\, Portico Benefit Services)\n \nAs the benefits administrator for your organization\, your pastors\, deacons\, and lay employees rely on you to help them navigate their ELCA benefits. In this session\, discover the resources available to help you effectively sponsor and understand the fullness of your benefits and retirement through Portico Benefit Services. \n\n\n\n Deep\, Then Wide – Church growth in the 21st Century (Danette Braun\, Abundance Life Coaching & Rev. Andy Fetters\, Holy Cross\, Menomonee Falls)\n \nWe all know that the landscape of church is changing rapidly. At the same time\, there is an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation afoot in the broader culture and more people than ever are hungry for a sense of belonging. In this session\, we will practice together some tools that can help your congregation connect more deeply with God\, each other\, and your neighbors in a way that will breathe new life into your ministry! \n\n\n\n The Healing Network\, Inc. (Rev. Molly Doreza)\n \nCongregations will share their experiences in developing ministry to/with people with substance abuse\, addiction and related mental health issues.  Attendees will hear inspirational stories of hope and healing and learn how The Healing Network can help. \n\n\n\n Hot Topics (Bishop Paul Erickson & Dr. Joyce Caldwell\, Synod Vice President)\n \nThe 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly will be held in Phoenix July 28-August 2\, and 13 rostered ministers and lay leaders from Greater Milwaukee will gather with over 800 other such leaders from across the ELCA in air conditioned meeting rooms to discuss and vote on a number of important issues. Bishop Erickson and Synod Vice-President Joyce Caldwell will give an overview of the issues on the agenda\, including the Social Statement on Civic Life and Faith\, revisions to the 2009 Social Statement on Human Sexuality\, recommendations coming from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church\, and more. \n\n\n\n How To Be An Ally To Our Immigrant Neighbors (Rev. Dan Bierne\, Global Refuge)\n \nImmigration has become a hot button issue in our society\, and changes are in the works that will impact our congregations and communities. Come and learn about resources available to help you and your congregation learn more about the stories and statistics of our immigrant neighbors and how to engage in concrete actions of love and support. \n\n\n\n How We Show Up Matters (Yolanda Jackson-Lewis)\n \nLeviticus 19:18. Participants will have an opportunity to gain insight or an awareness of why “How We Show Up Matters” through self reflection and the examination of social identity and emotional intelligence. \n\n\n\n Story-linking (Bishop Meggan Manlove\, Northwest Intermountain Synod)\n \nStory-linking\, originated by Anne Streaty Wimberly\, has the goal of equipping us to speak more confidently about our own lived Christian faith. I will give an overview of engaging memoirs\, the Biblical narrative\, faith stories from the American Christian tradition\, and finally our own decision making. \n\n\n\n Transition as an Opportunity for Play (Rev. Casey Sugden\, Interim Pastor\, Our Savior’s\, Hartland)\n \nPastoral transitions can be a scary time for churches\, but they can also be a time for imagination and experimentation. If you aren’t careful\, you might even find yourself having fun. We will take a look at how being playful in times of change can benefit a congregation and maybe even the world. \n\nAs the synod journeys through our Authentic Diversity Strategic Plan\, Authentically Diverse Worship resources is one of our goals. What does Authentically Diverse Worship look like? What are some resources we can use to build worship that is authentically diverse? Join us as we have conversation about what Authentically Diverse Worship might look like. We will provide a few resources and will crowdsource from the room any resources you may have. Bring your ideas to share! \nAs the benefits administrator for your organization\, your pastors\, deacons\, and lay employees rely on you to help them navigate their ELCA benefits. In this session\, discover the resources available to help you effectively sponsor and understand the fullness of your benefits and retirement through Portico Benefit Services. \nWe all know that the landscape of church is changing rapidly. At the same time\, there is an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation afoot in the broader culture and more people than ever are hungry for a sense of belonging. In this session\, we will practice together some tools that can help your congregation connect more deeply with God\, each other\, and your neighbors in a way that will breathe new life into your ministry! \nCongregations will share their experiences in developing ministry to/with people with substance abuse\, addiction and related mental health issues.  Attendees will hear inspirational stories of hope and healing and learn how The Healing Network can help. \nThe 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly will be held in Phoenix July 28-August 2\, and 13 rostered ministers and lay leaders from Greater Milwaukee will gather with over 800 other such leaders from across the ELCA in air conditioned meeting rooms to discuss and vote on a number of important issues. Bishop Erickson and Synod Vice-President Joyce Caldwell will give an overview of the issues on the agenda\, including the Social Statement on Civic Life and Faith\, revisions to the 2009 Social Statement on Human Sexuality\, recommendations coming from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church\, and more. \nImmigration has become a hot button issue in our society\, and changes are in the works that will impact our congregations and communities. Come and learn about resources available to help you and your congregation learn more about the stories and statistics of our immigrant neighbors and how to engage in concrete actions of love and support. \nLeviticus 19:18. Participants will have an opportunity to gain insight or an awareness of why “How We Show Up Matters” through self reflection and the examination of social identity and emotional intelligence. \nStory-linking\, originated by Anne Streaty Wimberly\, has the goal of equipping us to speak more confidently about our own lived Christian faith. I will give an overview of engaging memoirs\, the Biblical narrative\, faith stories from the American Christian tradition\, and finally our own decision making. \nPastoral transitions can be a scary time for churches\, but they can also be a time for imagination and experimentation. If you aren’t careful\, you might even find yourself having fun. We will take a look at how being playful in times of change can benefit a congregation and maybe even the world. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/together-in-mission-2025/ LOCATION:St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa\, 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\, Wauwatosa\, WI\, 53213\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-Together-in-Mission_FB-Insta.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0521428;-88.0076945 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue Wauwatosa WI 53213 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1615 Wauwatosa Avenue:geo:-88.0076945,43.0521428 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250128T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250128T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20241210T203853Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001354-1738089000-1738092600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "The Invitational Christian" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “The Invitational Christian”\n January 28\, 2025\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCST \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for January is “The Invitational Christian.” \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 850 9183 2365 \nPasscode: 626071 \n  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/invitational_christian/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241203T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241203T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20240820T195506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001344-1733250600-1733254200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Community Mapping as a Tool for Spiritual Renewal" DESCRIPTION:/*! elementor – v3.23.0 – 25-07-2024 */\n.elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} \n /*! elementor – v3.23.0 – 25-07-2024 */\n.elementor-column .elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–spacer-size)}.e-con{–container-widget-width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer{width:var(–container-widget-width\,var(–spacer-size));–align-self:var(–container-widget-align-self\,initial);–flex-shrink:0}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container{height:100%;width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer{height:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–container-widget-height\,var(–spacer-size))}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty{position:relative;min-height:22px;min-width:22px}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon{position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;left:0;right:0;margin:auto;padding:0;width:22px;height:22px} \n\n Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Community Mapping as a Tool for Spiritual Renewal”\n May 28\, 2024\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for December is “Community Mapping as a Tool for Spiritual Renewal.” \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 812 2527 1251 \nPasscode: 594471 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-december-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241107T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241107T150000 DTSTAMP:20241029T132736Z CREATED:20240320T194221Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241029T132736Z UID:10001328-1730970000-1730991600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Healthy Boundaries Workshop for Rostered Ministers and Congregational Leaders DESCRIPTION:Healthy Boundaries Workshop for Rostered Ministers and Congregational Leaders\n