BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Greater Milwaukee Synod ELCA - ECPv6.17.2//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH 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 BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T150000 DTSTAMP:20260129T173733Z CREATED:20250926T144709Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T173733Z UID:10001438-1770453000-1770476400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Together In Mission 2026 DESCRIPTION:Together In Mission 2026\n February 7\n @\n8:30 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 \nRegistration deadline: February 1 at 11:59 pm\n \n Register\n \n \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.  \n  \n2026 will be the year of Collaboration in the synod\, focusing on the fourth of our synod’s core values. One of the ways we will be exploring this theme is through the design and production of a synod mural. This process will be led by Tia Richardson\, who will introduce the design process during the opening presentation at Together in Mission\, which will include viewing a documentary film about a similar project she led in Rockford\, IL. All TiM participants have the opportunity to register for one of two design workshops that will take place that morning and afternoon. Additional opportunities to help design and produce the mural will be announced on February 7.  \nNew this year! \nOur worship service will be a Lunch Church service led by Rev. Sarah Stumme and Rev. Jaime Larson McLoone. We’ve set aside time for you to find your box lunch and then join in this worship service scheduled for 11:30 am. \n  \nLunch Church (or Dinner Church) is a table-centered expression of church where community\, hospitality\, and the story of Jesus come together over a shared meal. Rooted in the practices of Jesus and the early church\, it creates sacred space for strangers to become friends\, stories to be shared\, and lives to be transformed. More than a potluck\, Lunch Church reimagines the meal as mission—forming new faith communities around the table\, not the stage. (From the Fresh Expressions website) \nFeatured Speaker: Tia Richardson\nTia Richardson \nTia Richardson is an integrative community artist\, focusing her efforts as an artist-in-residence for schools\, community organizations\, places of worship\, and nonprofits. As an integrated community artist\, she facilitates holistic visual arts programs  (e.g. book-making\, illustration\, story-writing\, community-led murals) for youth and adults using a team-building framework.  She often incorporates therapeutic techniques such as group rhythm\, son\, movement\, and visual arts; as well as restorative practices like talking circles. \n  \nTia has a certification in Trauma-Informed Care from First Aid Arts and has worked with and in a variety of settings\, including public schools\, social services agencies\, neighborhood organizations\, the juvenile justice system\, after-care centers\, and grassroots collectives. Her project themes have ranged from creative community empowerment to positive self-esteem to environmental awareness and academics.  \nAgenda \n8:00 am – Registration opens \n8:30 am – Opening Presentation \n9:30 am – Announcements  \n9:45 am – Break \n10:00 am – Morning Workshops \n11:15 am – Transition to Lunch \n11:30 am – Lunch Church \n12:45 pm – Conference Gatherings* \n1:15 pm – Break \n1:30 pm – Afternoon Workshops \n2:45 pm – Sending \nDownload a pdf of all of the workshop descriptions \nMorning Workshops 10:00 am – 11:15 am\n Beyond Borders: How engaging with our Tanzania and El Salvador partnerships can energize your congregation \nPresenters: Sarah Wehmeier Aparicio and Rev. Chris Marien \nJoin us for a conversation on the ways your congregation can revitalized by learning about our companion synods in the Diocese of Meru and the Salvadoran Lutheran Church. \n Community Design Workshop \nPresenter: Tia Richardson \nPLEASE NOTE: This morning session has reached its maximum of 24 registrants. Please register for the afternoon session of “Community Design Workshop” instead. This is a fun\, engaging hands-on collaborative workshop where participants will have a chance to make a difference by sharing their ideas for a mural that expresses the heart of the synod community. No art experience required! Tia Richardson is a community artist whose work is seen around the Milwaukee area. The workshops offer people a chance to freely express their feelings\, acknowledging what they believe the challenges are with race relations in the synod community\, think of choices they believe can help make that better\, and imagine a brighter future as a result of those choices. People may choose one workshop to attend. *In-person film screening and discussion of Rockford Taking Flight is a pre-requisite to attend a session. This film will be shared during our opening presentation at Together in Mission. To learn more about Tia’s work\, visit www.cosmic-butterfly.com \nPlease note: This workshop is limited to 24 people. \n Conflict Resolution/Management in Congregations \nPresenter: Rev. Becky Erb Strang \nEven with the best of intentions\, congregations often find themselves navigating through conflict\, bullying\, and gaslighting. Pastor Becky Erb Strang will lead a workshop on how to identify conflict situations before they get messy\, how to address sticky situations\, and how to create a healthy congregational life. \n Discovering the Gifts of your Congregation’s Land \nPresenter: Rev. John Norquist \nCome and learn how one congregation experienced renewal as they partnered with neighbors to restore natural habitats to the land surrounding their building\, including planting a two acre prairie in 2019.  Participants will be equipped with tools to lead similar projects in their own congregations and in their homes. \n Lutheran Church of the Great Spirit Dreamcatchers: Their Meaning and Purpose \nPresenters: Rev. Char Giuliani and members of Lutheran Church of the Great Spirit \nWe will share who LCGS is and how we incorporate Lutheran liturgy and Indigenous culture (Smudging\, Four Directions Prayer)into our Worship\, sharing meaning behind each and definitions. Participants will also be able to make a dreamcatcher to take home. \n Milwaukee Wild Church: The Sacred Within \nPresenter: Rev. Larry Harpster \nThis workshop will share the birth story of the new Greater Milwaukee Synod mission community\, Milwaukee Wild Church.It will focus on: \n\n\nLearning about the Wild Church and Forest Church movement happening across the world. \n\n\nWhat is Nature Spirituality? \n\n\nWhat is Celtic Spirituality? \n\n\nHow can I incorporate nature spirituality into my existing community? \n\n\nWhat techniques can I try to lift up spirituality in my own personal life? \n\n\nYou will also get a chance to learn how you can partner with Milwaukee Wild Church as it grows and develops. \n Protecting All of God’s Children \nPresenters: Rev. Jenny Nettesheim and Rev. Myron Crawford \nJoin us as we discuss best practices around working with children. Topics will include: \n\n\nChild and vulnerable adult safety policies \n\n\nMandated reporting \n\n\nSetting boundaries \n\n\nRisk Prevention \n\n\nAwareness \n\n\nResponse Actions \n\n\nYou will leave this session feeling more confident in your and your church’s ability to protect our young people. \n“And he took the children in his arms\, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” — Mark 10:16 \n Seriously? Women in Ministry \nPresenter: Rev. Kristin Nielsen \nIn 2018\, a short video was created by the North Carolina Synod – ELCA\, to raise awareness about the sexism that women in ministry regularly faced from colleagues and parishioners. In this workshop\, we will watch the video\, and participate in facilitated discussion in small and large groups. \n Talking without Microaggressions \nPresenter: Deacon David Behling \nAs we seek to deepen and expand the holy work of welcome\, inclusion\, and celebration of LGBTQIA+ people in the church and in society\, we often find ourselves asking questions like “How can we be better allies for people we care about who are LGBTQIA+?” or “Are there things we say or do that unintentionally hurt LGBTQIA+ people?” or even “What does LGBTQIA+ mean?” \nThis workshop is for people who ask those types of questions\, and others. It will help those hoping to guide their faith community in ongoing education\, as well as individuals with an open heart and mind who want to learn more about God’s expansive diversity of creation. Participants will gain practical insight into recognizing\, interrupting\, and preventing microaggressions—ensuring our communities embody authentic welcome in both words and actions. \nTogether\, we can co-create safer and braver spaces as we learn the skills and tools that support a fully inclusive and welcoming ministry. \n Women of the ELCA – For Such a Time as This \nPresenters – Rev. Marilyn Miller and Mrs. Donna Yourell \nWe will Dwell in the Word using Esther 4: 1-17 and discuss\, what it means to be 21st Century disciples who follow Jesus “for such a time as this.” We will plan how we want to organize and operate as the Greater Milwaukee Synod’s – Synodical Women’s Organization (SWO). Finally\, we will share registration information about the upcoming Triennial Gathering\, “I Am Worthy” July 16 – 19\, in Des Moines\, Iowa. You will want to be there because you are worthy! Membership is open to congregation groups and individuals!  \nAfternoon Workshops 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm\n Are you wondering what might be next for your church? \nPresenter: Rev. Chris Marien \nIf you would rather focus on pondering the possibilities for the days ahead then tend to more of the same. You are invited to learn about a relatively simple approach to vision casting without the need of a costly outside consultant. Who better to dream about the future than the leadership of your own community of faith? Borrowing from the strategic planning of Harley Davidson\, come learn a simple process to craft a 1\,3\,5\, and/or 10-year vision for your congregation. Drawing on 25 years of ordained ministry in congregations on the West coast\, Pacific Northwest\, and in the Greater Milwaukee Synod – Pastor Chris will share the nuts and bolts of the process and provide you with the steps to guide you from “maintaining what is” to “tending what tomorrow might bring.” \n Church Property Resource Hub: Where Should We Begin? Exploring new strategies for faithful property stewardship \nPresenters: Sarah Jones and Sarah Kretchmann \nMany churches realize that the traditional models of property use\, management\, and financing no longer fit their current moment\, but can struggle with developing new stewardship strategies that are both practical and mission-driven.  The Church Property Resource Hub is a new\, Churchwide initiative to help leaders leverage their buildings and land for both mission impact and congregational vitality.  \n  \nJoin the Church Property Resource Hub team to learn about how your church can gain new understanding of your property’s potential\, explore new possibilities for property stewardship\, and discern how the Spirit is moving towards new life for your land and buildings.  Participants will leave with an understanding of what their congregation’s next steps for faithful\, practical property management might be and tools to help their leaders navigate the journey. \n Community Design Workshop \nPresenter: Tia Richardson \nThis is a fun\, engaging hands-on collaborative workshop where participants will have a chance to make a difference by sharing their ideas for a mural that expresses the heart of the synod community. No art experience required! Tia Richardson is a community artist whose work is seen around the Milwaukee area. The workshops offer people a chance to freely express their feelings\, acknowledging what they believe the challenges are with race relations in the synod community\, think of choices they believe can help make that better\, and imagine a brighter future as a result of those choices. People may choose one workshop to attend. *In-person film screening and discussion of Rockford Taking Flight is a pre-requisite to attend a session. This film will be shared during our opening presentation at Together in Mission. To learn more about Tia’s work\, visit www.cosmic-butterfly.com \nPlease note: This workshop is limited to 24 people. \n Don’t Just Do Something\, Sit There \nPresenters: Danette Braun and Sonja Wolfe \nExplore listening as a foundational practice for communal spiritual transformation—listening to God\, to one another\, and to the wisdom of neighbors. Participants will engage in simple active listening practices that are part of the Adventures in Renewal series\, practices that foster curiosity and open the way for Spirit-led discernment and community collaborations. Come and rediscover the transformative power of attentive presence. \n How to Have Hard Conversations \nPresenter: Rev. Afi Dobbins-Mays \nIf you have ever wondered\,”How do we start conversations about race in our congregation?” this workshop is a great place to begin to find an answer. In this workshop Pr. Afi will work with participants to discuss practical steps and/or ways to create space for beginning conversations about race. \n How to Start a Racial Equity and Justice Team in your Congregation \nPresenters: Racial Equity and Justice Team \nCome and learn what a racial justice team is and how others have started their own Racial Justice teams in their congregations. Use what you hear to create next steps for your own congregation. \n Leading in Ambiguous Times \nPresenter: Rhonda Hill \nIn uncertain times\, faith-rooted leaders are called to guide with clarity\, courage\, and compassion especially when the path forward is unclear. But what happens when leaders themselves feel uncertain or overwhelmed? This interactive workshop invites participants to reframe ambiguity as not just a challenge to overcome\, but as a sacred space for spiritual growth\, innovation\, and trust-building. \nFaith leaders have a unique ability to harness the