Recently, several congregations in the Allegheny, Northwestern PA, and Upper Susquehanna Synods participated in a survey that asked one question: What do you hope for the sermon each Sunday? The survey results indicate a strong desire (almost 50%) for sermons…
When Jesus appeared to the disciples on that Easter evening and again a week after, his greeting to them is, “Peace be with you.” We hear this phrase three times in the reading from John’s gospel; three times, to the…
The Fellowship Hall at Messiah, New Berlin (Minister Bev Hoffman) came alive March 24 as 62 women gathered for the first Women’s Outreach Work event, an afternoon highlighting service, creativity, and collaboration across the Susquehanna Valley. Inspired by Lutheran World…
You cannot have Easter without Good Friday. I have heard and said these words more often than I can remember. Sometimes I have said them in frustration at those whom I knew I would only see on that one Sunday…
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5) Once again, we reach the culmination of our church year. In our Holy Week, we move from a triumphal parade to the bloody crucifixion of our Savior…
St. Matthew, Bloomsburg, was awarded a Daily Bread Grant from ELCA World Hunger. They have two on-going feeding ministries including a Community Blessings Box and the Bloomsburg Food Cupboard. In May, the congregation will start its 17th year of monthly…
Penn State Lutheran Campus Minister Alicia Anderson is joining Allegheny Synod Bishop Kevin Shock’s new staff iin a part-time role. Alicia will serve as Assistant to the Bishop for Formation. This is a quarter-time position and Alicia will continue serving…
To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the spirit is life and peace. (Romans 8:6) When I read the story of the death and raising of Lazarus, my first thoughts go…
Washingtonville Lutheran Church (Vicar Diane Booth Bubb) served the community in ministry. On February 7, residents of the area enjoyed soup and desserts served by the congregation. Clothing, personal care items, and other household items were distributed to individuals and…
[God] shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war…