November 7\, 2024\n @\n9:00 am\n –\n3:00 pm \nCost: The Region 5 registration fee is $100/person\, but GMS rostered ministers and lay leaders will receive a $50 reduced rate. \n\n \n St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa \n \n\n1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\n \n Wauwatosa\,\n WI\n 53213\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n\n \n All rostered ministers are expected to participate in a boundaries training workshop every three years. This year’s event will be held in conjunction with the other synods in Region 5 (IL\, WI\, IA)\, and will include video presentations and table conversations. Lay staff members and other congregational leaders are welcome to attend\, and childcare will be provided if requested.This workshop is the first in a projected three-year cycle of workshops\, and in the coming years we will offer Gender Justice training and Anti-Racism training. \n\n\n Registration closed Monday\, October 28 at 11:59 pm. Walk-in registration is NOT available for this event. (If you missed the registration deadline\, please watch our communications for the next workshop in 2025.) \n\n \n Registration is Closed\n \n Agenda \n8:30 am – Registration \n9:00 am – Opening Worship \n9: 45 am – Session 1: Definitions of Boundaries \nWhat is our inherent knowledge about boundaries and how do we challenge Western tendencies towards isolation\, encouraging a more integrated view of relationships? \n10:45 am – Break \n11:00 am – Session 2: Personal to Professional Definitions \nIntroduce and summarize the ELCA Definitions and Guidelines\, extrapolating key boundary definitions\, theological underpinnings\, and expected behaviors to help us define what professionalism means in rostered ministry. \n12:00 pm – Lunch \n1:00 pm – Synod Time \n1:45 pm – Session 3: Compasses/Frameworks to Deter and Stop Boundary Violations \nPractical compasses to help navigate boundary issues and how to balance over-involvement and neglect\, understand power and vulnerability\, and discern green\, yellow\, and red behaviors in various contexts. \n2:30 pm – Questions and Answers/Wrap-up URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/boundaries-workshop-for-rostered-ministers/ LOCATION:St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa\, 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\, Wauwatosa\, WI\, 53213\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2024-BoundariesSavetheDate_1.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0521428;-88.0076945 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue Wauwatosa WI 53213 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1615 Wauwatosa Avenue:geo:-88.0076945,43.0521428 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241022T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241022T193000 DTSTAMP:20240820T200128Z CREATED:20240820T195504Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240820T200128Z UID:10001343-1729621800-1729625400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Creating As a Spiritual Practice" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Creating As a Spiritual Practice”\n October 22\, 2024\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for October is “Creating As a Spiritual Practice.” \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 880 7979 5456 \nPasscode: 499949 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-october-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241014 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241017 DTSTAMP:20241008T235006Z CREATED:20240320T193533Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241008T235006Z UID:10001327-1728864000-1729123199@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Fall Leadership Conference 2024 DESCRIPTION:Fall Leadership Conference 2024\n October 14\n –\n October 16 \nCost : $150 \n\n \n Lutherdale Bible Camp \n \n\nN7891 Hwy 12\n \n Elkhorn\,\n WI\n 53121\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n 262-742-2352 \n \n\n \nRooted in Jesus\nIn a time of uncertainty and division\, our mission to look\, live and love like Jesus Christ has never been more important. The Rev. Canon Stephanie Spellers will help us to fulfill that calling by exploring the many ways our core ministries – evangelism\, racial justice\, authentic diversity\, and compassionate conversation across difference – powerfully reflect the heart of God and the way of Jesus. Join us for a time of learning and renewal for faith leaders from our synod – including lay members and staff\, council presidents\, pastors and deacons! \nRegistration closes Monday\, September 30 at 11:59 pm. \n \n Register Now\n \nRev. Canon Dr. Stephanie Spellers\nThe Rev. Canon Stephanie Spellers serves as Canon to Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry and spearheads Episcopal efforts around evangelism\, racial reconciliation and creation care. Her newest books are The Church Cracked Open: Disruption\, Decline and New Hope for Beloved Community and an updated 15 th anniversary edition Radical Welcome: Embracing God\, The Other and the Spirit of Transformation featuring new reflections by Spellers and other leaders (released November 2021). She has served as Chaplain to the Episcopal House of Bishops\, directed and taught mission and evangelism at General Theological Seminary\, and served as a canon in the Diocese of Long Island. Before that\, she founded The Crossing\, a ground-breaking church within St. Paul’s Cathedral in Boston\, and led numerous church-wide renewal and justice efforts. A native of Frankfort\, Kentucky\, and a graduate of both Episcopal Divinity School and Harvard Divinity School\, she and her husband Albert deGrasse make their home today in New York’s Harlem neighborhood. Learn more about her recent works at www.churchcrackedopen.com. \nDraft Agenda\n \nMonday\, October 14\n2 pm – 4:30 pm Registration in the Hope Center – no activities planned. You may use this time to settle in\, connect with others\, or simply enjoy Lutherdale.\n4:30 pm Welcome (Hope Center)\n5:30 pm Dinner (Dining Hall)\n7:00 pm Worship (Chapel) \n \nTuesday\, October 15\n8:00 am Breakfast (Dining Hall)\n8:45 am Presentation 1 – Rev. Spellers (Hope Center)\n10:15 am Break\n10:30 am Presentation 2 – Rev. Spellers  (Hope Center)\n12:00 pm Lunch (Dining Hall)\n1:00 pm Free time\n2:30 pm Open Space Conversations\n5:30 pm Dinner (Dining Hall)\n7:00 pm Campfire\n \nWednesday\, October 16\n8:00 am Breakfast (Dining Hall)\n8:45 am  Bishop’s Time (Hope Center)\n9:45 am Break\n10:00 am Presentation 3 – Rev. Spellers (Hope Center)\n10:45 am Announcements\n11:00 am Sending Liturgy  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/fall-leadership-conference-2024/ LOCATION:Lutherdale Bible Camp\, N7891 Hwy 12\, Elkhorn\, WI\, 53121\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Spellers-photo_spring-2023-e1722953573903.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:42.6720715;-88.5435538 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Lutherdale Bible Camp N7891 Hwy 12 Elkhorn WI 53121 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=N7891 Hwy 12:geo:-88.5435538,42.6720715 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240928T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240928T163000 DTSTAMP:20260107T095449Z CREATED:20240604T210849Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T095449Z UID:10001335-1727514000-1727541000@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Loosening the Bonds: Building RIC and Anti-Racist Leaders and Congregations DESCRIPTION:Loosening the Bonds: Building RIC and Anti-Racist Leaders and Congregations\n \n September 28\n @\n9:00 am\n –\n4:30 pm \n\n Lutheran Church of the Great Spirit – Milwaukee \n\n3127 S Howell Ave.\n \n Milwaukee\,\n WI\n 53207\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n \n Cost: $90 (includes lunch) \nThis workshop is designed for congregation teams\, rostered ministers\, and individuals who are striving toward authentic diversity in deepening understanding of racism and heterosexism and the intersections of oppression. The workshop will be grounded in the practice of Dwelling in the Word and the process of learning through stories. We will examine the construction and meaning of “isms\,” provide tools to understand our own place within systems of oppression\, and identify steps and opportunities to grow in both understanding and action. \nRegistration is now closed. \n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Marilyn Miller at marilyn.millerm3@att.net\, or Dr. Joyce Caldwell at joyce.caldwell@gmselca.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/loosening-the-bonds-09-2024/ LOCATION:Lutheran Church of the Great Spirit – Milwaukee\, 3127 S Howell Ave.\, Milwaukee\, WI\, 53207\, United States CATEGORIES:Anti-Racism ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2024-Loosening-the-Bonds.