The Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod - Publications

Check this page each month for links to announcements, news items, event details, and other matters that are new for the month.

In addition to the materials here, the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod sends out a mailing every month to synod congregations and rostered leaders. It contains—

November 2008

		For a PDF version of this month's cover sheet, click here.
		Note: A form for congregations and others to use to order a DVD of Bishop Zeiser's installation service and music may be found on the reverse side of this month's cover sheet.
		The Book of Faith: 2009 Learning Ministries Day The 2009 Learning Ministries Day will be held Saturday, January 24, 2009, at Union Lutheran Church, Schnecksville. Registration materials will be available by October 20. Click here for more information.
		Get Ready for a LIFT! Anyone who attended the 2007 LIFT event knows not to miss the 2009 event—LIFT 2007 was one of the most well-received events in Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod history! It will be held Saturday, June 13, at Muhlenberg College. Click here for more information.
		Christmas Sharing It’s not too early to mark your calendars to volunteer for the Christmas Sharing event scheduled for December 1-5 at The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community. This traditional event gives residents the opportunity to shop, free of cost, for holiday gifts for loved ones. All of the items are donated by local congregations and individuals in the community. For more information about this upcoming event, please see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ November Mission District Report, available at http://www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Jesus Justice Jazz: 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering The 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering will be held July 22-26, 2009, in New Orleans. Registration for the Gathering is now open. For information on the Gathering, click here. To register, click here.
		Prayers for December. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through December 2008.

October 2008

		For a PDF version of this month's cover sheet, click here.
Note		Information about copying The Parish Paper may be found on the reverse side of this month's cover sheet.
		The Book of Faith: 2009 Learning Ministries Day The 2009 Learning Ministries Day will be held Saturday, January 24, 2009, at Union Lutheran Church, Schnecksville. Registration materials will be available by October 20. Click here for more information.
		TEY Affirmation of Baptism Festivals The Theological Education with Youth (TEY) Affirmation of Baptism Festivals gather ninth grade youth for a day of exploring the fullness of baptismal life, and the Christian callings to witness and work against violence and for peace. This year’s festivals will be held October 25 at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg and November 15 at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. Click here for more information and a registration form.
		We Are All Together... In Christ The Lutheran Youth Fellowship Assembly will be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center November 7-9. Registration and assembly materials are available online at www.godslove.org/youth/lyfassembly.htm. Order t-shirts, fill out a nomination form, check out what camp life requires—and more. Register now!
		Theology, Literature and Coffee Luther Crest, a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Allentown, will host a Moravian Theological Seminary-sponsored course, Theology, Literature and Coffee. Enjoy a time of learning and fellowship as theological themes in selected literature are presented and discussed. For more information, see Diakon’s October Mission District Report, available at http://www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Jesus Justice Jazz: 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering The 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering will be held July 22-26, 2009, in New Orleans. Registration for the Gathering is now open. For information on the Gathering, click here. To register, click here.
		Prayers for October. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through October 2008.

September 2008

		For a PDF version of this month's cover sheet, click here.
Note		Information about Focus on the Children: The 2008 Lutheran Social Ministry Appeal, may be found on the reverse side of this month's cover sheet.
		*The Tour de Revs* for World Hunger** What can you do to help eradicate world hunger? Read about three pastors and their 100-day journey by bicycle. Plan to greet them as they arrive in our synod. Read more...
		Free in Christ to Serve the Neighbor A training event for adults working with senior high youth to facilitate discussion of the ELCA Draft Social Statement on Human Sexuality will be held September 20 at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, Emmaus. Click here for more information and a registration form.
		We Are All Together... In Christ The Lutheran Youth Fellowship Assembly will be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center November 7-9. Registration and assembly materials are available online at www.godslove.org/youth/lyfassembly.htm. Order t-shirts, fill out a nomination form, check out what camp life requires—and more. Register now!
		Diakon’s First Annual Camp Evergreen Reunion Diakon’s Children’s Bereavement Program will host its first annual Camp Evergreen reunion picnic on Saturday, Oct. 18. The reunion will provide children, parents, volunteers, and counselors a chance to reconnect. For more details, including time, location, and an RSVP date, please see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ September Mission District Report, available at http://www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Jesus Justice Jazz: 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering The 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering will be held July 22-26, 2009, in New Orleans. Two information meetings will be held this fall: September 6, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Dallas, 10:00-11:30 AM OR September 7, Friedens Lutheran Church, Oley, 6:30 -8:00 PM. For more information, click here.
		Money Leadership for Rostered Leaders Money Leadership for Rostered Leaders will be held at St. Francis Retreat Center, Easton, September 30-October 1. For a brochure and registration form, click here.
		Prayers for September. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through September 2008.

