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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Southwestern Minnesota Synod ELCA
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240206
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240207
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240118T184059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240208T221854Z
UID:20570-1707177600-1707263999@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Safety and Security for Churches Zoom Gathering
DESCRIPTION:No matter where congregations are located\, no matter the size\, congregation leaders are aware that we need to plan for the safety and security of the people who come through our doors\, staff and worshipers. Retired Kenyon Police Chief Lee Sjolander provides training to help you make plans to develop your own safety & security practices. \nZoom Gathering Recordings:  \n\nSession for Rostered Ministers\nSession for Lay Leaders \n\nDuring his time as police chief in Kenyon MN\, Chief Lee served in law enforcement\, but also was deeply known and respected for his role as mentor\, dog whisperer\, community leader\, an active lay leader in his home ELCA congregation\, and a drummer in a local band. Chief Lee brings a deep care for the safety and wellbeing of church leaders and congregations after serving in a small town/rural community and working in partnership with the congregations and religious leaders of that community.  He has helped rostered and lay leaders think about safety for our people while we engage in vibrant ministry in ways that are rooted in daily realities and lived experiences.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/safety-and-security/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240218
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240219
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20231215T164025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231215T164025Z
UID:20462-1708214400-1708300799@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Prairie Conference Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Conference: Prairie\nDate: Feb. 18th @2:00 p.m.\nMeeting Location: First Lutheran Church\, Marshall
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/prairie-conference/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240218
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240219
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20231215T164157Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240214T204501Z
UID:20464-1708214400-1708300799@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Scenic Valley Conference Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Conference: Scenic Valley\nDate: Feb. 18th @2:00 p.m.\nMeeting Location: Gloria Dei Lutheran Church\, Redwood Falls
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/scenic-valley-conference/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240218
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240219
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20231215T164329Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231215T164329Z
UID:20466-1708214400-1708300799@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Shetek Conference Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Conference: Shetek\nDate: Feb. 18th @ 2:00 p.m.\nMeeting Location: Christ Lutheran Church\, Slayton
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/shetek-conference/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240218
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240219
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240118T153305Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240214T204554Z
UID:20564-1708214400-1708300799@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Lac Qui Parle Conference Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Conference: Lac Qui Parle\nDate: Feb. 18th @ 2:00 p.m.\nMeeting Location: Our Savior’s Lutheran\, Montevideo
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/lac-qui-parle-conference-assembly/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240225
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240226
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20231215T164455Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231215T164853Z
UID:20468-1708819200-1708905599@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Watonwan River Conference Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Conference: Watonwan River\nDate: Feb. 25th @ 2:00 p.m.\nMeeting Location: Trinity Lutheran Church\, Madelia
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/watonwan-river-conference/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240225
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240226
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20231215T164602Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240118T153103Z
UID:20470-1708819200-1708905599@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Crow River Conference Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Conference: Crow River\nDate: Feb. 25th @ 2:00 p.m.\nMeeting Location: Zion Lutheran Church\, Litchfield
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/crow-river-conference/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240303
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240304
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20231215T164749Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231215T164749Z
UID:20472-1709424000-1709510399@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Glacial Ridge Conference Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Conference: Glacial Ridge\nDate: March 3 @ 3:00 p.m.\nMeeting Location: Trinity Lutheran Church\, Alberta
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/glacial-ridge-conference/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240308T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240309T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240108T162812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240125T161819Z
