Weekly Blog Posts
The following blog posts are written by Bishop Jen Nagel, Synod staff members, and leaders from the Minneapolis Area Synod.
How invested are you?
By Bishop Ann Svennungsen In times like these, the social teachings of the ELCA are a significant gift as we in the church discern how to act in fresh, faithful, and wise ways in response [...]
The Body of Christ in Three Expressions
Recently I participated in the installations of two new pastors who were called to serve churches set in very different contexts. One was a thriving congregation in an affluent suburb, the other was a new [...]
The “Best of 2016” at __________ Lutheran Church
By Rev. Craig Pederson, Assistant to the Bishop During this time of year, we see an endless stream of “Best of” and “Top Ten” lists that review practically every aspect of our lives – the [...]
The Hosts of Heaven Present With Us
By Bishop Ann Svennungsen We’re not always good at waiting. Stopped at a red light or standing behind several others in the checkout line, we become antsy, impatient. So, when Advent calls us into the [...]
Mystery, Passion, and Piano Lessons
By Rev. John Hulden, Assistant to the Bishop I took piano lessons from my dear, dear Mother. Besides being the church organist/soloist/choir director in many of my dad’s parishes, my Mom also had many piano [...]
For What Do We Give Thanks?
As I opened the over-sized cardboard box, I first noticed an ancient-looking coloring book page with pastel markings of a bunny and an egg. But the next level of excavation in this container my aunt [...]
Being the Church after a Presidential Election
By Bishop Ann Svennungsen What happens after an election -- especially one as divisive as this? What is the role of the church? The synod? The congregation? As in all elections, there are winners and [...]
Drink and Swear
By Bob Hulteen, Director of Communications and Stewardship Since I am now an ardent advocate of nonviolence, many readers who know me might be surprised to find out that I was often in fist fights [...]
Overwhelmed by Prayerfulness
By Bishop Ann Svennungsen Last week I was privileged to travel to the encampment at Standing Rock Reservation with Pastor Marlene Whiterabbit Helgemo, an ELCA pastor serving All Nations Church in Minneapolis. People from around [...]