Right now, it might feel like our disappointment is beyond measure! Everyone who has been planning on the ELCA 2022 Gathering knows the letdown of learning that this important event will not be held this year. People have the dates blocked off on their calendars, young people have been doing fund-raising, and people in the […]

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among those whom he favors…..The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had head and seen, as it had been told them. (Lk. 2). Scripture speaks […]

The title of ELW Hymn #726 certainly reflects the Good News in Jesus Christ that congregations proclaim during the coming seasons of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. Dear Friends – Our world is weary! We’re weary of living in the pandemic and the death, illness, and complications it has brought to daily life for all of […]

+A Thanksgiving Message from Bishop Dee Pederson I remember nudging our children to learn to say “thank you!” and develop an “attitude of gratitude.” “Remember to say ‘Thank you’ to Grandma now.” I remember how my own mother taught me this when I was little. But I remember even more how she lived this herself […]

When a seed is planted and tender shoots start to emerge from the soil, it’s hard to imagine the plant that will grow there. Corn or beans, daffodils or iris bulbs, tomotoes or pumpkins, these small beginnings grow into plants that can be tall and beautiful and capable of sustaining life. When one begins to […]

+Bishop Dee Pederson Thanks be to God! And thanks to you for your prayers and your presence – in the physical or digital room – for the service of Installation on October 9. It has been 2 years (Fall Theological Conference 2019) since synod rostered leaders have gathered to sing together! So what a joy […]

+Bishop Dee Pederson Dear beloved people of God – For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. – 1 Cor. 3:9, NIV At the February 2020 Equipping Congregations Day, I led a workshop on imagining new ways to adapt in ministry in light of a culture that was rapidly changing. […]

Litany in Time of Drought  Holy God, in the wake of drought and extreme temperatures, Refresh us with the water of life. In the barren places of dust and aridity, Restore us with the water of life. When all we can see is devastation and despair, Renew us with the water of life. In Christ, […]