September 4, 2023
Continuing Prayers for Synod Minister, Pr. Naomi Mahler.
Please visit Pr. Naomi's CaringBridge site for updates.
Holy and life-giving God, whose mercy is without end, we lift up our prayers for Pr. Naomi Mahler. Surround her with your compassion and love. Be present with Pr. Naomi, her husband Todd, their daughters Sophia and Grace, and all of their family and friends. Give wisdom to her family, her care team, and all those who will accompany her in the days to come. May she be well cared-for, comforted, and surrounded by circles of love. Fill them all in your abiding love, and sustain them with your peace, which surpasses all understanding; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.Â
Dear Friends –
I am drawn to the text of this old hymn:
Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love….. our fears, our hopes, our aims are one, our comforts and our cares. ELW 656
I am sharing the note below so that, as people of this synod, walking together, our hearts may be united in prayer and support for Synod Minister, Pastor Naomi Mahler.
August 9, 2023
Dear Siblings in Christ:Â
In the past week, I have received some distressing health news.Â
The breast cancer that I had in 2017, for which I was treated and remained cancer free for the past 6 years, has now returned.Â
Therefore, I will be taking medical leave to be treated for this reoccurrence. I don’t know exactly where this is going, but a treatment plan is being made with my medical providers. Â
I covet your prayers and support.  Before long, I will reactivate my Caring-Bridge page so you can check on any updates if you would like to do so. https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/naomimahlerÂ
I regret having to take this time away from my work at the SW MN Synod, but I am sure that you can understand the need to do this. So, until further notice I will no longer be able to be contacted for ministry support.Â
I ask that you be even more understanding and supportive of the Synod staff, as this will put an even greater burden on them. I am confident that you will do so.Â
Thank you for holding Pr. Naomi and her family in prayer. As you do, I know that you also may wonder how to direct questions and needs. Please direct inquiries as follows:
- Call process – Synod Minister Heather Culuris, [email protected]or Executive Assistant and Roster Manager Tammy Schacher, [email protected]
- South Africa Partnership – Bp. Dee Pederson, [email protected]
As fall schedules begin, staff will connect with Conference Ministries as follows:
Crow River and Lakeland – D.E.M. Pr. Troy Pflibsen
Prairie, Shetek, Scenic Valley, Minnesota Valley, and Watonwan River –  Synod Minister Heather Culuris
Glacial Ridge, Great River, and Lac Qui Parle – Bp. Dee Pederson
Greetings for Pastor Naomi may be sent to the Synod Office – 175 E. Bridge St., P.O. Box 499, Redwood Falls, MN 56283.
In all times, the people of God hold close the promise of our God, The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; God’s mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. – Lamentations 3:22
Thank you for joining your hearts with ours in prayer and love.
+ grace and peace,
Bp. Dee Pederson
