Global Vision Article Archive
"Come to the table" ... for global vision
Region 8 Global Mission and World Hunger Committees are sponsoring a Global Mission Event on May 23 and 24, 2008 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Camp Hill, Pa. The Rev. Dr. Rafael Malpica-Padilla, ELCA Global Mission Director, is the preacher for the opening service on Friday evening. Dr. John Nunes, President of Lutheran World Relief is the keynote speaker on Saturday morning.
SEKUCo completing successful first year
Provost Anneth Munga has recently provided a detailed update on the second semester progress at SEKUCo. All of the 138 students returned for their second semester in February and will finish in June. The students have covered specialization courses in visual, speech and intellectual impairment and early intervention and are in their core courses on Development Studies and Teaching and Learning now. While second semester classes end in June, there will be numerous “summer†programs.
Save the date: SEKUCo Sunday Oct. 5
Our Synod will celebrate SEKUCo Sunday on Oct. 5 to lift up the inspiring ministry of our Tanzanian companion synod's Sebastian Kolowa University College, which is now finishing its first year with 138 students in special needs education.
Make SEKUCo Sunday special
Sunday, Oct. 5 has been designated SEKUCo Sunday in our Synod. It's a time to celebrate the accomplishments of the first year of this college sponsored by our companion synod in Tanzania, and to learn about the program and develop support for a second phase that will add programs in Eco-Tourism and increase the school's capacity to 500 students. We have flyers and resources to help involve everyone in SEKUCo Sunday.
Support needed for second SEKUCo campus
Our second SEKUCo Sunday on Oct. 5 aims to raise $50,000 to support the development of a second campus for programs in law and eco-tourism and expand facilities at the Tanzanian college. Won't you help?
From our teacher in Tanzania
"There is so much to tell about my year-long experience teaching at SEKUCo," writes exchange teacher Amanda Grant. "I have come home to many familiar faces but I leave behind many that have touched my life just as I have touched theirs."
Help avert humanitarian disaster in Zimbabwe
The ELCA is sending $600,000 to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe to help sustain the ministries of four hospitals in the midst of economic, political and social decline that has taken a disastrous toll on the country's food supply and medical institutions. The ELCA is also sending more than $300,000 to help secure food production. Learn more about how to help the ELCA International Disaster Relief.
Fill the bowl of the hungry
Join Lutherans from around the globe as we seek to raise $500,000 to support successful food growing programs. These programs will nourish individuals and families, giving them the ability to weather the difficult food situation and improve their livelihoods, ensuring access to education and health care.
Worship with Tanzania January 25
Plan an uncommon day of common worship in partnership with our companion Synod in Tanzania on Epiphany 3, January 25, 2009. Click for more information and watch for worship resources soon.
Human Trafficking Awarness Day January 11
Sunday, January 11, 2009, is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, a day committed to raising awareness of this horrific and increasing crime. The ELCA Justice for Women program is encouraging congregations to join together in raising awareness and fostering action, and provides a bulletin insert and other resources for that day.
Lutheran bishops reflect on Holy Land visit
In their travels in the Holy Land, Bishop Burkat and other ELCA bishops felt the appreciation of the people, learned the details of limitations on human rights in the region, and "saw partnerships among Christians, Jews and Muslims that offered hope that our shared Abrahamic tradition can lead to a shared land and a shared Jerusalem."
Area Lutherans help fulfill a dream: Special education half a world away
Our partner Tanzanian church is opening a new university to train teachers. March 11 is set aside to raise awareness, funds for the project
Building Bridges to Mexico
After spending two weeks immersed in the culture and poverty of rural Mexico, three women from our synod are figuring out how to serve as bridges across this contentious border.
Bishop greeted in Tanzania
Bishop Claire Burkat and Joanne Carlson have arrived safely in Tanzania. Their first full day in Tanzania they drove to the headquarters of the ELCT-North Eastern Diocese in Lushoto, Tanzania. When they arrived they were greeted by the leaders of the Diocese, members of the community and a full band!
Bishop reflects on Holy Land visit
The Conference of Bishop's January visit to the Holy Land was an experience of awareness, advocacy and accompaniment with Lutherans in Jordan and the Holy Land. "We became aware of the pain and suffering, the longing and prayers for the peace that is so elusive, and the miraculous resilience and courage of the people we encountered," writes Bishop Claire Burkat. "We returned as committed advocates for peace, justice and mercy for all people affected by the hatred and terror of the seemingly never-ending hostility that has infected the Holy Land."
