In its simplest form, becoming a sanctuary denomination means that the ELCA is publicly declaring that walking alongside immigrants and refugees is a matter of faith. In baptism, we are brought into a covenantal relationship with Jesus Christ that commits us to strive for justice and peace in all the earth. Following the example of…
In Luke’s Gospel, 13:10-17, Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath, offering her a new beginning for her life. When challenged by a narrow reading of the Sabbath command, Jesus responds by expanding ‘Sabbath work’ to include setting people free from bondage. Pastor Eric called this reading a healing story because Jesus was teaching in…
In today’s sermon, Retired Pastor David I. Nelson suggested we ask ourselves questions such as, “What am I most invested in…my own comfort or the Holy Shalom?”, “How would it feel to experience peace that costs me something?”, and “When was the last time I ignored God’s call for compassion for those in need?” Questions…
In today’s Gospel from Luke 12:32-40, Jesus encourages his disciples to not be afraid… “for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom”. He advises to be ready for action when God’s generosity is received, so that those blessings and treasures can be given to others. In today’s world, there are many…
8/7/2019 10:15:00 PM, MILWAUKEE — In a key action this afternoon, the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly voted to approve a memorial that declares the ELCA a sanctuary church. The ELCA is the first North American denomination to declare itself a sanctuary church body. As a sanctuary church the ELCA is committed to serving and supporting…
New members, Bob and Judie Lee have recently joined the St. Mark family. Judie grew up in Garrison, North Dakota. Her family belonged to and were active in the Congregational Church. After getting married, she joined the Lutheran Church with her husband Bob. Bob grew up in Wahpeton, ND and was active in the Lutheran…
Today’s Gospel is from the twelfth Chapter of Luke. Jesus’s followers as usual asked Him many questions and Jesus answered, as He often did, with some beautiful parables. He said to take care and be on guard against all kinds of greed and then gave examples. Jesus also instructed His followers to not worry about…
In today’s Gospel reading from Luke 11:1-13, Jesus not only teaches his disciples to pray, he encourages them to be persistent in their prayer. Jesus promised that if they “ask, it will be given; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened”. Pastor Beth reminded us we can pray to God in…
Voting members will convene Aug. 5-10 for the 2019 ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) Churchwide Assembly at the Wisconsin Center in Milwaukee. This will be the 15th gathering of the assembly, the primary decision-making body of the ELCA. This year’s theme is “We Are Church,” and voting members will spend the week participating in…
In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus reminds us to be devoted to Him and his word. Pastor Eric’s message concerned the bottom line of Jesus based on God’s math. Gospels are just story math problems. We read Colossians 1:15-28 to learn more of who Jesus is. We dwell in the God math with Jesus. Listen to what…