November 2012 - Page 1 The Southeastern Weaver

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

Bible Study Options/Gathered by God .... Page 11 2012-13 Board Goals ................................. Page 9 Convention Highlights ............................... Page 5 Convention Picture Gallery ....................... Page 8 Grants/Scholarship Aps Due ................... Page 12 LWR Convention Report ......................... Page 10 New Board Member Bios .......................... Page 4 President’s Message .................................. Page 2 Spotlight is on You .................................... Page 3 Thank You ................................................. Page 7

November 2012 - Vol. 4

Weaver The Southeastern

Newsletter of The Southeastern Synod Women of the ELCA

one, you can suggest ways in which women in your congregation can celebrate the day individually. You’ll find some ideas in the “Ways to Celebrate on Your Own” section of the resource.

You could even expand your observance in to a whole month of activities using several of our program resources that speak to being bold. Advanced planning, effective publicity and attention to hospitality will ensure a great observance of Bold Women’s Day 2013 in your congregation.

(Reprinted from October Interchange)

Plan now to celebrate Bold Women’s Day

Honor and celebrate the bold women in your congregation and community on Bold Women’s Day, observed in 2013 on Sunday, February 24. Be bold, take risks on account of the gospel, but believe more boldly still in Jesus, said Martin Luther. And that’s what we celebrate through Bold Women’s Day: women who are bold, women who take risks on account of the gospel. Begin your planning now for Bold Women’s Day with planning resources found at womenoftheelca.org. Pull together a small planning team, including women of different generations, providing each with a copy of our resource, Celebrating Bold Women’s Day. Several ideas are found in the resource for observances you can carry out in community. Feel free to mix and match, designing an event that is just right for the women who are gathering. Instead of a group observance, or in addition to

Visit our website at www.seswelca.com

for all the latest information.

The Southeastern Weaver Page 2 - November 2012

REJOICE! We have heard this word a million times recently, yet it is so powerful. REJOICE IN THE LORD, ALWAYS. First, thanks to EVERYONE who did even a small part in the convention planning and execution. What a success. Attendees at 198, good reviews, plenty of food and fellowship, good weather, fantastic. Thank you Muriel Williams and every woman on her committee, each whom Muriel names in a separate article. They were a great team, each doing their job and within budget. What a success! I also wish to thank Debbie Lundell for her wonderful contribution of the 25th anniversary celebration at the banquet. We hope to see the video shown here & there. And congratulations to all the women present who attended the 1987 constituting convention, “Called to be One.” You are our rock. We appreciate Pastor Patti Axel who led us through a wonderful bible study, and Pastor Beverly Brown Shaw, our chaplain and worship leader. The Compline Service was so peaceful. And the beautiful dancers Sunday morning were wonderful, thanks to Harolyn Light and her group of girls and women. Bishop Julian Gordy shared his musical talents, and well, may we never hear that interesting song again! Regardless, Bishop Gordy was a hit with his encouragement, his compassion and humor. There’s so much more to our organization than convention. Justice, discipleship, and stewardship are our callings. Together we support many ministries: Lutheran World Relief (Janice Hawkins), Wellspring Living (Jennie Mae Hill), Prison Ministry, Today’s Dream : Tomorrow’s Reality and many more which are a core purpose of our organization. Thank you for electing the current board members. We have already had a lively post-convention board meeting. Our objectives include introducing new ways of accomplishing goals and leading the synodical organization. We will do our best to serve you and to serve our Lord. Yours in Christ, Jean

TRIENNIAL 2014 by Louise Hamilton

I would like to introduce the Triennial Gathering Team:

GA - Louise Hamilton Margery Keller Carol Hundeby TN - Linda Timmer AL - Pat Barber MS - Nancy Edwards

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

by Jean Minkin

The queen from Queen City - Charlotte, NC

urges everyone at convention to save the dates for Triennial 2014

November 2012 - Page 3 The Southeastern Weaver

THE SPOTLIGHT IS ON YOU!

by Agnes Nelson

This issue of the Weaver reintroduces a feature spotlighting what the Women of the ELCA are doing in their congregations. This reporter contacted seven different women’s units and found out that great things are happening. This issue of the Weaver will highlight three of those congregations, and the other churches will be included in our next editions of the Weaver. The size of a congregation usually determines how many projects the women can successfully complete. Christ Lutheran in Cullman, AL, has a small loyal group of six who use the material in GATHER as their Bible study. Five of their members attended the synod convention. Their ladies prepared 70 personal care kits, 13 hygiene kits for LSG, and took pop tabs, Campbell soup labels and pill bottles to convention. At the time of this interview, they were busily preparing for an Octoberfest. The congregation is excited to see their church being rebuilt after the destruction of a tornado in April 2011. We rejoice with Christ Lutheran as their new building is completed. Grace Lutheran in Long Beach, MS, has a prayer shawl ministry. The ladies meet once a month to knit and crochet shawls that are given to nursing home residents, friends of the congregation, and to women participating in Kairos Outside. Kairos Outside is an outreach ministry to women who have incarcerated loved ones. Lap robes are also made for people who are undergoing dialysis. The women at Grace are also involved in a congregation-wide program of door-to-door ministry to reach the unchurched in their area. In addition, care packages are sent to church members in college and the military. The ladies participate in a program called “Martha, Martha”, which is a once a month community food pantry. A final program to highlight is the “Back Pack Buddies” program. During the school year, the WELCA unit prepares 60 lunches per week for elementary students on the free lunch program. Way to go ladies! What great work you are doing! Another busy congregation is Holy Trinity in

Marietta, GA. With 75+ members in four circles, you can do a host of activities. Bible study and quilting are popular. The ladies cook and serve a soup supper for Ash Wednesday and help set up for the other Wednesday night meals during Lent. They have made and sold corsages to support the malaria campaign. A Family Game Night is sponsored once each summer. October finds the WELCA ladies involved in the congregation’s Octoberfest. A retreat is held every November when the plans for the coming year are developed, and December is a particularly fun month with a Cookie & Candy Sale to raise scholarships funds for continuing education of congregational members. Also, a Christ Child Shower is held with gifts collected and given to a children’s charity. These are special activities that keep the ladies at Holy Trinity very busy. Maybe the spotlight will be on your church next time. Check out the next issue.