August 2008

		For a PDF version of this month's cover sheet, click here.
Note		The Committee of Deans has adopted new guidelines for supply pastors. You will find those guidelines on the reverse side of the cover sheet or by clicking here. The recommendation is that you begin to use these guidelines immediately. They will become the expected amounts on January 1, 2009.
		Free in Christ to Serve the Neighbor A training event for adults working with senior high youth to facilitate discussion of the ELCA Draft Social Statement on Human Sexuality will be held September 20 at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, Emmaus. Click here for more information and a registration form.
		Calling All Youth! The Lutheran Youth Fellowship Assembly will be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center again this year. The dates for the assembly are November 7-9. Registration materials will be available online by the end of August and sent to congregations by early September. Look for them!
		Adoption and Foster Care Information Information nights for families interested in learning more about adopting and fostering children will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursdays, Aug. 21, Sept. 18, and Oct. 16, in the auditorium at The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community in Topton, Pa. To learn more about these meetings, view Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ August Mission District Report, available at http://www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Jesus Justice Jazz: 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering The 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering will be held July 22-26, 2009, in New Orleans. Two information meetings will be held this fall: September 6, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Dallas, 10:00-11:30 AM OR September 7, Friedens Lutheran Church, Oley, 6:30 -8:00 PM. For more information, click here.
		Money Leadership for Rostered Leaders Money Leadership for Rostered Leaders will be held at St. Francis Retreat Center, Easton, September 30-October 1. For a brochure and registration form, click here.
		Prayers for August. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through August 2008.

July 2008

		For a PDF version of this month's cover sheet, click here.
Special Note		Included in this mailing is a bulletin insert that has the text of a resolution of appreciation for the ministry of Bishop David R. Strobel that was adopted by the synod council on June 28. Please print this insert and include it in an upcoming worship bulletin or newsletter.
		An Invitation to Rostered Leaders Join other church professionals and their spouses at the Forward Thinking seminar on Tuesday, August 26, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Lehighton, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (lunch included). See the second page of the July cover sheet for more information and a registration form. (It's free!)
		Calling All Youth! The Lutheran Youth Fellowship Assembly will be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center November 7-9. Look for registration materials, which will be sent to all congregations, in early September. Materials will also be available online. Check out the information about the 2009 ELCA Youth Gathering in Synod News, too.
		Summer Concert Series Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to Pocono Lutheran Village, 329 E. Brown Street, East Stroudsburg, this summer for some delightful music. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. on the following Thursdays: July 31—Old Thyme Banjo Band will play Dixieland and toe-tapping banjos August 7—Peter Ward will spin favorites from the ’30s, ’40s, and ’50s August 14—Rick Peoples will perform country music August 21—Natalie & John will perform favorites from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s August 28—Ruth Ratliff of Jemini Music, a mezzo soprano, will perform an evening of classic standards For more information, please see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ July Mission District Report, available at http://www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Summer Schedule for Canoe Trips Pocono Area Leisure Ministry (PALM) invites you to take part in one of their canoe trips through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area this summer. They are offering two different trip routes this summer. For more information, click here.
		Prayers for July. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through July 2008.

