BREAKING NEWS! Recaps and Highlights Are Here From
LWML Missouri, Pacific Southwest, and Rocky Mountain District Conventions!
LWML Missouri District
The 25th Biennial Convention of the LWML Missouri District was held June 8–10, 2018 in beautiful Lake Ozark, Mo. The participants rejoiced in the convention theme, “He Knows My Name,” from Isaiah 43:1 But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.”
Humorist Elaine Bickel was the keynote speaker delighting the audience by reminding them, “He knows your name.” Mission speaker and LCMS Rural and Small Town Ministry Director Rev. Todd Kollbaum kindled excitement in the work this ministry is doing in the Missouri District; and Sue H. shared her mission experiences in Malaysia. Interest session presenters Rev. Dr. Robert and Kristi Roegner from Apple of His Eye Ministry and the Lutheran Church Charities Comfort Dogs fostered interest.
Ingathering items included adult personal items for Hope House of Miller County, MO; and baby items were collected and given to Northern Ozarks Lutherans for Life. Members were invited to donate handmade items to the Mite-y Craft Fair. A Basket Auction was held with the proceeds going to the 2018–2020 Mission Goal. Voting for mission grants was held online prior to the convention resulting in the selection of 14 mission grants totaling $190,000. These results were announced by LWML Missouri District President Christie Steffens during the business meeting that included the election of officers. Sally Handrick was elected as the new LWML Missouri District President. The LWML was represented by Meeting Manager Leslie Jaseph who commented that everyone sparkled knowing that they are Jesus’; and she was encouraged by the enthusiasm of all.
LWML Pacific Southwest District
LWML VP of Communication Char Kroemer, LWML PSD President Bonnie Karch, LWML VP of Gospel Outreach Angelina Jauregui, and LWML Gospel Outreach Committee Chairman Nancy Heredia
The majestic mountains and red rocks of the desert southwest were the backdrop in Las Vegas, Nev., June 8–10, 2018, site of the LWML Pacific Southwest District (PSD) Convention. “He Rocks,” was the theme based on 1 Corinthians 10:4 and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ.
The Friday pre-convention sessions were filled with attendees creating gifts of love for those who are ill or infirm at the Paper Bags and Paper Bookmarkers of Love session; making bookmarks to use as a gift or for themselves at the Angel Beaded Bookmark session; helping to start a conversation about your relationship with God at the Witness Bracelets session; and informing those in attendance of the important ministry to our multicultural sisters in Christ at the Heart to Heart for Everyone session led by LWML VP of Gospel Outreach Angelina Jauregui. LWML PSD President Bonnie Karch presided; 20 mission grants totaling $155,000 were approved; and officers elected. Keynote speaker Cindy Steinbeck shared about her and your personal relationship with Jesus, our rock.
A mission walk provided funds for the mission goal. Friday concluded with an amazing meal, laughter, and fun that included the series finale of “LWML’s Got Talent” with head judge, LCMS Pacific Southwest District President Rev. Dr. Larry Stoterau. A great time was had by all!
LWML Vice President of Communication Char Kroemer brought greetings from the LWML and commented that all glory to God be given for blessing the LWML PSD with relying on Jesus their rock to step out and in faith to approve every mission grant.
LWML Rocky Mountain District
LWML RMD Presidents: Sylvia Bean 2014-2018, Debbie Yocky 2018-2022, and Carol von Soosten 2010-2014
The Flatiron Mountains in the foothills outside Boulder, Colo., provided a bold backdrop for the 49th Biennial LWML Rocky Mountain District (RMD) Convention on June 8–10. The theme, “Bold in Christ,” was based on Since we have such a hope, we are very bold (2 Corinthians 3:12). The cool mountain breezes and beautiful scenery was the backdrop for the Saturday evening Mission Walk. Proceeds from the walk were designated to the $176,868 Mission Goal for the 2018–2020 biennium.
The Proclaimer for the worship service, past LWML RMD Pastoral Counselor Rev. Jonathan Schultz, boldly inspired the worshippers of the hope that is given to us through Word and Sacrament and service through the LWML. God provided the means to share His love and message of salvation with all registrants through Bible Studies led by Rev. Mark Nierman and Rev. Trent Christensen, LWML RMD Pastoral Counselors.
Enrichment session speakers shared about being bold in Christ: Gary Thies from Mission Central sparked interest in being a missionary; Kathy Tripcony shared with comfort dog Cubby; and LWML Strategic Plan Facilitator Carol von Soosten and the LWML Representative to this convention proclaimed the importance of LWML in the spreading of God’s Word around the world her convention remarks, “Be bold as you reach out and engage with others to talk about Jesus and His love,” inspired the registrants.
2019 LWML Convention in Mobile, Alabama
The Excelsior Band will entertain participants during the Mission in Motion Pledge Walk on Saturday morning, June 22, 2019 in Mobile, Alabama.
Walk along!
The LWML is the leading group for LCMS women where each woman is welcomed and encouraged to use her unique God-given gifts as she supports global missions and serves the Lord with gladness.
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