UID:20549-1709915400-1710003600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Senior High Youth Gathering
DESCRIPTION:All 9th-12th students are invited to the Synod’s annual Senior High Youth Gathering!\nIt will be held March 8-9\, 2024 at Best Western Convention Center in New Ulm\, MN.\nThis event is coordinated and planned by the SW MN Synod Lutheran Youth Organization (LYO).\nThe theme this year is “Forever Unbroken\,” based on Romans 8:37-39. \nThe LYO has an outstanding gathering planned for you: \n\nBand: Hans Peterson and the Synod Youth Band\nNightlife: Variety of activities including games\, snacks\, dance\, large group games\, etc.\nThe Spirit Garage (a relaxing place for peace and prayer)\nSmall group sessions led by trained youth to help dig deeper into the theme\nService learning opportunities with meaningful service project and growth\nLYO board elections (more info below!)\nLively worship\, dancing\, singing\, fun\, faith and relationship-building\n\n\nGathering Information: \n-Click here to download the Registration Guide for more detailed information.\nRegistration opens January 25th @ 5:00 pm – Closes February 16th @ 4:30 pm.\nCost: $115 per person ($125 after February 16th)  The registration cost includes programming and a Gathering t-shirt\, also includes Friday snacks\, Saturday breakfast & lunch. Hotel accommodations are separate from the gathering registration fee. \nClick here to register!\n\nGathering Links:\n-Make an online payment\n-LYO Board Online Application\n-Small Group Leader Online Application
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/sryg/
CATEGORIES:Youth Gatherings
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240314
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240315
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240213T210104Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240226T164153Z
UID:20682-1710374400-1710460799@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Room at the Table for Everyone Zoom Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Hospitality is part of our Christian call to discipleship. Come listen and consider what the Bible says about hospitality as well as how we live out Christian hospitality in the real-life situations we encounter in our congregations and personal lives. \nThursday\, March 14th \n\n2:00 p.m. – Session for Rostered Ministers\n7:00 p.m. – Session for Lay Leaders\n\nPlease RSVP to receive the Zoom Link in your email. This Zoom Session will be recorded and shared for future use. \nClick here to RSVP
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/hospitality-zoom-gathering/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240409
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240410
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240222T210742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240222T212555Z
UID:20729-1712620800-1712707199@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:The Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church Zoom Gatherings
DESCRIPTION:The Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church invites the SW MN Synod to a one hour listening session. Leaders from the commission will offer a short presentation on the Commission’s charge and current work followed by a period of question and answer and then open listening. Personal information and identifying details will be redacted\, but specific suggestions of how the structure and governance of the ELCA in its three expressions can be more helpful and efficient are greatly welcome! \nTuesday\, April 9th \n\n2:00 p.m. – Session for Rostered Ministers\n7:00 p.m. – Session for Lay Leaders\n\nPlease RSVP to receive the Zoom Link in your email. This Zoom Session will be recorded and shared for future use. \nClick here to RSVP\nMore information about the commission can be found here:\nCommission for a Renewed Lutheran Church – Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (elca.org)
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/crlc_zoom_gathering/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240413T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240413T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240318T214417Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240321T170305Z
UID:20805-1712995200-1713020400@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Lutheran Men in Mission Spring Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Love Your Neighbor\, Even When We Disagree \nFor All Men\nSW MN Synod Spring Gathering Flyer\nSaturday\, April 13\, 2024\nGloria Dei Church in Redwood Falls \nSchedule:\n8:00 a.m. Registration / Rolls\, Coffee\, and Juice\n9:00 Welcome and Bible Study\nBusiness Meeting\n-Fill vacancies on board: President\, Vice President\, Secretary\, Treasurer\, and Conference Reps.\n-Scholarship for Seminary and Endowment Fund Contribution\n-LMM Golf Tournament-Purpose and Details (July 19\, 2024\, at Redwood Falls Golf Course)\nTed Mathews\, “How Do We Manage Conflict”\nLunch / Meet and Greet\nLMM Ambassadors\, Pr. Tim Schoeder and Jan Nelson—LMM Tools for Ministering with Men\nClosing Worship with Offering led by Pr. Bryant Kaden and Pr. Lowell Krogstad\n-Installation of Officers\n3:00 p.m. Depart for Home. Drive Safely. \nRegistration: \nTo register please fill out the registration form and mail to LMM Treasurer\, Reynold Dittbenner at 24533 State Hwy 4\, Sleepy Eye\, MN 56085. Cell: 507-220-0185. Click here to view and download the registration form. \nCost: $10 per person \nDonations:\nDonations to the LMM Scholarship Endowment Fund are appreciated even if you are not able to participate in the Spring Gathering.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/lmmspringretreat/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240423T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240423T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240212T215627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240411T153653Z
UID:20669-1713862800-1713884400@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Ethics and Boundaries for Ministers Training