LA CROSSE SYNOD AND SWO by Jean Minkin

The La Crosse Synod, comprised of ten counties in Southwestern Wisconsin and Southeastern Minnesota, is our U.S. companion synod for both the Southeastern Synod and Women of the ELCA Southeastern Synod. At the 2012 Synod Assembly, many of us met Bishop James Arends who leads 38,100 members in 74 churches. The Synod encompasses both sides of the Mississippi River in a hilly, wooded area. The La Crosse synod assembly will be held this year at Wartburg Seminary in Iowa actually outside the area of the synod. Yet imagine this—this location is still not more than two hours from any place in the synod! The president for our companion synod is Leanne Lutz of Mauston, Wisconsin. Her letter to the synod women is in our Bulletin of Reports for Convention.

SAVE THIS DATE FOR FELLOWSHIP, SERVICE & FUN AT THE

26TH ANNUAL CONVENTION!

September 20 - 22, 2013 Plan an extra day or two for touring

Natchez, Mississippi

The Southeastern Weaver Page 4 - November 2012

Harolyn C. Light 3212 Clearview Drive, SW Marietta, GA 30060 haro-lyn@hotmail.com 678-305-9048 (h) 404-457-7798 (c)

I was born two years after the landmark decision in the case of Brown v. Board of Education, 347 U.S. 483 (1954) by the Supreme Court that declared that state laws that established separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional, in Atlanta, GA and baptized on October 29, 1960 at the Lutheran Church of the Atonement. I was excited to attend the experimental and integrated Metro High School, a school without walls in St. Louis, MO. Mount Calvary Lutheran Church and Resurrection Lutheran Church in St. Louis were a central part of my upbringing, from singing in the choir to acting in plays and skits. I graduated from Howard University School of Law in Washington, DC, served a 6-year term on the Board of the Division for Global Mission and brought our congregation youth to a Global Mission event. A three-year training with the Lutheran World Federation headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, focused on issues concerning women. Fifty women from around the world gathered and were trained to be leaders. I attended the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, China. I also worked as a legislative analyst in the House Research Department in Jefferson City, Missouri and shared reports with Governor Mel Carnahan and other state officials. I hope to continue to live out the theme of the Fourth World Conference on Women to “think globally and act locally. I am humbly grateful to serve on the synodical board of the Women of the ELCA. I will follow in the footsteps of my greatest role model – my mother, Charlotte Light. During closing worship at Callaway Gardens, our dance ministry group Exuberant Praise shared the liturgical dance Rejoice! Using God’s gifts, I will continue to share Christ with women of all ages as I work with the members of the synodical board.

Pam Smith 7721 Lynnie Way

Hixon, TN 37343 pamsmith0625@gmail.com

423-870-1236

My name is Pam Smith, new member for the Women of the ELCA Southeastern Synod board. I’m originally from Shelbyville, Tennessee. I graduated from Tennessee Tech University where I received my degree and met my husband of almost 35 years, Marty. We have two children, Angela (25) and Amanda (24). I work at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hixson, Tennessee as the Administrative Assistant. I have actively participated with the Women of the ELCA for many years, but only began attending conventions three years ago. One of my goals for our women is to tap into that enthusiasm that flows in the convention atmosphere and share it with the women of my church. I’d like to see our units grow individually yet also realize that church-wide connection. I hope to be an effective board member and ask for your prayers as well as new ideas to share with the board.

SPECIAL THANKS TO SPECIAL PEOPLE

by Jean Minkin

Being elected to the Board by our peers is an honor and a responsibility that every woman considers deeply prior to allowing her name to be placed in nomination. These women stepped forward, and served faithfully. We wish to thank Pat Barber, Robyn Eltorro, Kelly Jannett, and Katherine Tillman for their service and the wonderful job each did for our organization. We wish each of you the best possible future.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS

OUR MISSION STATEMENT: To mobilize women to act boldly on their faith

in Jesus Christ.

