growth

May the Lord bless you all in the new year.  As we look ahead in the North American Lutheran Church, I believe that we will continue to receive congregations who are taking votes to leave the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.  However, it will not be the flood that God blessed us with in the first 18 months.  If/when events take place that cause a major shift, then we may again experience explosive growth.

Most of our growth will take place as we plant new congregations.  People are beginning to host Bible studies in their homes and to build relationships in that way.  They will grow into congregations.  That is the Ethiopian experience.  We also are learning about planting congregations from our sisters and brothers in the Anglican Church North America.  Take a look at this article.  It is a fine example of what can take place in the North American Lutheran Church when we are excited about the gospel!

May the Holy Spirit bless us!

http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/us/2011/December/Anglican-Fever-Youth-Flock-to-New-Denomination-/

Pr. Jim Lehmann -- Dean, Great Rivers Mission District

Results

St. John, Metropolis,  IL, took its first vote on Sunday, December 4.  The spirit of the meeting was positive for which we are always thankful!  The vote passed, 45-17.  This is a 72.5% vote.  The exact date of their second vote has not been determined, but will be according to the specifications of the congregation's constitution.  During the next 90 days, Bishop Roth will consult with the congregation.

Please continue to keep them in prayer.

Dean Jim Lehmann

Prayer needed

Friends,

I would like to ask you to keep St. John, Metropolis, in your prayers.  They will be taking a vote to terminates its relationship with the ELCA on Sunday, Dec. 4.  It was scheduled for a couple of weeks, but only this week did synod agree not to impose the new rules on them.  (That development itself is very important and a story in itself.)  It is expected that the vote will be close.  Ask the Lord to provide them with wisdom, insight, and courage. 

Also, Rev. Gemechis Buba is traveling in Ethiopia.  During these first days of December he is traveling in the area of Ethiopia where violence broke out in March.  Ask the Lord to provide them with protection and courage to proclaim the Gospel with vigor.

Blessings to you during Advent.

Dean Jim Lehmann