2021 NE MN Synod Fall Theological Conference

Seasons of Life: The Psalms on Grief and Gratitude

2021 Fall Theological Conference is sponsored by the Northeastern Minnesota Synod, ELCA

The 2021 Fall Theological Conference – for rostered ministers, synod authorized ministers (SAMs) and directors of youth & family ministry.

The Rev. Dr. Kathryn Schifferdecker, from Luther Seminary, will be our presenter.

We and our congregations have all been living through a difficult season – the pandemic, economic recession, racial injustice, divisive politics. But with the distribution of vaccines, hope is dawning, and we praise God for the opportunity to gather with family and friends.

We know that we are not the first to live through difficult times. We will explore in particular the seasons that the Psalms describe – times of grief and times of gratitude, and the unshakable conviction of the psalmists that in every season and circumstance, our lives of inextricably bound up with God’s life.

Come to be renewed and refreshed in the company of your colleagues, and in conversation with these ancient prayers of the church and synagogue.

A Message from Northeastern Minnesota Synod:

Due to increased concerns regarding the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus, the Fall Theological Conference will be moved to an all-online event. We will gather via zoom on Monday, September 27, 2021, with check-in beginning at 8:30 am and learning sessions commencing from 9:00–4:00 pm. We know that this is disappointing for many, however, the well-being and safety of our synod ministers and leaders is of the utmost importance. We are grateful that the Rev. Dr. Kathryn Schifferdecker is prepared to shift for an online presentation as she continues to walk with us through the seasons the Psalms describe.

Ruttger’s Sugar Lake Lodge has graciously offered to refund reservations for those who have already sent in their payment. If you registered using a credit card, Ruttger's will credit you for the full amount right away. If you paid by check, Ruttger's will send you a check for the full amount within a week.

Because we still need to cover the costs incurred for putting on a one-day online event, you are invited to attend for a reduced rate of $75. Checks should be made out to the Northeastern Minnesota Synod and sent to the synod office at 1105 East Superior St. Duluth, MN 55802. Pastor Rollie Bockbrader will change your Eventbrite registration to a Zoom/online one; if you do not wish to participate via Zoom, please let him know. If you have not registered, please do so through Eventbrite and Pastor Rollie.

We know that one sign of a healthy leader is engagement in continuing education and gathering with colleagues in shared experiences. We hope to see as many of our rostered leaders, SAMS and Youth &Family Directors as possible at this event.

Because we will not conclude the event with an in-person worship service with Holy Communion as we usually do, Bishop Odgren will provide a recorded sermon, a written manuscript and accompanying liturgy based on the texts chosen had we gathered in-person. These resources will be available to you on our website for use at another time when you might feel the need of such support. Look for more Fall Theological Conference details in upcoming communications.

NOTE ** - Online/Zoom Participation Ticket shows Free only to eliminate Eventbrite processing fee. Payment of $75.00 is due for this ticket to pay the costs associated with live streaming the event.