June 2008

		NOTE: The summary of the 2008 assembly is in the July issue of Synod News. For this month's cover sheet, click here.
		Calling All Youth! The Lutheran Youth Fellowship Assembly will be held at Pinebrook Bible Conference Center again this year. The dates for the assembly are November 7-9. Registration materials will be sent to congregations by early September. Look for them!
		As your congregation celebrates high school graduation, help get these young people networked with “Project Connect” (www.projectconnect.org)! Project Connect seeks to involve young adults in programs, projects, retreats, and discussions about how God is calling them to build a life. Check out Project Connect – and get them connected!
		Summer Teen Program The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community, will again welcome teen volunteers ages 12 to 17 from June 30 through July 27. The program involves teens assisting with activities, visiting residents, learning about therapies, and becoming “buddies” with a resident or two. Additional information on how to become a volunteer is listed in Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ June Mission District Report, available at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Summer Schedule for Canoe Trips Pocono Area Leisure Ministry (PALM) invites you to take part in one of their canoe trips through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area this summer. They are offering two different trip routes this summer. For more information, click here.
		Discount tickets are available again this year for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Tickets may be purchased at the synod office in person or by mail. For more information, click this link or contact Debbie Frey at 610-395-6891. Proceeds benefit the Northeastern PA Synod Youth Scholarship Fund.
		Prayers for June and July. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through July 2008.

May 2008

		NOTE: The summary of the 2008 assembly will appear in the July issue of Synod News. For this month's cover sheet, click here.
		New Life in Christ — Let’s Celebrate! An all-Lutheran youth day on June 14 at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, 10 AM – 4 PM. For youth in grades 8 through 12. For more information, see the June issue of Synod News. Click these links for a poster for publicity and a medical release form.
		One Child Dies Every Five Seconds... Every day, almost 16,000 children die from hunger-related causes – one child every 5 seconds. The May hunger appeal message may be found on the reverse of the May cover sheet. Please print and share with your members. A full page version is available by clicking here.
		Summer Schedule for Canoe Trips Pocono Area Leisure Ministry (PALM) invites you to take part in one of their canoe trips through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area this summer. They are offering two different trip routes this summer. For more information, click here.
		Discount tickets are available again this year for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Tickets may be purchased at the synod office in person or by mail. For more information, click this link or contact Debbie Frey at 610-395-6891. Proceeds benefit the Northeastern PA Synod Youth Scholarship Fund.
		Prayers for May. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through May 2008.

April 2008

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the April monthly mailing has additional information about materials for the upcoming 2008 assembly. Click here for the cover sheet.
		Get ready for Fit for Jesus, the 2008 SYMDANO (Synod Youth Ministry Day and Networking Opportunity) event! It will be held on April 19 at Christ Lutheran Church, Conyngham. Click here for more information and a registration form.
		*Money Leadership for Rostered Leaders* engages rostered leaders in conversation and self-assessment of their experiences, feelings, knowledge and practices related to money issues. This event will take place April 22-23, 2008, at St. Francis Friary in Easton. Click here for more information.
		Rolling Stones Days Bear Creek Camp needs adults and youth volunteers for any of its three Rolling Stones Days on April 19, April 26, and May 3 to gather stone and do finishing work on the walls of the new outdoor chapel, to be dedicated 2:00 pm on June 14. For more information, click here.
		Locks of Love Benefit A haircutting party to benefit Locks of Love and Diakon Hospice Saint John will be held at 4:30 p.m., Thursday, April 17, in the Hair Care Salon in the Lower Level Commons on the campus of Luther Crest, a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Allentown. People can help by donating a minimum of 10 inches of hair (which may be colored or permed but not bleached), by donating your time if you are a beautician, or by donating to Diakon Hospice Saint John. For more information, contact Luther Crest Chaplain Dianne Kareha at (610) 391-8210 or see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ April 2008 Mission District Report, available at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp; click on Mission District Report.
		Summer Schedule for Canoe Trips Pocono Area Leisure Ministry (PALM) invites you to take part in one of their canoe trips through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area this summer. They are offering two different trip routes this summer. For more information, click here.
		Saturday School continues on March 29, 2008, at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, Emmaus. 9:00 a.m. session: Jesus through the Ages, Pr. David R. Strobel, bishop; 1:00 p.m. session: The Letters of St. Paul, Dr. Richard P. Carlson, professor of biblical studies and director of graduate studies, the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. The next session will be held on April 19. For more information or to register, click here.
		Prayers for April. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through April 2008.

