CONNECTEDNESS     

So we, being many, are one body, in Christ, and every one members one of another.”         Romans 12:5 

SYNOD LEARNING EVENT

CONNECTED IN GOD’S CREATION: Fulfilling  our call as Christians

IN PERSON EVENT SEPT. 10, 2022

Epiphany Lutheran Church, 4301 Raspe Ave, Baltimore, MD 21206

REGISTER HERE!

 VIDEOS TO HELP EXPLORE MORE!

Check these fantastic eight videos aligned with pillars of the Earth Chart created in Spring 2022.  These videos are an incredible tool for personal or group study and can be watched as a series or by specific interest topic. We are grateful for the incredible collaboration between our Delaware-Maryland Synod and The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland who brought together the experts for these videos.  Explore the videos HERE!

 

2021-2022 PARTNERSHIP MINISTRY CONNECTEDNESS GRANTS NOW AVAILABLE

The Connectedness Team of our synod, is again eager to award funds up to $3,000 to grow and implement innovative connections across partner ministries, congregations and other connections both inside and beyond our Synod. Complete this application and send to Claudia by no later than November 12th, 2021. 

 

2020 CONNECTED IN CHRIST EVENT A WONDERFUL SUCCESS!

On Saturday, February 8, 2020, nearly 150 participants from throughout the Delaware-Maryland Synod came together at Salem Lutheran Church in Catonsville to share in fellowship, learning and worship. Connected in Christ was the event sponsored by the Connectedness Team as an opportunity for folks across our synod to share and learn more about the programs and ministries within the synod. Each of the Vision Teams led workshop sessions that ranged from topics such as-Creation Care, Digital Tools for Ministry, Mission, Leading in Times of Change, Listening, Equipping for Ministry, Story Telling, Inclusion and Advocacy. There was also an exhibit area, which highlighted additional ministries and programs. Attendees came as teams from congregations, as congregation councils, and as interested members eager to learn new ideas and share best practices. Folks enjoyed a day that started with a visual exercise in being connected and moved into three workshop opportunities.  The day ended with an interactive worship experience led by the Generosity Team. There was lots of time for fellowship at lunch and during breaks and transitions.

 Hear the testimonies from participants!

“That we are connected…to our church, our community, our synod, and the national church. Bishop Gohl’s message about change, risk, and loss was excellent, and so on point.” (from a member of Trinity Lutheran, Taneytown) ; “To be able to connect with other congregations that are having the same issues you are having in your congregation.  It makes you feel like you are not alone.” (from a member of Ascension Lutheran, Towson) ; “The workshops were very good. I also really appreciated the time at the end of the day to meet with our congregation members to debrief and plan.” (from a Pastor in Westminster Conference);  “I learned a lot about how I can be a better instrument of God by listening better, sharing my Love, and making sure my congregation is open, safe, and caring for ALL.” (from one of our Order of St Stephen’s Deacons);  “There are many many ministries in the synod that people need to know about.” (from a member of St. Philips Lutheran, Wilmington)

Please plan to join us in SEPTEMBER 2021 for the next event!

 

 2021 Synod Assembly Faith Practices Reflection!

 To view Pr. Sandra Carlson Alexis’ (First English, Baltimore, MD) Faith Practices reflection from the 2021 DE-MD Synod, please click here!

 

PARTNER PROGRAMS AND MINISTRIES OF THE DE-MD SYNOD
Throughout our synod there are many good ministries going on serving God’s kingdom. All these ministries are being done with our brothers and sisters in Christ to make up the one body in Christ and the one work in Christ…sharing the Good News! 

To learn about the many exciting program and ministry partners please review this comprehensive list here.

We have developed a Connectedness Devotion that we HOPE you will use at council, bible study, worship, team meetings, and even as a personal devotion.  Please check out this devotion.

The following is a sample of some of our most active ministries throughout the synod.

AFRICAN DESCENT LUTHERAN ASSOCIATION

African Descent Lutheran Association (ADLA) develops and promotes connections plus support for initiatives of special interest to those within the African, African American, and African descent community.
LEARN MORE…

CELEBRATION OF LAY MINISTRY

The Celebration of Lay Ministry is a celebratory dinner event, featuring a keynote speaker, to recognize and award those people who participate in lay ministry.
LEARN MORE…

COALITION OF LUTHERANS ADVANCING IN MISSION

CLAIM provides a much-needed, essential forum for congregations in metro Baltimore, many of which deal with isolation and missed opportunities for shared ministry and resources.
LEARN MORE…

CREATION CARE MINISTRY

Are you interested in the ways that caring for creation can be an expression of your faith life? Get in touch with Deacon Laura Heller to learn how you can get involved with the Creation Care Team.
LEARN MORE…

DEFINITELY ABLED ADVOCACY AND RESOURCE TEAM

We aim to improve accessibility and encourage full participation in our faith communities by working to reduce the stigma associated with disability through prayer, education, and advocacy.
LEARN MORE…

GLOBAL MISSION

The Delaware-Maryland Synod has shared a companion synod relationship with members of the Estonian Lutheran Church and the Tampere Diocese of the Finnish Lutheran Church for two decades.
LEARN MORE…

HUNGER TASK FORCE

The Hunger Task Force is committed to educating our congregations about this persistent and devastating problem throughout the world. Hunger is also very real for many living in our area.
LEARN MORE…

LUTHERAN DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE

Alice Benson, MBA, CFRE, is our ELCA Foundation Regional Gift Planner, working with our Synod, congregations, and other Lutheran ministries in our area.
LEARN MORE…

MAR-LU-RIDGE

February is I Love Mar-Lu-Ridge Month here in the Delaware-Maryland Synod! Here, you’ll find several resources to help your congregation…
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Opioid AND ADDICTION AWARENESS TEAM

The Synod Opioid and Addiction Team has created a worship resource (click for PDF) to be used in all congregations for this special day.  This is an expansive resource with something to be used in all congregations including hymn and song selections, suggested readings and sermon preparation, a children’s sermon, interactive worship activities, prayers, and specialized liturgy elements.  If you have any questions, please contact team members, the Rev. Sara Yotter (Joy Reigns, Edgewater) or the Rev. Melissa Lemons (Unity, Wilmington).

SYNODICAL WOMEN'S ORGANIZATION

OUR MISSION IS TO MOBILIZE WOMEN TO ACT BOLDLY ON THEIR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST.
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YOUNG ADULTS

In the Delaware-Maryland Synod, Young Adults practice their call to discipleship in a supportive, inclusive and sustainable community made in the image of God.
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YOUTH + FAMILY MINISTRY

The DE-MD Synod Youth + Family Ministry is committed to helping young people and families practice their faith at home as well as within their community.
LEARN MORE…