unknown\, recognizing that uncertainty is often where spiritual growth\, deepening faith\, and transformative leadership emerge. Through strategic frameworks\, and cultural wisdom—including Indigenous and ancestral teachings leaders will explore how to foster psychological safety\, deepen relational trust\, and create actionable steps for navigating the unknown. \nTogether\, we’ll embrace ambiguity as an opportunity for collective transformation\, cultivating environments where uncertainty becomes a source of creativity\, resilience\, and spiritual joy. \n Legacy Giving \nPresenter: Rev. Chris Manke \nIf your congregation wants to financially thrive for the next 20\, 30\, or even 50 years—not just survive—this class will provide you with the roadmap. Legacy giving isn’t just about writing wills—it’s about planting seeds your congregation will rely on long after today’s budget is forgotten. In this session\, we’ll cut through the mystery and show you how to start (or strengthen) a legacy gift ministry in your own congregation\, step by step. You’ll learn practical tools\, simple workflows\, and future pathways that help your congregation leave meaningful\, faithful gifts that will impact the financial health of your congregation for decades to come. \nSpoiler Alert! This class is an intro teaser session for a significant learning opportunity that will be presented to our Synod after the completion of Together in Mission. \n Lunch Church Workshop \nPresenters: Rev. Sarah Stumme and Rev. Jaime Larson-McLoone \nBreakfast\, Lunch\, or Dinner Church: There are many ways to worship around a table. If our Together in Mission Lunch Church stirs your curiosity\, come and connect with others who want to learn more and those who have experiences\, ideas\, and resources to share. Come see what happens when we gather around a table with intention. Leave with inspiration and simple liturgies to try table-centered worship in your congregation or community. \n Walking with our Immigrant Neighbors \nPresenter: Bishop Paul Erickson \nIn this time of heightened anxiety for so many\, come and learn how to accompany and support our immigrant and refugee neighbors. Practical resources will be shared that will help your congregation become a more welcoming place for all. \n \n Register URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/together-in-mission-2/ 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/Together-in-Mission-Resources-Page-Website-Icon-2.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:20250624T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250624T190000 DTSTAMP:20250709T195950Z CREATED:20250611T164928Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T195950Z UID:10001386-1750791600-1750791600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Outreach for Hope Ride Run Walk Team Ambassador Meeting DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.ofhrrw.org 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/unnamed-18.avif 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: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: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:20231028T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20231028T163000 DTSTAMP:20240419T201249Z CREATED:20230424T212946Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240419T201249Z UID:10001270-1698483600-1698510600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Deconstructing Racism (Introductory Training) DESCRIPTION:“Deconstructing Racism” is an introductory anti-racism training facilitated by Rev. Marilyn Miller and Joyce Caldwell\, PhD that is grounded in stories of participants\, the Bible\, and history. Through reflection on those stories\, participants examine the construction and meaning of racism and the part we all play in upholding and maintaining the system. We will begin to identify steps and opportunities to grow in both understanding and action. \n \nRegistration Fee: $75 includes materials and lunchScholarship assistance available upon request (fee does not cover the entire cost) \nQuestions? Contact one of our event facilitators: \nRev. Marilyn Miller: marilyn.millerm3@att.net\, 414-617-4907 \nJoyce Caldwell\, PhD: jacaldwell@wi.rr.com\, 414-333-3756 \nRegistration Deadline is 11:59 pm on Monday\, October 23. \n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/deconstructing-racism-october-2023/ LOCATION:St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa\, 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\, Wauwatosa\, WI\, 53213\, United States CATEGORIES:Anti-Racism ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Deconstructing-Racism-logo.avif 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 END:VCALENDAR