March 2008

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the March monthly mailing has additional information about materials for the upcoming 2008 assembly. Click here for the cover sheet.
		*Money Leadership for Rostered Leaders* engages rostered leaders in conversation and self-assessment of their experiences, feelings, knowledge and practices related to money issues. This event will take place April 22-23, 2008, at St. Francis Friary in Easton. Click here for more information.
		Get ready for Fit for Jesus, the 2008 SYMDANO (Synod Youth Ministry Day and Networking Opportunity) event! It will be held on April 19 at Christ Lutheran Church, Conyngham. Click here for more information and a registration form.
		The annual Farm Family Appreciation Celebration will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2008, at the Hamburg Field House. Everyone is invited—farm families and farm family supporters! Children are welcome. For more information and to register, click here.
		Lutheran Day at the Capitol It’s not too early to register for Lutheran Day at the Capitol 2008 on April 9! You can find preliminary information and register by printing an online registration form from the Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania website (http://www.lamp.org/) or by clicking here.
		Free Counseling Available Free counseling services are available through Diakon Pregnancy Services to women who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy. Counseling can occur in any convenient location. Options are explored, community referrals are given, and the adoption process is coordinated, if an adoption plan is chosen. For more information, please see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ March 2008 Mission District Report, available at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp; click on Mission District Report.
		Summer Schedule for Canoe Trips Pocono Area Leisure Ministry (PALM) invites you to take part in one of their canoe trips through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area this summer. They are offering two different trip routes this summer. For more information, click here.
		Saturday School continues on March 29, 2008, at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, Emmaus. 9:00 a.m. session: Jesus through the Ages, Pr. David R. Strobel, bishop; 1:00 p.m. session: The Letters of St. Paul, Dr. Richard P. Carlson, professor of biblical studies and director of graduate studies, the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. The next session will be held on April 19. For more information or to register, click here.
		Prayers for March and April. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through April 2008.

February 2008

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the February monthly mailing has information about materials for the upcoming 2008 assembly. Also on the back page is a reminder about photocopying The Parish Paper for local use. Click here for the cover sheet.
		The 2008 Congregation Officers form is available in the "Forms and Documents" portion of the Resources section. A hard copy was also included in the February mailing.
		The 2007 Minutes Books is finished and available. Most of the content is available in Resources. Not included on the website for privacy reasons is the roster section. The entire book is also available in hard copy. If you would like to pick up a hard copy, call Carol Moyer at the synod office at 610-395-6891.
		The annual Farm Family Appreciation Celebration will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2008, at the Hamburg Field House. Everyone is invited—farm families and farm family supporters! Children are welcome. For more information and to register, click here.
		Get ready for Fit for Jesus, the 2008 SYMDANO (Synod Youth Ministry Day and Networking Opportunity) event! It will be held on April 19 at Christ Lutheran Church, Conyngham. Click here for more information.
		Chocolate, Snacks, and Hunger When we want a snack, it’s usually there for us — a dish of chocolate, pretzels, some nuts and popcorn. Yet many around the world do not have any food at all. Click here for some suggestions from the synod’s hunger team.
		John Tesh will perform live at the 20th Anniversary Diakon Benefactors Dinner, Thursday, May 15, at the Sovereign Performing Arts Center, Reading, Pa. A new dining-station celebration will honor the event’s founders, Col. Harry Yoder and William Deibert at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Tesh performance in the theater at 7:15 p.m. All proceeds benefit Diakon Adoption & Foster Care and charitable care provided to residents of The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community. For more information, see Diakon’s February Mission District Report, available at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp; click on Mission District Report.
		Weekend Retreat for Teens Wonderfully Made, a weekend retreat for teenagers who are lesbian/gay/bisexual/or questioning, will be held at Bear Creek Camp March 28-30, 2008. The retreat is designed for 15-17-years-olds currently in grades 9-12 who are interested in discussing and understanding sexuality alongside their own spirituality. The cost is $45. To register or for more information, contact Molly Beck Dean at 610-278-7345 or mbeck@sepa.org.
		Saturday School Saturday School continues on February 16, 2008, with presentations by Dr. Paul Rajashakar (9 a.m.) and Pastor Jeff Butz (1 p.m.). For more information or to register, click here.
		Prayers for February. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through February 2008.

