As followers of Christ, we at Emmanuel Lutheran believe we are called to live in unity with all of creation. Therefore, we are committed to serving God and sharing Christ’s love with all people…
This past week, I spent about 36 hours at Camp Agapé. For those who don’t know, Camp Agapé is one of our outdoor ministry sites here in the NC Synod, and it holds a particular place in my heart. I spent multiple summers there serving as a camp counselor. It shaped my faith so deeply that when the time came, it’s where I chose to be ordained. These days I serve on the camp’s Board of Directors, and since July…
For the remaining four Sundays of August, our worship is going to sound a little different — and I couldn’t be more excited. We’re welcoming Tom Eure and Amelia Osborne as our guest worship music leaders for the rest of August. Together, under the name Inspired Arts & Sound, Tom and Amelia offer “faith-based music and art programming designed to inspire and connect community.” This month, they’ll be bringing those gifts to Emmanuel, leading us in a fresh way of…
I once served alongside a pastor who said the same thing at every baptism, every funeral, and every reception of new members. She would look out at the gathered people and say, simply: “We are now a new congregation.” I’ve never forgotten it. Because she was right. Whether someone has just arrived or someone has just departed, we are changed. It cannot be otherwise. Each person brings their whole self — their gifts, their stories, their laughter, their heart. And…
Last week, I spent several days in Indianapolis with nearly 700 other rostered ministers from across the ELCA. The theme of our gathering was “Woven Together” — and it turned out to be more than just a title. Throughout the week, a fabric artist sat and worked in our midst, actively weaving together pieces of cloth gathered from all across our church. Little by little, strand by strand, something was taking shape. And at the very end of our time…
