Greetings friends in First Call Theological Education,

As we continue to move forward in ministry, we see new friends gathering into this group.   Folks are being ordained into rostered ministry in our synod, for which we are grateful.  (As a reminder, "First Call Theological Education" - FCTE - is for those in the first three years of rostered ministry.")

I would like to make sure that you are aware of a few things...

First, please be sure to check out two documents on our website regarding First Call Theological Education.   One is about the VISION of FCTE, the other document guides you through a SELF-ASSESSMENT.   Please complete the work of the self-assessment and send to me, at mjannett@elca-ses.org.    The WEBSITE for FCTE is here:  https://www.elca-ses.org/FirstCall.

Second, please be aware that the the 2022 Synod Assembly is June 3-5, 2022, in Chattanooga, TN.  All rostered ministers are expected to attend.   And on Saturday of the Assembly, all FCTE participants in our synod are asked to join me for a luncheon to connect with one another.  (Spouses / Significant others and children are welcome.). Keep an eye on our Synod Assembly website for an agenda soon.  But please register for Synod Assembly as soon as possible.   

(In the meantime, I need to make an informal request for a number of your party that would like to attend this private luncheon at the Assembly.   You and your spouse / significant other are welcome to join us.  And little one's too, if they will be with you.   To RSVP for this lunch, please reply to this email - mjannett@elca-ses.org.)

Third, our annual synod youth event - AFFIRM - is happening June 12-17, 2022, at University of West Alabama.  Cost is $400, but may go up soon based on when you register.  Those in 6th grade through 1-2 years out of high school are welcome to attend.  This has been a helpful and formative event over the last 5 decades for the youth of this synod.  Please consider having youth sign up, or sign yourself up to be on staff!  Click here for more:  https://www.sesyouth.org/affirm.

Fourth, Bishop Strickland is traveling throughout the synod this spring for a Renewal of Vows and Chrism Mass.  Please click HERE (https://www.elca-ses.org/newsdetail/bishops-lenten-visits-with-renewal-of-vows-and-chrism-mass-15871059) to see when Bishop Strickland will be in your area.  No registration is required.

Finally, I hope we can all gather again soon, via Zoom, to touch base.   I know you are busy with Lenten planning, but perhaps gathering could also bring some relief. I am setting aside Monday, March 21, 7pm ET / 6pm CT for us to gather via Zoom.  Here is the link:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/4045891977?pwd=dUJYQ0txeG5zdUdQMFNwZW1MV2FTQT09&from=addon. (During this time together, we will re-engage in a conversation about ELCA Coaching and how we can help you with your greatest needs - from a coaching perspective - based on your ow

Thanks, all!  If you have questions, please reach out!  Keeping you in my prayers as we approach the Lenten season!

Peace, 

  Pr. Michael Jannett

  615-617-9697 | mjannett@elca-ses.org