January 2008

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the January 2008 monthly mailing has information about photocopying The Parish Paper for local use, nomination forms for the 2008 assembly, and a special offer to congregations without Internet access. Click here for the cover sheet
		Get ready for Fit for Jesus, the 2008 SYMDANO (Synod Youth Ministry Day and Networking Opportunity) event! It will be held on April 19 at Christ Lutheran Church, Conyngham. Click here for more information.
		Weekend Retreat for Teens Wonderfully Made is a weekend retreat for teenagers who are lesbian/gay/bisexual/or questioning. Sponsored by the Southeastern PA Synod, the retreat is open to the youth of our synod as well. It is designed for 15-17-years-olds currently in grades 9-12 who are interested in discussing and understanding sexuality alongside their own spirituality and who want to spend time with other teenagers and staff in fellowship, worship, games, Bibles study, and crafts. The cost is $45; it will be held at Bear Creek Camp March 28-30, 2008. If you know a youth who needs a safe place to explore this issue, please tell them about this retreat. To register or for more information, contact Molly Beck Dean at 610-278-7345 or mbeck@sepa.org.
		The annual Farm Family Appreciation Celebration will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2008, at the Hamburg Field House. Everyone is invited—farm families and farm family supporters! Children are welcome. For more information and to register, click here.
		Saturday School Saturday School continues on February 16, 2008, with presentations by Dr. Paul Rajashakar (9 a.m.) and Pastor Jeff Butz (1 p.m.). For more information or to register, click here.
		Adopt a Resident The Friends of The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community, will be coordinating an “adopt-a-resident” program, beginning in January 2008. Individuals and congregations may adopt one or several residents at The Lutheran Home at Topton whom they visit, call, send cards to, and with whom they celebrate special occasions. If you or your congregation is interested in becoming involved in this program, please see the most recent Diakon Mission District Report, found at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp; click on Mission District Report.
		Prayers for January. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through January 2008.

December 2007

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the December 2007 monthly mailing has information about a special offer to congregations without Internet access. Click here for the cover sheet
		Hearts Ignited with Prayer, the 2008 Learning Ministries Day, will be held on Saturday, January 26, 2008, at Trinity, Robesonia. Read more about the day by clicking here. Information also appears on the first page of the January issue of Synod News.
		Glitzy Experiences and Real Gifts At this time of year, most of us find ourselves running from one thing to another. There is little space for the real stuff of life: connecting with people, and connecting with God. Read these reflections on finding appropriate ways to celebrate God’s gifts by clicking here.
		The annual Farm Family Appreciation Celebration will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2008, at the Hamburg Field House. Everyone is invited—farm families and farm family supporters! Children are welcome. For more information and to register, click here.
		Two Visits with Our Companion Synod in Saxony Our synod’s Saxony Companion Synod Committee is planning two visits to our companion synod in Saxony, Germany. One, scheduled for April, is an intergenerational visit open to both youth and adults. The other, scheduled for June, is a youth exchange. The deadline for both trips is January 7, 2008. For more information or an application, contact Pr. Kurt Garbe at (570)788-1893. Click here for an application for the youth trip in June.
		Saturday School Saturday School continues on January 19, 2008, with presentations by Pastors Mike Bennethum (9 a.m.) and Jeff Butz (1 p.m.). For more information or to register, click here.
		Luther Crest, a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Allentown, will host a six-week Moravian Theological Seminary course designed for rostered and non-rostered individuals who want to become more effective in ministry with the senior adults with whom they serve. Participants will have an opportunity to improve their skills of communication with older adults, as well as gain an understanding of the life issues that confront them. Topics will include life review, grief, spirituality and faith, caring for the caregiver, visitation and communication skills, dynamics and issues of dementia and aging, effects of aging on family systems, and community resources. For more information on dates, times, and costs, go to www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp and click on Mission District Report.
		Prayers for December. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through December 2007.