DESCRIPTION:In person at First Lutheran Church\, 1114 Traverse Road\, St. Peter\, MN.\nTuesday\, April 23rd\, 2024 – 9:00am-3:00pm\nPresenter: Rev. Emily Carson\nRegistration Deadline: April 16th\n$40 per person. \nSexual misconduct by rostered and other religious leaders is one of the most serious challenges faced by the church today. Violation of the sacred trust between church members and their leaders brings deep pain to all who are affected: victims\, offenders\, family members\, friends\, and the congregation itself. \nIn response to this challenge\, the Southwestern Minnesota Synod bylaws include the following provisions (S14.25.01. and S14.47.01.): \n“Within twelve months of assuming office all rostered ministers of under call shall demonstrate completion of at least six contact hours of continuing education in the prevention of sexual boundary violations.” \nA few years ago our synod council created a continuing resolution encouraging all of our rostered leaders to have continued work on appropriate boundaries of all kinds\, but especially sexual boundaries\, every three years. \nNOTE: You must be present at all 6 hours of the training to receive credit for completing the program. \nIf these dates don’t work for you\, you may comply by attending another training event that includes at least six contact hours of instruction in the same content covered by the synod’s workshop and provide proof of attendance for your file. \nClick here to register.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/boundaries-training-3/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20240607T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20240607T210000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240416T162145Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240416T162525Z
UID:20893-1717783200-1717794000@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2024 Synod Assembly
DESCRIPTION:When: June 7-8\, 2024.\nTime: 6:00 pm. Friday to 5:00 pm. Saturday.\nWhere: Gustavus Adolphus College\, St Peter & Zoom Webinar. \nClick here to visit the Synod Assembly webpage for more information. 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2024-synod-assembly/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240608
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240609
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240416T162338Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240416T162338Z
UID:20895-1717804800-1717891199@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2024 Synod Assembly
DESCRIPTION:When: June 7-8\, 2024.\nTime: 6:00 pm. Friday to 5:00 pm. Saturday.\nWhere: Gustavus Adolphus College\, St Peter & Zoom Webinar. \nClick here to visit the Synod Assembly webpage for more information. 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2024-synod-assembly-2/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240716
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240721
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20230309T205249Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230822T144810Z
UID:18680-1721088000-1721519999@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:ELCA Youth Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Created to Be: 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering including MYLE the Table \nGet ready for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering!\nPr. Jon Wendt\, the SW MN Synod Gathering Champion\, recorded an informational Zoom meeting about the upcoming 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans\, LA. \n \n\nGreetings from Pr. Jon Wendt!\nMy name is Pastor Jon Wendt\, and I am the SWMN Synod Champion for the 2024 ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans.  I have attended every tri-annual gathering since the early 90’s\, and have watched people grow in their faith as they come together with thousands of other Christians during the week of the Gatherings.  This life-changing event has been canceled the last couple of times\, but I am excited that we are able to participate again. \nAs the Gathering Synod Champion (GSC)\, it is my role to walk with each of the congregations as they begin to register\, fundraise\, and prepare.  I am here to answer any questions you may have.  As we each begin this journey to New Orleans in the summer of 2024\, I want to be a “help line” for you.  You can always reach me through the gathering website www.elca.org/gathering\, or my personal email stmatthewwabassopastor@gmail.com. \n 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/elca-youth-gathering/
LOCATION:New Orleans\, LA\, New Orleans\, LA\, United States
CATEGORIES:Youth Gatherings
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240719
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240720
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240628T151147Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240628T151545Z
UID:21266-1721347200-1721433599@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Lutheran Men in Mission Golf Tournament
DESCRIPTION:Friday\, July 19\, 2024 at the Redwood Falls Golf Club\, Redwood Falls\, MN\nRegistration: 2:30 pm\nShotgun Start: 3:00 pm\nPrice: $75.00 per golfer Includes GOLF CART\, green fees\, meal\, prizes and a donation to LMM \nHelp Grow Leaders in Rural Ministry!\nFund for Leaders Endowment: The SW MN Synod Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM) provides for seminary tuition scholarships. Recipients will have an openness and commitment to future service in rural settings. The profit from the LMM golf tournament goes into the LMM’s Fund for Leaders Endowment to help grow leaders. Donations to the LMM Scholarship Endowment Fund are appreciated even if you are not able to participate in the Golf Tournament. \nRegistrations\, payments and donations should be mailed to: John Woodford at 30442 350th St\, Redwood Falls\, MN 56283.\nClick here to view and download the registration form.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/lmm-golf-tournament/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240806
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240809
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240104T164452Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240104T164452Z