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:42.987697;-87.904973 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Lutheran Church of the Great Spirit – Milwaukee 3127 S Howell Ave. Milwaukee WI 53207 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=3127 S Howell Ave.:geo:-87.904973,42.987697 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240924T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240924T193000 DTSTAMP:20240911T204700Z CREATED:20240820T195502Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240911T204700Z UID:10001342-1727202600-1727206200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Navigating Partisan Waters – Resources for the Journey" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Navigating Partisan Waters – Resources for the Journey”\n September 24\, 2024\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for September is “Navigating Partisan Waters – Resources for the Journey.” \nWe will be discussing the resources we have each found helpful as we all live together through the election season.We’ll discuss a Journal Sentinal article\, and have a small panel discussion to share with each other the helpful resources that are out there. You can come with something to share\, or just to learn… and everyone (members\, staff\, pastors\, etc) is welcome to this 60-minute conversation! \n\n\n\n We’d suggest reading the article\, which is linked here\, beforehand. \n\n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 823 4266 0553 \nPasscode: 191493 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-september-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240816T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240816T200000 DTSTAMP:20260107T073658Z CREATED:20240621T174003Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T073658Z UID:10001339-1723829400-1723838400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Adventures in Renewal CO-LAB: Food Truck Edition DESCRIPTION:Adventures in Renewal CO-LAB: Food Truck Edition\n August 16\n @\n5:30 pm\n –\n8:00 pm \n\n \n Inspiration Art Studios \n \n\nSouth 73rd Street\n \n West Allis\,\n Wisconsin\n 53214\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Try a mission renewal practice for a fun Friday night! Enjoy a night of learning\, practice\, and… food trucks! Experience what “mission coaching” is and why your congregation might want to try it!On Friday\, August 16\, join us for an Adventures in Renewal Co-Lab event! Each Co-Lab event is an opportunity to experiment with the Listen/Try/Reflect/Share model of mission renewal. This event will be focused on the practices of community mapping and prayer walks.We’ll gather at Inspiration Art Studios at 5:30 and practice the art of community mapping together. Then\, we’ll practice a prayer walk (or drive for those with mobility needs) as we process to the West Allis “Food Truck Friday” event at the Farmers Market. Each person will be given some money to spend that night while “listening” (being present & noticing) in the neighborhood. We’ll end the night with a debrief and some thoughts about how these practices can be a source of mission renewal in your congregation.\n \n RSVP to Attend\n \n /*! elementor-pro – v3.22.0 – 24-06-2024 */\n@charset “UTF-8″;.entry-content blockquote.elementor-blockquote:not(.alignright):not(.alignleft)\,.entry-summary blockquote.elementor-blockquote{margin-right:0;margin-left:0}.elementor-widget-blockquote blockquote{margin:0;padding:0;outline:0;font-size:100%;vertical-align:baseline;background:transparent;quotes:none;border:0;font-style:normal;color:#3f444b}.elementor-widget-blockquote blockquote .e-q-footer:after\,.elementor-widget-blockquote blockquote .e-q-footer:before\,.elementor-widget-blockquote blockquote:after\,.elementor-widget-blockquote blockquote:before\,.elementor-widget-blockquote blockquote cite:after\,.elementor-widget-blockquote blockquote 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.elementor-blockquote__tweet-button:before{right:auto;left:-.8em;border-right-color:#1da1f2;border-left-color:transparent}.elementor-blockquote–button-skin-bubble.elementor-blockquote–align-left .elementor-blockquote__tweet-button:hover:before{border-right-color:#0967a0}.elementor-blockquote–button-skin-bubble.elementor-blockquote–align-right .elementor-blockquote__tweet-button:before{left:auto;right:-.8em;border-right-color:transparent;border-left-color:#1da1f2}.elementor-blockquote–button-skin-bubble.elementor-blockquote–align-right .elementor-blockquote__tweet-button:hover:before{border-left-color:#0967a0}.elementor-blockquote–skin-boxed .elementor-blockquote{background-color:#f9fafa;padding:30px}.elementor-blockquote–skin-border .elementor-blockquote{border-color:#f9fafa;border-style:solid;border-inline-start-width:7px;padding-inline-start:20px}.elementor-blockquote–skin-quotation .elementor-blockquote:before{content:”“”;font-size:100px;color:#f9fafa;font-family:Times New Roman\,Times\,serif;font-weight:900;line-height:1;display:block;height:.6em}.elementor-blockquote–skin-quotation .elementor-blockquote__content{margin-top:15px}.elementor-blockquote–align-left .elementor-blockquote__content{text-align:left}.elementor-blockquote–align-left .elementor-blockquote .e-q-footer{flex-direction:row}.elementor-blockquote–align-right .elementor-blockquote__content{text-align:right}.elementor-blockquote–align-right .elementor-blockquote .e-q-footer{flex-direction:row-reverse}.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote{text-align:center}.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote .e-q-footer\,.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote__author{display:block}.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote__tweet-button{margin-right:auto;margin-left:auto} \n\n\n Questions? Contact Pr. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. \n\n /*! elementor – v3.22.0 – 24-06-2024 */\n.elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/adventures-in-renewal-co-lab-food-truck-edition/ LOCATION:Inspiration Art Studios\, South 73rd Street\, West Allis\, Wisconsin\, 53214\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/08-16-24-Food-Truck-Edition.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0148462;-88.0033833 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Inspiration Art Studios South 73rd Street West Allis Wisconsin 53214 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=South 73rd Street:geo:-88.0033833,43.0148462 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240528T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240528T193000 DTSTAMP:20240517T152837Z CREATED:20240515T200016Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240517T152837Z UID:10001331-1716921000-1716924600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Remembering Why Church Matters" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Remembering Why Church Matters”\n May 28\, 2024\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for May is “Remembering Why Church Matters.” We will be discussing as a group the recent article from The Atlantic entitled\, “The True Cost of the Churchgoing Bust.” This article\, written by a self-professed “agnostic\,” will open up a rich conversation and remind us again why God has planted our churches where we are: To make sure more people have access to the life-changing love of Christ\, in community. \n Here’s a snippet of the article: “Digital life [can be] disembodied\, asynchronous\, shallow and solitary [while]…religious ritual is typically embodied\, synchronous\, deep and collective.” NOTE: This article is only available on The Atlantic’s website behind a pay wall\, so we will be reading it together at the start of the session. Come be inspired together with people from across the synod!\n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 893 2318 1586 \nPasscode: 739865 \nHere’s how it works: We’ll start each Zoom gathering with an inspiring story about a topic related to the mission we share. Next\, we’ll break into small groups for about 15 minutes to talk about what we heard (clergy and lay participants will have separate breakout rooms). We’ll then re-gather in the large group to share highlights and questions from our discussions. \n \n Watch Recordings of Past Gatherings\n \n\n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-may-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240517T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240518T163000 DTSTAMP:20260107T123508Z CREATED:20240110T164828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T123508Z UID:10001319-1715965200-1716049800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Synod Assembly 2024 DESCRIPTION:Italian Community Center\, Milwaukee\n  \nSynod Assembly takes place each spring and brings together voting members from congregations to engage in conversation and to vote on resolutions\, elect synod council and committee representatives\, consider finances\, and other business. On Friday evening\, we gather in worship followed by a dessert reception. This service is open to all and it is not necessary to register to attend worship and the dessert reception. Synod Assembly will take place in person only in 2023. Please read through the information below which explains more about synod assembly specifics. \n  \n /*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} \n /*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-column .elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–spacer-size)}.e-con{–container-widget-width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer{width:var(–container-widget-width\,var(–spacer-size));–align-self:var(–container-widget-align-self\,initial);–flex-shrink:0}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container{height:100%;width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer{height:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–container-widget-height\,var(–spacer-size))}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty{position:relative;min-height:22px;min-width:22px}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon{position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;left:0;right:0;margin:auto;padding:0;width:22px;height:22px} \n\n\n Allowed Voting Members\n \n /*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#69727d;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#69727d;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block} \nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits. \nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member should contact the synod office prior to registering. \n  \nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2022 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose  voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. \n  \nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly. \nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.). \n  \nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected). \n  \nUse our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members. \n\n\n\n Registration\n \nRegistration will open in February. \n\n\n\n Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information\n \nIf you are a retired rostered minister and wish to be a voting member of synod assembly\, please contact Mary Romskog no later than March 31. We also encourage you to review the information below that was send to all retired rostered ministers. \n  \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly (this number is 15% of the 146 retired rostered ministers in the synod as of 12/31/23). For 2024 this number is 22. \n  \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges (there are currently three people in this category)\, and others will need to register their desire to serve as a voting member. If you would like to serve as a voting member at the synod assembly\, please contact Mary Romskog in the synod office by March 31\, 2023. If there are more than 19 people who do so\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you as the retired rostered ministers decide who will be the voting members. \n  \nRemember: all retired rostered ministers are welcome to register for the assembly\, at a reduced rate. Those not granted voting privileges are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly\, but limiting the voting to 15% of the retired roster helps us maintain the required lay/rostered minister balance. \n\n\n\n Agenda\n \nA draft agenda will be available soon. \n\n\n\n Resources for Voting Members\n \nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n  \nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provided. This includes credentials for voting during assembly. If your your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n  \nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.  We strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. Learn more by visiting the Resolutions tab and the Nominations and Open Positions tab and accessing the files at the bottom of this page. \n  \nAssembly Rules – coming soon \nConstitutional Amendments – coming soon \n\n\n\n Nominations and Open Positions\n \nThe following positions are open for nominations at Synod Assembly. Please note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \n  \nUse this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. \nConsultation Committee (4 positions listed below) \nThe role of the consultation committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms. \nAt Large – Lay Male (partial term: now – 8/31/2025)At Large – Lay Male (partial term: now – 8/31/2027)At Large – Lay Male (partial term: now – 8/31/2029)At Large – Lay Female (partial term: now – 8/31/2029) \nDiscipline Committee (4 positions listed below) \nThe role of the discipline committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and membersmay not be elected to consecutive terms. \n  \nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2024 – 8/31/2030)At Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2024 – 8/31/2030)At Large – Rostered Minister – 2 positions (full term: 9/1/2024 – 8/31/2030) \nNominating CommitteeAll positions appointed by Synod Council \nAt Large – person of color or person whose primary language is other than English (full term: Synod Assembly 2024 – Synod Assembly 2026) \nSouth Central Conference – Lay Male \nWest Conference – Rostered Minister \nWest Central Conference – Lay Female \n  \n  \nChurchwide Assembly – July 28 – August 2\, 2025 – Phoenix\, Arizona \nConference positions to be nominated by each conference. \nAt Large – Lay Female \nAt Large – Lay Male \nAt Large – Rostered Minister \nAt Large – Lay Male\, Youth/Young Adult (under 30 when elected) \nAt Large – Lay Female\, Person of Color or person whose primary language is other than English \nCentral Conference – Lay Female\, person of color or person whose primary language is other than English \nNorth Conference – Lay Female \nSouth Conference – Rostered Minister \nSouth Central Conference – Lay Male \nWest Conference – Lay Male \nWest Central Conference – Rostered Minister \n  \n  \n\n\n\n Resolutions\n \nThe deadline to submit a resolution is March 22\, 2024. When a resolution is submitted it will be reviewed and then added to the document files below. \n  \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \n\n\n\n Worship\n \nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. \n  \nOur Synod Assembly worship service\, scheduled for the evening of Friday\, May 17\, 2024 at the Italian Community Center Festa Ballroom\, is open to everyone. You do not need to be a registered member of the assembly to attend worship. \n  \nAssembly Offering \nInformation coming soon \n\n\n\n Dinner Tickets and Keynote Speaker\n \n\n\n\n Plenary Speakers\n \n\nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits. \nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member should contact the synod office prior to registering. \n  \nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2022 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose  voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. \n  \nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly. \nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.). \n  \nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected). \n  \nUse our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members. \nRegistration will open in February. \nIf you are a retired rostered minister and wish to be a voting member of synod assembly\, please contact Mary Romskog no later than March 31. We also encourage you to review the information below that was send to all retired rostered ministers. \n  \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly (this number is 15% of the 146 retired rostered ministers in the synod as of 12/31/23). For 2024 this number is 22. \n  \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges (there are currently three people in this category)\, and others will need to register their desire to serve as a voting member. If you would like to serve as a voting member at the synod assembly\, please contact Mary Romskog in the synod office by March 31\, 2023. If there are more than 19 people who do so\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you as the retired rostered ministers decide who will be the voting members. \n  \nRemember: all retired rostered ministers are welcome to register for the assembly\, at a reduced rate. Those not granted voting privileges are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly\, but limiting the voting to 15% of the retired roster helps us maintain the required lay/rostered minister balance. \nA draft agenda will be available soon. \nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n  \nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provided. This includes credentials for voting during assembly. If your your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n  \nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.  We strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. Learn more by visiting the Resolutions tab and the Nominations and Open Positions tab and accessing the files at the bottom of this page. \n  \nAssembly Rules – coming soon \nConstitutional Amendments – coming soon \nThe following positions are open for nominations at Synod Assembly. Please note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \n  \nUse this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. \nConsultation Committee (4 positions listed below) \nThe role of the consultation committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms. \nAt Large – Lay Male (partial term: now – 8/31/2025)At Large – Lay Male (partial term: now – 8/31/2027)At Large – Lay Male (partial term: now – 8/31/2029)At Large – Lay Female (partial term: now – 8/31/2029) \nDiscipline Committee (4 positions listed below) \nThe role of the discipline committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and membersmay not be elected to consecutive terms. \n  \nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2024 – 8/31/2030)At Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2024 – 8/31/2030)At Large – Rostered Minister – 2 positions (full term: 9/1/2024 – 8/31/2030) \nNominating CommitteeAll positions appointed by Synod Council \nAt Large – person of color or person whose primary language is other than English (full term: Synod Assembly 2024 – Synod Assembly 2026) \nSouth Central Conference – Lay Male \nWest Conference – Rostered Minister \nWest Central Conference – Lay Female \n  \n  \nChurchwide Assembly – July 28 – August 2\, 2025 – Phoenix\, Arizona \nConference positions to be nominated by each conference. \nAt Large – Lay Female \nAt Large – Lay Male \nAt Large – Rostered Minister \nAt Large – Lay Male\, Youth/Young Adult (under 30 when elected) \nAt Large – Lay Female\, Person of Color or person whose primary language is other than English \nCentral Conference – Lay Female\, person of color or person whose primary language is other than English \nNorth Conference – Lay Female \nSouth Conference – Rostered Minister \nSouth Central Conference – Lay Male \nWest Conference – Lay Male \nWest Central Conference – Rostered Minister \n  \n  \nThe deadline to submit a resolution is March 22\, 2024. When a resolution is submitted it will be reviewed and then added to the document files below. \n  \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. \n  \nOur Synod Assembly worship service\, scheduled for the evening of Friday\, May 17\, 2024 at the Italian Community Center Festa Ballroom\, is open to everyone. You do not need to be a registered member of the assembly to attend worship. \n  \nAssembly Offering \nInformation coming soon URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/synod-assembly-2024/ LOCATION:Italian Community Center\, 631 E Chicago St\, Milwaukee\, WI\, 53202\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2024-SA_Logo.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.032725;-87.9018342 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Italian Community Center 631 E Chicago St Milwaukee WI 53202 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=631 E Chicago St:geo:-87.9018342,43.032725 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240428T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240428T160000 DTSTAMP:20260107T115521Z CREATED:20240207T164520Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T115521Z UID:10001323-1714309200-1714320000@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Adventures in Renewal Co-Lab Day DESCRIPTION:/*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} \n\nThis event will take the place of our previous Faithful Innovation training days. Join us as we gather to share stories of how God is renewing our sense of mission\,  learn from those who have been experiencing renewal\, and be energized together for our next steps!Who can attend? We welcome all who are engaged in\, or curious about\, mission renewal\, mission coaching\, and innovation. That includes pastors\, council presidents\, lay leaders and members\, mission coaches\, and anyone else who is interested in learning and being inspired by the Spirit… \nThose who have been through the Faithful Innovation process in the past\, come to be re-energized\, share a story of what you are learning\, and get a brief refresher on what some next steps could be! \nThose who are just beginning to engage with a mission coach\, come to be inspired by those who have been doing this work a little while\, come to learn\, come to be energized for the journey! \nThose who are curious about having a mission renewal & innovation coach and just want to learn more\, come to learn from others how you might take the next steps. \n/*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-column 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.elementor-blockquote__content{text-align:left}.elementor-blockquote–align-left .elementor-blockquote .e-q-footer{flex-direction:row}.elementor-blockquote–align-right .elementor-blockquote__content{text-align:right}.elementor-blockquote–align-right .elementor-blockquote .e-q-footer{flex-direction:row-reverse}.