November 2007

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the November 2007 monthly mailing has information about the Board of Pensions Wellness Benefits program for all plan participants. Click here for the cover sheet
		Fill a Stable for Jesus. In keeping with the Nativity story from Luke about Jesus being born in a lowly stable, the hunger team invites you to encourage your congregation to fill a stable for Jesus. Read more about this idea and where you can find appropriate gifts to fill the stable by clicking here.
		Two Visits with Our Companion Synod in Saxony Our synod’s Saxony Companion Synod Committee is planning two visits to our companion synod in Saxony, Germany. One, tentatively scheduled for April 1-10, 2008, is an intergenerational visit open to both youth and adults. The other, to be scheduled sometime in June 2008, is a youth exchange. Fifteen youth will be selected for that trip. Interviews will be held on January 12 and January 19. The deadline for both trips is January 1, 2008. For more information or an application, contact Pr. Kurt Garbe at (570)788-1893.
		Saturday School Saturday School continues on November 17 with presentations by Pastors Mike Bennethum (9 a.m.) and Autumn Hardenstine (1 p.m.). For more information or to register, click here.
		Wellness Center at Luther Crest Construction work on the new Wellness Center at Luther Crest, a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Allentown, continues. To be finished next year, the Wellness Center will include a heated, indoor pool and an enhanced cardio-fitness theater, as well as such features as a billiards room, library, and computer lab. To learn more about this addition to the senior living community, please see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ November Mission District Report at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Prayers for November. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through November 2007.

October 2007

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the October 2007 monthly mailing has information about the election of a new synod bishop at the 2008 Synod Assembly. Click here for the cover sheet
		Treasurer’s Workshop, Saturday, October 20, 2007, at Jordan Lutheran Church, Orefield, from 9:30 AM-12:30 PM. Audience: Treasurers, financial secretaries, pastors and finance committee members. For more information, click here.
		The Heart of Worship A Day for Pastors, Musicians, Worship Leaders and Planners. To be held October 20, 2007, at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Emmaus, this event features a keynote presentation by the Rev. Robert Rimbo, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, NYC, and a former synodical bishop. Click here for more information.
		One Love, One LYF is the theme of the annual LYF Assembly, to be held November 9-11, 2007, at Pinebrook Bible Conference and Retreat Center, Stroudsburg. Information, registration forms, and other materials are available online.
		Here’s a way to share blessings with those in other parts of the country and the world in the name of those who are near and dear. Read more from the synod hunger team...
		Saturday School Saturday School continues on October 13 with presentations by Pastors Sam Zeiser (9 a.m.) and Autumn Hardenstine (1 p.m.). For more information or to register, click here.
		“Home for the Holidays” Bazaar. Join staff and volunteers of The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community, on Friday, November 9, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Henry Auditorium as the village’s Community Life Department presents “Home for the Holidays.” The bazaar will feature many craft vendors, homemade soups and Bar-B-Q, and a bake sale. For more information, see Diakon’s Mission District Report at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Prayers for October. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through October 2007.

September 2007

		NOTE: The back page of the cover sheet for the September 2007 monthly mailing includes the Amendments to the Model Constitution for Congregations adopted by the 2007 Churchwide Assembly. Click here for the cover sheet or go to the ELCA page with the amendments.
		Come to the fourth annual Celebrate Social Ministry event, to be held October 14, 2007, at Muhlenberg College, beginning at 4:30 p.m. As part of the event, awards will be given to recognize outstanding social ministry efforts. Click here for more information and a registration form.
		The Heart of Worship A Day for Pastors, Musicians, Worship Leaders and Planners. To be held October 20, 2007, at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Emmaus, this event features a keynote presentation by the Rev. Robert Rimbo, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, NYC, and a former synodical bishop. Click here for more information and here for a registration form. Note registration deadline: October 5.
		One Love, One LYF is the theme of the annual LYF Assembly, to be held November 9-11, 2007, at Pinebrook Bible Conference and Retreat Center, Stroudsburg. Information, registration forms, and other materials are available online.
		Saturday School begins on September 8 with presentations by Pastors Walter Wagner (9 a.m.) and Otto Dreydoppel (1 p.m.). For more information or to register, click here.
		Check out the materials for the 2007 Lutheran Social Ministry Appeal. Click these links to read more about the appeal, download a bulletin insert, and check out sample bulletin or newsletter blurbs. All funds raised by the appeal will be used to support programs addressing the needs of children and their families.
		Mass Appeal: Let’s Talks About the Drama of Church. This “edutainment” workshop for rostered and lay leaders of the church, presented jointly by Diakon Family Life Services’ Genesis Institute and the Moravian Theological Seminary, gives opportunity to enjoy a theatrical performance of the play, Mass Appeal, and engage in small group and panel discussions, facilitated by Diakon’s Terry Lieb, to discuss the implications of this drama on the present and future of the church and its leadership. The workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 8, at the Bahnson Center, Moravian Theological Seminary, Bethlehem. For more information, see Diakon’sMission District Report at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Prayers for September and October. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through October 2007.

August 2007

		One Love, One LYF is the theme of the annual LYF Assembly, to be held November 9-11, 2007, at Pinebrook Bible Conference and Retreat Center, Stroudsburg. Information and a poster you can download and print is now available online. There is also a registration form for the event.
		Children face many challenges these days that put them at risk. This year’s *Focus on the Children: the 2007 Lutheran Social Ministry Appeal* theme repeats the successful theme from 2006, which generated support for a number of innovative ministries. Click these links to read more about the appeal, download a bulletin insert, and check out sample bulletin or newsletter blurbs. All funds raised by the appeal will be used to support programs addressing the needs of children and their families.
		The Heart of Worship A Day for Pastors, Musicians, Worship Leaders and Planners. To be held October 20, 2007, at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Emmaus, this event features a keynote presentation by the Rev. Robert Rimbo, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, NYC, and a former synodical bishop. Click here for more information and here for a registration form.
		A Tree Swallow Saga When two baby swallows fell from their nest, it appeared that they were doomed. But a stranger came to help. Read this article from the synod hunger team by clicking here.
		Luther Crest is now taking applications for Bridgegate, a planned complex of apartments designed to enhance an active senior lifestyle. In addition, Luther Crest is preparing to begin construction of its new Wellness Center. For more information on Luther Crest and Bridgegate, as well as other Diakon program activities, please see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ August 2007 edition of the Mission District Report, available at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Discount tickets are available for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Tickets can be purchased at the Wescosville synod office in person or by mail. No personal checks can be accepted. Congregational checks should be made payable to NEPS. For more information, click here or contact Debbie Frey at 610-395-6891 or debbie@nepsynod.org. Proceeds benefit the Northeastern PA Synod Youth Scholarship Fund.
		Prayers for August. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through August 2007.

July 2007

		Southgate at Luther Crest, a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Allentown, is sold out. And the community is now pleased to announce it is taking applications for Bridgegate, a new complex of apartments designed to enhance an active senior lifestyle. Bridgegate offers five unique apartment styles, all of which are conveniently connected to the hub of activities at Luther Crest’s community center. For more information on Luther Crest and Bridgegate, please see Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ July 2007 edition of the Mission District Report, available at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		A Rock and a Hard Place Let’s see…Wholesome food or money for rent? Wholesome food or money for medicine? Wholesome food or … Most of us do not have to face such stark choices. But most of the world does. Read this article from the synod hunger team by clicking here.
		The Heart of Worship A Day for Pastors, Musicians, Worship Leaders and Planners. To be held October 20, 2007, at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, Emmaus, this event features a keynote presentation by the Rev. Robert Rimbo, pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, NYC, and a former synodical bishop. Click here for more information.
		Discount tickets are available for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Tickets can be purchased at the Wescosville synod office in person or by mail. No personal checks can be accepted. Congregational checks should be made payable to NEPS. For more information, click here or contact Debbie Frey at 610-395-6891 or debbie@nepsynod.org. Proceeds benefit the Northeastern PA Synod Youth Scholarship Fund.
		Prayers for July. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through July 2007.

June 2007

		The Lutheran Home at Topton, a Diakon Senior Living Community, will again host its Summer Concert series in June, July, and August. June 24 will feature the fifties band, “Crusin’ Down Memory Lane.” July 29 brings a Caribbean theme with island and steel drum music by Island Bands. On Aug. 26, the series concludes with the band music of the Pioneer Band. Everyone is invited to attend the concerts, held from 3 to 4:30 p.m., on the Topton campus. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and concerts will be held rain or shine. You may call (610) 682-1420 for more information or visit www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Faith in Action or Faith Inaction? Most of us in the United States who confess to be Christians use the gifts that God has given us to live “the good life.” Yet all around us is poverty and hunger. Read this article from the synod hunger team by clicking here.
		A Leadership Training Camp for students in Grades 9-12 will be held at Kutztown University July 29-August 4. The camp is sponsored jointly by the Northeastern Pennsylvania and Southeastern Pennsylvania Synods. For more information, click here. For a registration form, click here.
		Discount tickets are available for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Tickets can be purchased at the Wescosville synod office in person or by mail. No personal checks can be accepted. Congregational checks should be made payable to NEPS. For more information, click here or contact Debbie Frey at 610-395-6891 or debbie@nepsynod.org. Proceeds benefit the Northeastern PA Synod Youth Scholarship Fund.
		Prayers for June. Each morning at 9:30 the staff of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod pauses briefly for prayer. Included in the prayers each day are specific rostered persons and congregations. Click here for the prayer list through July 2007.

May 2007

		Register online for LIFT and the 2007 Synod Assembly. Register now for the LIFT event on June 9 at Muhlenberg College and for the synod assembly on June 8 at First Presbyterian Church in Bethlehem. Don’t miss out on this weekend of Lutherans In Faith Together. Click here for more information or to register for LIFT. For more information about or to register for the 2007 synod assembly, click here.
		Render To… Pastor Laura Klick, a member of the synod’s Hunger Appeal team, reflects on tax day when we “give to the emperor the things that are the emperor's…” from our abundance, while hunger permeates our world. Read more reflections from the synod’s Hunger Appeal team by clicking here.
		A Leadership Training Camp for students in Grades 9-12 will be held at Kutztown University July 29-August 4. The camp is sponsored jointly by the Northeastern Pennsylvania and Southeastern Pennsylvania Synods. For more information, click here. For a registration form, click here.
		Southgate at Luther Crest: Only a few units remain in Southgate at Luther Crest. Work continues on readying for occupancy the rest of the new homes in this major expansion of the Allentown senior living community. “One of our Nottingham-style homes is now open as a model, so we invite people to see how appealing our new homes’ designs are,” says John Kotsatos of Luther Crest. The senior living community regularly holds seminars to acquaint people with the features of Southgate. Dates for upcoming seminars can be found in Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries’ May Mission District report at www.diakon.org/ChurchProfessionals/NEPA.asp.
		Discount tickets are available for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. Tickets can be purchased at the Wescosville synod office in person or by mail. No personal checks can be accepted. Congregational checks should be made payable to NEPS. For more information, click here or contact Debbie Frey at 610-395-6891 or

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