If you would like to receive ECLC’s weekly e-newsletter, please email info@eclc.org to subscribe. 

Celebration of Pastor Anna

October 16, 2024

A wonderful celebration of Pastor Anna Helgen’s ministry was held on Sunday, October 13. Bishop Jen Nagel officiated at a liturgy of leave-taking. Following worship the celebration continued with brunch, tributes, singing, the presentation of gifts, and a blessing. We are deeply grateful for Pastor Anna’s nearly five years of faithful ministry at ECLC. She is going to be on leave from call to devote more attention to home and family. 

A full-time interim pastor has been selected to begin ministry at ECLC on Monday, November 4. More about Pastor Natalia Terfa and the transition plans will be coming from Council President, Carrie Henning Smith next week. 

A final note from Pastor Anna…

October 9, 2024

Dear Members of Edina Community Lutheran Church,

As I pack up my office this week, my heart remains full of gratitude for the ministry we’ve shared. I know the news of my departure came as a surprise to many of you. I’m grateful for your care for me and my family during this transition. Your words of affirmation and support—especially from those of you who have wrestled and made similar decisions throughout your lives—have meant so much to me. Several of you have asked me some questions about my departure from ECLC so I wanted to provide answers to some of the more frequently asked questions. 

Will we continue to worship at ECLC? 

The short answer is, no. The long answer is that as of October 13, I will no longer be a called pastor at ECLC. Leading worship, presiding at funerals and weddings and baptisms, walking alongside you in care relationships—those pastoral acts and tasks that I’ve been honored to share here these last five years will remain with the office of the co-pastorate, with Pastor Jeff and soon with Pastor Natalia. In order for the next pastor (both the interim pastor and the settled pastor) to be granted the opportunity to develop the relationships needed for them to serve successfully, it’s important for me (and my family) to find a new congregational home. This facilitates health and well-being for the congregation and its ability to move forward into its next chapter of ministry with new pastoral leadership. 

Is it okay to stay in touch with my family and me?

If you see me out in the world or at other community events, please say hello. I’d love to reconnect about life in those settings. You’re welcome to send Christmas cards or invite me to graduation parties or weddings or other celebrations as you would with others who have been part of your life. If questions arise regarding items at ECLC (perhaps related to finding a document or another question), please direct them to Pastor Jeff or the council president and they will follow up with me. 

What’s next?

After October 13, my status with the ELCA will be “on leave from call.” The ELCA allows pastors to be on leave from call for up to six years for family reasons. I plan to take several months (years?!) to rest and renew and reconnect with my family. I’m not sure what will come after that, but I trust God will reveal it.

I look forward to worship on Sunday and hope to see you at the reception following the 11am service. Thank you, again, for the honor and privilege of serving as one of your pastors!

Pastor Anna

Join Us For Court Watch                                 

October 2, 2024

You may have heard discussion in the media in the past couple months about our mission partner, Minnesota Freedom Fund (MFF). MFF pays cash bails and immigration bonds for those who can’t afford it so that wealth does not decide who is kept in detention and who goes free before trial.  

MFF is our mission partner because ECLC’s mission is to “give witness to love and justice at God's welcome table and in the world.” Also take a look at the ELCA’s Social Statement on Criminal Justice, which references bail eight times.  

The cash bail and immigration detention systems put a price on freedom that only a few can afford, effectively criminalizing poverty and fueling the growth of mass incarceration. Keep in mind:

• All people detained in jail after arrest but before trial are legally presumed innocent in this country.
• Only a judge decides how much bail a person must pay to be released to await trial.
• Accused people who are wealthy enough to pay bail can be set free to await trial.

So far this year, MFF has paid 375 bails totaling $1,442,190 in more than six Minnesota counties, and 78 immigration bonds totaling $778,000 – and counting.

Join us to watch and witness part of the process in person! This fall, ECLC’s Pre-Trial Fairness team encourages any and all ECLC members to join us each month at Hennepin and Ramsey County Courts to observe hearings where detainees’ bails are set. Our goal is to bring the process into the light and help hold it accountable. We don’t hold signs or wear t-shirts or even speak. We take notes for MFF and use our privilege to show that someone is watching. We learn how a process —that is right under our noses, but often out of our sight — functions for our community.

Join a member of the Pretrial Fairness Team for Court Watch on these dates.  An ECLC Pre-Trial Fairness Team member will host each session. Register here with Minnesota Freedom Fund to attend. 

Thank you for your advocacy!

"Back in Action" 

September 25, 2024

The program year is off to a great start for Children, Youth, and Family Ministries! Activities began on Sunday, September 8th with a backpack and briefcase blessing and all were invited to pick out a tag for their bags as a reminder of this blessing. The following Sunday, Sunday School students participated in an open house where they found their classrooms, met their teachers, and received a special treat! All youth and their families were also invited to share their feedback on a number of questions through a voting activity and a suggestion bucket. Fan favorites that will return this year include Kids' Night Out and Friday Fun Nights for middle and high school youth! Finally, this past Sunday, elementary students began Sunday School with their teachers, and youth participated in the first youth forum of the year. 

Sunday School numbers continue to grow, and this year there are approximately 60 kids ages 0-5th grade registered for the year. A number of volunteers have returned for a consecutive year of teaching, and we are thrilled to welcome some new volunteers to the mix, too! Sunday School students will continue working with Cindi and Julie on singing and music - you can catch the kids' work on Sunday, October 6th as they sing with ECLC's adult choir in both worship services. In the classroom, Sunday School kids will engage in a number of activities from games to crafts, and even baking while hearing stories like Jonah and the Whale, The Battle of Jericho, Moses, and more. We are thrilled to be back in the lower-level classrooms engaging ECLC's youngest friends in classic Bible stories! 

The confirmation class has more than doubled in size this year with the incoming 6th graders - we are so excited to have 19 6th, 7th, and 8th graders join us. Curriculum has shifted and will engage students in a number of current event topics and their intersection with faith but will continue to highlight Luther's Small Catechism with things like The Lord's Prayer, the 10 Commandments, and the Apostles' Creed, too. Small group leaders have been added to confirmation this year and will help foster relationships with youth and other trusted adults within the congregation; thank you to Dave, Teresa, and Sarah for their commitment to working with our youth! 

Youth Forum is off and running and had 10 youth attend this past Sunday! Youth Forum meets every Sunday between worship services (10:10-10:50am) and is a time for youth in grades 6-12 to hang out, build community, and enjoy treats while engaging in a variety of activities and topics to enhance their understanding and learning about church and the world. Last year, we enjoyed presentations and activities from various mission and ministry partners, and a number of ECLC members. We are always looking for new topics to share with our youth and would love to welcome you to share your passion with the youth. Contact Katie for more info! 

It's only been a few weeks of the lower level being filled with laughter and excitement and we are looking forward to similar months to come! Volunteers and visitors are always welcome in any of these spaces, and we hope you'll join us soon! 

Introducing This Year’s Mission & Ministry Partner Liaisons 

September 18, 2024

God places a variety of callings on each of our hearts. And, in a congregation as committed to engagement with the world as ECLC…there is something for everyone!  Last Sunday, liaisons were blessed in worship as they commit to serving as champions for each of our 20 Mission & Ministry Partners. Keep this list handy as you look for ways to engage through service, learning, advocacy, prayer, and giving in the year ahead. 

If you didn’t receive a signup sheet during worship on Sunday, email Deacon Lauren which of these partner liaisons you’d like to receive occasional opportunities from—it’s a simple, low-key way to stay in touch with ECLC’s various partners! Thank you to our liaisons, and to all of ECLC, for the ways we live into God’s hope for the world through our Mission & Ministry Partnerships! 

ACT-TC: TBD 
Avenues for Youth: Doris P
Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative: Jeanie T
Bright Stars of Bethlehem: Gary G
Community Emergency Service: Bill L
Cristo de Paz Lutheran Church:  Megan D 
Every Meal: Erika L 
Household and Outside Maintenance for Elders:  Jim O
Interfaith Coalition on Immigration: Maggie P
Loaves & Fishes:  Tom D
Global Refuge:  Maggie P
Lutheran World Relief: Ronna V
Meals on Wheels Edina:  Jen S
Minneapolis Area Synod: Mark V 
Minnesota Freedom Fund:  Rita L
Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light: TBD
National Alliance on Mental Illness MN:  Fern P
ReconcilingWorks: Teresa T
Redeemer Lutheran Church: Lynda T
St. Paul’s/San Pablo Lutheran Church: TBD 

House Churches: Creating Community in a Spiritual Setting 

September 11, 2024

Sign Up begins now for 2024-2025 House Churches 

What can one hour a month really do?  It turns out: a lot.    Each program year, ECLCers come together in small groups of 5-10 households called House Churches for just one hour a month from October through June and the results have been astounding.   Following a simple template written by the rostered ministers, each month House Churches become safe communities for one another while reflecting on issues of faith and life.  

Each year, unlikely connections are formed as groups begin to share truth and laughter in these intentional communities together.    This year, they will follow the thread of discipleship throughout each gathering, allowing this topic of following Christ to build each month.  We hope you will consider being part of a House Church this year!     They are offered both in-person or on Zoom, open to the whole congregation or affinity group focused, and offered on a variety of dates over the 2nd week of each month.

Contact Deacon Lauren with questions and sign-up. 

Join us for Worship this Renewal Sunday!

September 4, 2024

On September 8 we return to our 9am (with livestream) and 11am worship service schedule, and Community Enrichment returns between services. 

Backpack Blessing! We invite all children and youth to bring their backpacks to church for a blessing during worship. 

Art Dedication! We welcome Angela Two Stars and her family in worship and between services. 

At 10:30 we will hold a special dedication ceremony on the Creekside patio. Angela will present her commissioned work "Fulfilled" and we will celebrate the culmination of our congregation's 75th anniversary together. “We are deeply grateful for Ms. Two Stars’ collaboration with our congregation and for the beautiful public art she has created to honor all who have called this place home. This dedication will be a celebration of Ms. Two Stars’ artistry, our shared journeys on this land, and the power of God’s abundant grace and love.”  Karen Boyum, ECLC 75th Anniversary Co-Chair

All are welcome!

ECLC Fall Theme Writing Project  

August 28, 2024

As you may have heard by now, ECLC's fall theme is:

Steadfast in Hope!

Anchored in Faith!

Bold in Witness!

Throughout the fall we will be exploring how the nonstop cycle of this uncertain time attempts to uproot us, and how our faith can help us to stay rooted. As part of this theme, we will be putting together a series of daily devotionals written by ECLC members - and we want you to write one of them!

A devotional can be a paragraph, a poem, or even a more abstract piece of writing. You can reflect on the upcoming election, a quote you find meaningful, a memory, a Bible verse, or anything that this theme sparks within you. Anyone can submit a devotional, regardless of their age, background, or writing experience. We want submissions that are as varied and diverse as our wonderful congregation!

Contact the church office if you are a member and would like to contribute a devotional. Our goal is to have at least 30 submissions so that we can send out one devotional per day. If there are enough submissions past that, we may find a way to collect and distribute all of the devotionals in digital and/or physical form. The first devotional will be shared in mid-October, so the deadline for entries will be October 1st.

If you are interested in receiving the daily devotionals in your email, contact the church office.  Each day's selection will also be shared in the ECLC Member Group on Facebook. 

If you have any trouble with either of the above links, or have any questions about this project, please contact Madelyn W. or Pastor Jeff. 

A Day in the Life of a Communion Server

August 21, 2024

This week we are lifting up the role of communion server. If you’d like to serve communion, pick up a cross on the wall as you enter the sanctuary. If it’s your first time, talk with the pastors or deacon and they will answer any questions you have.

What are your responsibilities as a communion server?

• First, I wash my hands, and next, I break off a small piece of bread from the loaf for each person. Beyond these tasks, I pray silently for the well-being of all at the communion circle, recognizing that with the seasons of life, emotions can range from deep sorrow to pure joy. (Sara)
• Looking at each person as I speak these words often has an effect on each person. I feel surprised at the effect it has on me as I look into each person’s eyes to offer the body of Christ. It is a profound and holy experience for me. (Julie)

What do you like best? 

• I feel connected to others in the ECLC community. John 13:34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (Sara)
• Serving communion feels like an important way to welcome everyone since it is another way to build community. In another part of my mind I find myself thinking of their names but choose not to say names in case I can’t name everyone. And it helps me realize who I don’t know or haven’t met yet and make a point of looking for them to meet them. (Julie)

What has surprised you?

• Certainly the humorous part can be how much bread each person will receive when the server is pulling apart the bread. That is one thing that is tough to control! Some people prepare by tearing pieces in advance while others take pieces as they go. There seems to be no wrong way to do it! (Julie)
• Whether serving or receiving communion, I feel humbled when I hear the presiding pastor say “Christ welcomes all without exception.” I often feel emotional listening to this statement, and I always feel inspired to go forth into the world after worship to attempt to model Christ’s acceptance, compassion and kindness. (Sara)

A Day in the Life of a Soloist/Musician

August 14, 2024

This week we are lifting up the role of a soloist or a musician. If you play an instrument or sing and would like to play with the band or sing a solo/duet, please reach out to Paul and Melissa. This week we hear from Cheryl and Jonathan!

What are your responsibilities as a soloist/musician?

• One of the wonderful things about working with Paul and Melissa is that we have a lot of autonomy in choosing our music. The first thing we do is look for songs with meaningful lyrics that mirror key themes in the scripture texts. Of course, we also look for songs that work for our voice ranges and singing style! After we choose the song, we create our harmonies and a chord sheet with lyrics in our preferred key and send it to Paul or Melissa. What's wonderful about making music with ECLC musicians is that no one needs a musical score. Every musician is able to jump in and play along from a simple chord sheet with only 10 minutes of rehearsal before the service. Wow!

What do you like best? 

• We really enjoy learning new music (or refreshing old favorites), and singing with Paul and the band or with Melissa on piano is such a delight! There's nothing better than making music together and sharing it with others.

What has surprised you?

• For starters, it's a little surprising to think we've been singing duets at ECLC for over 25 years! We're also often surprised by the stories people share with us after the service about what our song meant to them or how it brought back memories of an experience, a person, or a time in their lives. We're so grateful for opportunities to make music and meaning together in community!

August 7, 2024

A Day in the Life of a Lector

This week we are lifting up the role of lector. This is a trained position open to all people–children, youth, and adults. If you’re interested in serving in this role, please reach out to Deacon Lauren to be added to the volunteer list and she will set up a one-on-one training with you. Read on to learn more from two of our lectors, Teresa and Melissa.

What are your responsibilities as a lector?

• Being a lector is a joy and an honor. It is a very simple, yet extremely important role in the church. After receiving the passage, you can do as little, read through the passage 2 or 3 times to prepare yourself, or as much as you want, opening your Bible and digging into the passage to better understand what you are reading. Arrive on Sunday morning and step up to the lectern and follow the words on the sheet left for you! That’s it!! (Teresa)
• To read the lesson out of the Bible right after the children’s sermon. (Melissa)

What do you like best? 

• Reading into the microphone. (Melissa)
•  It is very calming to me to be able to speak the word to the congregation with passion and clarity so as to allow the parishioners to just sit back and listen to the words from the Bible. (Teresa)

What has surprised you?

• It surprises me when people come up afterwards and thank me. To be able to do something so simple and yet important, makes me feel closer to the congregation and then to be thanked is an added bonus. (Teresa)
• The first time I was more nervous than I thought I would be. Each time I read I am less nervous than before. A lot of people tell me I did a good job after church. I think more kids should be lectors! (Melissa)

A Day in the Life of an Usher

July 31, 2024

This week we are lifting up the role of usher. This is a trained position open to all people–children, youth, and adults. If you’re interested in serving in this role, please reach out to Deacon Lauren to be added to the volunteer list and she will set up a one-on-one training with you. Read on to learn more from some of our ushers!

What are your responsibilities as an usher?

• The most observable responsibilities that the congregation sees are handing out bulletins, passing the offering plates, coordinating the lines of congregants for communion, and collecting bulletins and clean up after the service. Other things that are not as observable are doing a number count and recording, and taking care of the offering envelopes and money after the service. In general, just making sure that the service runs smoothly and helping in any situation as the needs arise. (Tom)

What do you like best? 

• Our kids are very excited about helping out during worship (Matthias is the one who got us involved) and also engaging briefly with everyone who comes to worship. Matthias’s favorite is putting the offering money away after the service. (The Brandt Family)
• We both enjoy engaging with members and visitors as they enter the sanctuary as well as when we collect the offering and usher people up for communion. (John and Jan)

What has surprised you?

• How ushering offers us the opportunity to briefly connect with members and visitors and how valuable even these brief encounters can be. (John and Jan)
• The most surprising thing to me has been the difficulty in finding people to volunteer to usher, although it has been better recently.  It is a great and reasonably easy way to participate in the life of the congregation. (Tom)
• No real surprises, but we now know where the AED is located! (The Brandt Family)

A Day in the Life of a Communion Prep/Cleanup Volunteer

July 24, 2024

This week we are lifting up the roles of communion prep and communion clean-up. These roles are both Monthly Group roles. During the summer when Monthly Groups are on vacation, we encourage all ECLCers to try two roles during the summer. Deacon Lauren is happy to walk through a role if you’re doing it for the first time or need a refresher. Read on to learn more from some of our volunteers, Kathy, Jen, and Mary. 

What are your responsibilities as a communion prep or cleanup volunteer?

• Communion Prep is pretty straightforward and ECLC provides a very helpful sheet of instructions. It requires getting to church early. Sometimes that can be the hardest part! There are always others around who are happy to answer questions and help you out if you need it. First stop is Breadsmith to pick up loaves of bread. Next stop, ECLC. I like to arrive 30 minutes before the service, which is plenty of time to get things ready: Wash hands, fill cups with juice and wine, slice bread in half, and set the table. During communion you keep an eye on the trays where people place their empty cups. Be ready to switch out the full trays for an empty tray. Bring the full tray to the sacristy and soak the cups in a small tub of water in the sink. (Mary)
• Communion Cleanup includes bringing in the trays that have used cups which need to be washed; bringing in the chalice, the plates, the trays that have cups that were not used; putting away the gluten free wafers, returning grape juice left in serving cups, pouring the extra wine out (outside) from the chalice, washing the plates and dishes, and getting everything ready for the next time communion is served. There are specific written out instructions in the sacristy which is super helpful. (Kathy and Jen)

What do you like best? 

• It feels like a behind the scenes way to do one of  the “jobs” of being a member of the church. (Kathy and Jen)
• I love that it’s quiet, behind the scenes work and has a huge impact! It is such a blessing to be part of a worshipping community that holds space for remembering and celebrating this sacrament every week. It brings me joy to tend to the logistics before and after the meal so that those who gather for the meal are able to stay in the moment to receive the gifts promised in faith. (Mary)

What has surprised you?

• How easy it is to do! (Mary)
• Getting to interact with the pastors and deacon Lauren when they come in to put away their robes and vestments and microphones. (Kathy and Jen)

A Day in the Life of a Greeter

July 17, 2024

This week we are lifting up the role of greeter. This is a trained position open to all people–children, youth, and adults. If you’re interested in serving in this role, please reach out to Deacon Lauren to be added to the volunteer list and she will set up a one-on-one training with you. Read on to learn more from two of our greeters, Kathy and Margot.

What are your responsibilities as a greeter?

• I love being a greeter! My responsibility is to greet warmly, introduce myself, and provide any assistance that might be needed. A greeter's goal is to make EVERYONE feel welcome. A greeter meets people prior to as well as following the service. (Margot)
• Be near the front door about 20 minutes prior to the start of worship wearing your 'Usher pin' from the basket that's on a shelf by the ushers. Be ready to greet kids and adults alike with a smile. I usually say, “Welcome to ECLC!” even if I know they have been members for 30 years. I reach out for a hand- shake if that seems comfortable. Sometimes I add, “We're glad you're here this morning!" (Kathy)

What do you like best? 

• It feels like an important 'first impression' of ECLC for all to be warmly welcomed into the community. There is no preparation, no cleanup - just walk in and start welcoming. (Kathy)
• It is a wonderful opportunity to welcome old friends and make some new friends! (Margot)

What has surprised you?

•  I am continually surprised at how many new folks join us each Sunday. That is a gift! (Margot)
• The smiles that appear when folks are greeted. The opportunity for quick updates from friends. Children love to be greeted too. Sometimes needing to gently move folks along. While I shouldn't be surprised, it’s that ECLC thing of lots of people coming through the door 4 minutes after the service has started! (Kathy)

A Day in the Life of…Fellowship and Hospitality!

July 10, 2024

This week we are lifting up the many roles of fellowship and hospitality. This role encompasses many smaller roles—making coffee, bringing treats, and cleaning up. These are all monthly group roles. During the summer when Monthly Groups are on vacation, we encourage all ECLCers to try two roles during the summer. Deacon Lauren is happy to walk through a role if you’re doing it for the first time or need a refresher. Read on to learn more from two of our hospitality volunteers, DeeDee and Bev.

What are your responsibilities as a hospitality volunteer?

• There are several opportunities for participating during Sunday morning Fellowship Hospitality. You can make coffee ( and keep track that enough is available throughout fellowship time); provide 6-8 dozen “treats” of some sort, that includes placing what you have brought on the serving table ready for the “ great exodus”  from the sanctuary following the service! Or you might like the kitchen cleanup opportunity; washing coffee cups, glasses, cleaning up the tables following fellowship time. (DeeDee)
• The responsibilities vary according to different events. It can be anything from serving in the kitchen, providing treats, or helping plan a gathering. (Bev)

What do you like best? 

• Social events are happy times. The fellowship opportunities to work with people, and get to know others is invaluable. We become a team. (Bev)
• It puts you in the thick of folks on Sunday mornings. Often includes an opportunity to meet and assist visitors as they are looking for cream for their coffee or maybe tea. I also enjoy working with newer volunteers on what happens behind the scenes in the kitchen. (DeeDee)

What has surprised you?

• It is really one of the easiest and rewarding ways to do service within our church building. Have you ever seen what happens when no one signs up to bring treats? (DeeDee)

A Day in the life of a Livestream Volunteer!

July 3, 2024

This week we are lifting up the role of livestream volunteer. This is a trained position open to all people–children, youth, and adults. If you’re interested in serving in this role, please reach out to Deacon Lauren to be added to the volunteer list and she will set up a one-on-one training with you. Read on to learn more from one of our livestream volunteers, Luke.

What are your responsibilities as a livestream volunteer?

• To screen to the people at home and provide them with the live stream so they can be a part of the church when they are not at church. 

What do you like best? 

• I get to be on a screen at church while still helping the community.  My favorite part of the service is when we have back and forth parts, like “Christ is Risen, Alleluia!” because that requires lots of switching of the shots.

What has surprised you?

• I’m surprised by how few people do the livestream; hopefully that encourages people who read the newsletter to be a volunteer!

A Day in the Life of an Assisting Minister     

June 26, 2024                  

This week we are lifting up the role of assisting minister. We train all confirmation students to serve as assisting ministers, but anyone can be an assisting minister. Talk with Pastor Anna if you’re interested. Read on to learn more from two of our assisting ministers, Lydia and Anita. 

What are your responsibilities as an assisting minister?

• My responsibilities as an assisting minister are primarily to read the prayers during the service I am assisting with. Besides that, I help set up for the beginning of the service and help with other tasks that need to be done, like setting up communion. (Lydia)
• Some of the responsibilities of being an assisting minister are reading the prayers, serving communion, and greeting people on their way out. (Anita)

What do you like best about this role?

• My favorite part about being an assisting minister in worship is serving communion. (Anita)
• My favorite thing about this role is that I am able to help and contribute to the service in a way that is not stressful or nerve wracking. I enjoy reading and helping everyone make sure that everything is in place for the service, and I never get nervous about it because there are such nice people around. (Lydia)

What has surprised you? 

• Something that has surprised me is how appreciative everyone was of my help and how encouraging people were after the service; Everyone had nice things to say and it was really sweet. (Lydia)
• Something that surprised me about this role is that I haven’t spilled wine on anybody. (Anita)

Racial Justice Quarterly Forums Continue

June 12, 2024

Recognizing the value of all of God’s abundant and diverse creation, ECLC strives to live into anti-racist values through our own ministries, systems and structures.  Quarterly, leaders from all of ECLC’s committees are invited to gather to share ideas, learn together, and reflect on their work through the lens of anti-racism in order to take action.  This May, over 25 ECLCers representing over 15 ECLC ministries and committees gathered at our Racial Justice Quarterly Forum.

We invite you to consider your ministry within ECLC, as well as your personal or professional lives, through this same anti-racist lens.  Here are some of the ways we reflected together: 

• This year’s forums expanded to include all ECLC ministries, from Finance to Personnel, to Worship, not only those under a “Mission umbrella.”  In what aspects of our lives do you tend to think about anti-racism? Are there aspects in which you tend to ignore it? 
• The Forum began with a devotion reflecting on how God accompanies people and all creation. How have you experienced God accompanying you? 
• Participants reviewed the Anti-Racism Rubric our entire congregation was invited to use as a tool in 2021.  How do you think ECLC changed since then? How have you changed?  
• Ministry Partner Liaison Lynda Thompson shared how our relationship with Redeemer Lutheran Church is built on a relationship of accompaniment that listens and learns, rather than assuming we know what is best for one another.  Sometimes, showing up is the greatest act we can do for one another; can you show up for our siblings Redeemer or St. Paul’s-San Pablo this summer? 

Finally, each Quarterly Forum includes a meal from a local BIPOC owned restaurant or small catering business. This month, we all enjoyed a meal from Muddy Tigger right here in Edina.  What local restaurant might you try next?  Have a nearby option to recommend? Email Deacon Lauren! 

Deacon Lauren on behalf of the Racial Justice Vision Committee

Learn about the Mdewakanton Dakota people

June 5, 2024

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community has invited ECLC members to be their guests for a guided tour of their public exhibit Mdwewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake. We will have an opportunity to learn more about and better understand the Mdewakanton Dakota people and their history.

The Mdewakanton (pronounced “Med-ah-wah-kah-ton”) people migrated south two centuries ago from home territory around Mille Lacs (Spirit Lake) as the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) and other Great Lakes bands filled in from the north and east. The Mdewakanton were nomadic inhabitants of much of Central Minnesota and  what is now considered the greater Twin Cities area when U.S. treaties turned over their land to European newcomers. The Mdewakanton Dakota were and are among the nations of the Seven Council Fires (Oceti Ŝakowiŋ), which Europeans came to call the Sioux Nation. 

Join us for this inspiring opportunity! The public exhibit is housed in beautiful Hoċokata Ṫi, the recently built Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Center. We have two Saturday options, June 15 and June 29, because guided tours are limited to 20 people. The tours begin at 11 a.m. and are suitable for upper-elementary ages and up. You can sign up using this form.  

This opportunity is brought to you by ECLC’s Indigenous Rights group as response to our commitment to “truth telling that leads to healing” (per the ECLC Land Acknowledgement). Please contact Catherine with questions.

CYF Happenings

May 22, 2024

The 2023-24 program year has come to an end, but we are gearing up for all things summer! Over the past few weeks, we celebrated the end of the year with multiple groups - Sunday School kids, Confirmation youth, CYF volunteers, and more! 

Confirmation wrapped up on Wednesday, May 8th with dinner as a group followed by various rounds of Kahoot! Confirmation students tested their knowledge and what they learned from the confirmation year in the form of trivia - competition was hot and prizes were awarded! We were so impressed with how much the youth retained this year - from questions on youth forum to worship practices, to the Bible and Prophets, these youth knew it all!

Sunday School finished the year on Sunday, May 12th with a large group activity while celebrating the teachers and enjoying cookies from Cookie Cart. We gathered outside near the front doors to play with chalk and bubbles and engage in conversation with each other. The art that came from the kids was so fun to see! Many of them worked together to create masterpieces on the sidewalk - seeing friendships being built between all ages at ECLC is definitely a highlight of this community.

On Saturday, May 18th, CYF volunteers and staff gathered at the Irwin’s for a volunteer picnic to celebrate the end of the program year. We give great thanks to the Irwins for hosting this event - it was a wonderful night enjoying each others’ company in the beautiful weather! 

The third annual JAM Camp starts on Monday, June 24th and will be the kickoff to CYF summer activities at ECLC! Camp will run through Thursday, June 27th and will conclude at our partner congregation, St. Paul/San Pablo’s in Minneapolis. 

Close to 25 kids and youth will head off to various overnight camps this summer - in July, our middle and high schoolers will venture to Wilderness Canoe Base in the Boundary Waters and meet our intergenerational campers at the end of their week. In August, our elementary and middle schoolers will spend time at Camp Wapo in Amery, WI for a time of faith, learning, and fun! 

Mark your calendars for family fun nights this summer! We’ll gather together on July 10th and July 31st for intergenerational fun - stay tuned for further details regarding activities and sign ups. We are grateful for such a fabulous year with all of ECLC’s kids and youth and their families, and we look forward to all that is to come in the next few months as we continue to build relationships in this amazing community!

Farewell and Hello! 

May 15, 2024

Farewell John! John Anthony was celebrated in worship last Sunday, and with coffee and donuts Wednesday morning at church. He is embarking on retirement, and we give thanks for his service as our Business Administrator! We say farewell but not goodbye! John and Connie will continue as active members at ECLC. 

Hello Anne! Anne Gustafson will begin her position as Director of Finance and Administration on Monday morning, May 20th! We look forward to getting to know her as she steps into this important and multi-faceted role. Please take a moment to greet her! Her email is: agustafson@eclc.org.

Synod Assembly

May 8, 2024

This past weekend, the 137 congregations of the Minneapolis Area Synod gathered for our annual assembly. At these gatherings, we are reminded we are part of the larger Lutheran Church and inspired by the breadth of the church as we worship together, make funding decisions, learn about the larger ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, lean into Bible Study together, vote on resolutions to further our synod’s ministry, and more! This year, we also celebrated Bishop Ann Svennungsen’s 12 years of service and participated in the discernment of a new Bishop, electing Bishop-elect Jen Nagel to serve a six-year term. You can read more here about Bishop-elect Nagel and the business of the synod assembly. 

ECLC is deeply committed to our participation as part of the wider Church. Thank you to all of ECLC’s voting members for their commitment to be present; here are reflections of the experience from each of them: 

One thing we did at Synod Assembly was: 

• We did a lot of singing! It is very fun to sing with 400+ other Lutherans (Pastor Anna) 
• Have amazing Bible studies with The Rev. Dr. Barbara Lundblad and Dr. Michael Chan (Mark V.)

One thing I learned at Synod Assembly is:

• That there are many congregations who are so diverse and unique from ours within our synod! I thought that all of the local ELCA churches were just like ECLC. (Madelyn W) 
• Our synod received a $1.25 million grant to establish “Family Faith: Deepening Roots, Strengthening Families” focused on how faith & culture intertwine in immigrant and non-dominant homes (Deacon Lauren) 

At Synod Assembly, I experienced God:

• Through community. It was wonderful to be surrounded by hundreds of others who cared deeply about the process and about doing what's best for our ECLA community and the wider world. (Carrie H) 
• In the relationships and connections that people share across the synod. Even more than usual, there were so many warm greetings, hugs, caring connections, and much laughter.  (Pastor Jeff) 

After Synod Assembly, I feel:

• I feel proud that I could be part of the Assembly, and excited to see the future of our synod! (Adin L)
• More informed about where our Synod is headed, more trusting in our leadership, and more faithful that this community is creating change in our world every day. (Naomi W)

Community Enrichment- May 5:

May 1, 2024

Public Art Design Presentation
Join us this Sunday when Angela Two Stars, our 75th Anniversary commissioned artist, returns to share her final design for the public art that will be installed this summer/fall in ECLC's creekside backyard. Angela is a member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate and was born and raised on the Lake Traverse reservation in South Dakota. All are encouraged to join the conversation!

Creation Care is Sacred Work

April 17, 2024

Happy Earth Day! ECLC’s commitment to care for all God’s creation is year-round…but we have a meaningful weekend of eco-justice opportunities ahead this weekend.

ELECTRONICS & SMALL APPLIANCE RECYCLING: Stop by ECLC’s parking lot between 10am-2pm this Saturday, April 20th to recycle your hard-to-dispose electronics and small appliances. See what’s accepted at https://ecyclemn.com/items-accepted-for-recycling/. Share this event organized by ECLC’s EcoFaith team with your neighbors and friends via email and Facebook.

SUNDAY WORSHIP—WEAR GREEN: You’re invited to wear green as we give thanks to God for all creation and recognize the struggling of the Earth in worship using ECLC’s Green Liturgy this Sunday at 9am and 11am. 

SUNDAY RESOURCE TABLE: Grab resources following worship from ECLC’s EcoFaith team including information on native plants, community support agriculture boxes, and details on recycling with a purpose.  

SUNDAY COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT: Between worship services, join ECLC’s EcoFaith team and ECLC member Briana S. in conversation about Not “Fast Fashion.” How we can make fashion choices that are enjoyable, but also repurpose, reuse, and care for the Earth.   

SUNDAY KIDS’ STUFF FREE SWAP: Gather up kids’ books, toys, clothes, and gear and bring it to ECLC on Sunday morning before 10am. Put items on the designated tables upstairs in the library and conference room. After 10am, all are invited to “shop” for free and take any items they can use! ECLC will donate the remaining items at the end of the day. Help kids’ items be re-used and re-loved by another kiddo.    

THE ECOFAITH TEAM would like to recognize the incredible work our mission partner Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light does in fighting for climate justice. They have three climate actions we can take to honor Earth Day at: https://www.mnipl.org/take-action/earth-day-2024/  Let's celebrate Earth Day everyday and recognize MNIPL for their amazing work! 

Special Guests - April 14

April 10, 2024

ECLC welcomes guest preacher Pastor Margaret Kelly! Pastor Margaret is a clinical social worker with particular expertise working with folks on the margins of our communities. She has worked in mental health crisis stabilization, adult and children’s mental health case management, and housing support for people with mental illness. Pastor Margaret was a mission developer (church planter) in the ELCA. She received significant recognition for developing Shobi’s Table into a community run food truck that brought worship to the streets of St Paul. Pastor Margaret thrives at the intersection of social service implementation and faith-based communities. She serves as the Executive Director of the Dignity Center, a ministry of Hennepin Ave United Methodist Church. She resides in South Minneapolis with her 2 kids, a calico cat, and two black kittens.

Guest Community Enrichment Speaker on Sunday morning at 10am in Fellowship Hall. We will welcome Chris LaTondresse, President & CEO of Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative. A recent Hennepin County Commissioner, Chris’ experience at the intersection of housing, advocacy, and faith is now being put to work to advance Beacon’s commitment to ensuring that all people have a home.  

Join Us for Holy Week

March 20, 2024

As we’ve journeyed through the Lenten season, we’re reminded of the profound significance of Holy Week and the joyous celebration of Easter that awaits us. With hearts full of anticipation, we invite you to join us for a transformative week of reflection, prayer, and worship at ECLC. 

Palm Sunday worship on March 24 at 8:50am (with livestream) and 10:50am on the front steps. Note early start! 

Journey to the Cross Join us on Wednesday, March 27 for a new intergenerational Holy Week event. We will journey to the cross together through interactive stations and activities while hearing of Jesus' final days before his death. This is a drop-in event - please come anytime between 5:30-6:30pm to ensure enough time to get through each station. Light refreshments will be served!

Maundy Thursday worship on Thursday, March 28 at 7pm (with livestream) includes the ritual foot washing and Holy Communion. As Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, so are we called to give and receive love in humble service to one another. 

On Good Friday worship on Friday, March 29 at 7pm (with livestream), we will lament the pains of this world. As we stand with the disciples at the foot of the cross, we will pray for the whole world with an ancient bidding prayer, as Christ’s death offers life for all.  
 
The Easter Vigil on Saturday, March 30 at 6pm (with livestream) reenacts the ancient stories of God’s saving power and we rejoice in the gift of baptism.  
 
On Easter Sunday on March 31, we discover once again the joy of proclaiming “Alleluia!" with worship services at 8:00, 9:30 (with livestream) and 11:00 am.

ECLC is busy advocating at the Capitol…and at home! 

March 13, 2024

Lutherans believe that loving our neighbor includes advocacy for just systems and government policies. This legislative session, ECLCers have been busy advocating! See what we’ve been up to with our Mission & Ministry Partners—and how to quickly and effectively engage your faith through advocacy from home.

IMMIGRATION: ECLC is a supporting congregation of the North Star Alliance, seeking just immigration policies. ECLCers joined Interfaith Coalition on Immigration and our siblings from St. Paul’s-San Pablo Lutheran for a rally. 

PRE-TRIAL SYSTEM: ECLC’s Pre-Trial Fairness Team joined Minnesota Freedom Fund to advocate for clearer and more just pre-trial judicial practices, including the end of cash bail. 

ECO-JUSTICE & INDIGENOUS RIGHTS: ECLCers attended the Rise & Repair rally co-organized by Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light and Indigenous leaders to discuss e-waste recycling, climate justice curriculum in schools, land transfer, and more.  

HOUSING:  ECLCers joined Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative for two housing lobby days.  Contact your legislator to pass $500 million in Housing Infrastructure Bonds, reform zoning, and pass the Family Supportive Housing bill. 

Not everyone can make it to the Capitol during the week. Find your legislators’ contact information here and write or call from home about the issues that matter to you and your faith. And, join ECLCers and Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative at ECLC on the evening of Wednesday, April 3rd for an advocacy conversation about housing with Representative Heather Edelson from Edina. All are invited.  

For questions about advocacy opportunities, contact Deacon Lauren.

Lenten Labyrinth: Embark on a Spiritual Journey!

March 6, 2024

We welcome Shari Speer to ECLC on Sunday, March 10 for our Community Enrichment in fellowship hall. Shari Speer is currently professor of voice at St. Olaf College. As a project during the pandemic, she designed, constructed, and painted a 36-foot canvas Labyrinth for the chapel space at Concordia University Saint Paul. Shari will share background on the meaning of a labyrinth, the process she used, and prepare us to walk this sacred path. The Labyrinth provides an opportunity for self-reflection, prayer, and centering. We will have the beautiful labyrinth filling much of our sanctuary with opportunities for members to experience its spiritual impact, March 10-14. Instructions will be available, as well as resources for meditation and clean stockings to wear. The labyrinth is on loan to ECLC; please do not walk on the labyrinth in street shoes or step on it unless walking in meditation. Please contact the church office if you are interested in walking the labyrinth.