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote{text-align:center}.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote .e-q-footer\,.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote__author{display:block}.elementor-blockquote–align-center .elementor-blockquote__tweet-button{margin-right:auto;margin-left:auto} \nThere is no cost to attend\, because of the generosity of the congregations participating in the Equipping the Saints Mission Appeal. However\, we do ask that each person from your congregation who plans to attend register in advance so we have an accurate count for materials. \n\nRegister to Attend\n\n\nLearn More About the Mission Renewal Process\n \nIf you would like to talk more about how your congregation could have a mission and innovation coach\, watch this video and reach out to Pr. Matt Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org for more information. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/adventures-in-renewal-co-lab-day/ LOCATION:Schuetze Recreation Center (Activity Room)\, 1120 Baxter Street\, Waukesha\, 53186\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Adventures-in-Renewal-Main-Graphic-GREEN.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0164807;-88.2253499 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Schuetze Recreation Center (Activity Room) 1120 Baxter Street Waukesha 53186 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1120 Baxter Street:geo:-88.2253499,43.0164807 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240423T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240423T193000 DTSTAMP:20240410T205428Z CREATED:20240410T205021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240410T205428Z UID:10001330-1713897000-1713900600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "How Things Have Changed" DESCRIPTION:Join our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for April is “How Things Have Changed.” If you have noticed changes in worship attendance and church participation\, you are not alone! This month’s conversation is an opportunity to set aside blame and shame\, to learn how the changes we are experiencing are part of a broader societal shift\, and to listen for the Spirit calling us into new adventures in spiritual renewal. \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 861 8865 4540 \nPasscode: 563041 \nHere’s how it works: We’ll start each Zoom gathering with an inspiring story about a topic related to the mission we share. Next\, we’ll break into small groups for about 15 minutes to talk about what we heard (clergy and lay participants will have separate breakout rooms). We’ll then re-gather in the large group to share highlights and questions from our discussions. \n \n Watch Recordings of Past Gatherings\n \n\n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-april-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240319T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240319T193000 DTSTAMP:20240307T191950Z CREATED:20240307T190749Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T191950Z UID:10001326-1710873000-1710876600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Fresh Expressions" DESCRIPTION:Join our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nNOTE: Our March event will take place on 3/19\, which is different from our usual timing of the 4th Tuesday of the month.At our March gathering\, Pr. Matthew Short (Assistant to the Bishop for Evangelical Mission) will host a conversation about the “Fresh Expressions” movement of mission renewal. Some leaders and congregations in our synod are experimenting with these resources\, and we are going to talk about what they are learning\, and what it looks like to create forms of Christian community out in daily life that primarily hold space for people who are not connected to our traditional church structures. Please share this with others who you know who might be wondering how to begin or continue this work in their own congregations!\n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 816 6170 2452 \nPasscode: 326844 \nHere’s how it works: We’ll start each Zoom gathering with an inspiring story about a topic related to the mission we share. Next\, we’ll break into small groups for about 15 minutes to talk about what we heard (clergy and lay participants will have separate breakout rooms). We’ll then re-gather in the large group to share highlights and questions from our discussions. \n \n Watch Recordings of Past Gatherings\n \n\n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-march-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240227T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240227T193000 DTSTAMP:20240207T150111Z CREATED:20240207T145638Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240207T150111Z UID:10001324-1709058600-1709062200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "What makes a good partnership?" DESCRIPTION:Join our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for February is “What makes a good partnership?” What does a mutual partnership grounded in accompaniment look like? Hear stories about the partnership shared between Cross Lutheran in Milwaukee and Unity Lutheran in Brookfield. We’ll also learn how to develop a partnership from Pastor Chris Manke of Outreach for Hope. Together we’ll be inspired to strengthen existing partnerships between congregations and build new ones. \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 817 8434 0458 \nPasscode: 988608 \nHere’s how it works: We’ll start each Zoom gathering with an inspiring story about a topic related to the mission we share. Next\, we’ll break into small groups for about 15 minutes to talk about what we heard (clergy and lay participants will have separate breakout rooms). We’ll then re-gather in the large group to share highlights and questions from our discussions. \n \n Watch Recordings of Past Gatherings\n \n\n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-february-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240210T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240210T150000 DTSTAMP:20260107T123730Z CREATED:20240102T163212Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T123730Z UID:10001318-1707552000-1707577200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Together in Mission DESCRIPTION:/*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-alert{padding:15px;border-left:5px solid transparent;position:relative;text-align:left}.elementor-alert .elementor-alert-title{display:block;font-weight:700}.elementor-alert .elementor-alert-description{font-size:13px}.elementor-alert button.elementor-alert-dismiss{position:absolute;right:var(–dismiss-icon-horizontal-position\,10px);top:var(–dismiss-icon-vertical-position\,10px);padding:3px;font-size:var(–dismiss-icon-size\,20px);line-height:1;background:transparent;color:var(–dismiss-icon-normal-color\,inherit);border:none;cursor:pointer;transition-duration:var(–dismiss-icon-hover-transition-duration\,.3s)}.elementor-alert button.elementor-alert-dismiss:hover{color:var(–dismiss-icon-hover-color\,inherit)}.elementor-alert button.elementor-alert-dismiss svg{width:var(–dismiss-icon-size\,20px);height:var(–dismiss-icon-size\,20px);fill:var(–dismiss-icon-normal-color\,currentColor);transition-duration:var(–dismiss-icon-hover-transition-duration\,.3s)}.elementor-alert button.elementor-alert-dismiss svg:hover{fill:var(–dismiss-icon-hover-color\,currentColor)}.elementor-alert.elementor-alert-info{color:#31708f;background-color:#d9edf7;border-color:#bcdff1}.elementor-alert.elementor-alert-success{color:#3c763d;background-color:#dff0d8;border-color:#cae6be}.elementor-alert.elementor-alert-warning{color:#8a6d3b;background-color:#fcf8e3;border-color:#f9f0c3}.elementor-alert.elementor-alert-danger{color:#a94442;background-color:#f2dede;border-color:#e8c4c4}@media (max-width:767px){.elementor-alert{padding:10px}.elementor-alert button.elementor-alert-dismiss{right:7px;top:7px}}\n Looking for presentation slides and resources from the event?\n Files from this year’s workshops will be posted to our Together in Mission Presenter Resource Archive as we receive them.