UID:20526-1722902400-1723161599@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Women in Ministry Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Empower. Empowered. Empowering.\nAugust 6-8\, 2024\nHilton Garden Inn\, Sioux Falls\, SD\nClick here to register! \nWomen have been ordained for over 50 years\, yet still experience challenges as we seek to live out our calls in this church. The ELCA is committed to improving the quality of calls for women in ministry. Seven synods in the Midwest are collaborating to host a gathering for women in ministry where there will be a time for conversation\, support\, education\, and for rest and renewal. \nSpecial Speaker: Rozella Haydee White \nThere is NO REGISTRATION COST thanks to a generous grant from the Quality of Call initiative of the ELCA.\nFollowing the event\, a limited number of $200 scholarships to help reimburse the cost of hotel rooms and travel will be available on a first-come\, first-serve basis. Visit Women in Ministry | Central States Synod (css-elca.org) website for more information.  \nEmpower Women in Ministry Flyer
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/women-in-ministry-gathering/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241003T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241003T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240905T162039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240905T162039Z
UID:21436-1727982000-1727985600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Compensation Guidelines Zoom Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Thursday\, October 3rd @ 7:00 pm\nThis Zoom gathering is especially for Congregation Councils\, Personnel Committees\, and Rostered Ministers.\nPlease RSVP to receive the Zoom Link in your email. \nCome hear an overview of the 2025 Synod Compensation Guidelines and how Portico Benefits figure into the definition of compensation for Rostered Ministers. \nPresenters: Pr. Janel Kuester and Tammy Schacher
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/comp-guidelines-zoom-gathering/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241006
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241009
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240619T161102Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240923T142925Z
UID:21250-1728172800-1728431999@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2024 Fall Theological Conference
DESCRIPTION:Location: Little Crow Resort & Conference Center: 15980 Hwy 23 NE\, Spicer MN\, 56288\nSunday Evening\, October 6th – Tuesday\, October 8th\, 2024\nKeynote Speaker: Professor Emeritus Timothy J. Wengert\n\nThe 2024 Fall Theological Conference is planned especially for Pastors\, Deacons\, TEEM Students\, Interns\, Synod Authorized Lay Ministers currently serving a congregation\, and paid staff youth coordinators. By action of the 1988 Synod Assembly\, this conference has been designated as an “official synodical event.” This means that all pastors and deacons under call or appointment are expected to attend. If you need to be absent\, please email Bishop Dee Pederson at dee.pederson@swmnelca.org and CC Kristin Bakeberg\, kristin.bakeberg@swmnelca.org in your email.\n\n \nRegistration Information\n The registration fee is per person:\n$135 regular registration\n$90 per person reduced registration (only for grads awaiting first call\, interns\, on-leave-from-call\, and retired pastors not serving in an interim position) The registration fee includes the conference fee\, Monday lunch\, snacks\, and refreshments. \nClick here to register.\nRegistration Deadline: September 20th \nHousing arrangements and cost is separate from the FTC registration fee.\nAll attendees are responsible for their own housing arrangements. The synod office has reserved a block rooms at the Grandstay Hotel & Suites at Little Crow Resort where the conference will be held. The block of rooms is under the name: SW MN ELCA. This block of rooms will be released on September 6\, 2024. Please call 320-347-1450 to make your room reservations. \nClick here to view and download the conference schedule.  \n  \nAugsburg Confession and Ministry: Finding You (Lutheran) Roots: \nWe are living in a time of enormous change. Everyone knows that. As a result\, Christian\, parish ministry can get lost in the weeds. Everyone in the Church’s ministry experiences that\, too. Our anchor\, of course\, is Jesus Christ\, “The same yesterday\, today\, and forever\,” as one clever first-century writer put it. With Christ as our anchor\, we Lutherans have an amazing rudder to help us steer through the “slings and arrows of outrageous fortune” (Hamlet): the Augsburg Confession \nIn just a few years\, in 2030\, that confession will marks its 500th anniversary. To be sure\, there are different ways to read that confession: \n\nAs a historical record of princes and cities caught confessing their faith before the most powerful European ruler between Charlemagne and Napoleon\, namely\, Charles V;\nAs a witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ;\nAs a set of doctrines to be learned and subscribed to by congregations and church leaders.\n\nBut another approach to that document may help us “take arms against a sea of troubles” (more Hamlet)\, and that is to view this document as a helpful guide for ministry and parish life. This year’s fall theological conference will give us all an opportunity to do just that. \nOur guide for this endeavor is Professor emeritus Timothy J. Wengert\, who not only served as a parish pastor and is now married to one\, but who also\, as a scholar\, has studied and written about many aspects of the Reformation\, including Luther’s Small Catechism and the Augsburg Confession. Most recently\, at the invitation of the ELCA he and Robert Kolb of Concordia Seminary\, St. Louis have developed a study edition of the Augsburg Confession in anticipation of the 500th anniversary. Here is what we will study and discuss together: \n\nSession I: “The Heart of Parish Ministry.”\nSession II: “Church Is Ministry\, and Ministry Is Church\nSession III: “Separating Essentials from Non-Essentials.”