SEKUCo adds new students and programs
The Sebastian Kolowa University College (SEKUCo) in Tanzania is opening the second semester of its second year with two new programs and 438 students -- and challenges to provide books, instructors and Internet connections to its campus. You and/or your congregation can play a role in helping this new university overcome its growing pains. Read on to download the latest SEKUCo newsletter.
SEKUCo Sunday Oct. 4
Did you know that SEKUCo, the college of our companion synod in Tanzania, has expanded its curriculum to include law, business and eco-tourism, and expects 600 students come fall? Plan to participate in SEKUCo Sunday on Oct. 4 to help your congregation learn more about this vital ministry and support the college’s expansion.
From an idea to a year completed!
In three short years, SEKUCo has progressed from an idea to a completed year of classes for 137 students. Rev. Dr. Anneth Munga has been an incredible driving force throughout, while SEPA provided other support. The College concept was first discussed with a SEPA delegation to the North Eastern Diocese in Tanzania in August, 2005.
SEKUCo Sunday Oct. 5, 2008
Our Synod has approved a Synod-wide “SEKUCo Sunday” on October 5th, 2008 so that we may learn more about this College and help support the expansion effort.
Recital benefits SEKUCo expansion
The Rev. Richard Mathisen will perform a recital entitled "Concert with Commentary" featuring works by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt and more on Sunday, July 26, 2009, 7 p.m., at Paul's Run Retirement Community.
SEKUCo starts third year
Our Tanzanian companion synod's Sebastian Kolowa University College (SEKUCo) starts its third year in October with new programs in nature conservation and eco-tourism and a total enrollment of more than 800 students. Click on to download the Fall 2009 SEKUCo newsletter.
Celebrate SEKUCo Sunday Oct. 4
Sunday, October 4 is the Synod-wide "SEKUCo Sunday" to encourage congregations to learn about and support the mission of the growing college sponsored by our companion synod in Tanzania. Click here for resources including a speakers list and worship helps for planning a special, global celebration.
Tanzanian visitors experience SEPA ministries
A group of eight visitors from our companion North Eastern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania have been experiencing host congregations, social ministry agencies and synodical ministries since Nov. 11.
Celebrate Companion Synod Sunday Jan. 31
Lutherans in SEPA and in our companion North Eastern Diocese of Tanzania will share prayers, songs and the Word together by using common resources to mark Companion Synod Sunday on Jan. 31, 2010 (Epiphany 4). Read on to learn more about the partnership and download resources.
Prayers for Haiti disaster
News reports from Haiti tell of severe destruction and loss of life. The capital of Port au Prince is reported to be devastated, and a Hatian official told the UN that at least 100,000 are dead. Remember the people of Haiti in your congregation's prayers this Sunday. Click for a resource prayer and more information.
LWR takes text donations for Haiti; Thrivent matches
You can text LWR to 40579 to donate $10 to the organization's Haiti relief efforts. And if you are a Thrivent Financial for Lutherans member, the company will match your donations with $1 for every $2 donated. ELCA Disaster Response is taking donations at http://www.elca.org/haitiearthquake.
Use this litany for Companion Synod Sunday
A litany for Companion Synod Sunday, Jan. 31, written by Mark Sofio of St. Paul, Exton, is available for download on the Synod website.
Bishop joins global Ecumenical Journey
Bishop Claire Burkat will be part of an official Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) delegation of clergy and lay leaders visiting world Christian church leaders and key staff based in London, Istanbul, Rome and Geneva Feb. 3-17. The delegation of 12 official ELCA representatives, headed by ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson, plans to meet in London with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan D. Williams, leader of the Anglican Communion; in Istanbul, Turkey, with the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, world Orthodox leader; and in Rome, with Pope Benedict XVI, leader of the world's Roman Catholics.
Assembly offering to benefit SEKUCo, mission fund
The offering at the Service of Holy Communion opening the 2010 Synod Assembly will be shared between Sebastian Kolowa University College (SEKUCo) in Tanzania and the Synod Mission Fund. If you wish to write a check for the offering please make it payable to "Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod."
Check out Glocal Mission Gatherings
2010 brings with it a full slate of Glocal Mission Gatherings. These exciting events bring experience and resources in global and domestic ministry together in convenient locations accross the country, so leadership teams can build the skills needed to be a part of God's mission, no matter where service happens. Launched in April in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, six more Glocal Mission Gatherings are planned through November. The events cost just $35 per person for 1-1/2 days of programming.
Help LWR fill the well
Water affects every aspect of life. Without clean, reliable sources of water, farmers can't grow crops to sell and feed their families. Women and children must often travel several miles each day to collect water, taking precious time from work and school. With your help, Lutheran World Relief (http://www.lwr.org) can continue to make sure families have the life-sustaining water they need now and well into the future. Fill the Well today. Click on the image to watch LWR's new water video.
Pakistan floods: The Critical Hour
The recent flooding in Pakistan, alone, is a devastating disaster. But piled atop the hardship of the past five years, the situation for many families in Pakistan is nothing short of dire. Click the image to read how Lutheran World Relief is responding to bring comfort to those affected.
One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, One People
"The opportunity to bring the Word of God and to baptize in the name of the Triune God in a place far away, to a people foreign to my culture, in a language not my own, was one of the highlights of my call as a pastor and a bishop," Bishop Burkat writes about her recent safari to visit our compaion synod in Tanzania. "This was truly a time when distance narrowed, offering a glimpse into God’s amazing grace!" Click to read the Bishop's message and a diary of the journey.
Tanzania Safari 2010
As I reflect on my journey (safari) in the day-to-day account that follows, I hope you will sense the great privilege it is to be joined by Christ to this diocese, and that you will see in the lives and witness of the people, the great love of God in Christ that continues to be lavished on the world.
Video visit our newest companion congregation
Our newest congregational companion, Mikanjuni Lutheran Parish, is now connected to St Luke, Devon. From the bishop's travel diary: A band greeted us as we first were asked to sign the guest book and then were escorted into the very large sanctuary. Mikanjuni had for about 11 years been a sub-parish of Kana Lutheran Parish, companion to St. John Lutheran Church, Philadelphia (Mayfair). (Read more)
SEKUCo to Graduate First Class
On Dec. 4, our companion Tanzanian diocese's Sebastian Kolowa University College (SEKUCo) will graduate its first class of 135 students. Thanks to generous support from individuals and congregations in the Southeastern PA Synod, the university has expanded, with more than 1,300 students enrolled this fall.
November 2010 ELCA Global Links
Lutherans are responding to natural disasters in Indonesia and Nicaragua, detailed in the latest Global Links from the ELCA. Attention preachers -- a sermon contest on food and faith may win you a trip to Geneva. Check out missionary stories, AIDS Day and Advent/Christmas resources, and more...
Global Links for December 2010
Updates on Lutheran work in Haiti and Indonesia, World AIDS Day, missionary sponsorship and much more from the ELCA Global Vision staff.
Companion Synods: Blessed to be Church Together
Through teaching, learning, praying and worshipping, the people of our synod have been blessed to journey together as companions with the North Eastern Diocese in Tanzania and with the Silesian Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in the Czech Republic. Joanne Carlson, Assistant to the Bishop for Global Vision and Events, writes in an update on SEPA's global companionships. The Tanzania partnership continues to grow and deepen. Unfortunately, the Silesian church, the only one of the ELCA's 135 companionships to do so, terminated the relationship in response to the 2009 Churchwide Assembly actions on sexuality.
City Couple to Serve in Tanzania
It is with great joy that we announce that Tom and Susan MacPherson, members of St. John's, Philadelphia, have been confirmed for placement as volunteeer mission personnel with our companion, the North Eastern Diocese of Tanzania. The MacPhersons will serve at the Irente Childrens Home, located in the village adjacent to Lushoto where the diocesan office is located. Please pray for Tom and Susan as they prepare for their assignment and for those who are preparing to receive them.
LWR: Budget Cuts Target Global Aid
The $60 billion in spending cuts for the current fiscal year passed by the House last week impact global relief and development, and "human lives hang in the balance," according to Lutheran World Relief. “It is incredible to imagine that in response to the next humanitarian crisis, the next Haiti or Darfur, that our country might simply fail to show up,” says LWR Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, Annalise Romoser. “But that is precisely what could happen if this bill (H.R. 1) becomes law.”
A Journey of Service in Tanzania
Missionary Tom MacPherson, about to serve as volunteers at Irente Children’s Home in Tanzania, writes about the experience on our MinistryLink.org website: “Almost 3 years ago, a group from St. John Lutheran Church, Philadelphia, traveled to Tanzania. Susan and I were blessed to be part of that group. As we prepared to go, our church family financially supported us through fundraising, encouraged us, and most of all prayed for us. We never thought it would have such a major impact on our lives.”
Connect VBS to Tanzania
Connect your congregation's Vacation Bible School to our companions in Tanzania. Please consider dedicating an offering to help cover the expenses of Susan and Tom McPherson, who will be moving to Tanzania for two years to serve as missionaries. And read more to find out Tanzania-related ideas for your program.
Beef & Root Beer Benefit Fundraiser for the MacPhersons
You can help support Tom and Sue MacPherson, missionaries to Tanzania, by attending a Beef and Root Beer fundraiser at Gloria Dei, Huntingdon Valley, on Friday, Sept. 9 at 7 pm. Or click the headline to use our new online donation system.
ELCA Responds to Horn of Africa Drought
The situation in the Horn of Africa is continuing to worsen with now over 12.4 million people in Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti being affected. Crops are wilting, livestock are dying and people are suffering as water becomes scare and food prices skyrocket. Many have decided to leave their homes in search of water and food. The ELCA has been there from the beginning. To date the ELCA has committed $1.25 million to provide water, food, shelter and training. As the situation continues to develop we will continue to be present, working through and with companions, continuing Gods work with our hands.
Missionaries Blessed To Serve
“I’m sure if someone had told you even 5 years ago that you would be gladly giving away and selling your worldly possessions to serve Christ, by giving yourselves to care for infants and preschoolers and to mentor teenagers learning to be childcare workers at the Irente Children’s Home… you would have laughed -- or cried,” Bishop Burkat told Tanzania missionaries Tom and Susan MacPherson at a sending service Oct. 23. “But Our Lord, who is rich in mercy and imagination…has chosen you for this very special safari,”
SEKUCo Nears 1,600 Students
Sebastian Kolowa University College (SEKUCo) in our companion synod in Tanzania began its fifth year of operation in October with 1,584 students enrolled. What began with 138 first-year students has grown more than 1000 percent. The first group of students who graduated last December have for the most part found productive jobs as teachers, administrators, and other professionals working to improve the lives of students with special needs. Download the latest SEKUCo newsletter after the jump.
TZ Fund Request is a Scam
ELCA Global Mission staff report that a letter received in several synods from a pastor in Dar Es Salaam is a scam. The appeal from Pastor William Maheka Pamui, Senior Pastor of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Dar es Salaam, asks for financial contributions to be made to a bank account in New York to help provide 10 wells for clean drinking water. ELCA staff report that a regional representative in Tanzania confirms that the request is not genuine.
Follow Our Missionaries Via Blog
You can now follow the adventures of Susan and Tom MacPherson, who are embarking on two years of service as missionaries in Tanzania, via their new blog called Partners in Mission. Recent posts cover their adjustment to their new home and their challenges studying Kiswahili, their new primary language.
Furaha ya Krismasi!
"We would like to send our warmest wishes for a Joyous Christmas and Happy New Year to all of the congregations of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod and to the Bishop and staff," missionaries Tom and Susan MacPherson write in their Christmas message from Tanzania. "Our Christmas tree (pictured) is made of pine cones, tissue paper and construction paper."
Easter in Arusha
"The Easter Sunday service was filled with great joy. We sang some favorite Easter hymns and we were asked to assist with the distribution of Communion...The church was packed. With a few dozen people still in the aisle, the bread almost ran out...The pre-poured wine and juice also ran out, and they were served common cup. It was a joyous occasion." Since early November, Tom and Susan MacPherson have lived in Tanzania, representing our synod as they work at the Irente Children’s Home, a mission of the North Eastern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania. In addition to their work caring for the children, Susan teaches English, bookkeeping, and computer skills to many of the workers at the orphanage and Tom works as a handyman. More importantly, they both share God’s love with all the people they meet and find God’s love in those same people. Join in their journey by reading their "Partners in Mission" blog at http://macphersonmission.blogspot.com. Read more to learn how to send encouragement to the MacPhersons and how to support their work.