\n /*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-column .elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–spacer-size)}.e-con{–container-widget-width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer{width:var(–container-widget-width\,var(–spacer-size));–align-self:var(–container-widget-align-self\,initial);–flex-shrink:0}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container{height:100%;width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer{height:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–container-widget-height\,var(–spacer-size))}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty{position:relative;min-height:22px;min-width:22px}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon{position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;left:0;right:0;margin:auto;padding:0;width:22px;height:22px}\n /*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} \nJoin us for Together in Mission\, our synod’s annual learning gathering for lay and rostered leaders! This year\, we return to our popular workshop format. Together we’ll worship\, celebrate our partnership in the Gospel\, and learn together on a variety of ministry topics. \n /*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-heading-title{padding:0;margin:0;line-height:1}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title[class*=elementor-size-]>a{color:inherit;font-size:inherit;line-height:inherit}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-small{font-size:15px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-medium{font-size:19px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-large{font-size:29px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xl{font-size:39px}.elementor-widget-heading .elementor-heading-title.elementor-size-xxl{font-size:59px} \nRegistration Deadline: February 2 at 11:59am\nDue to the increased level of respiratory virus activity (including COVID)\, masking will be encouraged but not required for those in attendance \n \n Register Now\n \n \n Download Congregational Promo Materials\n \n Agenda \n8:00 am – Registration opens \n8:30 am – Worship \n9:45 am – Announcements and Updates \n10:00 am – Break \n10:15 am – Morning Workshops \n11:30 am – Lunch \n12:30 pm – Conference Gatherings \n1:15 pm – Break \n1:30 pm – Afternoon Workshops \n2:45 pm – Sending \n Workshop List \nDownload the workshop descriptions as a PDF here. \nMorning Workshops\n\n\n The Reconciling in Christ Journey (Aubrey Thonvold\, Executive Director\, ReconcilingWorks)\n \n /*! elementor – v3.18.0 – 20-12-2023 */\n.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#69727d;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#69727d;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block} \nThe work of welcome is a lifelong journey of setting and reaching milestones. Together let’s discover how to implement a journey for your faith community to publicly and intentionally welcome people of all sexual orientations\, gender identities\, and gender expressions; and commit to the work of racial equity. We will learn about the resources\, tools\, and materials ReconcilingWorks has available to support you and your faith community in what it means to be Reconciling in Christ. \n\n\n\n ELCA Statement on Civic Life and Faith (Dr. Anthony Bateza\, Associate Professor of Religion; Department Chair of Race\, Ethnic\, Gender and Sexuality Studies; Director of Race and Ethnic Studies – St. Olaf College)\n \nThe ELCA is developing a social statement on Civic Life and Faith\, the relationship of church and state and related matters\, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.Social statements are the ELCA’s primary documents to address significant social issues. They are intended to aid reflection and shape conscience and to set forth the ELCA’s teaching and policy on the major social issues and questions of contemporary life. The first draft of the proposed statement will be published in December\, and this workshop will allow participants to share comments and feedback as part of a formal hearing. These comments will shape the second draft\, which will be developed in the fall of 2024. \nPlease note: Hearings are public gatherings where participants share their specific affirmations or concerns about a draft statement. Participants are strongly encouraged to read the document before the workshop and to come prepared with questions and suggestions.  The document and more information is available here. \n\n\n\n Breaking Barriers: A Workshop on Implementing Authentic Diversity through Congregational Assessment (Authentic Diversity Strategic Planning Team)\n \nJoin us for a transformative workshop designed to guide congregations during their antiracism journey. Explore a powerful assessment tool that helps determine where your congregation is so they can plan where to go. This is the first step to equip congregations with the skills and understanding needed to begin initiating meaningful conversations and actions within their churches. This interactive session will provide hands-on experience in utilizing the assessment tool. You will also learn more about our Strategic Planning Taskforce\, the work done so far\, and where they hope to go. We invite you to take the first step towards building a more inclusive congregation. \n\n\n\n Storytelling and Mission Renewal (Rev. Matt Short\, Assistant to the Bishop for Evangelical Mission)\n \nJesus taught through stories. Faith is shared and strengthened through stories. In this session\, you will learn simple practices and tools you can take back to your congregation that will inspire you and reignite a sense of vitality and excitement about what God is doing in your church and why it matters for the world! \n\n\n\n How to Make a Communications Plan That Works for Your Congregation (Robyn Bayland\, Greater Milwaukee Synod Communications Manager)\n \nJoin GMS Communications Manager Robyn Bayland (she/her) for a crash course on how to get the word out while being good stewards of your congregation’s time\, talents\, and treasures. Participants will leave with practical tools to bring back to your congregation\, including a comms strategy planning exercise and a curated list of free/low-cost resources for troubleshooting and skill-building. All are welcome\, regardless of tech proficiency: the skills from this workshop are meant to apply to both digital and print communications. \n\n\n\n A Basic Understanding of Israel and Palestine for Lutherans (Rev. Lisa Bates-Froiland\, Redeemer\, Milwaukee and Churches for Middle East Peace)\n \nRev. Lisa Bates-Froiland and co-presenters from Wisconsin Christians for Justice in Palestine\, with information from our partner organization\, Churches for Middle East Peace (cmep.org)\, will provide a foundation for understanding the current war in Israel and Palestine. A historical timeline will be shared\, along with explanations of key terms you’ve been hearing in the news: the Occupation\, Zionism\, Settlers\, “From the River to the Sea\,” and more. Did you know there are 6 Palestinian Lutheran congregations comprised of 2000 members? \n\n\n\n Let’s Talk So We Can Hear (Rev. Debra Trakel)\n \nWe will explore how we talk to one another and how what we say\, and how we say it\, can get in the way of our ability to hear one another. We will talk about stopping harsh words\, and how to have hard conversations more productively. We will talk about how to guard our hearts from painful words and how to help guard one another’s. We will talk about what authentic listening looks like. \n\n\n\n How Churches Can Work Together: Collaborations\, Consolidations & Mergers (Rev. John Bischoff\, United\, Racine)\n \nPartnering in ministry is the future of the church. Consolidations\, mergers\, and collaborations are a few ways in which your congregations can continue providing ministry while also providing avenues for new ministry opportunities. Come and hear what it takes to successfully join congregations together and the benefits of partnering together. \n\n\n\n Ending well: Accompanying Loved Ones as They Near the End of Their Lives (Shantell Riley\, End of Life Doula\, Dignity with Departure)\n \nIf you had an opportunity to prepare and plan for your death\, what would that look like? Would you have your funeral home picked out? Or maybe you want to be cremated? What about the outfit or music?  Who would be the person you would want to speak for you when you can’t speak for yourself? What or who would like to be surrounded by on your death bed? What would you like to leave behind? In a world where we don’t talk about death (a softer term is end-of-life) openly. It has been a taboo or “hush-hush” topic. Like talking about it will cause you to die.  It has become an experience that takes place other than home\, like the hospital. I want to assist you emotionally\, mentally\, physically\, and spiritually with the navigation of situations related to end-of-life. Wanting to make the departure as significant as the arrival… \n\nThe work of welcome is a lifelong journey of setting and reaching milestones. Together let’s discover how to implement a journey for your faith community to publicly and intentionally welcome people of all sexual orientations\, gender identities\, and gender expressions; and commit to the work of racial equity. We will learn about the resources\, tools\, and materials ReconcilingWorks has available to support you and your faith community in what it means to be Reconciling in Christ. \nThe ELCA is developing a social statement on Civic Life and Faith\, the relationship of church and state and related matters\, as called for by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.Social statements are the ELCA’s primary documents to address significant social issues. They are intended to aid reflection and shape conscience and to set forth the ELCA’s teaching and policy on the major social issues and questions of contemporary life. The first draft of the proposed statement will be published in December\, and this workshop will allow participants to share comments and feedback as part of a formal hearing. These comments will shape the second draft\, which will be developed in the fall of 2024. \nPlease note: Hearings are public gatherings where participants share their specific affirmations or concerns about a draft statement. Participants are strongly encouraged to read the document before the workshop and to come prepared with questions and suggestions.  