Category Archives: NWIM Synod

Zion, Davenport & Christ, Egypt-March 29

A joy to be with the saints of Zion Lutheran, Davenport and Christ Lutheran, Egypt for Pastor Tyler Gubsch’s installation (worship and lunch at Zion). Thanks to the members of Christ Lutheran who then gave me a tour of their … Continue reading

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Through the Palouse to Spokane

After preaching at First Lutheran, Kennewick last Sunday, I drove to Trinity Lutheran, Endicott for the 75th anniversary of their historic church building. From the church’s FB page: We were blessed to have these people back home with us to … Continue reading

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First, Kennewick – March 23, 2025

Luke 13:1-9 I have always been a big fan of the show Law and Order. I loved this show in my late teens and would watch reruns for hours while home on college breaks. I still think the first four … Continue reading

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South Central Cluster +

Tuesday: Drove to Yakima with a stop along the way for a pre-Approval conversation with one of our Word and Sacrament ministry candidates. Grateful for former Trinity, Nampa member Ruthann for hosting me. Wednesday: Noon Lent worship at Central Lutheran … Continue reading

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March 9, 2025 – Immanuel, Boise

Above – 8:30 worship in the old Augustana Chapel Luke 4:1-13 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. And thank you for the invitation to be with you this First Sunday in Lent. … Continue reading

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Grief and Gratitude

Originally published in the NWIM Synod March e-newsletter. Psalm 13 (from Evangelical Lutheran Worship) 1How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? 2How long shall I have perplexity in my mind, and grief in … Continue reading

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Spring COB

I spent most of this past week in Chicago for the spring Conference of Bishops. Per usual, we learned, heard reports, had conversation, worshiped, prayed, made some decisions, and talked some more. The executive committee of the COB intentionally planned … Continue reading

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Visit to Greater Milwaukee Synod – Feb. 2025

Did you know that ELCA synods have domestic companion synod partners? Shortly after I started this call as bishop, Bishop Paul Erickson of the Greater Milwaukee Synod invited me for a visit. It took over a year, but this February … Continue reading

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Greater Milwaukee Synod – Sermon – Feb. 15

Milwaukee Synod (Domestic Companion Synod) – Feb. 15, 2025 Together in Mission 2025 event for lay and rostered leaders Luke 6:17-26 Thanks to Bishop Erickson for the invitation to be with you all. This was a synod I thought I … Continue reading

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Caring for our Kids and Youth in this Chapter

Originally published in the Northwest Intermountain Synod electronic newsletter, February 3, 2025. With the number of executive orders coming out of the new administration, state legislatures back in session, and the Season of Lent coming up, you may be scratching … Continue reading

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