Oct. 1, 2007
Lutherans gather for biennial leadership event
More 
than 360 Lutherans from across the Delaware-Maryland Synod - and even from some adjacent synods - gathered at First Lutheran Church, Ellicott City, Md., on Sat., Sept. 22, for the Partners in Faith, Partners in Vision leadership event. The theme, "Growing Healthy Missional Congregations," was the topic of two keynote presentations by the Rev. Ruben Duran, director for new congregational development, ELCA Evangelical Outreach and Congregational Mission.
In 
addition to delivering two keynotes, Pr. Duran joined with many other presenters from the local area and as far away as Chicago for nearly 40 workshops spread out over the course of what was a perfect day. The weather was so mild and sunny that many folks ate lunch outside in areas all over the church grounds. Inside meanwhile, Joyful Noise, a group from Lutheran campus ministry at the University of Maryland, College Park, presented their unique form of music and personal testimony. As part of a brief devotional period at mid-day, a number of prayer shawls donated by event participants were dedicated. They will be distributed by Bishop Jerry Knoche and other members of the synod staff as they visit pastors and their families.
Partners in Faith, Partners in Vision is a major event held in odd-numbered years by the Delaware-Maryland Synod, one of 65 subgroups of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The event is planned and organized by synod staffer Holly Crispell, who was recognized at the event for her work.