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2024-ftc/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241025
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241028
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240823T150845Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240823T151123Z
UID:21406-1729814400-1730073599@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:NW/SW MN Clergy Spouse Retreat
DESCRIPTION:“Care for Creation and Ourselves”\nFriday\, October 25 – Sunday\, 27\, 2024.\nLuther Crest Bible Camp\, Alexandria\, MN \nJoin us for some time together learning about caring for our Earth’s resources\, but also caring for ourselves and each other in a caring environment. Our speaker will be Pastor Krehl Stringer from Fergus Falls\, who serves on the NW Synod Care for Creation Committee. We will have many meaningful opportunities for worshiping and having devotions together throughout the weekend\, led by Pastor Laurie Natwick. We have two woodworking sessions planned which will be led by Erik Preston. We will be repurposing wood into items that we can enjoy at home and by doing so\, will be saving the wood and the environment from the burn pile! We hope that you will join us in community with each other\, caring for creation and ourselves at the beautiful Luther Crest Bible Camp! Click here for more information. \nClick here to register. \nFor more information contact: \nMary Moen\n218.639.5044\nmarydyemoen@gmail.com
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/clergy-spouse-retreat/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241028T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241028T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20241028T142121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241028T142204Z
UID:21544-1730142000-1730147400@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Synod Listening Session
DESCRIPTION:Your voice can help set the direction of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod.\nIt all started with the survey. Remember that survey? Yeah\, the synod survey launched at Synod Assembly! It’s been about 3 years since we’ve undertaken an effort like this\, so it’s high time we created this opportunity to listen to you. Why? Because you matter. Your voice matters. And we are excited for you to discover what others are saying about ministry today! \nA team of synod leaders planned a listening process that builds on what we learned from the survey to:\n• live out the Synod Council and staff commitment to listen intentionally to our people;\n• grow in direct connection with congregations and rostered ministers;\n• expand the synod’s ability to equip congregations;\n• build awareness of synod ministry; and\,\n• expand solidarity among congregations. \nThese listening gatherings will be going on the road to locations that we hope are near you!\n• Tuesday\, October 22\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – Our Savior’s Lutheran\, New Ulm\n• Thursday\, October 24\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – St. Stephen\, Marshall\n• Monday\, October 28\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – Zoom (see link below)\n• Tuesday\, October 29\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – Our Savior’s\, Albany \nDuring the evening\, participants will be able to view summaries from the survey\, especially focusing on what others say has changed for people in their families\, congregations\, community\, and world. We will discover both the uniqueness of every context\, and also the similarities we all share these days. And we will consider best practices and wisdom for next steps in ministry\, wherever God planted us. \nZoom Link:\nSynod Listening Gathering\nTime: Oct 28\, 2024 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)\nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/5076373904?omn=86344224883 \nMeeting ID: 507 637 3904
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/synod-listening-sessions/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241029T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241029T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20241028T142308Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241028T142308Z
UID:21547-1730228400-1730233800@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Synod Listening Session
DESCRIPTION:Your voice can help set the direction of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod.\nIt all started with the survey. Remember that survey? Yeah\, the synod survey launched at Synod Assembly! It’s been about 3 years since we’ve undertaken an effort like this\, so it’s high time we created this opportunity to listen to you. Why? Because you matter. Your voice matters. And we are excited for you to discover what others are saying about ministry today! \nA team of synod leaders planned a listening process that builds on what we learned from the survey to:\n• live out the Synod Council and staff commitment to listen intentionally to our people;\n• grow in direct connection with congregations and rostered ministers;\n• expand the synod’s ability to equip congregations;\n• build awareness of synod ministry; and\,\n• expand solidarity among congregations. \nThese listening gatherings will be going on the road to locations that we hope are near you!\n• Tuesday\, October 22\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – Our Savior’s Lutheran\, New Ulm\n• Thursday\, October 24\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – St. Stephen\, Marshall\n• Monday\, October 28\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – Zoom (see link below)\n• Tuesday\, October 29\, 7:00-8:30 p.m. – Our Savior’s\, Albany \nDuring the evening\, participants will be able to view summaries from the survey\, especially focusing on what others say has changed for people in their families\, congregations\, community\, and world. We will discover both the uniqueness of every context\, and also the similarities we all share these days. And we will consider best practices and wisdom for next steps in ministry\, wherever God planted us. \nZoom Link:\nSynod Listening Gathering\nTime: Oct 28\, 2024 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)\nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/5076373904?omn=86344224883 \nMeeting ID: 507 637 3904