UPCOMING BOARD MEETINGS

March 1-3, 2013 Atlanta, GA

June 7-9, 2013 Daphne, AL

November 2012 - Page 5 The Southeastern Weaver

2012 Convention Highlights by Debbie Wilhite

What a fabulous convention we had at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, GA to celebrate 25 years of the Women of the ELCA with almost 200 in attendance. This remarkable weekend offered fellowship with so many incredible women, inspiration through word and music, and encouragement to continue making a difference in the lives of others. We were enlightened with many informative workshops and exhibits showing us ways to improve our world with faith-based actions and words. Reverend Beverly Brown-Shaw opened the convention with prayer on Friday and Jean Minkin, President, did a marvelous job of keeping the agenda running smoothly. Vickie Murph, Churchwide Rep, gave details about programs to combat sexual exploitation and human trafficking, to provide racial justice advocacy, and to carry out the crucial malaria campaign. Check out www.womenoftheelca.org for more including the on-line magazines for women at www.boldcafe.org. Vicki also explained the current financial situation of Women of the ELCA, specifically that giving is down substantially. We can turn this around with Thankofferings, planned giving, and even by purchasing a $15 per year subscription at www.gathermagazine.org to Gather magazine, a good resource for a variety of devotions and heart-felt stories, . Callaway treated us to a simply scrumptious dinner on Friday evening, after which we gathered into our respective clusters for planning time of upcoming cluster events. The final event of the evening began as the lights went off. Chaotic fun ensued as everyone searched out others with the same color fluorescent bracelets, grouping by like colors in the dark. Once in groups, we had opportunity to make new friends during the game that followed. Pastor Patti Axel led the Saturday morning Bible study for the theme, “Rejoice in the Lord Always”. Bishop Julian Gordy shared the good news that the number of women pastors is increasing. He also focused on the importance of supporting the Malaria Campaign and shared the major concern that churches are giving 25% less to the Synod, which means there is less financial aid for seminary students, campus ministries, and mission work. He encouraged us to keep in mind that visitors to our churches need to feel the palpable presence of God through a sincere warm welcome from us. We are “stewards of the mysteries of God”. Keynote Speaker, Kelly Ingram, Christian Radio and Television personality, awed us with her beautiful and

powerful singing voice. She shared her personal story sprinkled with humor, of how her experiences raising an autistic child eventually brought her closer to God. In-Kind gifts gathered will benefit Wellspring Living, a recovery program that helps exploited young girls. The Love Offering, totaling over $5,000 will benefit Luther Ranch. Janice Hawkins received an overwhelming number of quilt and kit donations at the LWR truck. Dana Lee Smith’s fun “stretch and sing” breaks kept everyone motivated. During free time on Saturday afternoon, there was opportunity for water aerobics with Carol Hundeby or a walk in the tranquil gardens of Callaway. Saturday evening, the ladies dressed for dinner in their finest purple and silver, celebrated 25 years with a beautiful service of lighted candles and slide show planned by Debbie Lundell, as well as cake and line dancing with a DJ arranged by Robyn Eltorro. At the final business on Sunday, election results were announced: Jean Minkin - President, Dian Luffman - Treasurer, Harolyn Light and Pam Smith - new board members, and Agnes Nelson reelected. Finally, watch the Weaver for details of our 2013 convention in Natchez, MS.

LOVE OFFERING 2012-2013: The Vision by Jean Minkin

How about that view from the Holy Trinity House! $8,592.27 has been donated toward our $10,000 goal for 2012-2013. The Love Offering campaign will be complete on January 31, 2013. The funds will be part of the building campaign at Lutheranch for the Retreat Center and more. Our prayers have been answered as many women dig deep and use Patti Austin’s suggestion of “one dollar per week” to save and support STANDING ON THE PROMISE.

InGathering: WellSpring Supplies Received by Jennie Mae Hill

What a wonderful outpouring from the hearts of the Women of the ELCA Southeastern Synod!

210 rolls of toilet paper 160 rolls of paper towels 2 box of Kleenex 2 bottles furniture polish 2 bottles of bleach 2 bottle of clothes detergent 16 bottles all purpose cleaners 30 bottles of disinfectant wipes 10 cans of dry cleanser (comet)

In addition, $490 in gift cards/checks was also received!

The Southeastern Weaver Page 6 - November 2012

ELCA Malaria Campaign by Carlyn Nankervis

In 2007 I joined a mission trip to Zambia and Tanzania in East Africa. The purpose of the trip was to visit elementary and high schools to encourage scholarship recipient teachers and students working in rural areas located 50 miles from electricity and running water. Since the malaria rate in Zambia is 115% (The reason it is over 100% is that 15% of the people get malaria more than once a year/children sometimes 3-5 times a year). SIDE NOTE: After my return, National Geographic reported the horrific effect of malaria in Africa. Had my husband known, he might have stopped my plans to go, but he was not aware that our African interpreter actually got malaria while traveling with us. When I expressed my concern about the danger, I was joyfully told, “Oh no, Carlyn, only if she bites you!” People traveling with an American organization are provided with the necessary medication. For some time, the ELCA has supported clinics and programs in Africa to provide health care. Now there is an intense focus on malaria. Malaria kills 655,000 people in Africa each year, most being children under five. That’s a child every sixty seconds. The ELCA, through its Malaria Campaign, has joined hands with eleven Lutheran church bodies in Africa and has become part of a historic global movement that says “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!” No child, no person should die of a disease that is preventable and treatable. The ELCA Malaria Campaign is challenging us to raise $15 million in order to prevent, treat and educate communities in Africa about malaria, to eliminate deaths from this disease! Eight of ten of the 800,000 people of the world who die from malaria each year live in Africa. In countries with high rates of malaria, the disease accounts for up to 60% of health clinic visits and 50% of hospital stays. Ackson Chisaka, a Lutheran pastor in Kashima, Zambia is witnessing first-hand how education about malaria prevention and treatment is making a life-saving impact. Enoch Shidola, a clinical officer at a health center in the same town where Chisaka serves, has reported that a conservative estimate shows malaria cases in Kashima reduced to half. Chisaka and Shidola attribute this turn-around to the anti-malaria campaigns of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia and the Lutheran Evangelical Church in Africa (Zambia Diocese). In partnership with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America—particularly

through its Malaria Campaign--these churches and others across Africa are contributing jointly to the prevention, treatment and control of malaria, as well as studying the effects of poverty on alleviation of the disease. We, as Women of the ELCA, can help with this campaign to improve the health of women and children in Africa by adopting this as a project of our local unit or encouraging our congregations and youth groups to participate in this valuable program. For example, the confirmation classes in my church had a “Nothing but Nets” campaign which used basketball nets, shooting hoops and snacks to raise money for mosquito nets. Our youth raised almost $500.00 for mosquito nets and our Ministry of the Month raised a total of $1,200. Way to go, Christ our Shepherd! " T h e s t a t i s t i c s a r e compelling, even more so when we realize that each awareness session, each rapid diagnostic kit, each dose of malaria medication represents entire lives that have been changed and enriched by the work of the ELCA Malaria Campaign," said Jessica Nipp-Hacker, national coordinator of the ELCA Malaria Campaign. "Gifts to the ELCA Malaria Campaign have empowered our Lutheran sisters and brothers in Africa to provide necessary training and resources to their communities and to accomplish their malaria-control goals for 2012. The continuing support of ELCA members will mean additional life-changing programs in years to come." Information about the ELCA Malaria Campaign is available at www.ELCA.org/malaria. I believe this campaign will make a difference in the healthy lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ in Africa.

