Listen, Connect, Act: Fall Opportunities with LEAD
LEADconnects is offering several fall opportunities to help congregations listen more deeply to their neighbors, strengthen their communications, discern their future, and support leaders in community. Registration for The LEAD Exchange is open through September 30; a strategic-planning information meeting will be held September 23 at 11:30 a.m. Central Time.
Led by ELCA Deacon Jessica Noonan, LEAD is a Christian nonprofit rooted in the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod. Its work centers on turning faithful listening to neighbors into insight, connection, and action—an approach that resonates with our Lutheran call to love God and serve the neighbor.
The Love Our Neighbors Cohort begins September 21 and will meet four Mondays, 7–8:30 p.m. Central Time: September 21, October 5, October 19, and November 2. Participants will practice “holy listening,” explore Scripture, and consider where the Holy Spirit may be leading their congregation in relationship with its neighborhood. The listed registration deadline of September 4 has passed; leaders interested in possible availability should contact LEAD directly. Learn more about the cohort →
For leaders seeking encouragement and peer support, The LEAD Exchange offers two 12-month cohorts beginning the week of October 11: the Faith Catalyst Exchange and the Collaborative Exchange. Participants receive quarterly learning, case studies, small-group conversation and prayer, and practical resources to strengthen their ministry teams. Register by September 30 →
Congregations may also consider a LEAD Communications Audit. Through an initial consultation, leadership and congregational surveys, a customized report, and a follow-up Zoom conversation, LEAD helps congregations assess how their website, email, social media, and print materials communicate their values to members and neighbors. The cost is $500. Explore the Communications Audit →
Finally, LEAD’s strategic-planning process invites congregations to listen to Scripture, the Holy Spirit, their own people, and their neighbors as they discern purpose, values, and vision. Attend the September 23 information meeting → or contact LEAD at lead@leadconnects.org to learn more.
