Winter 2010

Dear Friends,

The rising predictions of snowfall for these next two days is astounding. Already, congregations and schools are struggling with closings and snow removal and most importantly, the pastoral care of members and their neighborhoods. As you continue to work your way through this winter of special challenge, don’t overlook the opportunity to reach out to a neighbor, check in with the elderly, and be a kind driver.

The SED Office generally follows the Federal Government (DC Offices) with regard to opening and closing. We are currently closed (Monday and Tuesday) and will post messages on the homepage when we are closed. If you are trying to reach us but not getting through to someone, extension 309 has a regularly updated phone message about the office hours.

Haiti Disaster
Individuals, congregations, and school children are stepping forward to participate in the recovery efforts of Haiti. Such an extreme disaster will require a long-term partnership to recover, rebuild, and restore. I am hearing a new phrase surfacing in the midst of this crisis: legitimate organizations. We are blessed to be able to support three different legitimate Lutheran agencies: LCMS World Relief, Lutheran World Relief (LWR), and Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR). You can be certain that your donations will be used to their fullest to provide disaster relief and recovery.

Our Lutheran agencies are providing resources that offer opportunities for all of us to participate. Financial donations are needed to assist with an immediate need for medical resources and supplies. In addition, health kits, layettes, and meals can involve members of your congregation, school, and community in hands on projects. Also, a number of our congregations are preparing to send teams to assist with the recovery effort. Individuals participating must have completed a number of disaster response training programs. You can learn more about the opportunities to prepare for volunteering on our Synod's site www.lcms.org/help

Finally, I am excited about the notes I am picking up about what is happening throughout the District. Circuit 9 congregations will be preparing more than 140,000 meals. At least one response team is preparing to go to Haiti in late Spring. Choirs from Bowie State College, Ascension Lutheran School, Lamb of God, and C. Anthony Bush will hold a special benefit event (after the snow). Lutheran schools in the greater Baltimore area are working on a special project and will gather in March to assemble the project and remember in worship all who have felt the impact of this terrible event.

Yes, all around us I see the heart of Jesus overflowing in the actions of his people. It is exciting – to God be the glory! Please send your stories and pictures and let us share them with others.

In Christ,

President Jon T. Deifenthaler

Legitimate Lutheran agencies for Haiti relief:
To volunteer, get updated information, or donate supplies, contact: LCMS World Relief: http://www.lcms.org/ca/worldrelief/

Orphan Grain Train has wonderful hands-on projects and they are working with LCMS World Relief. Check them out at:

Lutheran World Relief also has a number of projects: Quilts, health kits, and layettes that involve people in the relief effort. http://www.lwr.org/Haiti/make/

Lutheran Disaster Response: a collaborative ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS).

A final note: if you are sending a check, be certain that you note it is for Haiti Relief.