Dear congregation members, We continued our work of discernment with Laurin Vance’s visit. We were able to ponder and discuss the mission and the direction of RLC. Now is the time to take the pondering and discussion further. Alaska Synod The Alaska Synod of the ELCA is also in the process of discerning our core values as the synod prepares to elect a new bishop. As congregations, we are being asked to compile a list of up to seven values that we believe reflect the Alaska Synod. We are being asked to pray and reflect on for prayer three questions:
- What is God calling us to be as a Synod?
- What are the values and guiding principles of the Alaska Synod?
- What does the Alaska Synod look like when we are working at our very best?
Thanks to all members who attended the meetings, which can be viewed:
- Saturday, October 28 on Juneau Live!;
- Sunday, October 29 on Juneau Live!; and
- Thursday, November 2 on Juneau Live!.
We are finalizing RLC’s input to the Synod, which is due by Wednesday, November 8.
Even if you aren’t connected with a ministry group at RLC, your input is important. To assist with the process, I am suggesting that each group (or individual) take the time to watch an explanatory video. These three questions will be part of our own congregational discernment process; along with prioritizing items from the list we created during Laurin’s visit. Also, of note for each of you is ELCA Churchwide is looking for input as we are also in a discernment process across the ELCA. This is Future Church: God’s Love Made Real. I encourage you to watch this video and take the survey as the body discerns the future of OUR church. Together we can further our ministry and mission for RLC.
Karen Lawfer, Congregation President
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Download alaska_synod_core_values_exercise_2023.6
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