The document and more information is available here. \nJoin us for a transformative workshop designed to guide congregations during their antiracism journey. Explore a powerful assessment tool that helps determine where your congregation is so they can plan where to go. This is the first step to equip congregations with the skills and understanding needed to begin initiating meaningful conversations and actions within their churches. This interactive session will provide hands-on experience in utilizing the assessment tool. You will also learn more about our Strategic Planning Taskforce\, the work done so far\, and where they hope to go. We invite you to take the first step towards building a more inclusive congregation. \nJesus taught through stories. Faith is shared and strengthened through stories. In this session\, you will learn simple practices and tools you can take back to your congregation that will inspire you and reignite a sense of vitality and excitement about what God is doing in your church and why it matters for the world! \nJoin GMS Communications Manager Robyn Bayland (she/her) for a crash course on how to get the word out while being good stewards of your congregation’s time\, talents\, and treasures. Participants will leave with practical tools to bring back to your congregation\, including a comms strategy planning exercise and a curated list of free/low-cost resources for troubleshooting and skill-building. All are welcome\, regardless of tech proficiency: the skills from this workshop are meant to apply to both digital and print communications. \nRev. Lisa Bates-Froiland and co-presenters from Wisconsin Christians for Justice in Palestine\, with information from our partner organization\, Churches for Middle East Peace (cmep.org)\, will provide a foundation for understanding the current war in Israel and Palestine. A historical timeline will be shared\, along with explanations of key terms you’ve been hearing in the news: the Occupation\, Zionism\, Settlers\, “From the River to the Sea\,” and more. Did you know there are 6 Palestinian Lutheran congregations comprised of 2000 members? \nWe will explore how we talk to one another and how what we say\, and how we say it\, can get in the way of our ability to hear one another. We will talk about stopping harsh words\, and how to have hard conversations more productively. We will talk about how to guard our hearts from painful words and how to help guard one another’s. We will talk about what authentic listening looks like. \nPartnering in ministry is the future of the church. Consolidations\, mergers\, and collaborations are a few ways in which your congregations can continue providing ministry while also providing avenues for new ministry opportunities. Come and hear what it takes to successfully join congregations together and the benefits of partnering together. \nIf you had an opportunity to prepare and plan for your death\, what would that look like? Would you have your funeral home picked out? Or maybe you want to be cremated? What about the outfit or music?  Who would be the person you would want to speak for you when you can’t speak for yourself? What or who would like to be surrounded by on your death bed? What would you like to leave behind? In a world where we don’t talk about death (a softer term is end-of-life) openly. It has been a taboo or “hush-hush” topic. Like talking about it will cause you to die.  It has become an experience that takes place other than home\, like the hospital. I want to assist you emotionally\, mentally\, physically\, and spiritually with the navigation of situations related to end-of-life. Wanting to make the departure as significant as the arrival… \nAfternoon Workshops\n\n\n Let’s Talk SOGIE (Aubrey Thonvold\, Executive Director\, ReconcilingWorks)\n \nAs we seek to deepen and expand the holy work of welcome\, inclusion\, and celebration of LGBTQIA+ people in the church and society\, we can find ourselves asking\, “What does LGBTQIA+ mean?” Together we will co-create a safe space to learn helpful skills and tools to support you and your ministry. The Let’s Talk About SOGIE training and “Lutheran Introduction to Sexual Orientation\, Gender Identity\, & Gender Expression” are complementary resources\, to be used side by side in your learning of language\, and ways to extend hospitality to our LGBTQIA+ siblings. The training is great for those who are hoping to support their faith community in ongoing education\, or for individuals who have an open heart and mind on learning more about God’s diversity of creation. \n\n\n\n Jesus and Justice (Dr. Anthony Bateza\, Associate Professor of Religion; Department Chair of Race\, Ethnic\, Gender and Sexuality Studies; Director of Race and Ethnic Studies – St. Olaf College)\n \nOur morning preacher will help us explore the connections between our faith and our engagement in the issues facing us. \n\n\n\n Breaking Barriers: A Workshop on Implementing Authentic Diversity through Congregational Assessment (Authentic Diversity Strategic Planning Team)\n \nJoin us for a transformative workshop designed to guide congregations during their antiracism journey. Explore a powerful assessment tool that helps determine where your congregation is so they can plan where to go. This is the first step to equip congregations with the skills and understanding needed to begin initiating meaningful conversations and actions within their churches. This interactive session will provide hands-on experience in utilizing the assessment tool. You will also learn more about our Strategic Planning Taskforce\, the work done so far\, and where they hope to go. We invite you to take the first step towards building a more inclusive congregation. \n\n\n\n Practices and Principles for Renewal (Rev. Matt Short\, Assistant to the Bishop for Evangelical Mission)\n \nWe all know the church and the world are changing rapidly! In this session\, we will learn a handful of easy practices and some foundational principles that can help your congregation “behave its way into new thinking” and make new connections with new people. If you are looking for a rich conversation about how to build new ways of being the church together\, this is the session for you! \n\n\n\n Treasurer’s Workshop (Rev. Karen Pahl\, Greater Milwaukee Synod Treasurer and Pastor\, Christ the Servant\, Waukesha)\n \nEverything you ever wanted to know about synod financial information and being a great congregational treasurer! Let us help you with resources and information that will make your work easier. \n\n\n\n We All Belong (Rev. Marilyn Miller and Kathleen Schluter)\n \nMilwaukee Inner City Congregations Allied for Hope (MICAH) has launched the We All Belong Campaign. Join us for this introduction/discussion where we talk about – Protecting Democracy\, Rejecting “christian” nationalism\, and Building Beloved Community. Includes video presentations by Bishop Curry\, Episcopal Church\, and Bishop Eaton\, ELCA. This model can be used in your congregation. \n\n\n\n All-Ages Sunday School\, Worship and Service (Rev. Lynn Erickson\, Interim Pastor\, Mount Carmel\, Milwaukee)\n \nWant to try something new to strengthen relationships\, support parents and grandparents\, engage new volunteers and deepen faith? It’s not magic\, it’s all-ages Sunday School (and more)! Hands-on learning in mixed age groups adapted to your setting is an exciting way to strengthen Christian education and encourage intergenerational relationships. We will hear from congregations that have experimented with all-ages Sunday School\, worship\, and service. Try a few things together and take home a complete ready-to-adapt curriculum on the Body of Christ. \n\n\n\n Wild Church (Rev. Larry Harpster\, Interim Pastor\, All Saints\, Wales)\n \nCome talk with Pr. Larry Harpster\, a self-professed crazy nature lover and pastor.   Learn what he is finding inspiring in a new movement called “Wild Church.” Hear some stories about nature spirituality and the Celtic Church.  Take home some concrete ideas about how your congregation could begin holding small groups and outdoor gatherings that help you connect with the sacred in new ways.  You may even find new ways to connect with some people in your neighborhoods! Leave with inspiration and some simple action steps you could take back into your congregation. \n\n\n\n Spiritual Practices\, Meditation\, and Mindfulness (Rev. Jackie Cook\, Christ the King Delafield)\n \nDo you sometimes find it difficult to slow down to pray and to study? In this workshop\, participants learn about ways to deepen your spiritual practice repertoire. Activities may include praying in color\, finger prayer labyrinths\, breathing\, visualization and Ignatian contemplation\, and a loving kindness meditation.  \n\nAs we seek to deepen and expand the holy work of welcome\, inclusion\, and celebration of LGBTQIA+ people in the church and society\, we can find ourselves asking\, “What does LGBTQIA+ mean?” Together we will co-create a safe space to learn helpful skills and tools to support you and your ministry. The Let’s Talk About SOGIE training and “Lutheran Introduction to Sexual Orientation\, Gender Identity\, & Gender Expression” are complementary resources\, to be used side by side in your learning of language\, and ways to extend hospitality to our LGBTQIA+ siblings. The training is great for those who are hoping to support their faith community in ongoing education\, or for individuals who have an open heart and mind on learning more about God’s diversity of creation. \nOur morning preacher will help us explore the connections between our faith and our engagement in the issues facing us. \nJoin us for a transformative workshop designed to guide congregations during their antiracism journey. Explore a powerful assessment tool that helps determine where your congregation is so they can plan where to go. This is the first step to equip congregations with the skills and understanding needed to begin initiating meaningful conversations and actions within their churches. This interactive session will provide hands-on experience in utilizing the assessment tool. You will also learn more about our Strategic Planning Taskforce\, the work done so far\, and where they hope to go. We invite you to take the first step towards building a more inclusive congregation. \nWe all know the church and the world are changing rapidly! In this session\, we will learn a handful of easy practices and some foundational principles that can help your congregation “behave its way into new thinking” and make new connections with new people. If you are looking for a rich conversation about how to build new ways of being the church together\, this is the session for you! \nEverything you ever wanted to know about synod financial information and being a great congregational treasurer! Let us help you with resources and information that will make your work easier. \nMilwaukee Inner City Congregations Allied for Hope (MICAH) has launched the We All Belong Campaign. Join us for this introduction/discussion where we talk about – Protecting Democracy\, Rejecting “christian” nationalism\, and Building Beloved Community. Includes video presentations by Bishop Curry\, Episcopal Church\, and Bishop Eaton\, ELCA. This model can be used in your congregation. \nWant to try something new to strengthen relationships\, support parents and grandparents\, engage new volunteers and deepen faith? It’s not magic\, it’s all-ages Sunday School (and more)! Hands-on learning in mixed age groups adapted to your setting is an exciting way to strengthen Christian education and encourage intergenerational relationships. We will hear from congregations that have experimented with all-ages Sunday School\, worship\, and service. Try a few things together and take home a complete ready-to-adapt curriculum on the Body of Christ. \nCome talk with Pr. Larry Harpster\, a self-professed crazy nature lover and pastor.   