2013 CONVENTION TRANSPORTATION SURVEY

We are considering two chartered buses to Natchez, one from Knoxville with pickup in Nashville, Huntsville & Birmingham, AL and one from the Atlanta area. If interested, contact your coordinator with your preferences as listed below:

1. Leaving Wed., Sept. 18 or Thurs., Sept. 19

2. $90-$125/bus only estimate+lunch-what would you pay? 3. Where you join - TN, AL or Atlanta?

Arrive Natchez Wed/Thurs eve, 3-4 nights at The Grand Hotel on the Mississippi River approx $129 per room per night. Leave Sunday and arrive home Sunday evening.

Contacts: Joni Donegan-TN/AL-joni.donegan@comcast.net Carol Hundeby-GA-canddtravel@bellsouth.net

November 2012 - Page 7 The Southeastern Weaver

Just in time for holiday gift-giving (Reprint from November 2012 Interchange)

A limited edition Christmas ornament celebrating the 25th anniversary of Women of the ELCA will be available for purchase later this month at womenoftheelca.org. The ornament costs $12, with $6 of that cost going to the 25th Anniversary Appeal of Women of the ELCA (shipping and handling is additional). The 25th Anniversary Appeal supports the churchwide ministries of Women of the ELCA and the life-saving work of the ELCA Malaria Campaign.

The ornament features the much loved water, cross and lily from the Women of the ELCA logo. This logo identifies women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as children of God; baptized, forgiven, adopted into God’s family, full of grace and hope in eternal life. It is a reminder of the growth, beauty and vitality that rises out of that life-giving baptismal water. It is also a reminder of the mission of the church to “Go, therefore, make disciples of all nations; baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).

The pewter ornament, with a two and 3/8th inches diameter and comes in a black velour drawstring pouch. Again, the cost is $12, plus shipping and handling.

Thank You! Thank You! by Jennie Mae Hill

Ladies, THANK YOU so much for all you have done for Wellspring Living. I want to share a thank you letter from Zanese for what was provided for the organization at convention.

“Thanks SO much for your generosity in hosting Wellspring Living at the Callaway Gardens ELCA Southeastern Synod Women's 25th anniversary event on September 15, and particularly for blessing us with two van loads of paper products and other items. I delivered my van load on Monday to the women, and the coordinator is so grateful--as you can imagine, the women go through a lot of paper goods! I hope our paths cross again this side of heaven!....Zanese Duncan”

****************

The following letter came from Lutheran Services of GA to thank our synod ladies for the hygiene kits we assembled at convention for Lutheran Services of GA….Jean Minkin “Dear Jean, On behalf of the staff of Lutheran Services of Georgia, and especially our clients, I want to thank the Southeastern Synod Women of the ELCA for their generous contributions of items for hygiene kits at this year’s Convention. We came home with 145 completed kits, and enough items to start an additional 180 kits. Nothing will

ever top the 10,000 diapers of Savannah, but 325 toothbrushes is an impressive total! I’ve attached a couple of pictures of the assembly line for the record. I’m so glad that you contacted me about having some kind of hands-on project, and that hygiene kits fit the bill so well. It’s a simple act of hospitality to have these kits ready to hand out, a way to welcome families and children to their new homes, whether it’s a refugee apartment or a foster placement. Thank you again for your partnership in service, and for the ongoing support from the Women of the ELCA for our mission to serve and engage the community by bringing hope, healing, and strength to people in need. Looking forward to seeing everyone in Natchez!...Sincerely, Lorraine Dorough/VP Agency Advancement LSG”

**************** THANK YOU TO MY CONVENTION TEAM

by Muriel D. Williams

Barring none, this convention planning team was the best ever. The following played a significant role: Jacqui El Torro of Emmanuel for food and banquet arrangements; Robyn El Torro of Emmanuel for the fantastic and memorable banquet entertainment; Linda Few of St. Marks for all you did—providing flawless audio/visuals throughout the convention, the decorations and table decorations at our banquet and making our work fun; Sharen Kilpatrick of Redeemer for providing and setting up signs on the road and at the convention site to direct us to wherever we needed to be; Charlotte Light and the great team from Atonement who obtained and stuffed our convention bags and worked registration tables; Louise Barron who assisted Charlotte; Claude Merritt for making our beautiful convention banner, providing goodies/helping set up the hospitality room and acting as page during plenary sessions; Pastor Beverly Shaw of St. Johns who was such a great spiritual leader for convention, providing a peaceful chapel space where many found refuge from the business of convention and arranging a spiritual Friday compline service as well as a joyous Sunday service to be long remembered; Patricia Snow of Rock of Ages who as our Cluster Recorder, was great help during the planning and provided goodies and helped set up the hospitality room. Additional thanks goes to those below who helped although not officially on the team: Artmisha Johnson and Eloise Fuller of Atonement who assisted Charlotte Light with registration; Claudette DeLapara, Dora Jackson and Ruth Joe of Rock of Ages who helped with the table decorations for banquet; to the ladies of St. Paul who acted as pages and assisted with the collection of our love offering; Finally to Reginald Fincher who helped shop for convention items, toted and fetched during convention and helped decorate for the banquet. I am so grateful to you all!

The Southeastern Weaver Page 8 - November 2012

“Rejoice in the Lord always…..and again I say Rejoice”

Bishop Gordy shared his message with music

Jean Minkin, President, led the plenary sessions with assistance of Norma and Florine

The 25th anniversary quilt made by Shades Valley quilters was

raffled off and won by Kathi DeVoe

One of many contributions to LWR collections at convention

Vickie Murph, Churchwide Rep, makes

her presentation

Skit presented by Cluster 9 gals introducing 2013 convention site/Natchez

Check out our website www.seswelca.com and Facebook for more convention pictures!

Recognition of newly-elected board members on Sunday morning Dancing the YMCA during the

banquet festivities on Saturday

Jacqui El Torro, Food & Banquet Coordinator at lunch

Muriel lights candles to recognize those such as Hazel who have

served over the past 25 years of Women of the ELCA

Debbie Lundell and Rose Denzin share a moment

Robyn Eltorro holds the “hoop”

at banquet

Post dinner activities at the

Saturday banquet

Louise Iconis & Linda Few arrive in style for the banquet

Another group of royally dressed ladies approach

the banquet hall

Table decoration for Banquet

Patti Austin & Trudy Hanson enjoying the Saturday

banquet events

Ladies get into the line dancing at

banquet

November 2012 - Page 9 The Southeastern Weaver

issue for six of our nine clusters meeting in the plenary room. Reviewers liked having convention registration, the exhibits, plenary and banquet rooms in close proximity; and loved the Friday buffet yet missed having breakfast options. Participants praised the fact that sessions and activities started and ended on time, but pointed out that the effort to build in free time led to a somewhat tight schedule. Many expressed the wish that the workshops and free time could have been ‘swapped’ on Saturday afternoon to allow delegates and more participants to enjoy the full gardens experience. Some requested times for LWR drop-off that did not conflict with plenary sessions. Everyone appreciated the visibility of our younger board members in presentations such as the mixer. Dana Lee brought joy to our stretch & sing breaks. Reviews requested that the peaceful Compline worship on Friday evening become part of future convention experiences. Variety of workshops is always good, but fewer choices would also be fine. The banquet recognition, testimony and entertainment won total approval. Even those who were not numbered among the several dozen learning line dancing, enjoyed the fellowship and laughter. To quote, “It was probably the best banquet I’ve been to in all my years…“It was a wonderful celebration!” The board appreciates the ideas for schedule adjustments in future planning. “There were so many nice things about this convention that satisfy the soul.” [Sunday worship was an] “excellent ending to a great joyful weekend.” “well planned—well done—a lot of hard work.” “...very good and professional meeting with theme carried out.”

ELCA FUNDS FOR LEADERS: Our Impact by Jean Minkin

In 2004, delegates voted that the Love Offering be designated as an ELCA FUND FOR LEADERS scholarship. The Fund for Leaders is an endowed scholarship resource created to provide funds so that dedicated and promising men and women can accept the call to ministry for the ELCA in the 21st Century. The program has been very successful—the fund provided assistance of over $1.1 million in 2011 to 184 future pastors and rostered lay leaders. Our original Love Offering (the Women of the ELCA endowment investment) has grown to a market value of $26,806 as of 12/31/2011. An estimated $9,977.21 was available for the 2012-2013 academic year to impact young people in need of assistance to attend seminary. In 2012, the Synodical Board executive team chose one candidate from the Synod’s pre-selected list. Our first consideration was to choose a woman committed to her calling. As a result, the $2,500 award was presented to Jeniffer Tillman from Christ the Lord, Lawrenceville, GA. It provided a tuition payment for Jeniffer at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. Our original endowment continues to grow for future qualified candidates. It is wonderful to see the fund at work.

At the May meeting, the synod board sought to take a new direction in setting annual goals. To accomplish this, measurement criteria were added to certain long-standing goals and new goals were added. You can find the complete approved list on page 15 of the Bulletin of Reports at our website: https://sites.google.com/site/seswelca/bulletin-of-reports. Here is the first update: GOAL 8 addresses expanding our channels of

communication. It has been achieved with the addition of more than 50 new Facebook friends who share and receive updates!

GOAL 4 concerns LWR collections. For the first time, a non-board member (Janice Hawkins) chaired the annual collections both around the synod and at convention. She has creative ideas for working with site coordinators and congregations to increase awareness and participation in this important and far-reaching project.

GOALS 9 & 3 achieved the 50% mark as a result of workshops offered at convention (on racial justice advocacy and cluster communication), while another workshop addressed GOAL 7 by educating women about resources available to local congregational units.

GOALS 1 & 2 are critical to our effectively working together. They address the task of identifying current unit contacts in every synod congregation and helping them to create or update organizational structures to meet their needs. Cluster leaders have been provided with tools to assist them in achieving these two goals.

As you review these 2012-13 goals, please contact your board rep or executive board with any ideas to improve or enhance them. We welcome everyone’s suggestions.

All reviews agreed that Callaway Gardens was a lovely and appropriate setting for a gala celebration, though distances between sleeping rooms, plenary, banquet space and the hospitality room proved challenging. This was especially true for workshops, since they were in a separate building “up the hill”. As a result of arranging for cluster musters in a convenient location for attendees instead of the rooms on “the hill” on Friday evening, sound noise became somewhat of an

UPDATE ON SYNOD GOALS by Norma Reed

COMMENTS FROM 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION

The Southeastern Weaver Page 10 - November 2012

Another year of quilt and kit gathering is finished and the new one has begun! Thanks to all of the LWR Ingathering coordinators: Tommie Morgan in Daphne, AL; Kathryn Waters in Homewood, AL; Rhonda Gaede in Madison, AL; Agnes Nelson in Tucker, GA; Carolyn Arnsdorff in Rincon, GA; Carolyn Pruiska in Murfreesboro, TN; and Nadine Ottinger in Greenville, TN for a job well done (weighing, and packing the trucks). All the church reporting forms were provided in a timely manner so only totals were needed for the final collection report! The results of what was collected at this year’s LWR ingathering sites are highlighted below. The total weight was 29,550 lbs. The top three churches in pounds collected were: Messiah/Madison, AL - 3453 lbs, Redeemer/Atlanta, GA - 2007 lbs, and Shades Valley/Homewood, AL - 1939 lbs. Totals are reported below for number of quilts, kits and soap giving the top three churches in each category (though some fabric kits were collected, numbers were not included in the report):

Quilts: 440 Redeemer, Atlanta, GA 302 Shades Valley, Homewood, AL 209 Christus Victor, Ocean Springs, MS

Personal Care Kits: 225 St. Andrews, Franklin, TN 203 Shades Valley, Homewood, AL 192 Gloria Dei, Knoxville, TN

School Kits: 705 Messiah, Madison, AL 209 Holy Cross, Hiram, GA 189 Christ Lutheran, Nashville, TN

Baby Care Kits: 306 Messiah, Madison, AL 75 Trinity, Lilburn, GA 51 Faith Lutheran, Cleveland, GA

Soap: 655 lbs Gloria Dei, Knoxville, TN 379 lbs Trinity, Lilburn, GA 288 lbs Christ Lutheran, Nashville, TN

We also received quilts & kits from 6 Missouri Synod churches, 5 churches of the Florida panhandle, one from SC and one from VA. The ladies from the Florida panhandle contributed 1476 lbs, which included 255 quilts, 88 personal care kits, and 126 school kits! Something we should remember is the cost of shipping to get all these quilts and kits to the LWR warehouse in Maryland and from there to those in need! Did you know the cost to ship one quilt is $2.25 and one personal care

kit is $2.65? A great way to help is to gather a special offering or hold a fundraiser (bake sale or breakfast on Sunday mornings) and send to the Quilt & Kit Shipping Fund. Just send funds to Dian Luffman, Treasurer who tracks all contributions and forwards them to LWR. Now for the Challenge! In 2013 LWR is challenging Lutherans across the U.S. to donate 500,000 mission quilts to be sent around the world. This is a 25% increase (100,000 more quilts)! Making quilts for LWR provides opportunity to answer God’s call to love and serve our neighbors. They are a tangible symbol of God’s love and compassion and the most requested item. Ladies—it’s time to step up our game for next year and show them what we can do!

Convention Giving Update by Dian Luffman, Treasurer

As I reflect on the 25th Annual Convention, there was a lot of rejoicing and giving going on! During the convention, we collected monetary offerings during two amazing worship services, gathered a generous Love Offering to benefit Lutheranch and offered In-Kind gift cards and cleaning supplies to support the work of Wellspring Living. Often during the weekend, people handed me envelopes to support LWR Shipping/formerly Project Comfort. Since the financial period for SES Women of the ELCA runs from Feb 1, 2012 to January 31, 2013, these numbers reflect eight months of our giving period. There’s lots of time for unit treasurers to send offerings. The funds listed below will be given to the recipient 100% – none is used by the synod. At Convention Year to Date LWR Shipping: $1,033.00 $2,032.05 LWR: $60.95 25th Anniv-Malaria: $87.10 Love Offering 2012: $5,610.11 $8,592.27 Katie’s Table: $449.41 $649.41

The convention offering was $3680, half of which goes to support the work of Women of the ELCA and half of this remains in the synod. Please remember that though we elect officers in September, the financial year doesn’t end until January 31, 2013. We continue to collect for Lutheranch through January 31st. Will we reach our $10,000 goal? We only need $1400. Will 27 people give $1 a week? Yes! A reminder—since most units will elect new officers next year, please share that checks should be made payable to the Southeastern Synod Women of the ELCA or SES Women of the ELCA. Checks received made out to the recipient (i.e. LWR) must be forwarded to the organization. The end result is churches do not receive credit on the report at convention. So it is important that checks are made payable to SES Women of the ELCA.

2012 QUILT & KITS CONVENTION REPORT by Janice Hawkins

November 2012 - Page 11 The Southeastern Weaver

You may have noticed a change in the number of board members this year. As a result of a resolution presented last year at the 2011 convention and sent on to churchwide for approval, a vote at the 2012 convention passed to reduce this number by two this year and also next year at the 2013 convention. The result will be an executive team of four and six board members. Check the “Who Do You Call?” list for assignments of this board to clusters. We appreciate the hard work and willingness to serve of all our board members

Bible Study Options: Bringing Women Together Through Bible Study

by Pat Cunningham

It is difficult in today’s hectic life to find time to really study the Bible, let alone find time for a group to gather for study. Here are some suggestions. † A member of our church has started a summer study

of the Sermon on the Mount, and she has had a good size group each week to offer discussion.

† I led a study last year on Wednesday nights based on the old Andy Griffith show. If you think about it, every program had a specific moral value. Our music director has DVD's of all the old shows and the Bible study that went with each episode. The website is barneyfife.com, which includes lesson plans and scripture.

† The magazine “Gather” has a good bible study every fall, and a separate study for summer. (Please see article below.)

These are some other options: Gather to discuss some of the lesser known women in the Bible and their stories. Another church has held Bible studies in one of the local theaters and served a very simple lunch along with it. It may take several tries to build a study group, but just work at it and it will succeed.

Gathered by God:

A Bible study written for women by a woman Dr. Audrey West

Article by Carlyn Nankervis

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them,” Matthew 18:20. This is the theme for the Bible study for the Women of the ELCA from September 2012 - May 2013. How appropriate that our magazine Gather (formerly called Lutheran Woman

Today) should have a Bible study on the theme of “Gather.” Throughout Scripture, we read how people of God gather – for worship, for learning, for festivals, for sustaining community. We too gather in our everyday lives. Friends and family gather to share a meal, witness a wedding, grieve a loss, and celebrate a life. People gather for justice, campaign against hunger, and to offer service. We gather to support one another and we gather to learn. We gather our voices in song and prayer. As communities of faith we gather for renewal, for inspiration and to share stories that remind us who we are. We gather to be empowered and to be sent as God’s witnesses. Join us to explore some of these many ways that we are “Gathered by God.” Have you wondered how to start a Bible Study for the women of your church? You will need a few women or a large group. You can even do Bible study by yourself (although it may be a bit lonely.) Each woman should have her own copy of the magazine Gather so she can prepare for the Bible study. You can choose one study leader or share leadership each month. It is suggested that you purchase the leader’s guide through the Women of the ELCA website as it provides additional background information not found in Gather and includes tips on how to lead the discussion as well as instructions for additional activities. I have read that a two-day Bible study event to prepare leaders has been held in western and midwestern synods this past year. This study event is a great idea to prepare leaders and a good way to “gather” and make new friends. For more information, visit gathermagazine.org/biblestudy. If you have questions about starting a Bible study, please call Carlyn Nankervis at 770-486-8126.

25TH Anniversary Convention Quilt by Paula McMillan

We congratulate Kathi DeVoe, Trinity Lutheran, Lilburn, GA who won the anniversary convention quilt raffle. Proceeds from this raffle went to Katie’s Table. This beautiful hand-tied quilt was made by the Happy Quilters of Shades Valley Lutheran, Birmingham, AL (led by Kathryn Waters) and featured the convention colors of purple and silver with a center square of silver machine embroidered with the 25th Anniversary Convention logo. We thank Shades Valley for their labor of love. Kathi will be “...sharing it with our board, circles, and ….on Women of the ELCA Sunday….in February.” It will be displayed at their next cluster/conference meeting scheduled for this fall. Meanwhile, the quilt will be hanging in her guest bedroom at home. Kathi, enjoy your quilt!

CHANGES ARE IN THE AIR... by Jean Minkin

The Southeastern Weaver Page 12 - November 2012

WHO DO YOU CALL?

ACTION:

Carlyn Lundell Nankervis/CHAIR - Cluster 2 Board Rep 770-486-8126 - Email: nankerviscarlyn@yahoo.com Pat Cunningham - Cluster 1 Board Rep 912-897-4208 - Email: pc1945@att.net RESPONSIBLE FOR: In-Kind Gifts, Prison Ministry, Katie’s Table, Ronald McDonald House, Websites

COMMUNITY: Pam Smith/CHAIR - Cluster 6 Board Rep 423-870-1236 - Email: Pamsmith0625@gmail.com Mica Inge Koli - Cluster 3 Board Rep 678-620-9356 - Email:micakoli@bellsouth.net Harolyn Light - Cluster 4 Board Rep 678-305-9048 - Email: Haro-lyn@hotmail.com RESPONSIBLE FOR: Special Events/Services, Bold Women & Women of the ELCA Sunday, Church Women United GROWTH: Malisha Brown/CHAIR - Cluster 9 Board Rep 678-378-2662 - Email: Ms_mrb@hotmail.com

Jennie Mae Hill - Cluster 2 Board Rep 404-626-4597 - Email: jenniemaehill@yahoo.com Agnes Nelson - Cluster 5 Board Rep 770-458-3473 - Email: jnels5@comcast.net RESPONSIBLE FOR: Membership Outreach, Scholarships, Youth/Young Adults, Leadership Development

SECRETARY: Paula McMillan - Cluster 7 Board Rep 205-854-1462 - Email: Pfmp139@gmail.com

CLUSTER LIAISON:

Norma Reed - 770-464-4451 - (c)706-769-0303 Email: norma-ELCA@att.net

TREASURER: Dian Luffman - Cluster 8 Board Rep 615-831-0941, 615-430-1489-Email: dianluff@gmail.com

NEWSLETTER EDITOR:

Ruth Schreiner - 615-790-1324 Email: fredruths@comcast.net

CONVENTION CHAIR: Tommie Morgan - 251-342-9337 Email:Tommiem123@bellsouth.net

CONVENTION REGISTRAR:

Barbara Schwanebeck - 770-427-7808 Email: chris.schwanebeck@att.net

TRIENNIAL GATHERING PROMOTER: Louise Hamilton - 678-261-0739 Email:lhami630@bellsouth.net

LUTHERAN WORLD RELIEF: Janice Hawkins - 770-712-6090 - jchawkin@bellsouth.net

CONSTITUTION: Claude Merritt: 770-938-0327 - Email: clm752@bellsouth.net

RACIAL JUSTICE ADVOCACY: Carlyn Nankervis-770-486-8126 Email: nankerviscarlyn@yahoo.com Malisha Brown-678-378-2662/Email:Ms_mrb@hotmail.com

Grants, scholarship applications due (Reprint from February 2012 Interchange)

February 15 marks the deadline for two important annual programs of Women of the ELCA: grants and scholarships. Agencies and non-profits that support healing and wholeness for women of all ages are invited to apply for a 2012 grant from Women of the ELCA. Last year grants were given to teen parent mentoring programs, therapeutic support groups for adolescent girls who are victims of sexual trauma, culinary and life-skills training for women stuck in poverty, seminars for survivors of domestic and sexual violence and peacemaking training, among others. If you know of similar agencies and non-profits in your community, encourage them to apply. Details are available at womenoftheelca.org. Scholarships are available for women who are members of the ELCA. There are scholarships for Lutheran laywomen who are studying for a career other than ordained ministry as well as scholarships for those in their final year at an ELCA seminary. The other scholarships fall into two administrative categories: for women administrators and faculty at ELCA colleges and seminaries who are participating in leadership training or management training institutes and for women interested in reaching the top of their fields as administrators. Last year 24 women received scholarships from Women of the ELCA. Encourage someone you know to apply today. Details are available at womenoftheelca.org.

YOUR BOARD AT WORK The board would like to announce the formation of the following special committees: 1. Mission Teams: Committee to study pros and cons of

retaining Action/Community/Growth Mission Team names and advantages/disadvantages of shifting our focus to other different yet similar advocacy programs while not eliminating successful programs.

2. Communications: Committee to survey/study how best to communicate with synod women and vice versa -- what tools are available, how effective and how often to be in contact.

3. Convention scheduling: Committee to study pros/cons of continuing on a yearly schedule, vs. other options.

All synod board members will serve on one of these special committees in addition to her regular responsibilities. If you are contacted for input, we ask that you give your opinion from your heart. The board welcomes all calls or emails to share thoughts and will provide updates as the year progresses.

November 2012 - Page 13 The Southeastern Weaver

2012-2013 EXECUTIVE BOARD Southeastern Synod Women of the ELCA

Page 12 - April 2012

The Southeastern Weaver is published at least four times a year. Complimentary issues are sent to the SWO Board, Cluster Leaders, each Congregational Unit President of record and to each congregation in the S.E. Synod. Region 9 Presidents, the Churchwide President, the Churchwide Executive Director, and Presidents of SWO’s selected by the sitting President also receive copies. To correct our mailing list, please send the following information to: Norma Reed, 1173 Manchester Court, Social Circle, GA 30025.

Church Name & Address: _______________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

CU President & Address: _______________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: _______________________________ Term of Office: _____________________________________________ (Area Code) (From Date) (To Date)

PLEASE CHECK PAGE 10 FOR BOARD MEMBER E-MAIL ADDRESSES

Jean Minkin, President 940 Providence Drive, Lawrenceville, GA 30044 (cell) 678-662-8116 minkin4178@bellsouth.net

Norma Reed, Vice President 1173 Manchester Court, Social Circle, GA 30025 770-464-4451 norma-ELCA@att.net

Paula McMillan, Secretary 5514 Kennesaw Pass, Pinson, AL 35126 205-854-1462 pfmp139@gmail.com

Dian Luffman, Treasurer

5131 Ashley Drive, Nashville, TN 37211 615-831-0941 dianluff@gmail.com

Pat Barber 307 Rhett Avenue SW, Huntsville, AL 35801 256-536-9357

Malisha Brown 2026 Jacquelyn Drive, Douglasville, GA 30135 678-378-2662

Pat Cunningham 208 Dobson Road, Savannah, GA 31410 912-897-4208

Robyn M. Eltorro 2672 Stone View Terrace, East Point, GA 30344 (cell) 404-642-1668

Jennie Mae Hill 210 Ridge Run, Stockbridge, GA 30281 404-626-4597

Kelly Jannett 702 Morris Drive, Murfreesboro, TN 37130 (cell) 615-617-9712

Mica Inge Koli 6055 Millwick, Johns Creek, GA 30005 678-620-9356

Carlyn Lundell Nankervis 252 Turnbridge Circle, Peachtree City, GA 30269 770-486-8126

Agnes Nelson 2859 Appling Drive, Chamblee, GA 30341 770-458-3473

Katherine Tillman 10 Pipers Pond Lane, Savannah, GA 31404 912-232-7520

Ruth Schreiner, Newsletter Editor (Non-Board)

2201 Oakwood Dr., E, Franklin, TN 37064

615-790-1324 fredruths@comcast.net

Barbara Schwanebeck/Registrar 277 Mossy Way NW, Kennesaw, GA 30152 770-427-7808

Louise Hamilton, TGP 201 Crosstown Drive, #1088, Peachtree City, GA 30269 678-261-0739

Women of the ELCA Churchwide www.womenoftheelca.org

8765 West Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 60631-4189 Fax: 773-380-2419

800-638-3522, Ext. 2730 Women.ELCA@elca.org

The Southeastern Weaver Page 14 - November 2012

Southeastern Weaver Subscription Request Form

Name: ______________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________ City: _____________________________ State:_________ Zip Code: __________ Email Address: ______________________________________________________

Please note increase in annual cost for the Weaver. The cost of a one-year mailed subscription is now $8.00. You may also subscribe for the FREE email ver-sion.

Send your subscription order with checks made payable to Southeastern Synod Women of the ELCA for the hard copy version to the Newsletter Editor at the ad-dress shown in the table on the previous page of the newsletter or send your e-mail address for the FREE email version to the email address on the previous page.

Thank you for your continued support.

The Southeastern Weaver Southeastern Synod of Women of the ELCA 2201 Oakwood Drive East Franklin, TN 37064-4917

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID Franklin, TN 37064

Permit No. 88

DATED MATERIAL PLEASE DELIVER PROMPTLY

(SUBSCRIBERS: Check your mailing label for your expiration date)