Up and Down the Valleys: May 2026

Lutherans from across the state in Harrisburg meet in April with state representatives and their staff as part of Lutheran Day at the Capitol, coordinated by Lutheran Advocacy Ministry of PA. A contingent from United in Christ, West Milton (Pastor Justin Lingenfelter) attended and advocated for the continued care of the neighbors around us.

Congratulations to these recipients of Bold Ideas grants: St. Michael, Cogan Station; Messiah, New Berlin; Trinity, McClure; and The Center for Spirituality and Meaning at Susquehanna University. If your congregation has a bold outreach idea, the next application deadline is June 30,2026. For questions or more information, contact our DEM, Deacon Sue Ellen Spotts (sueellen.spotts@elca.org)

The Lay Ministry Institute (LMI) sponsored a training and worship day “A Variety of Gifts” open to all folks in the Upper Susquehanna, Northwest Penn, and Allegheny Synods.  This time of gathering was hosted by United in Christ, West Milton (Rev Justin Lingenfelter).  With a focus on worship, Rev Larry Herrold delivered the keynote speech.  Workshops included: Spiritual Practices with Sherry Bingaman, MA; Go Tell It IN The Mountains with Rev John Kratz; Reading for Public Consumption with Rev Ted Cockley; and Congregational Led Worship with Bishop Craig Miller. Following a delicious lunch prepared by the folks of United Lutheran in Christ we worshiped together and celebrated Holy Communion.  Rev Larry Herrold presided and Bishop Craig Miller delivered the proclamation. Michelle Shearer served as Assisting Minister.  Marilyn Gresh served as musician. Mark your calendars for upcoming events.  July 18 a workshop will be presented called The Heart of the Matter by Bishop Miller as attendees will learn more or even review the Lutheran Confessions.  October 10 will be the fall A Variety of Gifts Day. 

Raise the Region Update: The intended donations for Camp Mount Luther was $38,842.11 and they received $4,905.25 in stretch dollars and an additional $500 random prize during the evening challenge.

Pastoral Changes: Pastor Matthew Schuster (Messiah, Troxelville) and Pastor Lisa Schuster (Trinity, McClure) submitted their resignations for mid- May. Pastor Felicia Swartz was called as the new pastor of Zion, Kratzerville. Pastor Jerry Kliner began his time at Messiah, South Williamsport. Pastor Grace Herrold has been called to extended service at Salem, Selinsgrove.