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/synod-listening-session/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241102T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241102T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240924T184715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T134622Z
UID:21486-1730536200-1730559600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2024 Equipping Congregations Day
DESCRIPTION:Saturday\, Nov. 2nd\nLocation: Peace Lutheran Church\n100 4th Ave SW\, New London\, MN 56273 \n8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.\nSchedule and workshop descriptions coming soon. \nKeynote Speaker: Angie Larson\nExecutive Pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church\, Alexandria MN.\n \nLunch catered by Azteca Mexican Restaurant!\n \n“How can we get more people back in worship again?” Most of us are asking this question. Why?  Not only because we miss seeing one another; that’s important! We also believe that worship is the primary gathering of God’s people around word and sacrament. Worship gathers us in – all of us\, no matter who we are\, where we come from\, what we think\, whatever the burdens we carry. We come\, just as we are. But we don’t stay in worship. The word and sacraments send us out to love God and our neighbors every day. And so we get to live in a beautiful rhythm of God gathering us in and then sending us back out into God’s mission. \nThis Equipping Day will focus on many aspects of worship\, from specific how-to ideas\, to creative imaginations\, to ways to welcome all people and extend the kind of hospitality that leads people to want to come back again and again and be part of this loving community. \nAll are welcome:\n-Congregation Members\n-Council\n-Christian Educators\n-Worship & Youth Leaders\n-Pastors & Deacons\n-Friends… Everyone! \nThe ECD registration fee is $30 per person.\nCongregations are encouraged to register their congregation members together.\nRegistration is closed. Please call the synod office if you need to register.  \n The registration deadline is next Tuesday\, Oct. 29th. \nPlease register sooner rather than later to help us with final details\, printing\, food count\, and room set-ups. Can’t wait to see you there!  \nClick here to view and download a bulletin insert for the ECD. \nWorkshops:\nNo Stage Fright Here: Integrating Drama into Worship\nPr. Todd Mattson\nThis workshop will explore easy ways to breathe new life into liturgy and the Word using drama. From sermon set ups to scripture readings\, from children’s sermons to prayers of the people\, we’ll talk about and demonstrate ways to make a dramatic difference in your weekly worship. \nHow Do You Talk about Generosity in Worship?\nPr. Peter Reuss\nIt’s often said\, “We don’t talk about money in our church.” What if we could talk about money in ways that not only overcome guilt and shame\, but inspire people to generosity? Yes\, it’s possible! \nWorship 2.0: Simple Ways to Connect Today\nPr. Justin Ask\nJoin us for an engaging and interactive workshop designed to revitalize traditional worship formats with simple\, impactful changes. Discover creative and accessible ways to deepen your congregation’s sense of connection and inspiration during worship—without the need for large budgets or advanced technology. Together\, we’ll explore innovative ideas that resonate with the current lives of our communities\, making worship more relevant and meaningful. \nLet the Children Come…\nPr. Sherri Larson and Deacon Brenda Handel-Johnson\nInvolving children in worship can go beyond the children’s message. Come explore a variety of creative and do able ideas that will engage children and empower them to become worship leaders. From leading a procession\nwith ribbons and chopsticks to creating the sound of the windy Holy Spirit on Pentecost\, former teachers Sherri Larson and Brenda Handel-Johnson will share fun and accessible ideas that take minimal preparation. \nHospitality\nPr. Heather Culuris\nHospitality is a part of our Christian lives and a significant part of our worship experience. Come learn about the Biblical foundations of hospitality. Then we will consider how to show intentional hospitality in our congregations and worship. \nAssisting Minister Training\nBishop Dee Pederson\nWorship is the responsibility of all those who are part of the body of Christ. Every congregation can welcome the ministries of trained and practiced worship leadership by all ages. We’ll focus on many roles\, including readers\, acolytes\, prayer leaders\, ushers\, and liturgists.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2024ecd/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241105T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241105T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20241028T142656Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241028T142656Z
UID:21551-1730808000-1730815200@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Dean's Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Location: SW MN Synod office\, Redwood Falls
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/deans-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241105T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241105T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20241101T170722Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241101T170722Z
UID:21588-1730813400-1730815200@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Zoom Prayer
DESCRIPTION:As the people of our nation vote for leaders at the national\, state\, and local levels\, join online from across this synod for a brief\, 20-minute time of prayer – Tuesday\, Nov. 5\, 1:30 p.m. The zoom link is below. Readings and prayers will be led by the Synod Staff and Conference Deans\, from the Synod Office. Wherever you are\, whoever you are\, however you are doing that day\, come as beloved children of God. Come to hear God’s word\, unite our hearts in prayer\, and lean on the promise that Jesus Christ is with us always to the end of the age. \n+Bishop Dee Pederson \n \nZoom Link:\nTime: Nov 5\, 2024 01:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada) \nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/5076373904?omn=88612853917 \nMeeting ID: 507 637 3904
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/zoom-prayer/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241107T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241107T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240731T212513Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240904T192409Z
UID:21362-1730970000-1730991600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Ethics and Boundaries for Ministers Training
DESCRIPTION:In person at Synod Office\, 175 E. Bridge St.\, Redwood Falls\, MN 56283\nThursday\, November 7\, 2024 – 9:00am-3:00pm\nPresenter: Rev. Emily Carson\nRegistration Deadline: Oct. 28th\n$50 per person. \nSexual misconduct by rostered and other religious leaders is one of the most serious challenges faced by the church today. Violation of the sacred trust between church members and their leaders brings deep pain to all who are affected: victims\, offenders\, family members\, friends\, and the congregation itself. \nIn response to this challenge\, the Southwestern Minnesota Synod bylaws include the following provisions (S14.25.01. and S14.47.01.): \n“Within twelve months of assuming office all rostered ministers of under call shall demonstrate completion of at least six contact hours of continuing education in the prevention of sexual boundary violations.” \nA few years ago our synod council created a continuing resolution encouraging all of our rostered leaders to have continued work on appropriate boundaries of all kinds\, but especially sexual boundaries\, every three years. \nNOTE: You must be present at all 6 hours of the training to receive credit for completing the program. \nIf this date doesn’t work for you\, you may comply by attending another training event that includes at least six contact hours of instruction in the same content covered by the synod’s workshop and provide proof of attendance to the synod office. \nClick here to register.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/nov_boundaries_training/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241109
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241110
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20241028T142504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241028T142504Z
UID:21549-1731110400-1731196799@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Synod Council Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Location: SW MN Synod Office\, Redwood Falls
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/synod-council-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241122
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241124
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20240904T205116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241028T135540Z
UID:21430-1732233600-1732406399@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Junior High Youth Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Gathering will be held Friday\, Nov. 22 – Saturday\, Nov. 23\, 2024 at the Willmar Conference Center & Best Western Plus/Holiday Inn Express\nThis event is coordinated and planned by the SW MN Synod Lutheran Youth Organization (LYO).\nThe theme this year is “Forever Unbroken\,” based on Romans 8:37-39. \nClick here to view and download the gathering packet! \nGathering Dates: \nOct. 1st – Oct. 15th Early Bird Registration\, $90 per person.\nOct. 15th – Oct. 21st Registration continues\, $95 per person.\nOct. 21st – Hotel Block of Rooms Released\nCongregations will need to secure housing on their own. \nGathering Features: \n\nSpeaker: Rachel Kurtz\nMusicians: SWMN Synod Youth Band\nYOUTH LED Mass Gatherings including worship\, singing\, growing in faith\, student faith talks\, building relationships and hanging out with other youth from our very own synod.\nNightlife featuring swimming\, games\, food\, dancing\, service project and SO MUCH MORE!
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/jryg2024/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241205T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241205T113000
DTSTAMP:20260403T130917
CREATED:20241203T203230Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241203T203230Z
UID:21612-1733392800-1733398200@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Interim Collaborative Zoom Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Please email Maggie Berggren at maggie.berggren@swmnelca.org for more information.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/interims/
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR