Dec 29, 2020 | Connections
By Chris Markert, Bishop’s Associate for Mission On August 27, the area of Lake Charles, Louisiana was devastated by Hurricane Laura. Thousands evacuated out of the way, including the family of Ms. Shonda, who headed to Dallas. After a couple of weeks in Dallas, she...
Dec 29, 2020 | Connections
By Bishop Michael Rinehart Imagine writing a novel about historical events involving one of your ancestors. Now imagine that 1620 Mayflower passengers William and Mary Brewster were your ancestors. What if some of your grandchildren are Native American? I would...
Dec 29, 2020 | Connections
By Bishop Mike Rinehart For many of us, the Christmas decorations from this unique pandemic Christmas have not yet been packed away for another year. So how does it feel to think about Lent? Too soon? Ash Wednesday is February 17, 2021, not the earliest Ash Wednesday...
Dec 29, 2020 | Connections
By Tracey Breashears Schultz, Bishop’s Associate for Leadership Up until December 2020, the chair of the synod’s Candidacy Committee was Pastor Kathy Haueisen, who served faithfully for five years. This month, Deacon Beth Hartfiel begins as the new chair. This change...
Dec 29, 2020 | Connections
By Chris Markert, Bishop’s Associate for Mission In 2019, the Synod Council generously approved a three-month sabbatical for me in 2020. Due to the pandemic, I will begin my sabbatical in January 2021. Originally, the plan for my sabbatical included traveling to...
