Posts tagged Sierra Pacific Synod
Unconditional Love Leads the Way: Bishop-elect Jeff Johnson’s Inspiring Journey

Discover the inspiring story of Bishop-elect Jeff Johnson, a man shaped by adversity, community, and an unwavering belief in God's unconditional love. In an era craving genuine connection and hope, Johnson stands as a testament to resilience and inclusivity.

Read about his profound commitment to social justice, his vision for a church that embraces all, and his upcoming installation as bishop in the Sierra Pacific Synod in Living Lutheran's latest feature. Dive into a narrative of transformation and hope for a future where love knows no bounds.

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A message from Presiding Bishop Eaton regarding Bishop Megan Rohrer

The Conference of Bishops (COB) met Sunday evening; Bishop Megan Rohrer chose not to attend. I shared that I am initiating the discipline process immediately, including suspension of Bishop Rohrer, based on additional information that has come to light. The COB strongly affirmed this decision. This process will take time, and I will provide updates as appropriate. I ask for your continued prayers for this church.

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Sierra Pacific Synod: Bishop’s Report to the Church

After listening to the concerns of this church, careful review of the report of the Listening Team and other accompanying documents, consultation with outside legal counsel, and prayerful reflection and discernment, I have decided not to bring disciplinary charges against Bishop Rohrer.

While I am not inaugurating formal disciplinary processes at this time, there remain enough serious concerns that influence Bishop Rohrer's ability to remain impactful in their role that I have asked Bishop Rohrer for their resignation, which I believe to be in the best interest of all parties involved. Leer también en español…

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In Memoriam: Rev. Dr. Jerry Schmalenberger

Note: We update this post with a full obituary, a website to share stories and celebrate Rev. Jerry’s life, info on donating in his memory, and the celebration of life service at Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio on May 16, 2022. Read more in this special newsletter from Sierra Pacific Synod.

We grieve with Carol Schmalenberger and her family at the death of Rev. Dr. Jerry Schmalenberger, April 25, 2022 in Sedona, Arizona.

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Prayers for Rev. Dr. Jerry Schmalenberger and family

Pastor David Brandfass, with Christ Lutheran Church in Sedona, writes that Rev. Dr. Jerry Schmalenberger is now under the care of hospice at Sedona Winds Assisted Living, a memory care facility. Brandfass writes, “Since he was the President of Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in the 1990’s, many of our synod pastors might know him.“

Anyone wanting to send a card can contact the synod office for the address.

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Living Lutheran September series: Difficult conversations

In September, Living Lutheran is looking at some of the topics that may be hard to handle and how we engage with those we disagree with They start with one of our newest synod bishops, Megan Rohrer of the Sierra Pacific Synod, who says regarding the difficult topics they encounter, “All I have to do in the conversation is to be faithful.”

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Support for wildfire relief in the Sierra Pacific Synod

The Sierra Pacific Synod is collecting funds and working in partnership with Lutheran Disaster Relief and Lutheran Social Services of Northern California to provide immediate relief for those affected by the Dixie Fire and other fires expected to affect California and Nevada this season.

Your contributions will go to emergency relief support for congregations and members impacted by the wildfires. We invite you to make a donation here: https://tinyurl.com/SPSfiresupport

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2021 Bishop elections

With numerous bishop elections, we’re using this page to keep a running list of newly-elected Bishops in the ELCA.

  • Brenda Bos elected bishop of ELCA Southwest California Synod

  • Megan Rohrer elected bishop of ELCA Sierra Pacific Synod

  • Kevin Jones elected bishop of ELCA Northeastern Iowa Synod

  • Paula Schmitt elected bishop of ELCA Allegheny Synod

  • Timothy Smith reelected bishop of the ELCA North Carolina Synod

  • Lee Miller II elected bishop of ELCA Upstate New York Synod

  • Felix Malpica elected bishop of ELCA La Crosse Area Synod

  • Dee Pederson elected bishop of ELCA Southwestern Minnesota Synod

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A Message on the Events of January 6, 2021, from the Bishops of Region Two

There are times when events in our nation and world are shocking—we search for words to try to make sense of what we are seeing on television.

As bishops serving in Region 2, we stand united in calling upon elected leaders of all political parties to call for an end to this violence.

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Region 2 election prayer service: Thursday, 11/5

Region 2 bishops and leaders invite all who wish to gather for a time of prayer and reflection to join us as we pray for our nation. These livestream gatherings will be on the Rocky Mountain Synod’s Facebook page, facebook.com/rmselca, Thursday, November 5, 7 pm MST, 6 pm PST, 4 pm HST.

Pastors and deacons are invited to open conversation via ZOOM immediately following the Thursday prayer service. You may register here.

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