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Profile of the companion synod relationship - 1B Northwest Washington Synod / European Russia
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| Our Role in Global Mission |
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| This relationship provides a spiritual bond of friendship beyond the confined focus, allowing congregations to reach across the world, raising awareness of cultural differences and varied needs, yet united by a shared faith in Jesus Christ. |
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| Component(s) of our relationship |
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Visitors from ELCER
Over the years, partnered congregations have sponsored visits by pastors and bishops. Bishop Dietrich Brauer and Pastor Elena Bondarenko, Acting Dean from Moscow will attend the NWWA Synod Assembly in May 2012,to bring spiritual blessings and news.
Financial Support from NWWA Synod
All congregations in the synod are encouraged to contribute to the Synod Russia Fund. Money from this fund goes to the Bishop's Moscow office to support the work of itinerant pastors and programs and congregations in ELCER deemed in greatest need.
Financial Support from Partnered Congregations
These "sister congregations" raise money through auctions,raffles,teas, dinners,etc. to support programs, youth,eldercare,salaries,outreach, etc. of their partner in Russia.
"Sister" Parish Partnerships
As of 2012 our synod has ten partnered congregations,providing the benefits of a closer relationship through newsletters, photos,visits,e-mails, etc.
Exchanges
Over the 10+ years of our companion relationship,a youth group spent time at a summer camp in Russia. Two partnered congregations sponsored Russian seminarians from Novosaratovka,one studied at PLTS in Berkeley, the other was a congregational intern.
Worship
Partnered churches always keep partners in prayers. Visiting pastors/bishops from Russia and to Russia preach at congregations/synod assemblies, making the relationships very concrete, very real, a true blessing.
Travel
Over a dozen years larger delegations(15+) and small groups(3)have visited partners and the central office in Moscow almost annually, getting to know the churches in different locations, at different levels. Return visits are far fewer, due to cost.
NWWA Synod Team Russia
Eight members from partnered and unpartnered congregations serve as liaison between the NWWA Synod and ELCER. Team Russia plans and implements programs, fund raisers,contacts NWWA synod congregations, and coordinates sister partnerships.
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| For more information |
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www.Lutheransnw.org/partners/companion.asp
Lynne Charleston, Team Russia Chair lbcharles@comcast.net (425)392-1494
Eva Mader, Sister Churches Coordinator evamader@aol.com (425) 453-1071 |
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| You may also: |
| View an ELCA map for more information about ELCA synods |
| View a global map for more information about international companions |
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