Learn what he is finding inspiring in a new movement called “Wild Church.” Hear some stories about nature spirituality and the Celtic Church.  Take home some concrete ideas about how your congregation could begin holding small groups and outdoor gatherings that help you connect with the sacred in new ways.  You may even find new ways to connect with some people in your neighborhoods! Leave with inspiration and some simple action steps you could take back into your congregation. \nDo you sometimes find it difficult to slow down to pray and to study? In this workshop\, participants learn about ways to deepen your spiritual practice repertoire. Activities may include praying in color\, finger prayer labyrinths\, breathing\, visualization and Ignatian contemplation\, and a loving kindness meditation.  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/together-in-mission/ LOCATION:Ascension Lutheran – Waukesha\, 1415 Dopp Street\, Waukesha\, 53188\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2024-Together-in-Mission-logo.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0090055;-88.2526053 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Ascension Lutheran – Waukesha 1415 Dopp Street Waukesha 53188 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1415 Dopp Street:geo:-88.2526053,43.0090055 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240123T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240123T193000 DTSTAMP:20231219T162045Z CREATED:20231219T160902Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231219T162045Z UID:10001317-1706034600-1706038200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Meeting God in Authentic Diversity Work" DESCRIPTION:Join our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for January is “Meeting God in Authentic Diversity Work.” Pr. Afi Dobbins-Mays (Assistant to the Bishop for Authentic Diversity) will be hosting a conversation with members from All Saints Lutheran Church in Wales\, WI as they share about what God is doing in their hearts as they read together\, and wrestle together\, around the work of anti-racism and authentic diversity. It will be a rich conversation! Please do invite others who you know who might be wondering how to begin or continue this work in their own congregations. \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 883 7180 8691 \nPasscode: 518334 \nHere’s how it works: We’ll start each Zoom gathering with an inspiring story about a topic related to the mission we share. Next\, we’ll break into small groups for about 15 minutes to talk about what we heard (clergy and lay participants will have separate breakout rooms). We’ll then re-gather in the large group to share highlights and questions from our discussions. \n \n Watch Recordings of Past Gatherings\n \n\n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-january-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240116 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240125 DTSTAMP:20230825T134853Z CREATED:20230825T122253Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T134853Z UID:10001285-1705363200-1706140799@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Bishop's Trip to El Salvador DESCRIPTION:Bishop Erickson will be leading a trip to visit our partners in the Lutheran Synod of El Salvador\, January 16-24\, 2024. This visit will include opportunities to learn about the history and current dynamics in the country and in the church\, as well as a chance to visit local congregations and leaders. Pastors and congregational leaders are invited to participate\, whether their congregation has an existing partnership in El Salvador\, or they are simply interested in learning about our siblings in Christ in this beautiful country. Those who have an existing partnership will be able to include a visit to their partner. \n \nTrip Themes\n\nHow faith and social justice are intertwined in El Salvador’s recent history.\nThe inspiring work of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church as a church ministering to marginalized communities throughout the country.\nHow the Greater Milwaukee Synod has walked in partnership with the Salvadoran Lutheran Church as a companion synod and through sister church relationships.\n\n \nTrip Highlights\n\nVisits to sites of Salvadoran martyrs including archbishop Oscar Romero\, Rutilio Grande\, and the six Jesuit priests.\nWorship in local Salvadoran Lutheran church communities\nVisit with Medardo Gomez\, bishop of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church and Nobel Peace Prize nominee.\nTours to El Salvador scenic sites – possibilities include volcanos\, coffee farms\, beaches\, mountains\, crater lakes and more.\n\n  \nThose interested in joining this delegation are invited to complete the interest form below.  \nQuestions?  Contact Bishop Erickson at paul.erickson@gmselca.org. \nDates: Tuesday\, January 16-Wednesday\, January 24\, 2024 \nCosts:  $850/person + airfare ($500 estimated) \n\n \n Complete the Interest Form URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/bishops-trip-to-el-salvador/ ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20231128T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20231128T193000 DTSTAMP:20231128T145720Z CREATED:20231023T193223Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231128T145720Z UID:10001315-1701196200-1701199800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "The Art of Gathering" DESCRIPTION:Join our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for November is “The Art of Gathering.” Members of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church will share how they’ve transformed congregational gatherings to be more hospitable\, intentional\, and meaningful with the guidance of “The Art of Gathering: How we Gather and Why it Matters” by Priya Parker. (NOTE: The session will include a summary of the book’s key principles for those who haven’t read it previously.) \nLook forward to conversation around: \n\nA program is not a purpose\nBigger isn’t always better\nDon’t start a funeral with logistics\nWhere you gather matters\nMartha and Mary: Don’t hide in the kitchen and let your guests fend for themselves\n\n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 810 0844 8359 \nPasscode: 460428 \nHere’s how it works: We’ll start each Zoom gathering with an inspiring story about a topic related to the mission we share. Next\, we’ll break into small groups for about 15 minutes to talk about what we heard (clergy and lay participants will have separate breakout rooms). We’ll then re-gather in the large group to share highlights and questions from our discussions. \n \n Watch Recordings of Past Gatherings\n \n\n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-november-2023/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20231024T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20231024T193000 DTSTAMP:20231018T170909Z CREATED:20230906T212838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231018T170909Z UID:10001293-1698172200-1698175800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Meeting God Over Coffee" DESCRIPTION:Join our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for October is “Meeting God Over Coffee.” Learn from a new ministry in our synod about the ways they are encountering God by gathering for coffee\, calm\, and communion – not in a church building but in a coffee shop. We’ll hear the story and try a brief spiritual practice together. \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 884 2787 4260 \nPasscode: 646935 \nHere’s how it works: We’ll start each Zoom gathering with an inspiring story about a topic related to the mission we share. Next\, we’ll break into small groups for about 15 minutes to talk about what we heard (clergy and lay participants will have separate breakout rooms). We’ll then re-gather in the large group to share highlights and questions from our discussions. \n \n Watch Recordings of Past Gatherings\n \n\n\n\n Questions? Contact Rev. Matthew Short at matt@milwaukeesynod.org. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-october-2023/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231015 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231016 DTSTAMP:20230825T133248Z CREATED:20230822T133359Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230825T133248Z UID:10001284-1697328000-1697414399@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Created to Be: ELCA Youth Gathering Synod Group DESCRIPTION:Are you interested in attending the ELCA Youth Gathering in July 2024?\n\nDoes your congregation have three or fewer youth that want to attend?\n\nAre you an adult who is interested in being an adult leader?\n\nWe want to hear from you!\n\nOur synod would love to host a group for youth to attend the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans from July 16 – 20. It’s also possible that individuals from the synod group could participate in MYLE and the tAble events (for multicultural and differently abled youth) which are held just prior to the Youth Gathering from July 13 – 16 \nIn order to make this happen we need to know about youth that want to attend as individuals\, congregations with 3 or fewer youth\, and adults willing to serve as adult leaders. Please use the yellow button below to let us know you’d like to be part of this synod group by October 15th. \nWe’ll be in touch with each person to share more details. If you have questions about this group or the ELCA Youth Gathering\, please give us a call at 414.671.1212 or email us at: gmsoffice@gmselca.org \n\n\nI’d like to be part of the synod group URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/created-to-be-elca-youth-gathering-synod-group/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/ELCAYG2024_logofull_fullcolor.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR