TABLE OF CONTENTS - NJ WELCA · Web viewWomen of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America As a...

New Jersey Women of the ELCA25th Annual Convention

Friday- Saturday, September 21-22, 2012 **St. Matthew Lutheran Church

318 Chester Ave. Moorestown, NJ 08057

“We Walk By Faith” 2 Cor. 5:7

(**Business meeting: Friday, Sept 21; Gathering: Saturday, Sept. 22)

WELCOME!

We are glad you chose to be with us!

Goals of the Convention:1. To conduct the business of the New Jersey Women of the ELCA2. To provide education and information to nourish and support Christians in

need.3. To act boldly in prayer to receive God’s Grace.

Convention Business meeting Registration: Friday 5:00 pm – 6:00 pmDelegates will receive nametags and ballots. Delegates, please bring

the Bulletin of Reports (BOR) that was mailed to you ahead of time. Please note that only delegates wearing nametags and seated in the Delegate Section will be allowed to vote.

Visitors will receive nametags. Please remember to bring your Bulletin of Reports if you had one mailed to you.

Designated Gift and Congregational OfferingPlease use the envelopes marked “Designated Gift” and “Congregational Offering” for these

offerings. Please list your congregation name and city on the envelope.

Please Bring:1. Your copy of the BOR2. New, wrapped bars of SOAP for Lutheran World Relief.

Please do not bring any kits to the convention .

3. In-kind gift: Non-perishable food items for St. Matthew Food Pantry. 4. 2 dozen small, homemade cookies for the Seafarers International Cookie Tin Service

project.

5. A teenager to experience the Women of the ELCA.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Purpose and Mission Statements

Credentials and Election Summary

Friday, Sept. 21 - Business Meeting Schedule Saturday, Sept. 22 - Gathering Schedule Saturday, Sept. 22 – Young Women’s Gathering Schedule

Workshops Descriptions Young Women of the ELCA Programming ScheduleService Project

Convention Committees NJ WELCA Board Members

Minutes of the 2011 Convention

Bishop Jensen Endowment Fund Bishop Jensen Endowment Fund Grant Application

President’s Report

Report of the Treasurer 24th Annual Convention Financial StatementBalance SheetIncome and Expense Statement

Greetings from Northwestern Minnesota SWO President, Lois Bylund

Report on the 2012 Anti-Racism TDTR (Today's Dream: Tomorrow's Reality) Training Poem by Pam Robb

Report of the Nominating Committee – Board Positions

Biographies

Purpose Statementof the

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Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy

Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and

action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world.

Mission StatementTo mobilize women to act boldly in their faith in Jesus

Christ.

WHAT DOES THE LOGO MEAN?The logo—with the cross, water and a white lily—identifies women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as children of God; baptized, forgiven, adopted into God's family, full of grace and hope in eternal life. It is a reminder of the growth, beauty, and vitality that rises out of that life-giving baptismal water. It is also a reminder of the mission of the church to "Go, therefore, make disciples of all nations; baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).

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Credentials Summary

Attending the 2012 NJ Women of the ELCA Convention

Friday Saturday Total

Delegates

Visitors

Guests

Officers & Board Members

Workshop Leaders

Display Reps

Others

Total Attending

Offerings

Designated Gifts $ $ $

CongregationalOffering $ $ $

Personal $ $ $

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Total Offerings $ $ $

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*** Note ***

Delegates will need the Handbook of

“Rules of Procedure & Parliamentary Procedure” for the Business meeting.

Please return the Handbook at the end of meeting.

Thank you!

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Friday- Saturday, September 21- 22, 2012 **St. Matthew Lutheran Church




Election Summary - Votes

Nominees for Treasurer – 2 year term

Number voting -

First Ballot

Number voting – Second Ballot

1. Mary Hoh - 2 year term2.

Nominees for Board Members1. Peggy Klophaus - 2 year term 2. Pam Robb - 2 year term

Nominees for Youth Board Member

1 Year term1.2.

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Friday - Business Meeting 5:00 – 6:00 PM Registration- Narthex6:00 PM Greetings from Bishop Riley and Dinner in upstairs hall6:45 PM Orientation for Delegates - Linda Holscher – Sanctuary7:00 PM Gathering Hymn, Opening Devotions with Rev. Wengert

All Offerings and In-Kind gifts will be received at this time 7:15 PM Official Opening of Convention

Business Meeting Introductions and AnnouncementsAdoption of Rules of ProcedureAdoption of AgendaAppointment of the ParliamentarianAppointment of Convention CommitteesApproval of Minutes of the 2011 Annual ConventionReport of Credentials CommitteeReport of Nominating CommitteeConduct of Elections:

First Ballot for TreasurerFirst Ballot for Board Members

Report of PresidentReport of Vice PresidentCommittee on Reference and Counsel

Reading of ResolutionsVoting on ResolutionsConduct of Elections – results of first ballot

Report of Nominating Committee if neededSecond Ballot if neededReport of the Offerings CommitteeReport of the TreasurerPresentation of 2013 Budget

Old BusinessNew Business: Annual Convention 2013

Conduct of Elections if necessary9:00 PM Closing devotions

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Saturday - Gathering Schedule8:00 AM– 9:00 AM Registration9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Gathering Hymn

WelcomeOpening Devotions lead by Rev. Wengert All Offerings & In-kind gifts will be received at this time Greetings from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, CrossRoads Camp and Retreat Center, Church Women United, Gale James, NorthEast Penn. SWO. Business Meeting Highlights and Voting Results

10:00 AM – 10:30 AM Greetings from Churchwide Rep., Jenny Michael, President of the Women of the ELCA

10:30 AM Announcements

10:45 AM - 11:45AM Workshops Session 1

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM Lunch in upstairs hall - reserved table for choir

12:45 PM - 1:30 PM Credentials reportReport on Offerings Skit by the Young Women of the ELCA Keynote Skit – Brenda Linton

1:45 PM – 2:45 PM Workshops Session 2

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Worship, Word & SacramentInstallation of Board membersOfficial Closing of Convention

4:30 PM Brief board meeting – Current and newly elected board members

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Young Women of the ELCA – Friday – Saturday Schedule

Friday 5:00 PM – 6PM Registration6:45 PM – 9 PM Movie – “The Help” alternative to Business Meeting

Saturday 8:00AM – 9:00AM Cocoa and donuts & ice breakers – Room 203 9:00AM – 10:00AM Yoga – Rooms 112/11310:00AM - 10:30AM Craft – Rooms 109/108/107 10:45AM - 11:45AM Service Projects

Help with Food drive – Rooms 108/105 Seafarers International Cookie Tin Project – Rooms 110/111

12:00PM - 12:45PM Lunch in upstairs hall (reserved table for choir)

12:45PM - 1:30PM Skits in fellowship hall:YW/ELCA skit

Keynote skit

1:45PM – 2:45PM Bible Study – Rooms 109/108/107

3:00PM – 4:00PM Worship, Word & Sacrament (assist with service – ushers, etc…) YW/ELCA chat with Jenny - Sanctuary

4:00PM – 4:30PM YW/ELCA Closing – Room 115 (lounge)

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Young Women of the ELCA

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WORKSHOPS - SESSION 1 Saturday 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM

A Path of Stillness – Labyrinth Walking Workshop Leader: Rev. Wendy Abrahamson, Good Shepherd, Florham Park

Walking a labyrinth is a prayer form symbolizing our walk with God and our walk toward God. This workshop will explore briefly the history of labyrinth walking, the movement of labyrinth walking and allow participants time in or with a labyrinth, as a walking path will be available as well as finger labyrinthsRev. Wendy Abrahamson serves Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Florham Park. She holds a certificate in Spiritual Direction. She conducts workshops and retreats on various topics related to our faith journeys. Rev. Abrahamson is a past president of NJ Synodical Women's Organization.

Walking Through Life with Faith-Colored Glasses Workshop Leader: Rev. Sue ones, Lord of Life, Tabernacle

How does walking by faith and not by sight change the way we respond to the world around us? Does it alter our world view for better or for worse... or maybe both? Join me and your fellow walkers in taking a closer look at what Paul was talking about in 2 Corinthians 5:7 and how this passage is still relevant in today's world.

Rev. Sue Jones currently serves as Associate Pastor at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Tabernacle, New Jersey. This large and active congregation keeps both pastors very busy with the diversity of its people and ministries. Pastor Sue is particularly involved in directing the congregation's 25th anniversary visioning effort, redeveloping a strong Mutual Ministry team, working on creative learning opportunities for groups of all ages, and strengthening external partnerships. Pastor Sue is also serving on the New Jersey Synod Council.

Choir at Lunch Workshop Leader: Jaye Newbold, MDivThis special workshop time will help us prepare for the closing worship service, the liturgy and any special music that will further enhance the theme of the convention. Jaye S. Newbold is a Candidate for Ordained Ministry, awaiting a call. She has been approved for ordination. Jaye graduated in May from the Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem PA. with a Master of Divinity. Her seminary training included an academic year at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. She served her internship at Redeemer Lutheran in Succasunna, NJ. Jaye has also served as an Associate in Ministry, in the area of Worship & Music where she served at St. Luke’s, Washington, Calvary, Cranford and Grace, Phillipsburg as Director of Music. She has served at the Synod level as chair of the Worship Committee for CCM and as Musician for the Synod Assembly.

WORKSHOPS - SESSION 1 continued on next page

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WORKSHOPS - SESSION 1 (continued) Saturday 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM

Defined By Faith: A Musical Journey Workshop Leaders: Tara Zigler and the band, Defined By Faith

Join members of the New Jersey Synod Youth Ministry band, Defined By Faith (DBF), as they share their faith stories and experiences as young leaders in the church. DBF will also lead a sing-a-long and explore the relationships and interpretations of messages in contemporary Christian music. The youth will lead; here is a short bio on them:It all began when senior high youth were invited to play with Larry Olsen at Among the Wolves and Winter Youth Assembly. As the interest began to grow, Jason Reed formed the Synod Youth Band 9214. The band began leading the music at synod, church and outreach events. In September 2011 a new band name emerged, "Defined by Faith". The name comes from the Dakota Road song, "Child of the Water". As children of God, we are defined by our faith, not by what others may think of us.

Members: Kendall Bauer, Catherine Borna, Rosie Driscoll, Dawan Fulton, Alyssa Gautieri, Bridget Gautieri, Emily Grossi, Scott Howard, Brian Levin, Christopher Lucas, Catherine Lucas, Marisa Malwitz, Melissa Manfredi, Lauren Platt, Nicole Seitz, Jonathan Sterling, Alex Sullivan, Madison Van Houten, Marina Weisman.

Understanding God's Gift of Diversity Workshop Leaders: Pam Robb and Linda Holscher, Christus, Camden

As children of God we are blessed and enriched with ethnic, racial, and cultural differences. The NJ Women of the ELCA are committed to learn and share how to appreciate these differences while enjoying each other’s thoughts, beliefs and traditions.This workshop will explore perceptions, beliefs, experiences, understanding and healing.We invite you to take the journey to walk in someone else's shoes. Travel down the road of compassion and forgiveness to love one another while understanding God's Gift of Diversity.

Pam and Linda have teamed up to do Anti-Racism training workshops for NJ Women of the ELCA. They make the Anti-Racism workshops informative and full of compassion.

Pam Robb is a deacon at Christus, Camden. She has completed the Women of the ELCA TDTR (Today’s Dream, Tomorrow’s Reality) anti-racism training. A veteran of the U.S. Army, while stationed in the military she completed Human Relations training. Pamela served as one of the Commissioners for Human Relations and the Veterans Advisory for the City of Camden, NJ. Pamela has been the recipient of many awards but the ones she cherishes the most are the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal, the 2011 NJ Volunteer Recognition Award during Hurricane Irene, and the Red Cross Volunteer Support for Disaster Relief Efforts in the Aftermath of 9/11/01 Tragedy Award.

Linda Holscher has served as president, vice president, secretary and board member of the NJ Women of the ELCA. She has also served on the Anti-Racism team for the NJ Women of the ELCA. Linda has attended several Triennial Conventions of the Women of the ELCA and has served as delegate at several. She is a deacon at Christus, Camden and she teaches World History and World Geography at Christus Academy. Linda has served in her community as secretary for the Thrivent Financial for Lutherans board for the Camden County Chapter and secretary for the board of Christus Academy. She has also volunteered at New Vision Community Service of Camden—a homeless drop-in center.

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WORKSHOPS - SESSION 2 Saturday 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM

W/ELCA Book Club The Help by Kathryn Stockett Workshop Leaders: Linda Walker, AIM, Pam Robb and Linda Holscher, Christus, Camden

This book is set in 1962 in Jackson, Mississippi when Southern living was on the brink of change. The story revolves around the two very different worlds of Skeeter, a young woman recently graduated from Ole Miss who hopes to become a journalist, and Abileen, a black maid working in an upper middle class white home being a housekeeper and caring for the children. Their worlds intersect when Skeeter decided to write a book about the real lives of ‘The Help’ and society’s expectations of white suburban women. Come and join the discussion of how a person’s character is shaped and challenged by the times in which they live.

Linda Walker, an Associate in Ministry, recently retired from her position at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Somerville, New Jersey, where she served as the Director of Adult and Family Ministries. She is chair of the NJ Synod Discipling Team and has led workshops at many congregations in NJ and at the Conference on Congregational Ministries. She is a graduate of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia and is a member of the Alumni Board. Linda has traveled extensively around the world, including four mission trips to Namibia.

Pam Robb’s and Linda Holscher’s bios can be found on page 11

Spiritual Courage: Women of the ELCA and Your Journey of Faith Workshop Leader: Jenny Michael, President of the Women of

ELCADo you feel troubled by our world’s relentless pursuit of top performance and perfection? Perfection in our jobs, homes, churches? Today, as women, we are under constant pressure to achieve, to have it “all together”. But when you are running so fast to keep up with the frenetic pace of life, where does that leave your spirit? Do you find yourself weary of this constant pursuit? Do you hunger for a deeper spiritual life? In this workshop we will look at ways to begin a journey of spiritual courage...a path of personal excellence. Christian life is a process (not a frustration) of perfection that we can never live up to. Join us to discover ways that Women of the ELCA can help you tap into the courage and passion within each of us to do what is needed to spiritually lead each and every day...to become a woman of excellence!

Jenny’s bio can be found at the end of the Bulletin of Reports.

WORKSHOPS - SESSION 2 continued on next page14

WORKSHOPS - SESSION 2 (continued) Saturday 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM

Take a Breath Workshop Leader: Debbie Crawford, NJ SynodThis workshop does not require any physical capabilities. We will learn how to GENTLY stretch the body so that we can RELAX our physical body - quiet our busy mind – and get in touch with our inner spirit. You will learn how to use your breath to control many aspects of your life. This workshop can be done either in a chair or on the floor. (Please bring a towel or a mat, if you wish to be on the floor.)

Debbie Crawford of Grace Lutheran in Freehold Borough has been a certified Shivananda Yoga instructor for five years, and has practiced yoga for over 40 years. In addition to doing youth ministry at the NJ Synod office, she teaches yoga every week at her church and at the Freehold Yoga Center. Debbie is a breast cancer survivor who, after battling the disease, was determined to share all the benefits of yoga healing with others. She has also become certified in Meditation and finds many positive benefits from making that a part of her daily life.

Real Money Talk for Women Workshop Leader: Ellen K. Torres, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

Women face unique issues that can stand in their way of financial security. This interactive, educational workshop provides women with need-to-know information and steps to: Reduce their worries by understanding the facts that apply to women; overcome obstacles that get in the way of managing their finances; apply five keys that can help them reach their financial goals. According to recent studies:

Women account for more than 40% of all Americans with gross investable assets above $600,000 and 48% of the country's millionaires. (Oppenheimer's 2006 study Women and Investing).

Women are more interested in receiving professional financial advice than men are. (2008 study by Allianz)

Among the total population, 95% of women are involved in financial decision-making in their households and

One-fourth are the primary decision-makers. (Financial Experience & Behaviors Among Women, 2010-2011 Prudential Research Study)

Ellen Torres lives in Parlin and works for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans as a representative serving New York and New Jersey. She looks forward to meeting many of you at conventions.

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Young Women of the ELCA Programming

A separate and complete day for the young women in our lives and in our congregations.

Cocoa and snacks - time to meet and greetYoga - Get in Touch with our inner spiritCrafts - Make a bandanna and a hatServant Projects - Help with Food Drive & Seafarers International Cookie Tin ProjectChoir/Lunch - Sing and have funSkit - A Walk in FaithBible Study - A Walk in FaithChat with Jenny – a personal talk with the Women of the ELCA Churchwide

President, Jenny MichaelWorship - the young women will assist in the serviceClosing - a special closing for our young ladies

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Personal Prayer and Devotional Time

Everyone needs quiet time with the Lord. The prayer space and Labyrinth will be available all day. Rest, relax and refresh your spirit.

Service ProjectSeafarers International – Cookie Tin ProjectCome help fill cookie tins with home baked cookies that were brought to the convention by participants. The tins will be delivered by the Seafarer’s International to merchant ships in port. Each tin will have at least 25 small cookies placed in them.

***NOTE*** Congregations are encouraged to bake cookies for the Seafarer’s. If you or someone you know will not be attending the convention but would like to donate homemade cookies for the project, please plan to give them to your delegate to bring or contact one of the WELCA board members.

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WELCA 25 th Annual Convention Planning Committee

President – Wanda Nebiolo 50 Piazza Tasso B, Freehold, NJ 07728732-462-7545 (w) 732-625-0409 (h) 732-267-1508 (c)

Nominations – Nancy MacMaster 1160 Harker Avenue, West Deptford, NJ 08096-1173856-848-5610

Chaplain - Rev. Ingrid Wengert St. Matthew, Moorestown, NJ 08057 856-235-2055 [email protected]

Parliamentarian - Linda Holscher 1840 Frontage Road #303, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 856-858-1512

Convention Chairperson – Lynn Wirth11 Banor Drive Hillsborough, NJ 08844 908-904-9502 (h) 908-672-3288 (c)

Registrar - Mary Hoh111 Voelbel Road, Hightstown, NJ 08520609-301-7552(h) 609-689-2392(w) 609-532-2638(c)

Bulletin of Reports (BOR) - Charlene Rollins244 Brook Ave, North Plainfield, NJ 07060908-754-1514 (h) 908-698-1454 (c)

Resolutions – Amy Palazzolo 10 High Street, Wharton, NJ 07885973-442-8039 (h) 862-324-3989 (c)

Designated Gift Coordinator – Lynn Wirth11 Banor Drive Hillsborough, NJ 08844 908-904-9502 (h) 908-672-3288 (c)

Scholarships - Linda Holscher 1840 Frontage Road #303Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 856-858-1512

Display Tables – Pam RobbNorthgate II 500 N. 7th St., Apt #1306, Camden, NJ 08102856-729-5438 (c)

Site Chairperson – Lynn Wirth 11 Banor Drive Hillsborough, NJ 08844 908-904-9502 (h) 908-672-3288 (c)

In-Kind Gift Coordinator – Amy Palazzolo 10 High Street, Wharton, NJ 07885973-442-8039 (h) 862-324-3989 (c)

Workshops – Amy Palazzolo 10 High Street, Wharton, NJ 07885973-442-8039 (h) 862-324-3989 (c)

Music & Worship – Jaye Newbold1 Anthony Rd, Port Murray NJ 07865 [email protected]

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mailto:[email protected]

New Jersey Women of the ELCA Board Members 2011-2012

President 2013

Wanda M. Nebiolo50 Piazza Tasso BFreehold, NJ 07728

732-462-7545 (w)732-625-0409 (h) 732-267-1508 (c)

HopeFreehold

[email protected] note: the ‘L’ in Freehold is a numeric “one” [email protected]

Vice President2013

Lynn Wirth 11 Banor DriveHillsborough, NJ 08844

908-904-9502 (h)908-672-3288(c)[email protected]

Good ShepherdSomerville

Treasurer2012

Nancy MacMaster1160 Harker AvenueWest Deptford, NJ 08096-1173

856-848-5610(h) [email protected]

St. Stephen’sWoodbury

Secretary2013

Charlene Rollins 244 Brook AvenueNorth Plainfield, NJ 07060

908-754-1514 (h) 908-698-1454 (c) [email protected]

TrinityDover

Board Members 2013 Mary J. Hoh

111 Voelbel RoadHightstown, NJ 08520

609-301-7552(h)609-689-2392(w)609-532-2638(c)[email protected]@mercadien.com

St. MarkHamilton

2012 Peggy Klophaus 311 Farview Avenue Paramus, NJ 07652

201-225-1743(h)201-394-2683(c)[email protected]

ChristParamus

2013 Amy Palazzolo10 High StreetWharton, NJ 07885

973-442-8039 (h)862-324-3989 (c)[email protected]

RedeemerSuccasunna

2012 Pam RobbNorthgate II500 N. 7th StApt# 1306Camden, NJ 08102

856-729-5438 (c) [email protected]

Christus Camden

2013 Ruth E. Ruediger 22 Hamilton Road Annandale, NJ 08801

908-638-6661 [email protected].

Spruce RunGlen Gardner

2012 Board Member >>>> VACANT <<<< 2012 Board Member >>>> VACANT <<<< 2012 Board Member >>>> VACANT <<<< 2012 Youth Board Member >>>> VACANT <<<<

NJ WELCA Circular - Peggy Klophaus, 311 Farview Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652 201-225-1743(h) 201-394-2683(c) [email protected]: www.njwelca.org Emails can be sent to [email protected] 8/2012

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Minutes of the New Jersey Women of the ELCA 24th Annual Convention - Sept. 23rd – 24th, 2011

Friday, September 23, 2011The New Jersey Women of the ELCA 24th annual convention began with a gathering hymn, “Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven”, ELW Hymn 865. Diane Guarini, Board President, Holy Trinity, Manasquan welcomed those in attendance and Linda Walker, AIM, Good Shepherd, Somerville, led the opening devotions. People were invited to place their In-kind gifts, LWR health and school kits at the base of the altar. Afterwards, the offerings were collected. Diane opened the business meeting. She noted that a new format was being used for this year’s convention. The business will be conducted on Friday and the gathering will be on Saturday. The board had decided to try this new format based upon the comments on the evaluations of the past few conventions. Diane then introduced Bishop Roy E. Riley of the New Jersey Synod, ELCA.Bishop Riley greeted those in attendance, and commented that he was thrilled to see that Katrina Klettke-Straker of LIRS was one of the speakers slated for Saturday morning. Katrina’s father Rev. Straker, LCMS, and Bishop Riley are colleagues who go way back. The Bishop went on to say that he was sorry that he would be missing her talk, but that he would be at an LIRS event Saturday morning. This event is the first of LIRS’s Conversations, an effort to bring together people who are passionate about creating welcoming communities. The event will include people who have recently immigrated and the opportunity to hear their stories.Bishop Riley then shared that he had brought cookies for the Seafarers International cookie tin project, health kits for LWR and socks and underwear for the Faith Kitchen guests of Trinity Lutheran, Dover. (Faith Kitchen is a soup kitchen that is run out of Trinity, Dover. Besides meals, socks and other items are distributed as they become available.) The Bishop went on to say “Thank you to each of you as you continue to serve the gospel in each of your communities. The last 10 years has been difficult and still this church (ELCA) continues to serve the gospel in incredible ways.”Bishop Riley ended his talk by encouraging those in attendance to keep building up the church in their home places. Diane thanked Bishop Riley for speaking. The Rules of Procedure were presented. Ann Carlsen, Rockaway, Holy Trinity, made a motion to adopt the Rules of Procedure. Pat Root, Good Shepherd, Florham Park, seconded the motion.The motion was passed unanimously.The Agenda was introduced.Mary Hoh, St. Marks, Hamilton made a motion to adopt the agenda. Sandra Alexandra, Good Shepherd, Somerville seconded the motion. The motion was passed unanimously.

Diane then appointed Linda Holscher, Christus, Camden, as parliamentarian and appointed the convention committees. She also expressed her sincere thanks to convention site coordinators Lynn Wirth, Good Shepherd, Somerville, and Linda Walker, AIM, Good Shepherd, Somerville, for all of their help with making the arrangements to have the convention at Good Shepherd.

The minutes of the 2010 Convention were reviewed. Amy Palazzolo, Redeemer, Succasunna, made a motion to approve the minutes of the 2010 Convention.

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Barbara Tillson, Holy Trinity, Manasquan, seconded the motion.The motion was passed unanimously.Nancy MacMaster, Registrar, St. Stephen, Woodbury, read the report of the Credentials Committee. 17 Delegates 3 Visitors 8 Board members 2 GuestsPeggy Klophaus, Nominations Chair, Christ, Paramus, read the report of the nominations committee.Nomination received for President: Wanda Nebiolo, Hope, Freehold.Peggy then opened the floor for any additional nominations for President.Seeing none, Peggy closed the nominations for President.

Nomination received for Vice-President: Lynn Wirth, Good Shepherd, Somerville.Peggy then opened the floor for any additional nominations for Vice-President.Seeing none, Peggy closed the nominations for Vice-President.

Nomination received for Secretary: Charlene Rollins, Trinity, Dover.Peggy then opened the floor for any additional nominations for Secretary.Seeing none, Peggy closed the nominations for Secretary.

Nominations received for the board: Mary Hoh, St. Marks, Hamilton Amy Palazzolo, Redeemer, Succasunna Denise Williams-Reid, Trinity, Jersey City Ruth Ruediger, Spruce Run, Glen Gardner

Peggy then opened the floor for any additional nominations for the board. Noting that there were still open positions on the board, Diane encouraged additional nominations--even if only for a one year term. “A one year term”, she said, “would be a great time to ‘get your feet wet’ in learning, experiencing what it is like to be a board member.” Seeing that there were no additional nominations from the floor, Peggy closed the nominations for the board. Ballots for the slate, as presented, were handed out to the delegates. The delegates cast their votes and the ballots were then collected and counted.

Diane gave her President’s report. She said, “As you can see, our convention theme this year is ‘Abound in Hope’. One of our biggest accomplishments was having a teen, Ariel Reid, attend the Women of the ELCA 2011 Triennial as a delegate. Ariel also served as the chair of the Triennial credentials committee. Many of the women at the Triennial came up to Ariel to congratulate her. I was very proud of her. “ Amy Palazzolo, Redeemer, Succasunna, added that Barbara Hemelski, First Lutheran, Montclair, had entered a quilt in the Triennial quilt competition. The quilt is on display in the narthex.

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Diane continued with her report by saying that, besides the Triennial, there had been a lot of work to do in holding the annual Thankoffering service. Diane said we were very fortunate to have a guest speaker from Mercy Center, Asbury Park, at the service.Diane ended her report by asking if there were any questions. Someone asked what ‘Mercy Center’ was. Diane explained that it is an organization that supports young girls in education as well as serving the Asbury Park community with everyday needs. Mercy Center was the recipient of the in-kind gifts from the Thankoffering service.Diane then introduced Phyllis Rude, Women of the ELCA Churchwide representative.Phyllis brought greetings from the Churchwide board President, Jenny Michael. She described Jenny as a person having plenty of “vim, vigor and vitality”. Phyllis also brought greetings from the Churchwide staff in Chicago, the rest of the board members from across the country, and all the women from across the United States and around the world. Referencing the convention theme, ‘Abound in Hope’, Phyllis commented that may we always be filled with hope. Phyllis encouraged those in attendance to read the September issue of ‘Interchange’, the monthly publication of the Women of the ELCA. She noted that the publication is also available on the Women of the ELCA website. Phyllis went on to say that our offerings to Churchwide made grants possible for:

Women getting out of prostitution programs addressing domestic violence, commercial sexual exploitation, and human trafficking,

Raising up healthy women and girls initiativeShe then displayed a few of the resource publications available from Churchwide. She also mentioned that there are ‘tons of resources’ available on the Women of the ELCA website (www.womenoftheelca.org) that can be downloaded to your computer.Phyllis noted that New Jersey didn’t receive any of the grants this year. She encouraged people to apply for the grants, “Because grant money is available “, she said. During her talk, Phyllis informed us that ‘Lutheran Woman Today’ has been renamed ‘Gather’. Phyllis thanked the NJ SWO for sending 60% of the unit offerings to Churchwide and for the half of this convention offering that will also be sent to Chicago. She said, “In January 2010, seven people were laid off from the Churchwide staff. Your offerings go towards the support of the staff of 12. At this year’s Triennial, there was a first reading of a proposal to reduce the number of people on the Churchwide board. This will affect who comes to conventions as Churchwide representatives.”Phyllis went on to say, “How can you help? Ask yourself, if you, yourself, can increase your offerings in your own unit. I have done that myself. I had been giving the same amount for years, and didn’t pay attention to the rising costs of living. Think about it.”Phyllis also said that the Thankoffering service doesn’t have to be held just once a year. Having it on Mother’s day is a great way to thank all of the women. Or, she suggested, have it another time of the year, besides November, such as July. Place an envelope in a congregation newsletter so that all people can participate in giving. Doing so can double an offering.Phyllis spoke about other Women of the ELCA resources that are available:Café – is the Women of the ELCA’s online magazine. Phyllis said, “For you tech savvy folk, you can download to your IPod as well. There are some women’s groups that use Café as their bible study resource and they actually meet in a café. “

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Page turners – one of Churchwide’s most recent resources to become available. This resource can help you build a book club (or take an existing book club to the next level) that suits your style.Phyllis then asked those in attendance, “How many of you were invited to attend your first W/ELCA meeting?” After a number of people raised their hands, Phyllis shared that not only was she invited to her first meeting, but she was provided a ride to and from the meeting as well. She said, “My challenge to you is ask yourself who in your congregation or neighborhood might be fun to have in this organization? People would be more inclined to attend if they felt they were wanted, needed and had a friend at the meeting. It’s a challenge I know“. Phyllis continued by saying, “My daughter went to her first Triennial in St Louis. Talk to your young people. Twist their arms if you have to. If you see me in the halls during this convention ask me questions about mentoring with Girl scouts.” Phyllis ended her talk by asking if there were any questions. Someone asked where the next Triennial was going to be held. Phyllis responded, Charlotte, North Carolina, 2014. Diane thanked Phyllis for speaking.

Wanda Nebiolo, Hope, Freehold, Reference and Counsel Committee, introduced the resolutions segment of the meeting. Odessa Lemley, board member, St. Stephen, South Plainfield, read Resolution 2011-1: Resolution to Thank Churchwide staff and Board for their Support of Triennial Delegate, Ariel Reid. Diana Bensel, St. Stephen’s, Woodbury, made a motion to accept Resolution 2011-1. Edith Lodge, Christ, Paramus, seconded the motion. Discussion of the resolution took place. Barbara Tillson, Holy Trinity, Manasquan, made a motion to amend the motion by adding “, a 17 year old”, after “Ariel Reid” in the first whereas statement of Resolution 2011-1.Sandra Alexandra, Good Shepherd, Somerville seconded the motion to amend.Motion to amend the motion was passed unanimously.Motion to accept the amended Resolution 2011-1 was passed unanimously.

Odessa read Resolution 2011-2: Resolution on Human Trafficking. Barbara Devlin, St. Paul, Beachwood made a motion to accept Resolution 2011-2.The motion was seconded by Mary Grant, St John, Ocean City.Discussion of the resolution followed. Someone asked why the resolved statements were in bold type. Charlene, board secretary, Trinity, Dover, explained that using bold type, for the resolve statements, had been unintentional and did not imply any special meaning. She explained that the resolutions had been discussed and revised earlier that day and that in the rush to print them, the overuse of the bold type had not been noticed. Some of the questions that were asked were, “How do we accomplish this?”, “How can we make a difference?”Linda Walker, AIM, Good Shepherd, Somerville, responded by saying, that people could write to their TV news shows. She also suggested going to the websites of the TV shows and writing your comments there.Beverly Kruk, board member, Good Shepherd, Florham Park, shared that she had heard someone speak on the subject and that there were many resources available. Further discussion took place of whether to add an ‘and’ after the word children.

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Barbara Hemelski, First, Montclair made a motion to amend the motion to add the word “and”. Mary Hoh, St. Mark, Hamilton, seconded the motion.By a show of hands, the motion to amend was not passed. The motion to accept Resolution 2011-2, as written, was passed unanimously.

Odessa read Resolution 2011-3: Resolution to Support the ELCA Malaria Campaign.Barbara Devlin, St. Paul, Beachwood made a motion to accept resolution 2011-3. Pam Robb, board member, Christus, Camden, seconded the motion.Discussion of the resolution followed. The following grammatical errors were noted and asked to be corrected:

remove the comma after the first use of ‘ELCA’ in the whereas clause. remove extraneous words “can make help” correct “it’s” to “its”

The motion to accept Resolution 2011-3, with the grammatical corrections, was passed unanimously.

Odessa read Resolution 2011-4: Resolution to Encourage Anti-Racism Awareness. Edith Lodge, Christ, Paramus, made a motion to accept Resolution 2011-4. Mary Hoh, St. Mark, Hamilton, seconded the motion.The motion to accept Resolution 2011-4 was passed unanimously.Diane shared about her experience of having gone through the resolutions at the Triennial. She said, “This may seem like a lot of work, but at the Triennial we went through at least 15 resolutions. It was a very tedious process, but you learned a lot about the issue during the discussions.”

Odessa read Resolution 2011-5: The 1000 Days Initiative. Barbara Devlin, St. Paul, Beachwood made a motion to accept resolution 2011-5. Lynn Wirth, board member, Good Shepherd, Somerville, seconded the motion.Discussion of the resolution followed. It was suggested that ‘New Jersey’ be inserted before ‘the Women of the ELCA’ in each of the resolve statements. The second resolve statement was discussed. Questions were raised about who would provide the ‘programmatic resources and education…. ‘. Would the New Jersey Women of the ELCA provide resources? It was decided that the intent was for the NJ SWO to support the initiative, but not provide the programmatic resources that are going to be provided by Churchwide.Charlene Rollins, board secretary, made a motion to amend the motion to remove the second resolve statement and to add ‘New Jersey’ before the Women of the ELCA in the resolve statements.Lynn Wirth, board member, Good Shepherd, Somerville, seconded the motion to amend the motion.Motion to amend the motion was passed unanimously.The motion to accept Resolution 2011-5, as amended, was passed unanimously.

Odessa read Resolution 2011-6: Courtesy Resolution Barbara Hemelski, First, Montclair, made a motion to accept Resolution 2011-6. Beverly Kruk, board member, Good Shepherd, Florham Park, seconded the motion. Discussion that followed included noting the following corrections:

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removal of ‘Triennial’ from the first whereas clause changing the last whereas clause to read ‘…and the workshop leaders for inspiring us….’

Charlene Rollins, board secretary, Trinity, Dover, made a motion to amend the motion to include the corrections to the whereas clauses.Pam Robb, board member, Christus, Camden, seconded the motion.Motion to amend the motion was passed unanimously.The motion to accept Resolution 2011-6, as amended, was passed unanimously. Those present applauded and said a loud Alleluia, in accordance with the resolution.

Peggy Klophaus, Nominations Chair, Christ, Paramus, gave the Conduct of Elections report. She reported that there were 23 ballots cast for officers. All 23 ballots were valid.

Ballots cast for President: Wanda Nebiolo – 23 votes Ballots cast for Vice-President: Lynn Wirth 23 votes Ballots cast for Secretary: Charlene Rollins – 23 votes

Diane stated, “As president of the 2011, 24th annual New Jersey Women of the ELCA convention, I declare that:”

Wanda Nebiolo is the President-elect with 23 votes Lynn Wirth is the Vice-President-elect with 23 votes Charlene Rollins is the board secretary-elect with 23 votes.

Peggy continued with the Conduct of Elections report. She said there were 23 ballots cast for board members. All 23 ballots were valid. Ballots cast for board members – Two Year Term:

Mary Hoh – 23 votes Amy Palazzolo – 22 votes Ruth Ruediger – 23 votes

Ballots cast for board members – One Year Term: Denise Williams-Reid – 19 votes

Diane stated, “As president of the 2011, 24th annual New Jersey Women of the ELCA convention, I declare that:”

Mary Hoh is a board member-elect – Two Year term, with 23 votes Amy Palazzolo is a board member-elect – Two Year term, with 22 votes Ruth Ruediger is a board member-elect – Two Year term, with 23 votes Denise Williams-Reid is a board member-elect – One Year term with 19 votes.

After congratulating the newly elected, Diane reminded the delegates that the youth board position is still open.

Nancy MacMaster, Board Treasurer, St. Stephen, Woodbury, gave the offerings report:Designated gifts: $688Congregational offerings: $793Personal offerings: $185Total = $1,666

Nancy then gave the Treasurer’s report.

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In the BOR, pages 29 a-d are the reports of the Auditor. 29 e is summarized information provided by the auditor. Total income $19,111 Under expenses: Churchwide $6,600 Thankoffering $858 Katie’s Fund $520 Mission action $200 Computer Related expenses $241 Total Mission Community $2040 Under Mission Growth was the expense of the annual board planning retreat, $600Cluster designated gifts, $150There was a net profit of $1,093Nancy continued with her report, by reviewing Mission Investment fund CD’s that were listed on the Balance sheet on page 29-g. She noted that the total for the Mission Investment Fund is $38,777.28.Nancy also made note that the NJ Women of the ELCA bank accounts are no longer at Commerce bank and have been switched to “The Bank”.She continued by commenting on page 29-I that “we are in the hole for $2,429 because of the 2011 Triennial delegates expenses.”A question was raised about the Bishop Jenson fund. Discussion of the Bishop Jensen CDs took place. Someone asked about the possibility of helping retired pastors if the funds aren’t being used. Nancy said she would check if one of the CDs from this fund could be pulled.Diana Bensel, St. Stephen’s, Woodbury, made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s report.Mary Hoh, St. Mark, Hamilton, seconded the motion.Motion was approved.

Nancy reviewed the proposed 2012 Budget.She said that only $7,000 came in, but that she had sent Churchwide $6,600 thinking that $10,000 would come in.Nancy said that, “We had to reduce a lot of the expenses for the 2012 budget. Organizational support was cut. All of the expenses were cut down.” She noted that North Shore Thrivent gives $1600 a year towards the cost of the circular. We send over 400 copies out every year.Sandra Alexandra, Good Shepherd, Somerville, made a motion to approve the budget for 2012. Pam Robb, board member, Christus, Camden, seconded the motion.Motion was passed unanimously.

Designated gifts Lynn Wirth, board member, Good Shepherd, Somerville, spoke about the ministry of SHIP

and how they have lost two refrigerators and a freezer due to the recent floods in the area. Pam Robb, board member, Christus, Camden spoke about ACELERO. An early childhood

program for children from newborn up to age three. Pam said that ACELERO does a wonderful job of giving back to the community and meets with the young mothers and helps them to get their GED’s and also encourages them to go to college. ACELERO also offers

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parenting classes. Some of the parents even have the opportunity to work at ACELERO. Pam noted that every child that comes through ACELERO gets medical care. ACELERO also will take the children to their medical appointments if the parents can’t take off from work. Just recently, Pam went on to say, ACELERO has been appointed by the State of New Jersey to be a Head Start program. This means that ACELERO will soon be accepting children from the ages of newborn up to five years old.

Wanda spoke about the third designated gift recipient, seminarian student Lauren Finnila. A second career student, Lauren was a pharmacist and is now attending her first year at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.

Pam thanked all those who had purchased note cards. She said the funds would help to fund the New Jersey Women of the ELCA.With no further business to discuss, Diane closed the business meeting of the New Jersey Women of the ELCA 24th annual convention.

Saturday, September 24, 2011 Diane Guarini, Board President, Holy Trinity, Manasquan, and Linda Walker, AIM, Good Shepherd, Somerville, welcomed those in attendance. The gathering hymn, “Praise the One who Breaks the Darkness”, ELW Hymn 843, was sung. Linda Walker led the opening devotions by reading a litany, reading Psalm 71 responsively and reading Romans 1:7-12. She then shared a few reflections on the passage and spoke about her experience at her first New Jersey Women of the ELCA convention at Monmouth College. She said that her spirit had been renewed by being in the company of other women as they worshipped and learned together.After a prayer and the Lord’s Prayer, Linda led the gathering in a responsive song and ended with the benediction.Diane thanked Linda for leading the devotions and then introduced Katrina Klettke-Straker, LIRS, as the next speaker.Katrina Klettke-Straker thanked the New Jersey Women of the ELCA for inviting her to speak. In reference to the convention theme, ‘Abound in Hope’, Katrina described the different kinds of hope a person can have. She said that she had ‘hoped’ that she might find a WAWA as she drove to the convention, in ‘hopes’ of purchasing a cup of coffee. That we ‘hoped’ that we didn’t get the five inches of rain that were predicted to fall. But, Katrina said, these types of hope are not the kinds of hope the LIRS clients have. The kind of hope that they have is quite different. She then shared the story of Ruby, who was HIV positive as a result of having been raped during the war in her country. Ruby’s red cell blood count was low and she was living in a refugee camp. When Katrina learned that Ruby would be arriving in the United States, she only had three days to find a house and a clinic for Ruby. During her search, Katrina said she couldn’t let any of Ruby’s family know that she was HIV positive because of medical privacy rights. Ruby had to be kept away from her family who she hadn’t seen in 15 years. When Ruby went to the clinic, anti-viral treatments were started immediately and her red blood cell count was elevated. Today she is doing well and is a college student. Katrina went on to say that LIRS is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Starting after WWII, LIRS has helped to resettle 500,000 refugees over the years. All of the refuges came with very little. Every time there was a major invasion, the Lutheran church body rose up and helped people that

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were driven out. In 1980 the United States government saw that the work being done by the churches was good and decided to formalize it. Katrina said that she joined LIRS office in New Jersey in August. A month later, the Sept 11, 2001 attacks on occurred. She said she was very nervous but saw churches rise to the occasion were still willing to sponsor families. We welcome others as Christ has welcomed you. That’s really the work that we do. LIRS is all about welcoming. Helping people find homes, jobs, etc….The former president of LIRS once said that anytime a refugee sees the word ‘Lutheran’, they will know that’s a place they are welcomed and they will be able to get help.A girl from Mexico had been forced into prostitution. As a nine year old, she had been forced to be a nanny and housekeeper for her uncle. Her family had thought he was sending her to be educated.One of Katrina’s ‘aha’ moments, was her experience with Olivia, Esther and Ruth. Olivia was 25, Esther was 16 and Ruth was her daughter. Rebels attacked their village in Liberia and set it on fire. Olivia and her daughter escaped to the United States. They arrived sooner than Katrina had expected. Olivia was very upset with Katrina for not being met by anyone at the airport. After Katrina found housing for them, it turned out that one of the new neighbors had traveled to Africa. The neighbor and Olivia immediately connected and began to talk. The neighbor said to Olivia, “ I know that your mother is gone. I will be your mother now.” Katrina said, “That was my ‘aha’ moment.”I thank all of you for all of the work you have done. For the past three years WELCA has given money to help the fight against the trafficking of children. And many churches have participated in visitations in detention centers.Katrina ended her talk by saying that LIRS is always looking for a way to reframe the way the government deals with refugees. LIRS is always pushing to keep families united and s out of detention centers. Diane thanked Katrina for speaking.

Nancy MacMaster, Registrar, St. Stephen, Woodbury, gave the credentials and offerings report: 17 delegates25 visitors3 guests8 board members9 workshop leaders8 display peopleTotal 70

OfferingsDesignated: $963.00Congregational: $1,208.00Personal: $595.00Grand total: $2,766.00

Diane then invited Anthony Briggs, director of Cross Roads Camp and Retreat Center to speak. Anthony greeted everyone and shared that the ministry of Cross Roads struggles to continue despite financial stresses. Anthony shared that Christ Lutheran, Union, had disbanded but had given Cross Roads a beautiful gift. He then read a letter he had received from the mother of a

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youth who had attended Cross Roads for the first time and how it had been such a positive impact on her daughter’s life.Diane thanked Anthony for speaking and then introduced Phyllis Rude, Women of the ELCA, Churchwide Representative. Phyllis extended greetings to those gathered. She said she would keep it short since people would have the opportunity to speak with her throughout the day and at her workshop later. She said that offerings like this (referring to the offerings that were just reported by Nancy) is what keeps the Women of the ELCA going. A couple of other women partner organizations have folded and no longer exist. So thank you for your support. Phyllis continued by saying “ask yourself if you can raise your Thankoffering amounts a little bit. We have downsized the Churchwide staff. Churchwide is very thankful for the 60% of the unit offerings that the New Jersey SWO has been giving to Churchwide and for the 50% of the convention offerings that are sent annually. “ Phyllis ended her talk by saying, “Have questions after the convention is over? Just Google my name and you will find me.” Due to time constraints, Ruth Lindsay who was representing World Day of Prayer, US (WDPUS) was invited to speak during lunch. Ruth graciously agreed. The Workshop Sessions One and Two were then held. At lunch, Ruth Lindsay, WDPUS spoke about the World Day of Prayer’s origins, its development over the years and its goals.After lunch, Workshop Session Three began. The worship service began afterwards with Rev. Stiger presiding. At the conclusion of the service, the officers and board members were installed. Outgoing board members, Diane Guarini, Holy Trinity, Manasquan, and Odessa Lemley, St. Stephen, South Plainfield were thanked and applauded for having served on the board.

Diane declared that the New Jersey Women of the ELCA 24th annual convention was closed. A brief board meeting followed the convention.

Respectfully Submitted,Charlene RollinsBoard Secretary

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New Jersey Synodical Women’s Organization of Women of the ELCA

The Bishop Jensen Endowment Fund

The Bishop Jensen Fund is a perpetual endowment fund established to honor Bishop Herluf Jensen. This fund is to serve New Jersey ELCA congregations to establish or support:

Adult Day Care, Respite Care for Seniors, or other activities involving our senior citizens.

This fund is managed by the New Jersey Synodical Women’s Organization of the Women of the ELCA.

Requests for grants shall be submitted on designated forms to the New Jersey Synodical Women’s Organization of Women of the ELCA.

Families and organizations may be the recipients of grant funds only once during a three year period, when there are funds available for distribution.

Award Amounts will be at the discretion of the executive board with awards of up to $1,000.00.

Total monies dispersed will equal no more than 75% of the interest money available.

Revised Aug. 2012

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New Jersey Synodical Women’s Organization of Women of the ELCA

Grant Application From The Bishop Jensen Endowment Fund

1. Please tell us about the problem(s), needs or proposed activity/project the grant would be used for:

2. Who is expected to benefit?

3. How will the goal be accomplished?a. When?b. Where?c. Expected outcome?

4. Brief description of the requesting program, including history if any.

5. Plan of Operationa. Goals

b. Objectives

c. Strategies

6. What arrangements have been made for future funding of this project if needed?

a. What are the sources of funding?

b. What is the total project budget?

7. Specifically where will this grant money be used?

8. Financial status of the organization(s) or group requesting grant.

9. Letters of support are required from the following:a. Local Women of the ELCA unit (if congregation has one).b. Congregational councilc. Individuals

Revised Aug. 2012

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10. Resumes (or Vitas) of those paid to manage the program (if applicable).

Revised Aug. 2012

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President’s Report

25th Annual NJ Women of the ELCA Convention

Welcome to our 25th Annual Convention. Thank you to St. Matthew here in Moorestown for hosting our convention. This year has gone quickly; seems like only yesterday we were at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Somerville for our 24th Annual Convention. Our Annual Retreat at Cross Roads Camp and Retreat Center was a very eventful and trying experience. We left our homes to travel to the Crossroads camp with the sun shining and warm temperature for a late October Friday. We didn’t listen to the weather forecasters when they predicted five to seven inches of heavy snow for Saturday. What do weather forecasters know anyway?! Anthony Briggs, Executive Director of Cross Roads, met us when we arrived and told us that we could use the new Christ Center. WOW! The evening was spent with a meditation on one of the Psalms around the beautiful fireplace. The staff treated us to a very nice dinner. The Christ Center is a beautiful lodging with individual bathrooms and showers. When morning broke, it was raining. We went for breakfast and left plans with the staff to eat lunch around 12:30. Our formal meeting began. We covered a great deal in a very short time. As it turned out, we should have left after breakfast, as the snow was quite heavy and about four inches had fallen by the time we walked over to have lunch. We packed everything into our vehicles before lunch. Pictures of our foot prints in the snow were taken by our very own Pam Robb. Our theme “We walk by faith” was featured in the footprints. It took many hours for each of us to get back home. Peggy Klophaus turned around and spent the night at Crossroads. The camp lost power as did a goodly number of people in North Jersey. When I arrived in the Freehold area, there wasn’t any snow, not even a trace. Thank you to the Board members, Lynn Wirth, VP; Nancy MacMaster, Treasurer; Charlene Rollins, Secretary; Amy Palazzolo; Ruth Ruediger; Peggy Klophaus (has filled in as Secretary); Mary Hoh; and Pam Robb. We have been operating with a partial slate of board members. Beverly Kruk resigned due to work schedule, Denise Williams-Reid needed down time, and Charlene Rollins’ work schedule prevented her from attending our meetings. Please consider running for a position on the Board. This is a great opportunity to develop lasting friendships with our New Jersey sisters and to travel to areas of New Jersey you’d never thought of visiting. We held two Thankoffering Services in May, one at Christ Lutheran, Paramus and the other at St. John’s Lutheran, Ocean City. The women of these churches were welcoming, and prepared a beautiful worship service and delicious lunches. It was awesome to know that we were singing the same hymns at precisely the same time – at two different locations (North Jersey & South Jersey). A huge

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thank you is extended to them and to the pastors who led the services: Rev. Lisa Barnes and Rev. Kristin Engstrom. Have you had the opportunity to read Leymah Gbowee’s memoir, “Mighty Be Our Power?” Leymah was the featured speaker at the Eighth Triennial Gathering in Spokane last summer and was one of three recipients who were awarded the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize. We are committed to the ELCA Malaria Campaign with a goal of three million dollars by the Ninth Triennial Convention in July 2014, which will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina. Each unit is encouraged to learn more about Malaria and the work of the ELCA with/for this campaign, and to invite their friends, family, congregation and community to learn with them, as well as to pray for those who suffer from malaria and for those who are working to prevent and treat the disease. Amy Palazzolo is our Triennial Gathering Promoter and Pam Robb attended the Today’s Dream: Tomorrow’s Reality (TDTR) Training at Lutheridge in Asheville, NC, in May. She had a wonderful experience and everyone attending this training fell in love with her. You will remember Pam and her beautiful photo cards that were on display at last year’s convention. We extend a huge thank you to the North Shore Chapter of Thrivent Financial for contributing toward the mailing of our newsletter, the NJ Circular, and to the Hunterdon County Chapter and the Camden County Chapter for agreeing to match the Designated Gift Offerings. In February, I attended the Presidents’ Conference held at the Luther Center in Chicago. There were 63 out of 64 Presidents in attendance. This was four days filled with workshops, Bible discussions, worship services, food and fun. The women at Churchwide work hard throughout the year with a limited staff. They really enjoy preparing the workshops, etc., and getting acquainted with new presidents, saying so long to presidents not serving again and staying in touch with everyone. Created, called and empowered: celebrating the past 25 years of mission and ministry, while looking forward to the next 25 years. Each congregational unit is encouraged to find one or more ways to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Women of the ELCA, including making a gift to the Churchwide 25th Anniversary Offering. For more information, visit womenoftheeleca.org. The Board Members and I are delighted that you took time from your busy lives to attend this Convention. Your congregational unit is the heart of this organization. We hope you will take back with you everything that you experienced while at this convention and bring more people with you next year. Respectfully submitted,Wanda M. Nebiolo, President

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TREASURER’s

RPT & Financial

StatementsGO HERE

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Letter from NorthWestern Minnesota SWO President

Dear Sisters in Christ,

Greetings from Northwestern Minnesota!

“This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it” Psalms 118:24.

So, let us rejoice in our celebration – celebration of 25 years of the Women of the ELCA. Have you thought about how you will celebrate the Women of the ELCA’s 25th Anniversary? Our Anniversary begins on June 1, 2012 and goes through May 31, 2013, so whatever day you choose, REJOICE and be glad for the Lord has made this day for you and you can be sure He’ll be there rejoicing with you.

Our convention was September 7 & 8, Calvary Lutheran Church in Park Rapids, MN. Our theme was Living Boldly – Living Well. We focused on a healthy lifestyle for your mind body and soul. We did this in a variety of ways; through our workshops, keynote speaker and the food and snacks that was served. We’re thinking of it as a “Girls Weekend”.

The Northwestern Minnesota Synod, ELCA is the companion synod to the Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church (AELC) located in the Andhra Pradesh region of India. Our Synodical Women’s Organization is focusing on supporting the Bible Women of India. Bible Women minister to people converting to Christianity from the Hindu and Islamic faiths. Most of the people they work with are “Dalits,” the poorest of the poor in India. Dalits were known as “Untouchables” in India’s caste system. Because the divisions lingering from the caste system, most Dalits cannot or do not attend church services. Therefore, Bible Women visit these families in their homes. They strive to make Christ known through forming personal relationships with families, first through the women. They visit homes, conduct Bible studies, teach Sunday School, and much more.

We are encouraging our congregations to post our Newsletter to their website if they have one and post the website of the Women of the ELCA to make it easier to find the resources available to us. Find ways to reach out to the younger women in your congregations – sometimes they just like to be asked – and don’t count them out when it comes to your convention – it may be something they would like to attend even though they may not belong to a circle or come to your unit meetings. This year we are tying temple talks during the services one Sunday to invite all women to the convention.

3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul.

Blessing to you,

Lois BylundNW MN SWO President

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Experience at the 2012 Anti-Racism TDTR (Today's Dream:Tomorrow's Reality) Training The 2012 Anti-Racism TDTR (Today's Dream: Tomorrow's Reality) training was held from Thursday May 3rd to Sunday May 6th at Lutheridge in Asheville, NC. From the moment the small plane touched down on the runway, we were told to enjoy our day by the flight attendant. I wasn't sure what lay ahead when I reached my final destination but at that very moment I felt just like a little kid lost and all alone. At the airport I met several of my WELCA sisters patiently awaiting our ride to Lutheridge. Upon our arrival I felt a peace come over me. I noticed the heat, the clean fresh air and that I could breathe. I was calm, no longer afraid, it was though time had slowed down and finally I had time to enjoy the presence of God. At the entrance to the Lodge there were 16 rocking chairs, eight on each side of door. You never know how good a rocking chair feels with a cool breeze blowing on your face, until you are sitting there rocking away without a care in the world, it's magnificent!

Finally everyone arrived; there were tall and short women and for once I wasn't the shortest person in the room. Different accents from German to that deep Southern drawl from one of my sisters who greeted us with a "How ya'll gals doing"? Eighteen women, sisters in Christ gathered together first to listen, then learn how to appreciate each other’s thoughts, beliefs, racial and cultural differences. We also learned how to approach sensitive issues with a reconciliation, understanding and healing solutions to racial injustice.

I recommend training for all my sisters of the Women of the ELCA. It has been life changing for me and I was inspired to write a poem called “The Icebreaker” which I dedicated to my W/ELCA sisters in Christ. Pastor Violet one of the TDTR instructors invited me to her street ministry which she calls ‘Tea Time’. The location is a church on Broad & Arch street across from Love's park in downtown Philadelphia. I accepted Pastor Violet's invitation to come and fellowship with the homeless, and those in need every Monday from 1 pm - 3 pm. I've been going every Monday and I love it. With no expectations you come as you are, all are welcome.

Walk In Unity - Ephesians 4:1-7I, therefore the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all. And through all, and in you all.

Pam Robb

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The Ice Breakers

By Pam Robb

Drowning in a sea of the unknown is what I face.With unknown women from a different place

So scared and all aloneI walked in a faster paceHolding on to God’s handAnd His unchanging grace

All of a sudden to my surprise,In this place of the unknown

There were hellos and smiling faces that I realizedI wasn’t alone

We were experiencing tears, hurt, sorrow, joy and painWith a message we are one body in Christ,

And we are all the same.

Can you feel what I am feeling here today?White Privilege and People of Color

Both have something to say.Or can we all look toward the future and see what lies ahead

To a time where racism will truly one day be dead.

And in that time let it be saidThat never again will racism raise its ugly head

For tomorrow’s reality is today’s dreamTo bring about change it will start or end with us

Although it may seem

For we are the icebreakers, both big and smallWhites and People of Color will you answer the call

To stand against prejudice and racial injusticeWill you always advocate

And be the voice of the voicelessThis pledge will you take?

AshevilleMay 2012

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Report of the Nominating Committee

Nominees for Board Positions

To be elected: Treasurer – 2 year term4 Board Members – 2 year terms1 Youth Board Member – 1 year term

These are the nominees received prior to the convention.Nominations may be made from the floor at the convention, provided that at least 30 copies of the person’s nomination form are available, and the person has consented to being nominated. Nominees should be informed as to the duties and responsibilities of the position for which they have been nominated.

Nominee For Treasurer – Two Year Term Mary Hoh

Mary J. Hoh, member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, Hamilton, NJ, Mercer ClusterWomen of the ELCA Experience

Synodical unit:Current Board MemberPast service on various convention committees

Congregational unit:Member since 1984. Former president and vice president of congregational unit Treasurer 2004 to presentParticipate in planning committee and as a group leaderDelegate to synodical convention for the past several years

ELCA ExperienceCurrent member Worship & Music team, altar guild, usher and communion assistantFormer president, vice president, secretary, and member of congregational councilFormer Chair of Audit team and Evangelism teamFormer Chair of Stewardship team where I organized and implemented three annual giving programsFormer Chair of Worship & Music team during a pastoral vacancy and involved with introducing the new ELW hymnal to the congregation.Former secretary of the Mercer Mission Coalition (now known as the Mercer Mission Cluster)

Ecumenical and Community ParticipationParticipate in crocheting ministry – making hats, scarves and blankets for Trenton Area Soup Kitchen and Children’s Home Society of New JerseyParticipate in annual Pancreatic Cancer WalkOrganize and participate in “Jeans for Charity” events at my place of employmentSing in the German American Society ChoirMember of the International Association of Administrative Professionals

Vocational/Occupational ExperienceTechnical/Administrative Assistant for a public accounting firm

Age Category 36-55Ethnic Heritage Caucasian

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Nominee For BOARD MEMBER – Two Year TermPam Robb Congregation Christus, Camden

Deacon at Christus

Women of the ELCA NJ WELCA Board member, 2010 – 2012Attended the 2012 WELCA Anti-Racism TDTR (Today's Dream:

Tomorrow's Reality) trainingNJ WELCA convention Anti-Racism workshop presenterAttended past annual conventions

Ecumenical National Alliance of HUD tenantsAmerican Red Cross – HIV/AIDS PEER Leader for TeensAmerican Disabled Veterans

Community participation Red Cross Peer Leader for HIV/AIDS and Emergency volunteer Recipient of numerous awards and medals including the Camden

County's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal. Camden City Advisory AID’s Task ForceZoning Board – Camden CityBoard Member – ACELERO Learning Early Head Start ProgramsPresident Northgate 2 Tenants Assoc.South Jersey Legal Service BoardBoard – Healthy Mothers – Healthy Babies

Vocational/occupational experienceA decorated veteran, Pamela's passion is helping those in need (especially street ministry) and photographing flowers which she believes are true gifts from God.

Age Category Over 55

Ethnic/racial heritage African-American

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Nominee For BOARD MEMBER – Two Year TermPeggy Klophaus,Congregation Christ, Paramus, Bergen-Passaic Cluster

Women of the ELCA experience Synodical unit treasurer and board member, Congregational unit president, Synodical unit

convention registrar, Synodical unit representative to Region 7 retreat planning committee, circle leader, Triennial delegate ’93 and ‘96

ELCA experience Synod Assembly delegate, church council secretary, Mutual Ministry committee member, Sunday

School and VBS teacher, Worship & Music committee member, choir member, Voting member 2013 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.

Ecumenical and Community participation Community Foodbank fundraising campaign worker, member/chair of World Day of Prayer

organizing committee Church Women United, board member Community Nursery School (Nutley, NJ)

Vocation/occupationCurrently substitute teacher/homemaker, formerly worked in underwriting and programming.

Age category Over 55Ethnic heritage Caucasian

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Biographies

Churchwide RepresentativeJenny Michael

President, Executive Board Member, 2011–2014 Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Jenny Michael was elected president of the churchwide executive board of Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at the 8th Triennial Convention in July 2011.

Previously, Jenny served as a churchwide executive board member during the last triennium. She has also served as president of the Florida-Bahamas Synodical Women’s Organization, president of the Tampa Conference, and leader of her own congregational unit. While living in Tampa, Jenny served on planning committees for women’s events with Lutheran Outdoor Ministries of Florida and has participated as a leadership resource for her synod.

As a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Pensacola, Florida, Jenny is an active member of her congregational unit and sings in the choir. She currently volunteers on the Worship Committee and Evangelism Committee at her home church. Additionally, she has led retreats and workshops, and provided leadership training and programming for Women of the ELCA.

A few years ago, Jenny worked for a short time as a government contractor in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. While in Cuba, she was given special licensure by the Bishop of the Florida-Bahamas Synod to serve the small, but faithful Lutheran community church there as a Lay Minister of Word and Sacrament since there were no ordained chaplains available on the base. She preached each week and was responsible for many pastoral duties in the absence of clergy.

Jenny enjoys reading, taking her pug, Squishy, to the “doggie beach” and sharing in women’s discussion groups. She loves to travel and enjoys meeting new people. Being from a family of four girls with parents who fostered a strong image of how women shape our world, she says she puts the “G-r-r in GIRL!” Jenny is always interested in encouraging every woman to discover her gifts of leadership. She is committed to supporting women as they seek to live out the Gospel in their lives every day.

During this triennium, Jenny is especially excited about the possibilities to grow the mission and ministry of Women of the ELCA. She is looking for you to share with her how best we can make this happen!

Biographies continued on next page

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Biographies (continued)

Chaplin - Rev. Ingrid Wengert

Rev. Wengert began serving Saint Matthew Lutheran Church, Moorestown NJ in December of 2005. She has a B.S. in Business from Arizona State University and an MDiv from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.Her first call was to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Marlton, NJ as Associate Pastor and her second call was to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Teaneck, NJ.For the New Jersey Synod, which comprises all of the ELCA congregations in New Jersey, she serves as the Cluster Counselor for Burlington County, and the Dean for the Delaware District. She currently serves as the moderator for the Moorestown Ministerium.Outside of work, Pastor Wengert enjoys entertaining friends, reading, bicycling, hiking, bird watching, dabbling at arts & crafts projects, and traveling with her husband. She is married to Timothy J. Wengert, who teaches Reformation History at the Lutheran Theological Seminary of Philadelphia.

Music & Worship – Jaye Newbold, MDiv

Jaye S. Newbold is a Candidate for Ordained Ministry, awaiting a call. She has been approved for ordination. Jaye graduated in May from the Moravian Theological Seminary in Bethlehem PA. with a Master of Divinity. Her seminary training included an academic year at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. She served her internship at Redeemer Lutheran in Succasunna, NJ. As an Associate in Ministry, in the area of Worship & Music she served St. Luke’s Washington, NJ; Calvary, Cranford; and Grace Phillipsburg as Director of Music. She has served the Synod as chair of the Worship Committee, on the CCM Committee, and as Musician for the Synod Assembly.

Keynote Speaker – Brenda Linton

Brenda is a member of Good Shepherd, Somerville where she graduated from the Diakonia program, is a worship assistant and former youth leader. She is a retired Hillsborough elementary school teacher, having specialized in reading skills. Brenda enjoys directing and performing skits at church. She has two grown daughters. Brenda and her husband, Martin, reside in Bridgewater and are spending many happy hours remodeling and relaxing at their recently purchased home in the Adirondacks Mountains of New York.

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