When much of daily life has changed overnight, certain things remain: Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Heb. 13:8) Most of us have a hard time talking about money. This is a time when rostered and congregational leaders need to talk about Jesus – and about money! As congregations move to […]
COVID-19 Resources
This webpage has been created to help keep resources posted by the Southwestern Minnesota Synod in one location. The synod staff will keep emailing and posting on social media, but here is where we will host a collection of important communications during this time of COVID-19.
Visitation and Care Strategies for Congregations
Our congregational leaders recognize the growing need to provide support and care for your members in this time, and are aware that the needs exceed the span of care they are able to provide right now. One way you can increase the ministry of your congregation and support your pastor is to create ways of […]
Giving as a Spiritual Practice
+Rev. Dee Pederson, Director for Evangelical Mission, ELCA Dearly beloved in Christ – Our stewardship teaching focuses on giving as a spiritual practice, shifting from a mindset of scarcity to sufficiency & abundance. But how do we do that today when it feels like there’s scarcity all around us? We as the church trust in […]
Worship Plans during COVID-19
Many of you already have worship plans in place, and your congregation is connecting with you. But the question of “What are other congregations doing?” has been popular. We asked pastors to let the synod office know what their worship plans are. We’re sharing this information to help congregations who are still planning as well […]
Children, Youth, Young Adult and Family Resources for COVID-19
+Sister Sarah Hausken Youth Ministry Coordinator, SW MN Synod. ELCA Faith Formation at Home From ELCA Youth Ministries, theologically evaluated resources focused on ministry with children, youth, and young adults with special attention to Faith at Home during COVID-19 www.ministrylinks.org Put a bowl of water on your kitchen table and use it to make the […]
I give thanks to God for all of you
+Bishop Jon V. Anderson God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. -Psalm 46 I give thanks to […]
A Letter to Congregation Lay Leaders
Dear friends in Christ who are called to lead your congregations in this unprecedented moment, Thank you for all you do to further Christ’s mission at this time. In the coming weeks your synod staff plan on sending communications specifically to lay leaders of congregations. We will use all our communication tools for this. Please […]
A Guide to Spiritual Care in Times of Disaster
Here is another great resource for you to check out. Light Our Way: A Guide to Spiritual Care in Times of Disaster + Presbyterian Disaster Assistance This resource by National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (NVOAD) informs disaster response volunteers, first responders and disaster planners in the areas of emotional and spiritual care giving. Order […]
Equipping Congregations – Taking Faith Home
+ Rev. Dee Pederson, Director for Evangelical Mission, ELCA Dear Friends – We’ve got an awesome resource to share with you right now – just when you might be looking for all the resources you can access. Easily. No stress. No cost to your congregation. Because of the Coronavirus pandemic, our synod has received a […]
Ministry & COVID-19: A Ministry Basics Webinar
April 4 @ 9:30 am – 11:30 am We live with a public health challenge, the likes of which we have not seen in several generations. This webinar will bring together insights from Luther’s pastoral theology, modern public health practices, and practical experiences to help us think wisely in this rapidly changing situation. Registration: IMPORTANT: We are taking […]
