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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250905
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250908
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250731T163242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250731T163437Z
UID:22607-1757030400-1757289599@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:NW/SW MN Rostered Minister Spouse Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Location: Luther Crest Bible Camp\, Alexandria MN\nTheme: Our Hands Together\nRegistration Link: https://form.jotform.com/232528166747161 \nClick here to view and download the event flyer for more information. \n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/spouse-retreat-25/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250910T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250910T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250818T194909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250818T195048Z
UID:22701-1757505600-1757512800@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Jeffers Petroglyphs Outing
DESCRIPTION:The visit to the Lower Sioux Agency Historic Site for August 20th has been postponed to a later date. However\, Pr. Troy Pflibsen has planned another outing to the Jeffers Petroglyphs in rural Comfrey MN. All are welcome to join the Southwestern Minnesota Synod Staff for learning and relationship building with our Native American sisters and brothers. We will gather at noon on Wednesday September 10th. Grab a bite to eat before you arrive. The admission cost is $12 per person. We will be there for 2-3 hours. Please RSVP to Pastor Troy Pflibsen at troy.pflibsen@swmnelca.org by Thursday August 21st so that we can let our host know how many to expect. Thank you!
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/jeffers-petroglyphs-outing/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250916T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250916T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250821T162231Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T163248Z
UID:22705-1758045600-1758051000@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Healthy Boundaries Zoom Training
DESCRIPTION:For Professionals & Volunteers working with Children\, Youth & Family Ministry\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis 90-minute workshop\, led by Rev. Emily Carson\, Assistant to the Bishop & Director for Evangelical Mission in the Southeastern Minnesota Synod\, is designed for volunteers and professionals engaged in faith formation and ministry with children\, youth\, and families. \nIn addition\, we will be joined by Joy McElroy\, Executive Director of Cherish All Children with Lutheran Social Services – MN. Cherish All Children partners with churches and communities to prevent child exploitation and trafficking. \nParticipants will explore their own relationship to power\, boundaries\, and authority\, gaining insights into how these dynamics shape their leadership. Beyond personal reflection\, the workshop will also equip leaders to actively foster wise boundary-setting skills in the young people they serve. Through discussion and practical strategies\, attendees will be empowered to nurture healthy\, trust-filled ministry spaces. \nClick here to register! \nDate: Tuesday\, September 16th\nTime: 6:00-7:30pm\nWhere: Zoom (link will be sent to you)\nCost: $10 donation for Lutheran Social Service’s Camp Noah. A resiliency-based day camp for youth impacted by natural disasters.\nThis is a ELCA Region 3 event.\nParticipants will register through the NEMN Synod to receive the Zoom link. We ask for a $10 donation. Checks can be mailed and payable to the Northeastern Minnesota Synod with “CYF Boundaries” in the memo line and send to: NEMN Synod Office\, 1111 London Rd\, Duluth\, MN 55802.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/healthy-boundaries-zoom-training/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251005
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251008
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250623T152357Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T172036Z
UID:22441-1759622400-1759881599@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2025 Fall Theological Conference
DESCRIPTION:Location: Little Crow Resort & Conference\, Spicer MN\nOct. 5th\, Sunday Evening – Oct. 7th\, Tuesday Afternoon\nClick here to view and download the conference schedule.  \nFinding God’s Mission in a Fractured Society\nRespected Biblical scholar Professor Mark Allan Powell is the keynote speaker of this year’s conference. Using our Lutheran Biblical perspective\, he will lead participants to recapture biblical images for the Church\, recapture two essential characteristics of the Church\, and recapture an important image for humanity. \nThe 2025 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\nRegistration Information\nThe registration fee is per person:\n$150 regular registration\n$95 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 22nd. \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: SWMNELCA Fall Conference. This block of rooms will be released on September 5\, 2025. Please call 320-347-1450 to make your room reservations.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2025-ftc/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251102T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251102T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250709T185511Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T185511Z
UID:22536-1762092000-1762113600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Discerning Your Call: Exploring the Next Faithful Step
DESCRIPTION:A discernment retreat hosted by the ELCA synods of Region 3 in the states of Minnesota\, North Dakota\, and South Dakota \nWondering what’s next?\nWondering if God is calling you to something different?\nWondering if there’s “something more”? \nExplore these and other questions in the context of our faith\, with other wonderers through storytelling\, introspection\, and studying of Scripture. We strongly encourage you to bring a conversation partner (your pastor\, a colleague\, family member\, friend\, etc who will continue this conversation with you). The event costs $10 per person\, which includes an evening meal. \nChoose the date and location that works best for you. Each retreat is 2:00 – 8:00 p.m.\nClick here to register! \nSunday\, August 17\nOur Savior’s Lutheran\, Faribault\nRegister by August 10 \nSunday\, November 2\nFaith Lutheran\, Forest Lake\nRegister by October 26 \nThursday\, February 22\nOak Knoll Lutheran\, Minnetonka\nRegister by February 15
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/discerning/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251108T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251108T143000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250912T135533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251031T194354Z
UID:22812-1762590600-1762612200@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Cancelled - Equipping Congregations Day
DESCRIPTION:The 2025 Equipping Congregations Day has been cancelled due to low registration numbers. We are grateful to Pr. Todd Buegler\, the Synod Youth Band\, and the Workshop Presenters who have planned and prepared for this day. We are working to host future Zoom gatherings or capture recordings on topics of the ECD sessions. Please stay tuned for further information.\n \nFull Refunds will be given. \n\nCongregations of every size and context can nurture faith\, create welcome\, and embrace ministry with youth and young adults.\n\nKeynote Speaker: Rev. Todd Buegler\, Senior Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church\, Owatonna MN\nAttend your choice of 2 out of 6 Workshops! Workshop descriptions and schedule will be posted soon!\n-Lunch catered by Qdoba!\n-$30 per person. \nShare this event! Click here to view and download a bulletin insert. \nSchedule\n8:30 – 9:00 AM Coffee and Registration\n9:00 – 9:30 Welcome/Hymn Sing – Synod Youth Band\n9:30 – 10:20 Keynote Speaker Session 1 – Pr. Todd Buegler\n10:20 – 10:30 Transition Time\n10:30 – 11:30 Workshop 1\n11:30 – 12:15 PM Lunch\n12:15 – 1:15 Workshop 2\n1:15 – 1:30 Transition Time\n1:30 – 2:15 Keynote Speaker Session 2 – Todd Buegler\n2:15 – 3:00 Worship and Sending – Synod Youth Band \nWorkshops\nAttend your choice of 2 out of 4 Workshops! \nRelationship Building\nPresenter: Sophia Culuris\, Luther Crest Day Camp Coordinator\nDevelop fun\, hands-on skills to better engage with children and youth. \nEngaging the Gifts of Young People in Worship\nPresenter: Pr. Hans Peterson\, Pastor at River of Hope in Hutchinson\nHans passionately agrees with Paul that “to each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). Too often the gifts of the youngest members of our churches are not utilized in worship\, the central way people of faith express reverence or allegiance to God. Hans and the SW MN Synod Youth Band will present some practical examples of ways to tap into the gifts of young people. Come prepared to sing\, move and play instruments. \nBut Wait! We Don’t Have Many Children!”: Creative Ideas for Worship with ALL Ages\nPresenters: Deacon Brenda Handel-Johnson\, Deacon at First\, St. Peter and Pr. Sherri Larson\, Pastor at Ebenezer and Tripolis\, Kandiyohi\nHere is a chance to learn and share kid-friendly ideas and proven ways to involve children in worship\, even if you don’t regularly have kids in worship! \nUshering\, greeting\, holding the door\, counting worshipers\, and other “behind the scenes” tasks can be shared among people of all ages. Creative ways to share the gospel might be centered on children but can be easily adapted and enjoyed by adults. \nParticipants will be invited to share their own best ideas for involving children\, and we’ll brainstorm how those plans can be adapted for all God’s children from age 2 to 92! \nBoundaries and Safety in Youth and Family Ministry\nPastor Heather Culuris\, Synod Minister\nGather to consider best practices and safe boundaries in working with youth and families in ministry. How do our intentional practices open doors for ministry so that all God’s children can feel a sense of safety and belonging?
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/ecd2025/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251113T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251113T173000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20251111T174055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T210632Z
UID:22971-1763051400-1763055000@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Informational Zoom Gathering - MN Paid Leave
DESCRIPTION:Beginning January 1\, 2026\, Minnesota will launch its statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave program\, which provides eligible employees with paid time off for medical and family-related needs. \nAs a reminder to congregation leaders and staff\, and to assist in preparing for this transition\, Tammy Schacher lead a Zoom gathering. This Zoom gathering was recorded on Nov. 13th. \n \nThere are several aspects of the program that still may be unfamiliar\, particularly for congregations and rostered leaders. Click here to learn more. 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/mn-paid-leave-zoom/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251121
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251123
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250915T181321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T132826Z
UID:22828-1763683200-1763855999@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Junior High Youth Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Location: Willmar Conference Center & Best Western Plus/Holiday Inn Express\, Willmar MN\nDates: This year\, we are again only offering ONE date option for the JH Gathering: Friday\, November 21 – Saturday\, November 22\, 2025\n2025 theme: “Strengthened by Faith\,” based on Isaiah 41:10. \nGathering Info:\nRegistration is open! Click here to register.\nClick the following links for more information.\n– Gathering Registration Guide\n– Hotel Form\n– Gathering Covenant \n– Participant Form\n– Packing List \n– Service Project\n– All Gathering Forms in one PDF! \nImportant Dates: \nSept. 22nd-Oct. 10th –  Early Bird Registration: $90 per person.\nOct. 11th-Oct. 17th – Registration Continues: $95 per person.\nOct. 17th – The  hotel block of rooms at each hotel will be released.\nOct. 18th-Nov. 14th – Late Registration: $100 per person. \n \n 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/jhyg2025/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260118T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260118T163000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260106T173000Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T173000Z
UID:23096-1768748400-1768753800@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Ecumenical Prayer Service for Christian Unity
DESCRIPTION:Ecumenical Prayer Service for Christian Unity\nSunday\, January 18\, 2026 at 3:00 pm. A reception will follow the service.\nChurch of St. Mary\, 713 12th St. SW\, Willmar\, MN 56201. \nAll are invited to attend.\nJoin Bishop Zielinski and other church leaders\, individuals and congregations representing several Christian denominations in south and west-central Minnesota for an Ecumenical Celebration of the Word of God. The service is part of the annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. A reception will follow the service. \nQuestions? Contact the Catholic Diocese of New Ulm\,\nOffice of Worship\n(507) 233-5320 or worship@dnu.org
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/ecumenical-prayer-service/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260120T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260120T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260114T181752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T181854Z
UID:23146-1768932000-1768939200@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2026 National Day of Racial Healing
DESCRIPTION:Join In!\nThe ELCA\, in partnership with Augsburg Fortress\, will observe the 2026 National Day of Racial Healing (NDORH) with a free evening program on Tuesday\, Jan. 20\, 6-8 p.m. Central time: \n\n“Just Us Narratives: A Night of Centering Multiracial Voices Across the ELCA”\nOnline and in person at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church’s Celebration Campus\n919 S. Washington St.\, Naperville\, Ill.\nTuesday\, Jan. 20\, 6-8 p.m. Central time \n\nOnline attendees: No registration is required. A link to join virtually will be available on the ELCA webpage – https://www.elca.org/org-events/2026-national-day-of-racial-healing \n‍In-person attendees: Space is limited\, and registration is requested. Register here. \nThis program will be recorded\, and the video recording will be available on the ELCA YouTube channel at a later date.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2026-national-day-of-racial-healing/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260129T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260129T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20251204T161247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251204T161247Z
UID:23050-1769677200-1769698800@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Ethics and Boundaries for Ministers Training
DESCRIPTION:Thursday\, Jan. 29 – 9:00am-3:00pm\nIn person at Calvary Lutheran Church\, Willmar\nPresenters: Rev. Emily Carson\nCost: $75 per person\nRegistration Deadline: Jan. 22nd \nClick here to register.  \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.” \nThe SW MN Synod 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.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/boundaries-for-ministers-training/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260203T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260127T232549Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T232549Z
UID:23189-1770112800-1770116400@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Minnesota Leaders Prayer Time with Bishop Curry
DESCRIPTION:An invitation from the Bishops of Minnesota \nIn this challenging time across our state\, we see you navigating the many responsibilities and concerns. The Bishops of Minnesota invite Rostered Ministers and SAMs to gather together online for an hour of prayer and connection led by Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry. We will gather on Zoom on Tuesday\, February 3\, at 10:00 a.m. Register here to receive the link. \nQuestions? Please email kristin.bakeberg@swmnelca.org or call 507-637-3904.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/minnesota-leaders-prayer-time-with-bishop-curry/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260222T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260222T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20250709T185608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260211T204104Z
UID:22538-1771768800-1771790400@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Cancelled: Discerning Your Call: Exploring the Next Faithful Step
DESCRIPTION:A discernment retreat hosted by the ELCA synods of Region 3 in the states of Minnesota\, North Dakota\, and South Dakota \nWondering what’s next?\nWondering if God is calling you to something different?\nWondering if there’s “something more”? \nExplore these and other questions in the context of our faith\, with other wonderers through storytelling\, introspection\, and studying of Scripture. We strongly encourage you to bring a conversation partner (your pastor\, a colleague\, family member\, friend\, etc who will continue this conversation with you). The event costs $10 per person\, which includes an evening meal. \nChoose the date and location that works best for you. Each retreat is 2:00 – 8:00 p.m.\nClick here to register! \nSunday\, August 17\nOur Savior’s Lutheran\, Faribault\nRegister by August 10 \nSunday\, November 2\nFaith Lutheran\, Forest Lake\nRegister by October 26 \nThursday\, February 22 – CANCELLED\nOak Knoll Lutheran\, Minnetonka\nRegister by February 15
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/discerning-your-call-exploring-the-next-faithful-step/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260305T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260305T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260114T152656Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T135155Z
UID:23128-1772737200-1772742600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Zoom Training: Fresh Expressions of the Rural Church\, with Michael Adam Beck
DESCRIPTION:Rural churches have always been more than buildings\, they have been the spiritual\, social\, and relational heart of their communities. Yet today\, many rural congregations find themselves asking hard questions about sustainability\, relevance\, and mission in changing contexts. \nThis recording was an interactive training\, based on Fresh Expressions of the Rural Church\, inviting pastors and lay leaders to rediscover the extraordinary potential already present in rural places and to learn practical ways to cultivate new Christian communities alongside existing congregations. \n \n\nClick here to download the training flyer.\nClick here to learn more about Michael Beck.  \nTogether we will explore: \n\nA fresh theology of place rooted in the gifts\, rhythms\, and relationships of rural life\nHow to move beyond a survival mindset toward missional imagination and local renewal\nPractical models for starting Fresh Expressions that fit farming communities\, small towns\,\nand rural networks\nHow inherited churches and new faith communities can thrive together in a blended\necology\nReal stories from rural contexts across the U.S. where new Christian communities are\nalready bearing fruit\n\nThis training is not about importing urban or suburban models into rural contexts. It is about listening deeply to the land and the people\, recognizing the assets already present\, and cultivating\nnew forms of church that grow organically out of rural life. \nParticipants will leave with: \n\nA clear framework for contextual mission in rural settings\nPractical next steps for their own congregation or ministry context\nTools for discerning\, experimenting\, and nurturing new forms of Christian community\nRenewed hope for the future of rural churches and the communities they serve\n\nRural places are not forgotten spaces. They are seedbeds of possibility. This training helps leaders\nlearn to tend that soil with faith\, creativity\, and courage.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/zoom-training-fresh-expressions/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260409T063000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260409T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260305T153428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T153428Z
UID:23346-1775716200-1775766600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Call Process Summit
DESCRIPTION:Join the Zoom Conversation! \nThe call process is the transition of a rostered minister into service with a congregation(s). Join the conversation as synod staff walk through each step of the process and share how every transition is unique. \nThis summit is open to anyone interested in learning more. Whether your congregation is currently in the call process or you have a settled pastor and simply want to better understand how congregations and synod staff partner during times of transition\, this conversation is for you. \nPlease RSVP to receive the Zoom link by email. You’re also invited to submit a question you hope the conversation will address. Click here to RSVP. \n 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/call-process-summit/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260410
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260412
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260115T220023Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T172341Z
UID:23163-1775779200-1775951999@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Senior High Youth Gathering
DESCRIPTION:All 9th-12th students are invited to the Synod’s annual Senior High Youth Gathering on April 10th – 11th\, 2026 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Redwood Falls. Lodging will be at Redwood Lodge. This event is coordinated & planned by the SW MN Synod Lutheran Youth Organization (LYO).  \nOur theme this year is “Refuge in The Chaos” based on Psalm 46:1-2.  \nWe have an outstanding gathering planned for you! Including: \n\nSpeaker: Tera Elness\nBand: SW MN Synod Youth Band\nNightlife: Variety of activities including games\, snacks\, dance\, large group games\, relaxing space for prayer\, etc.\nSmall Groups: Sessions led by youth to help dig deeper into the theme\nLively worship\, dancing\, singing\, fun\, faith and relationship-building \nService Project: Meaningful service learning and opportunities to grow\nLYO Board Elections\n\nRegistration:\nClick here to register!\nRegistration opens January 28th @ 6:00pm and closes March 5th @ 6:00pm.\n$65 per person (Jan. 28-Feb. 28)\n$80 per person (March 1-March 5)\nPlease view and download the gathering packet for more information. \nLinks: \n– Gathering Packet\n– LYO Board Online Application\n– Small Group Leaders Application\n– Gathering Covenant\n– Gathering Release Form\n-Gathering Hotel Form
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/shyg2026/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260319T200852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T200852Z
UID:23504-1776796200-1776801600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:CYF Healthy Boundaries Training
DESCRIPTION:For all staff and volunteers working with children\, youth\, and family ministry – especially as congregations move into their summer programming.  \nThis 90-minute workshop\, led by Rev. Emily Carson\, Assistant to the Bishop & Director for Evangelical Mission in the Southeastern Minnesota Synod\, is designed for volunteers and professionals engaged in faith formation and ministry with children\, youth\, and families. \nIn addition\, we will be joined by Joy McElroy\, Executive Director of Cherish All Children with Lutheran Social Services – MN. Cherish All Children partners with churches and communities to prevent child exploitation and trafficking. \nParticipants will explore their own relationship to power\, boundaries\, and authority\, gaining insights into how these dynamics shape their leadership. Beyond personal reflection\, the workshop will also equip leaders to actively foster wise boundary-setting skills in the young people they serve. Through discussion and practical strategies\, attendees will be empowered to nurture healthy\, trust-filled ministry spaces. \nDate: Tuesday\, April 21st\nTime: 6:30-8:00pm\nWhere: Zoom (link will be sent to you)\nCost: $10 donation to the Neighbor to Neighbor Fund through the NEMN Synod. This fund has been set up specifically for distribution among Minnesota and Region 3 synods and partners\, working in response to federal law enforcement activity in their communities.\nClick here to register.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/cyf-healthy-boundaries/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260502T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260502T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260312T150823Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T151201Z
UID:23374-1777707000-1777737600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2026 SW MN Synodical Women's Organization Convention
DESCRIPTION:Location: Calvary Lutheran Church\, Willmar\nTime: 7:30 – 4:00 p.m.\nClick here to view and print the registration form. \n \n 
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2026-welca/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260505T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260505T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20251204T162430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T170128Z
UID:23052-1777971600-1777993200@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Ethics and Boundaries for Ministers Training
DESCRIPTION:Tuesday\, May 5th – 9:00am-3:00pm\nIn person at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church\, New Ulm\nPresenters: Rev. Emily Carson\nCost: $75 per person\nRegistration Deadline: April 28th \nClick here to register! \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.” \nThe SW MN Synod 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.
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/ethics-and-boundaries/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260512T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260512T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260312T142542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T142542Z
UID:23364-1778610600-1778614200@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Resolution Hearing
DESCRIPTION:In accordance with †S18.13. of the Synod Constitution\, notice was hereby given that the Southwestern Minnesota Synod Council had approved forwarding proposed amendments to the Synod Constitution\, Bylaws\, and Continuing Resolutions to the congregations of this synod. This Zoom meeting will cover these changes. Required changes approved by the ELCA Churchwide Assembly do not need approval. However\, all other changes will be brought before the synod assembly for discussion and approval. Click here for more information. \nIt is strongly recommended that voting members of the Synod Assembly participate in the pre-assembly Zoom events so you are fully informed. You will also receive separate email invitations for each hearing\, which will include the Zoom links and any necessary documents. \nZoom Link:\nTime: Tuesday\, May 12\, 2026 06:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)\nJoin Zoom Meeting – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88088743838 \nMeeting ID: 880 8874 3838
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/resolution-hearing-2026/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260518T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260518T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260312T142919Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T142919Z
UID:23366-1779129000-1779132600@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Synod Assembly Orientation
DESCRIPTION:Monday\, May 18\, 2026 via Zoom from 6:30pm to 7:30pm \n\nI’m attending online\, where are the links?\nI’m attending on site\, where do I park?\nWhere do I find the assembly reports?\nWhat time does the assembly begin?\nWhere is the agenda?\nHow do I download Guidebook?\nHow do we vote?\nI’m staying on campus\, where is my dorm?\nAll of these questions will be answered and yours will too!!\n\nZoom Link: \nTime: May 18\, 2026 06:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)\nJoin Zoom Meeting – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85130637121 \nMeeting ID: 851 3063 7121
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/assembly-orientation/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260519T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260519T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260312T143604Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T143604Z
UID:23370-1779215400-1779219000@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2027 Compensation Guidelines Zoom Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Receive an overview of the proposed 2027 Compensation Guidelines prior to their presentation to the Assembly for discussion and approval. The committee will report on its work\, outline the recommended changes\, and explain the rationale supporting those recommendations. \nIt is strongly recommended that Synod Assembly voting members participate in the pre-assembly Zoom events so you are fully informed. You will also receive separate email invitations for each hearing\, which will include the Zoom links and any necessary documents. \nZoom Link: \nTime: May 19\, 2026 06:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)\nJoin Zoom Meeting – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82798070794 \nMeeting ID: 827 9807 0794
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2027-compensation-guidelines-zoom-gathering/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260521T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260521T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20260312T144458Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T144458Z
UID:23372-1779388200-1779391800@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:Synod Budget Forum
DESCRIPTION:Receive an overview of the proposed FY2028 Budget from Synod Treasurer\, Bob Haines\, prior to his presentation to the Assembly for discussion and approval. Mr. Haines will discuss the work of the Management and Mission Support Committee\, outline the recommended budget changes\, and explain the rationale supporting those recommendations. \nIt is strongly recommended that Synod Assembly voting members participate in the pre-assembly Zoom events so you are fully informed. You will also receive separate email invitations for each hearing\, which will include the Zoom links and any necessary documents. \nZoom Link:\nTime: Thursday\, May 21\, 2026 06:30 PM Central Time (US and Canada)\nJoin Zoom Meeting – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81139147676 \nMeeting ID: 811 3914 7676
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/synod-budget-forum/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260605
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260607
DTSTAMP:20260403T144812
CREATED:20251204T162953Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T173148Z
UID:23056-1780617600-1780790399@swmnelca.org
SUMMARY:2026 Synod Assembly
DESCRIPTION:Date: June 5 – 6\, 2026\nTime: registration opens 11:30 am – Friday\, June 5th (on-site)\nPlace: Gustavus Adolphus College & online via Zoom\nTheme: Grounded in Hope.\nPlease visit the Synod Assembly Webpage for more information and registration. \n \nwww.swmnelca.org/synod-assembly
URL:https://swmnelca.org/event/2026-assembly/
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR